The surgeon then sears a thin line of dotlike scars where the retina is normally attached. To coax the loose flap back into place, the surgeon may use a combination of techniques. A puff of air sent through a tiny needle may additionally help move the retina along. A tiny cold probe or a very hot probe or a laser is used to spot-weld the rejoined surfaces together. The patient typically is able to return to normal activities in a few days.
Maximum sight returns in about three months.
For those who suffer some vision loss as the result of retinal detachment, there are a variety of optical aids , including high-intensity reading lights, magnifying glasses, and even electronic devices. There is no simple strategy for prevention. Persons with a family history of retinal detachment or others whose present circumstances put them at higher than average risk should have their eyes examined by an eye specialist regularly to ward off problems. Those at particular risk include the extremely nearsighted, or myopic. Stretched and thinned over many years, the retinal tissue can be gradually pulled away from its normal anchoring.