020 3993 1279Vitreoretinal
Advanced Vitreoretinal Solutions for Optimal Eye Health and Vision Restoration
The retina and vitreous are critical components of your eye’s visual system, and any issues affecting them can lead to serious vision problems.
Book a ConsultationThe retina and vitreous are critical components of your eye’s visual system, and any issues affecting them can lead to serious vision problems.
At OCL Vision our vitreoretinal specialists are dedicated to diagnosing and treating conditions that impact these delicate structures, offering advanced surgical and non-surgical treatments to preserve and restore your vision.
What are vitreoretinal conditions?
Vitreoretinal conditions are disorders that affect the vitreous gel and the retina, crucial components of the eye's visual system.
These conditions can necessitate interventions that fall into three main categories: two non-surgical solutions and one surgical option.
Non-surgical solutions include intravitreal injections, primarily used for wet macular degeneration (also known as age-related macular degeneration), and retinal laser treatment, which is effective for addressing retinal tears and managing diabetic retinopathy. Surgical interventions, particularly vitrectomy, are employed for more severe conditions such as retinal detachment, macular hole, epiretinal membrane, floaters and severe cases of diabetic retinopathy. This diverse array of treatment options allows our consultants to tailor their approach to each patient's specific vitreoretinal condition, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
Treatment
What are the treatment options for vitreoretinal conditions?
Vitrectomy
Vitrectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the vitreous gel from the eye to treat a variety of retinal conditions. This surgery is commonly performed to address issues like retinal detachment, macular holes, and severe cases of floaters. By removing the vitreous, our specialists can access the retina more effectively and perform necessary repairs. Vitrectomy is often combined with other procedures, such as laser treatment or the placement of a gas or silicone oil bubble to hold the retina in place.
Macular Hole Repair
A macular hole is a small break in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. This condition can cause blurred or distorted vision and, if left untreated, can lead to significant vision loss. Our specialists treat macular holes primarily through vitrectomy, where the vitreous is removed, and a gas bubble is inserted into the eye to help close the hole. With early intervention, most experience a significant improvement in vision.
Intravitreal Injections
Intravitreal injections are a highly effective treatment for a range of retinal conditions, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion. These injections deliver medication directly into the vitreous, targeting the affected areas of the retina with precision. This treatment helps to reduce swelling, control abnormal blood vessel growth, and prevent further vision loss.
Retinal Detachment Surgery
Retinal detachment is a serious condition where the retina pulls away from the underlying tissue, leading to sudden vision loss. This is a medical emergency that requires prompt surgical intervention to prevent permanent blindness.
Symptoms
What are the symptoms associated with vitreoretinal conditions?
Symptoms associated with vitreoretinal conditions can vary depending on the specific issue but generally include:
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Sudden Vision Loss
A rapid decrease in vision, often a sign of retinal detachment or severe macular damage such as wet macular degeneration.
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Floaters
Small, shadowy shapes or spots that appear to float across your field of vision, commonly associated with vitreous detachment or inflammation.
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Flashes of Light
Brief flashes or lightning streaks in your vision, which can indicate retinal tears or detachment.
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Blurry or Distorted Vision
Changes in the clarity of vision or distortion, particularly if a macular hole or epiretinal membrane is present.
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Dark or Shadowy Areas
Partial loss of vision or the appearance of dark spots, which can be a sign of retinal detachment or bleeding.
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Difficulty Seeing at Night
Reduced night vision due to retinal changes or damage.
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Gradual Vision Changes
A slow decline in vision quality, which can occur in conditions like diabetic retinopathy or age-related macular degeneration.
PATIENT JOURNEY
What is the process of vitreoretinal surgery?
Find out more about the process of vitreoretinal surgery, from initial consultation to aftercare and recovery.
Bespoke Consultation
At your first consultation, you'll meet our team of specialist technicians, opticians, and your chosen expert surgeon. The 90-minute consultation includes a thorough eye examination using advanced diagnostic equipment. We'll assess your vision and discuss your lifestyle to recommend the most suitable treatment, for you to make an informed decision.
Personalised Treatment
We believe in a personalised approach, customising each treatment to meet your unique visual needs. This ensures you receive the best possible procedure for your eyes and vision. Trust is paramount when it comes to your eyes, and we are committed to honesty and transparency, offering evidence-based treatments that prioritise your well-being.
Preparing for surgery
Our team will guide you through any necessary paperwork and explain how to use your post-operative eye drops, as well as how to best look after your eyes in the days and weeks following surgery. You will meet your surgeon again before the procedure and have ample opportunity to ask any questions.
Procedure
When you arrive for your appointment, our experienced, friendly, and empathetic team of nurses and technicians will welcome you and put you at ease. During the surgery, your surgeon will reassure you and talk you through each step, helping you feel calm and in control. Please expect your vision to be blurry, we advise you not to drive.
Aftercare & Results
Thanks to our advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology, you will enjoy perfect vision as early as the next day, depending on your procedure. Follow-up appointments are part of our comprehensive aftercare package and at each appointment we will check your vision and eye health. Our team are accessible should you have any questions or concerns.
Emma Laser Eye surgeryThe way I was dealt by Dr Laginaf was nothing short of outstanding. She went above and beyond and I would like to thank Dr Laginaf for the attention to detail.
Suhail VitrectomyGreat experience with Dr Chien Wong and his team. I needed to have three separate operations to repair a detached retina and poor NHS interventions. Amazing care and treatment and 2 years later still very grateful for their efforts.
Gordon Cataract SurgerySo much care, from the initial enquiry to the final check-up, every team member treats you as if you are the most important person they have ever dealt with. I completed my treatment feeling valued and with better than 20/20 vision.
