Just to follow up -- there are two main procedures to deal with human detached retina -- the laser procedure that Fran described (which can be done in-office) and a more invasive surgical procedure that my husband had which is done at a hospital. The surgical procedure may also involve placing a "gas bubble" in the eye to "hold" the retina in place until it can heal (a short time). If this bubble is used, the patient is not permitted to fly for about 6 weeks due to the possibility of air pressure changes. Which procedure one chooses, depends on the severity of the condition, the patient's risk preferences, the doctor and the patient's attitude toward surgery and recover times. In most cases, if performed shortly after the detachment, both of these procedures are very successful at retaining sight.
Nancy Melone
