Scleral Buckle

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Scleral Buckle Surgery

Scleral buckle surgery is an ophthalmic procedure that is commonly used to repair retinal detachments, which can potentially restore vision.

The retina is the layer of tissue lining the back wall of the eye that is responsible for translating light signals into neural signals and sending them to the brain. Light enters the eye through the lens and hits the retina tissue, stimulating its photosensitive cells. When the retina becomes detached, it peels away from its proper position lining the back wall of the eye, often causing sudden loss of vision.

One of the ways that this is corrected is through a scleral buckle procedure, which helps to secure the retina into its right place against the back of the eye.

What is Scleral Buckle Surgery?

Scleral buckling involves sewing a piece of silicone to the white of your eye over the affected area. This step indents the wall of the eye and reduces how much the vitreous gel tugs on the retina. The scleral buckle usually remains in place permanently, however, it will be behind your eyelid and so largely unseen. Afterward, the surgeon will apply antibiotic ointment to the eye and cover it with an eye patch.

In most cases, scleral buckling is performed on an outpatient basis, with most patients going home on the same day of the procedure. However, they will need someone to drive them home. During recovery after scleral buckling, your doctor will have specific instructions on what you need to do, including how long to wear an eye patch and how often to administer antibiotic eye drops. They will also schedule you for a follow-up appointment so that they can monitor your eye and check whether the procedure was successful. During follow-up, be sure to discuss any changes you are experiencing with your vision or eyes, including decreased vision, pain, and swelling.