ARGON LASER

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What is an Argon laser?

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An argon laser is used to seal holes or tears in the retina. A lens is used by the doctor to focus light onto specific areas at the back of the eye.  The light is converted to heat within the eye and creates small areas of scarring surrounding the hole or tear to prevent the tear from progressing.  This procedure will not reverse any vision loss that has already occurred and it will not get rid of floaters, The purpose of the laser is to avoid any further vision loss by reducing the risk of progression from a retinal break to a retinal detachment, which requires emergency surgery.

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What can I expect during the procedure?

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This procedure is performed by Dr. Varma in the office. Your pupils will be dilated.  You will sit at a machine similar to the one used to examine your eyes when you routinely visit the office which has a special laser attached.   A drop will be used to numb the surface of the eye and a contact lens will be placed on the cornea. This lens allows the doctor to view the back of the eye and focus the laser onto specific areas of the retina. 

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Are there any risks?

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Temporary effects include blurred vision, colored vision (everything looks pink or purple for a few minutes after the laser), and a dark spot in the center of your vision from staring at the bright laser light.  These all subside within 10-15 minutes.  You will be light-sensitive for a few hours following the laser treatment due to the dilation of your pupil.

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In 1:1000 patients, scar tissue may develop over the surface of the macula which may distort your vision and need surgery to remove.

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What do I need to do to prepare?

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Since this is an outpatient treatment, you can eat and drink as normal. You must continue to take any eye medication as normal on the day of the laser treatment.

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Bring sunglasses to wear while the eyes return to normal from dilation. You may need someone to drive you home after your appointment.

 

What happens after the procedure?

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After the treatment, most patients find that their vision is blurry for a few hours from the drops. Bright lights can also be bothersome. Because of this, it can be helpful to have someone to go home with you, but this is not essential. You should not drive for the rest of the day.

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Following the procedure, no special treatment is required, and you can go back to your normal daily activities straight away. If you have discomfort once you have returned home, we suggest that you take your usual pain reliever. It is normal to have itchy, gritty or sticky eyes and mild discomfort for the remainder of the day after the treatment. 

 

What do I need to do after I go home?

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Anti-inflammatory drops may be prescribed for a few days after the laser treatment. These help to minimize inflammation (not infection) within the eye.

 

Contact Us

If you experience any problems or have any questions following the procedure, please do not hesitate to call us at 306-522-1092.