Vitrectomy vs Scleral Buckling

[alolia]

Hello, I have been diagnosed with retinal detachment in both eyes. My right eye is significantly worse however and my peripheral vision is pretty much gone. One retinal specialist I saw said that I am 95% detached in my right eye. I went to another specialist yesterday and they want me to have surgery sometime this week.  The first specialist I went to suggested scleral buckling and the second one suggested vitrectomy.  I understand theI pros of vitrectomy is that it won't make my vision worse but the con is that I will be "under water" for at least 3 months because he wants to use silicone oil.  The pros of scleral buckling are that I will be able to see without the watery vision but that it will change the shape of my eyes and worsen my vision.  My biggest concern is that I work in front of a computer daily and being self employed I can't work with blurry vision for 3 months. However, will the vision that worsens with a scleral buckle be correctable with contacts/glasses? Basically I am also concerned with needed to surgeries for each eye if the vitrectomy is performed because of increased risk of damage to the eye.  For the doctors that have performed both procedures what have been your patients' reactions.

Thanks,

Michael

[AnnaE]

The doctor will answer you. I am a community leader, not a doctor. Welcome to our communities.

I have had these surgeries, I am so sorry you are facin this.

Dr. Hagan's expert answer will help you.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS]

Patients have little way to judge whether they need a scleral buckle with or without vitrectomy and intraocular gas or oil. Only an experienced retina surgeon looking in your eyes can tell what you need. You will have to rely on your retina surgeons, express your concerns to them. You will need to go with the one you feel the most confident in or you can get a third opnion

JCH III MD

[alolia]

Thanks Anna for the welcome

Doctor Hagan, we will be seeking a third opinion on Wednesday.  I feel less comfortable with the vitrectomy to tell the truth but I will express both concerns to the retinal specialist on Wednesday and see what he has to say.

Thanks,
Mike

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS]

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[Ruppel]

I have sported a buckle for about 28 years, and the vision in that eye is great.  I am sure that they have changed a little. but I have never had a problem.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS]

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