What is the Retina?
The eye functions much like a camera, with a lens in the front and a light-sensitive layer called the retina at the back. The retina is located approximately two centimeters behind the pupil and is shaped like a small cup lining the inner surface of the eye.
The retina converts incoming light into electrical signals, which are transmitted to the brain through the optic nerve, enabling vision.
The central part of the retina, known as the macula, is responsible for straight-ahead and fine vision. A healthy macula is essential for:
- Reading
- Recognizing faces
- Driving
- Seeing fine details
The peripheral retina (area surrounding the macula) helps with side vision and mobility, allowing us to see objects from the “corner” of the eye.
The retina and optic nerve receive nourishment from delicate blood vessels that maintain their health. In front of the retina lies the vitreous cavity, filled with a clear, gel-like substance called the vitreous.
Diseases affecting the retina, vitreous, or optic nerve can cause serious and sometimes irreversible vision loss. However, with modern diagnostic tools and timely treatment, many retinal conditions can now be managed effectively. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment lead to better visual outcomes.
Post-Operative Instructions for Retina Surgery Patients
Special Face-Down Position Instructions (If Gas Bubble Used)
Post-Operative Instructions for Retina Surgery Patients
The following precautions should be observed for three weeks after surgery:
General Precautions
- Do not lift objects heavier than 5 kilograms
- Do not bend forward so that your head is below waist level
- Avoid sleeping on the operated side unless instructed
- Avoid sexual intercourse
- Avoid alcohol consumption
- Do not rub the operated eye
- Avoid vigorous physical activity
- Avoid automobile travel except for doctor visits
- Bathe carefully from below the neck only
- Do not allow water to enter the operated eye for at least two weeks
- You may watch television sparingly
You may gently clean eyelids using clean cotton or tissue moistened with warm water. Do not wash the eyeball directly.
Eye Bandage & Protection
- Remove the eye patch only as advised by your doctor (usually after one day)
- Always wear protective glasses or an eye shield to prevent accidental injury
Medication
- Strictly follow the medication instructions given at discharge
Follow-Up
- Attend all follow-up appointments as scheduled
- Increasing pain, discharge, or decrease in vision should be reported immediately
Important Instructions
- The gas bubble rises upward and pushes the retina into position when you maintain a face-down posture.
- The gas will naturally absorb within a few weeks.
- While in the recovery room, you may be asked to lie on your side.
Permitted Positions
- Prone (face down)
- On the side with face turned toward mattress
- Sitting with elbows on knees
- Sitting with forehead resting on table edge
- Walking indoors with head parallel to the floor
You may lie on your back only for 3–4 minutes during bandage changes, eye drops, or examination.
Eat while facing down and drink using a straw.
Emergency & Support
If you have any problems, concerns, or questions, please discuss them with your doctor during follow-up visits.
SRRLEH Emergency Services are available 24 hours a day to assist you.
Types of Retinopathy (Brief Overview)
Diabetic Retinopathy
Damage to retinal blood vessels caused by long-standing diabetes. It is one of the leading causes of vision loss in working-age adults.
Hypertensive Retinopathy
Changes in the retina due to high blood pressure, affecting retinal circulation.
Retinal Vein Occlusion
Blockage of veins draining blood from the retina, leading to sudden vision loss.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Degeneration of the macula, affecting central vision, more common in older adults.
Retinal Detachment
A serious condition where the retina separates from the underlying tissue, requiring urgent treatment.
Retina Treatments Available at SRRLEH
At Smt. Rajeswari Ramakrishnan Lions Eye Hospital (SRRLEH), we provide comprehensive retina care using modern diagnostic and treatment modalities.
Retinal Laser Treatment
Laser therapy is used to:
- Seal leaking blood vessels
- Reduce abnormal vessel growth
- Prevent progression of diabetic retinopathy
- Treat retinal tears and vein occlusions
Laser treatment helps stabilize vision and prevent further damage.
Intravitreal Injections
Medications are injected directly into the eye to treat:
- Diabetic macular edema
- Retinal vein occlusion
- Age-related macular degeneration
These injections reduce swelling, control abnormal blood vessel growth, and help preserve vision.
Retina Surgery
Surgical intervention is required for advanced retinal diseases such as:
- Vitrectomy – Removal of vitreous gel to treat retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, or macular disorders
- Retinal Detachment Surgery – Repositioning and reattachment of the retina
- Membrane Peeling – Removal of scar tissue affecting central vision
Our retina surgeons use advanced techniques to achieve optimal anatomical and visual outcomes.