Retinal surgery laser

[jennf3]

Hi, I went for recent eye check after not having seen a doctor for quite a few years. The doctor found a retinal tear that had happened some time ago. It was in the shape of a U and was on the periphery of my retina. There was no pigmentation in it and that I had lost vision on the inner part of the U shape tear. Which I never noticed at all. Only a few floaters is what I noticed maybe 6-12 months ago. He also said my vitreous is still attached and firm.

Anyway the retinal doctor says it is better to laser it than wait for a problem one day (could be a year or ten years). Is he correct? What are the side effects of laser treatment, detachment, pucker, cataracts, vitreous detachment?

Thanks for your help. Jen

[jennf3]

Ok Thank you, I was concerned about the laser treatment would be worse. What are the possible side effects from the laser treatment.
Thanks Jen

[Timothy D McGarity, M.D.]

The U-shaped tear is also called a Horshoe Tear. If retina doc is recommending laser (aka "barrier laser" to form a barrier of laser around the tear), then I'd do it. Sure, there are risks. Nothing is risk free, but the risk of not treating is much much higher than the risk of doing the procedure.
Sincerely,
Timothy D. McGarity, M.D.