Medical & Surgical Retina
Flashes & Floaters ~ Including Retinal Tears & Detachment
Surgical retina refers to a specialised area of ophthalmology that focuses on diagnosing and treating complex retinal conditions through advanced surgical techniques. Due to their delicate and intricate nature, retinal surgery requires highly experienced surgeons.
At Tauranga Eye Specialists, we proudly offer a team of internationally renowned surgeons trained at world-renowned centres such as Bristol Eye Hospital in the UK, Moorfields Eye Hospital, Sydney Eye Hospital, and Jules-Gonin Hospital. Our specialists hold some of the highest governing positions in ophthalmology, including Censor-in-Chief at The Royal Australia and New Zealand College of Ophthalmology.
Furthermore, our high volume of surgeries means our team has extensive experience, making us one of the most proficient ocular surgery units in New Zealand. With some of the country’s most practised ophthalmologists, you can trust you’re getting the very best care for your eye health.
What is Surgical Retina?
The retina, located at the back of the eye, plays a vital role in vision. It converts light into signals that the brain interprets. As we age, the gel inside our eyes becomes more liquid, leading to clumps in the vitreous that can cast shadows on the retina or even cause detachment.
This can result in small tears or retinal detachment, requiring prompt treatment to prevent vision loss. When retinal issues such as tears, detachments, or complications from conditions like diabetic retinopathy, epiretinal membranes or macular holes arise, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore or preserve vision.
These intricate procedures often require state-of-the-art equipment and expertise to ensure the best possible outcome for patients. At Tauranga Eye Specialists, our highly skilled surgeons provide personalised care tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
Symptoms That May Indicate the Need for Retinal Surgery
Recognising symptoms of retinal detachment early is crucial for prompt treatment and better outcomes. Some common signs include:
- Sudden flashes of light
- The appearance of floaters in your vision
- A shadow or curtain effect over part of your visual field
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Difficulty reading or recognising faces
- A noticeable loss of central or peripheral vision
Flashes are sudden bursts of light often seen in your side vision, while floaters are tiny specks that drift across your field of vision. These phenomena are usually harmless but can indicate serious eye conditions.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek a professional evaluation immediately. An early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve your vision and prevent further complications.
Surgical Treatments for a Detached Retina
If a detached retina is diagnosed, prompt surgical treatment is often necessary to repair the damage and restore vision. Several surgical options are available, and the choice of procedure depends on the severity and location of the detachment.
Your ophthalmologist will recommend the best approach tailored to your individual condition and needs.
During this procedure, a silicone band and/or buckle is placed around the outer wall of the eye to support the retina from the outside of the eye.
During a vitrectomy, the vitreous gel inside the eye is removed, along with any particles or debris, and replaced with a clear balanced salt solution or gas bubble. Over time the solution or gas will be replaced with fluid naturally produced by the eye.If silicone oil is used to stabilise the retina then this will require further surgery to remove it once the retina is secure.
This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting the retinal tear or hole using laser or freezing therapy (cryotherapy) and injecting a small gas bubble into the eye, which presses the retina back into position.
Following the procedure, patients must position their heads in a particular way, and they may not be able to travel by air, go scuba diving or have a general anaesthetic until such time as the gas bubble has resorbed. This may take several weeks depending on the type of gas used.
Why Choose Our Clinic for Retinal Surgery?
Did you know that the Bay of Plenty is home to some of the most experienced ophthalmologists in Australasia? Our surgeons hold esteemed positions, including Censor-in-Chief at the Royal Australia and New Zealand College of Ophthalmology.
The Very Latest Treatments and Wider Range of Options
Easily accessible for private patients from Coromandel, the Waikato and Auckland.
Wide range of subspecialties under one roof, so you can be treated for multiple conditions at the same time, minimising stress and inconvenience.
Internationally acclaimed surgeons trained at world-leading institutions ( Bristol Eye Hospital in the UK, Moorfields Eye Hospital, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital & University Hospital Southampton Foundation NHS Trust).
Leaders in ophthalmology, holding positions in esteemed organisations like The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists.
Access to the latest treatments and exclusive advanced technologies.
Personalised care with a broad range of options tailored to individual needs.
Personalised care with a broad range of options tailored to individual needs.
