What Causes Persistent Dilated Pupils Post Retinal Surgery?

Posted on Sat, 26 Dec 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 26 Dec 2015 Answered on

Thu, 21 Jan 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello,
I had retinal surgery 10 days ago [vitrectomy, SX6 gas bubble, laser] and my pupil is still enormous. I thought that this was too long a time frame to explain with atropine and my doctor agreed saying it was more a direct result of the laser surgery itself. I didn't get a chance to ask him for an explanation why this occurs. does the laser cut any pupillary fibers? how long with this dilation last?
Thank you very much.
XXXX

Answered by Dr. N K Mishra (40 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Improvement with time

Detailed Answer:
My dear,
Thanks for sending your query to us.
this may take some time to improve as atropine effects last for 2 weeks.If there is an operative injury that also may show some improvement.
Pilocarpine eye drop is another drug which keeps IOP low like timolol as well reducing the size of pupil and thereby serves both the functions. You have to consult your doctor regarding this,though timolol is to be used in your case for a short while only.
Any further query in this regard please do get back to me.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina