Even though peripheral retinal degeneration, such as lattices and holes signify areas of weakness, they usually do not have any effect on a person’s vision. In most cases, they may remain undetected until specifically screened for. However, in some people the appearance of floaters and flashes of light may signify risk of peripheral retinal degeneration and hence, warrant a complete retinal examination.
If during your retinal examination, your doctor finds any lattices or holes in your retina, it does not mean you can not undergo Lasik surgery. All lattices or holes in the retina need to be treated using retinal laser photocoagulation prior to your Lasik appointment. The aim of the retinal laser treatment is to heal or strengthen these areas of weakness. With the help of retinal laser, the area with lattices or holes is demarcated by creating a scar tissue around the lesion. This prevents any further extension of the lesion beyond the scar tissue and helps preserve the health of the retina.
The retinal laser treatment of lattices or holes is not routinely advised for people without any visual symptoms, but becomes mandatory in eyes undergoing Lasik surgery to prevent the occurrence of retinal detachment after the procedure. Retinal detachment after Lasik surgery is although rare and treatable, but is an extremely unfortunate event, which would require an altogether different surgical procedure to reattach the retina in its original position.