Retinal Lasers
ABOUT RETINAL LASER TREATMENT
As a delicate, light-detecting tissue located in the back of your eye, the retina transmits the images you see to your brain. When retinal diseases and conditions occur, board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Steven Yaplee utilizes the latest in retinal focal and panretinal laser technology to improve eye function. Advanced ophthalmic lasers may be used to treat a range of issues, such as retinal detachment, tears, holes, diabetic retinopathy, vein and artery blockages, and macular edema and degeneration, among others. If you have floaters, flashes, blurred vision, or other symptoms of retinal problems, please schedule an exam at Triangle Eye Institute in Bakersfield, CA. The ultimate goal of retinal laser treatment is to minimize the chance of vision loss and help prevent further retinal damage.
HOW DO RETINAL LASERS WORK?
Laser treatment for retinal conditions, also referred to as focal laser photocoagulation, is performed on an outpatient basis at our Bakersfield, CA surgical facility. Retinal focal lasers are used to treat retinal detachment or tears and relieve swelling due to diabetic retinopathy, vein occlusion (blocked vessels), and macular edema. Panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) lasers help stunt the growth of new atypical blood vessels that have developed across the retina. The heat generated from retinal lasers works to destroy or seal off damaged or leaking blood vessels, or create a scar that fuses the retina to surrounding tissues, in the case of retinal detachment, holes, or tears. Dr. Yaplee may utilize one or both of these laser technologies to treat retinal conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is retinal laser treatment safe?
Yes, it is. Retinal laser treatments offer great improvements in eyesight and eye health with little to no risk or side effects.
Does retinal laser treatment hurt?
No, it doesn’t. Before the procedure begins, Dr. Yaplee will numb the eyes with anesthetic drops to keep you comfortable. Most patients only report a light sense of pressure if they feel any sensation at all.
How long is recovery after retinal laser treatments?
Depending on what condition you have treated, recovery can take between a couple of days to a few weeks. Strenuous activities and quick head movements should be avoided while healing. During your consultation with Dr. Yaplee, he will go over the recovery process and what you’ll need to do to properly heal.
LASER RETINA REPAIR
Treating diabetic retinopathy, a torn retina, or other eye concerns is extremely important to your vision and overall quality of life. Dr. Yaplee of Triangle Eye Institute is a trusted eye doctor in Bakersfield and Delano, CA and a proud provider of advanced vision services. Schedule a consultation at our practice to learn about your options for retinal laser treatment, insurance coverage, and the benefits of receiving care from our skilled ophthalmology specialist.