Retinal laser treatment is used to manage conditions involving retinal tears, leakage or abnormal blood vessel growth. We will monitor your condition closely with regular retinal imaging and follow-up reviews to assess the response and ensure that any further changes are detected early.
Retinal conditions affect the delicate tissue and blood vessels at the back of the eye, leading to retinal tears, poor circulation, fluid leakage, swelling or abnormal blood vessel growth. These changes can cause blurred vision, floaters, flashes, missing areas of vision or more serious complications such as retinal detachment and vitreous haemorrhage.
Retinal laser treatment is mainly intended to stabilise the retina and prevent further deterioration. The most suitable laser technique depends on the affected area and the underlying retinal condition
Conditions treated with retinal laser include:
Retinal laser treatment is used for retinal tears, abnormal blood vessel growth, and retinal leakage or swelling. A detailed retinal examination helps identify the affected areas and guide treatment to the appropriate part of the retina.
Retinal laser treatment is performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing you to return home on the same day.
Laser retinopexy treats retinal tears, holes and selected areas of weakened peripheral retina that carry a significant risk of retinal detachment. A ring of laser spots is placed around the retinal break to create a firm adhesion between the retina and the tissue underneath, preventing fluid from passing through the break and spreading beneath the retina.
Before treatment, the pupil is dilated and local anaesthetic eye drops are applied. A specialised contact lens is then gently placed on the eye to provide a clear view of the peripheral retina and keep the eye steady while the laser is delivered. Bright flashes are experienced during treatment, with occasional mild pressure or brief stinging. The procedure usually takes around 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the number and location of the retinal breaks.
Laser retinopexy significantly reduces the risk of progression to retinal detachment, although continued monitoring remains important as new retinal tears can develop elsewhere.
Panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) treats areas of the peripheral retina affected by poor blood circulation. These areas release signals that stimulate the growth of fragile, abnormal blood vessels. PRP applies multiple laser spots across the affected peripheral retina to reduce these signals and encourage abnormal blood vessels to shrink. This lowers the risk of vitreous haemorrhage, scar tissue formation, tractional retinal detachment and abnormal blood vessels affecting the drainage system of the eye.
Before the procedure, the pupil is dilated and the eye is numbed with local anaesthetic drops. A specialised contact lens is placed on the eye to provide a clear view of the peripheral retina. Several hundred carefully positioned laser spots are then delivered while avoiding the central macula. Bright flashes are visible during treatment, and brief stinging or aching can occur in some areas.
After treatment, vision can be temporarily blurred and the eye can feel mildly uncomfortable. PRP can be divided across two or more sessions, depending on the extent of treatment required, with follow-up examinations used to assess the retinal response and determine whether further laser treatment is needed.
Macular grid or focal laser is used to treat selected areas of retinal swelling or leakage in the macula, including some cases of diabetic macular oedema and retinal vein occlusion. The laser is directed at specific leaking blood vessels or areas of abnormal retinal circulation to reduce further fluid leakage and stabilise the macula.
Unlike panretinal photocoagulation, which treats a wider area of the peripheral retina, macular grid or focal laser is concentrated around only the affected part of the macula. Treatment is carefully planned to target the areas of leakage while avoiding the centre of vision wherever possible.
The procedure is performed in a sterile treatment room. Anaesthetic drops are used to numb the eye before a specialised contact lens is placed on the surface of the eye to provide a clear view and guide the laser accurately. A series of small laser spots is then applied to the planned treatment areas. You will see brief flashes of light during the procedure, and most people experience little to mild discomfort.
After treatment, vision can be temporarily blurred and the eye can feel mildly irritated. Follow-up reviews are important to assess whether the swelling and leakage have reduced and whether any further treatment is required.
From your initial consultation to treatment and follow-up care, our team will guide you through every stage of your journey. We will take the time to explain your condition, answer your questions and help you feel informed and supported throughout your care.
Your consultation begins with a detailed assessment of your vision and eye health. Depending on your condition, this may include measurements of your vision and eye pressure, examination of the front and back of the eye, and advanced diagnostic imaging.
Our team will guide you through each test and explain what is being assessed. Your results will then be carefully reviewed to understand your individual needs and determine whether monitoring or treatment may be recommended.
Every eye and every patient is different. Your treatment plan will be tailored according to your examination findings, visual needs, general health and lifestyle.
We will explain the recommended treatment, its expected benefits, possible risks and any suitable alternatives in a clear and straightforward manner. You will have time to ask questions and consider your options before deciding how you would like to proceed.
Before your treatment, our team will guide you through the necessary preparations, paperwork and medication instructions. Where applicable, we will explain how to use your prescribed eye drops and how to care for your eyes afterwards.
We understand that undergoing a procedure can feel unfamiliar or worrying. Our team will be available to answer your questions and ensure that you know what to expect before the day of your treatment.
On the day of your procedure, you will arrive at the hospital or surgical centre where your operation has been scheduled. The surgical team will help you prepare and explain what will happen at each stage.
Anaesthetic eye drops or other forms of anaesthesia may be used, depending on the procedure, to keep you comfortable. Your doctor and the surgical team will support and reassure you throughout the operation.
Most eye surgeries are performed as day procedures, although the duration and recovery process will depend on the treatment you receive. Your vision may be temporarily blurred afterwards, so you should arrange for someone to accompany you home and should not drive unless your doctor has advised that it is safe to do so.
We will provide clear instructions on how to care for your eyes, use any prescribed medication and manage your activities during recovery. We will also explain which symptoms are expected and when you should contact the clinic for further advice.
Follow-up appointments allow us to monitor your vision, assess your recovery and identify any concerns at an early stage. Our team remains accessible should you have any questions or concerns throughout your recovery.
Retinal tears and abnormal retinal blood vessels can progress before major changes in vision become noticeable. At Ascend Eye Clinic, detailed retinal assessment, advanced imaging and carefully planned laser treatment help stabilise vulnerable areas of the retina and reduce the risk of sight-threatening complications.
Book a consultation for a comprehensive retinal assessment and a personalised treatment plan.
Retinal laser is recommended when we identify an area of the retina that would benefit from treatment. Depending on the underlying condition, the aim can be to reduce the risk of retinal detachment, control abnormal or leaking blood vessels, reduce retinal swelling, or prevent further retinal damage.
Anaesthetic eye drops are used to numb the surface of the eye before treatment. You will see bright flashes of light and may feel brief stinging, aching or pressure during some of the laser applications. We will guide you throughout the procedure and make sure you are as comfortable as possible.
Yes. Retinal laser is normally performed while you are awake and seated at the laser machine. The eye is numbed beforehand, and a special contact lens is placed gently on the eye to help us view and treat the correct area of the retina.
The treatment time depends on the area of retina being treated and the number of laser spots required. Some treatments take only several minutes, while more extensive treatment can take longer or be divided over more than one session.
Possibly. Some retinal problems can be treated in one session, while others require additional laser depending on the extent of the condition and how the retina responds. We will review the treated area and advise whether further treatment is required.
You will notice repeated bright flashes as the laser is applied. These can appear very intense while treatment is being performed, but this is expected. We will tell you where to look and guide you through the procedure.
Vision is often temporarily blurred after treatment because of the dilating drops, bright laser lights and contact lens used during the procedure. You may also notice glare, coloured spots or temporary changes in brightness. These generally settle as the eye recovers.
We recommend arranging transport home because your pupils are usually dilated and your vision can be blurred or sensitive to light after treatment. You should only return to driving once your vision has returned to a level that is safe for you to drive.
The main purpose of retinal laser is often to protect the retina and reduce the risk of further vision loss rather than to immediately improve vision. Whether vision improves depends on the condition being treated and how much the retina has already been affected.
The effect of retinal laser develops over time rather than immediately. For example, laser placed around a retinal tear gradually creates a stronger adhesion around the treated area, while laser used for retinal blood vessel problems works progressively over the following weeks.
Temporary blurred vision, glare and mild discomfort can occur after treatment. More extensive laser can also affect peripheral vision, night vision or contrast sensitivity. Other complications are less common, and we will explain the relevant risks based on the type and extent of treatment planned.
Most people can continue with light daily activities after treatment. Depending on the retinal condition, we may advise you to temporarily avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting or other activities while the treated area settles. We will provide instructions based on your individual condition.
Laser treats the areas identified at the time of treatment, but it does not prevent every future retinal change. New retinal tears, abnormal blood vessels or other changes can sometimes develop later, which is why follow-up examinations remain important.
This depends on the reason the laser has been advised. Some untreated retinal conditions can progress and increase the risk of bleeding, retinal detachment or permanent loss of vision. We will explain the expected risks and benefits before treatment so you understand why laser has been recommended.
Seek prompt assessment if you notice a sudden increase in floaters, new or worsening flashes, a dark curtain or shadow across your vision, a significant drop in vision or severe and increasing eye pain. These symptoms should be checked promptly.
