Retinal Detachment Repair Side Effects and Warnings

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have this repair, your doctor will review a list of possible complications which may include:

• Redetachment of the retina—Sometimes, the retina detaches again following surgery. More surgery would be needed. In severe cases, this complication may be irreversible.
• Endophthalmitis—A serious infection can occur inside the eye.
• Proliferative vitreoretinopathy—This condition causes progressive contraction and scarring of the retina after a repair. This may require surgery. In severe cases, this complication may be irreversible.

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Poor general health
• Degree of retinal damage
• Cataracts
• Glaucoma

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Any change in vision
• Signs of infection, including fever and chills
• Redness, swelling, increasing pain, bleeding, or excessive discharge from your eye
• Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain
• Any new symptoms

In case of an emergency, CALL 911.