diagram of an eye with a detached retina

Retinal Detachment Surgery

The retina sends messages from the optic nerve to the brain. Retinal detachment can lead to vision loss if not addressed immediately.

Surgery is the only way to treat retinal detachment, and it can help to prevent or reverse vision loss.

Can your vision be saved? It sure can...

diagram of an eye with a detached retina

Reattaching Your Retina Can Save Your Vision

Keep Your Sight

If your retina has become detached, you may notice an increase in floaters or flashes of light, or you may develop a veil over your field of vision. Timely surgery can restore good vision and your quality of life.

High Success Rate

The initial success rate of retinal reattachment ranges from 63% to 94%, depending on the technique used.

Covered by Insurance

As retinal detachment surgery is a medical necessity, insurance will often cover part or all of the cost of the procedure. You may be responsible for copays or coinsurance, which is a small price to pay for your sight.

Surgery Is a Safe and Predictable Solution

before and after retinal detachment surgerybefore and after retinal detachment surgery

How Much Does It Cost?

There are several forms of retinal detachment surgery, and each has an associated cost. Though insurance will generally cover part or all of surgery, you may be responsible for copays or coinsurance. This can amount to as little as a few hundred dollars. Without insurance, the cost ranges from $5,000 to $10,000 per eye, depending on where the procedure is performed, the severity of detachment, and the expertise of your doctor. Keep in mind that surgery is the only form of treatment, making it necessary to prevent permanent vision loss.

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Surgical Treatment for Retinal Detachment and Tears

Vitrectomy: The doctor will make a tiny incision in the white part of the eye (sclera) and remove the vitreous gel. Gas is then injected to replace the vitreous and push the retina against the wall of the eye.

Scleral Buckle: The doctor attaches a synthetic band to the outside of the eyeball, which pushes the retina against the wall of the eye.

Pneumatic Retinopexy: A gas bubble is injected into the eyeball, which presses the detached retina against the wall of the eye.

Laser Surgery: Laser surgery virtually “welds” a retinal tear to underlying tissue, preventing fluid from traveling beneath.

Cryopexy: Also known as freezing treatment, cryopexy involves freezing and sealing the area around a retinal tear to assist with reattachment.

See a Doctor Now

Unfortunately, there are no alternatives to surgery if your retina has detached. Furthermore, a detached retina must be treated within hours or days of the diagnosis to prevent permanent vision loss. The clock is ticking, and your vision is at stake.

Your vision is one of your most valuable assets. If you are experiencing symptoms of retinal detachment, contact your doctor right away. It could be the difference in your sight.

Byron W. Biscoe, MD

Laser Vision Institute of the Virgin Islands

Byron W. Biscoe, MD, has been in practice since 1994. He is a member of a number of distinguished organizations:

  • American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
  • American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care Inc.
  • International Society of Refractive Surgery

Contact us online to ask a question or request a consultation. You can also reach us by phone at (340) 774-3003.

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