Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disease caused by diabetes in which blood vessels leak, slowly diminishing your vision and even causing blindness.
Diabetic retinopathy surgery can stop or slow the progression of this condition and help prevent vision loss.
Can surgery help preserve your vision?
Stabilize Your Vision with Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery
Improve Vision Quality
During a vitrectomy, blood and scarred tissue is removed which can improve the current quality of your vision.
Stop or Slow Further Vision Loss
Laser treatment can target leaking blood vessels, minimizing or preventing future deterioration of your sight.
Advanced Methods Offer Improved Results
Surgeries have become increasingly effective due to advances in tools and techniques. The outlook of surgery has significantly improved patient outcomes for better management of the condition.
Facing the Possibility of Blindness Can be Overwhelming
*According to the journal of Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of vision loss in adults 20-74 years old. While it is not fully curable, surgical treatments such as panretinal laser photocoagulation (PRP) have been proven to be effective for many patients.
I’ve Already Made Changes in My Habits. Why Would I Consider Surgery?
After a certain point, conservative treatment methods, such as diet and exercise, are no longer an effective option for diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy surgery can cost several thousand dollars, depending on the type of surgery required as well as the amount of insurance coverage you receive. However, it is important to keep in mind that while diabetic retinopathy surgery can be a substantial financial investment, avoiding surgery could mean sacrificing your ability to see.
The Right Treatment For You Will Depend on the Severity of Your Condition
The doctor will determine which procedure is necessary for the stage of your condition. In some cases, multiple treatments may be needed. During each procedure, the doctor will directly address the issue causing vision impairment.
Vitrectomy
An incision is made in the eye.
The blood and vitreous tissue are then removed.
To accommodate the natural shape of the eye, the tissue is replaced with a salt solution. If necessary, scar tissue will also be removed.
Laser Photocoagulation
The laser is directed at the abnormal blood vessels, shrinking them or melding them closed to stop leaking.
While these procedures may seem fairly straightforward, they can have a significant impact on your vision.
Do Not Risk the Future of Your Eyesight
A vitrectomy is necessary if you are experiencing bleeding or tractional retinal detachment where scar tissue is pulling on the retina. By removing the clouded vitreous gel and scarring from the eye, this treatment can often improve your vision. If blood vessels are leaking, laser photocoagulation can shrink or seal them to help stop fluid from leaking and building up in your eye. Left untreated, this fluid buildup can lead to progressively worse vision.
Do not risk the future of your sight by postponing treatment. Diabetic retinopathy surgery has been proven to be a life-changing solution for many patients. For more information, speak to an eye doctor today.
