360 Degree Barrage Laser

Sealing Your Retina All the Way Around — Before It Detaches

A retinal detachment is one of the most serious eye emergencies there is — and one of the most devastating if left untreated. The 360 Degree Barrage Laser treatment creates a ring of protective laser burns all the way around the outer edge of the retina, forming a strong barrier that significantly reduces the risk of the retina peeling away from the back of the eye. It is a powerful preventive treatment, and at RGC Eye Hospital, we perform it with speed, precision, and care.

What Is Barrage Laser Treatment?

Barrage laser treatment uses a precisely focused beam of laser light to create a series of tiny, controlled burns around the periphery of the retina. These burns cause a localised scar that effectively welds the retina to the underlying tissue all the way around its outer edge. This 360 degree barrier makes it much harder for fluid to find its way beneath the retina and cause it to lift away — greatly reducing the risk of a full retinal detachment occurring.

Who Needs This Treatment?

• Patients at high risk of retinal detachment due to a very thin or lattice-degenerated peripheral retina
• Those who have had retinal detachment in the other eye
• Patients with very high myopia who have significant peripheral retinal changes
• Those about to undergo certain types of eye surgery who need their retina stabilised first
• Patients with a strong family history of retinal detachment

What Happens During Treatment?

Step 1 — Dilating the Pupils

Eye drops are used to fully dilate your pupils so the laser can reach the far peripheral retina clearly and safely.

Step 2 — Anaesthetic Drops

Numbing drops are applied to the eye surface so the contact lens used during the procedure is comfortable to wear.

Step 3 — The Laser Treatment

A special contact lens is placed on the eye to help the laser reach the peripheral retina. The laser is then applied in a series of small spots all the way around the outer edge of the retina, creating the protective barrier. You may see brief flashes of light during the treatment.

Step 4 — Done

The entire procedure typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. There are no incisions and no stitches. You can go home the same day.

After Treatment

Your vision will be blurred for several hours after treatment due to the dilating drops. You should arrange transport home and avoid driving for the rest of the day. Mild aching or light sensitivity is common for a day or two. The laser scars take one to two weeks to fully mature and form the protective barrier. A follow-up appointment is scheduled to confirm the treatment has been effective.

Why Patients Trust RGC Eye Hospital

• Experienced retinal specialists who perform barrage laser with precision and care
• Modern laser systems for accurate, consistent, and effective treatment
• Thorough assessment to determine whether preventive laser treatment is right for you
• Follow-up to confirm the laser scars have formed and your retina is secure