In treating advanced diabetic retinopathy, doctors use the laser to destroy the abnormal blood vessels that form at the back of the eye. Rather than focus the light on a single spot, the eye care professional will make hundreds of small laser burns away from the center of the retina. The treatment shrinks the abnormal blood vessels. You will lose some of your side vision after this surgery to save the rest of your sight. Laser surgery may also slightly reduce your color and night vision.
Laser surgery is performed in a doctor's office or eye clinic.
In some cases, the doctor also may numb the area behind the eye to prevent any discomfort. The lights in the office will be dim. As you sit facing the laser machine, your doctor will hold a special lens to your eye. During the procedure, you may see flashes of bright green or red light. These flashes may eventually create a stinging sensation that makes you feel a little uncomfortable.