Dear Maaike,
Since my eye was removed, I keep seeing images. How long will these phantom images last? Will this problem go away after a while? It has been 8 weeks since my evisceration.
Best regards, N.
Dear N,
I’ve often heard people mention this issue during our Open House events. However, I’m not yet sure whether these phantom images disappear after a while. That’s why I’m forwarding your question to Dr. Paridaens, an orbital specialist and member of our Medical Advisory Board.
Dr. Paridaens replies: Phantom images or visual hallucinations occur in about 30% of patients who undergo an eye removal. They may be triggered by impulses generated in nerve tissue when the optic nerve is transected during eye removal. Once the trauma has healed, these impulses will likely cease. Impulses in the optic nerve pathways and the visual cortex are interpreted as images with various shapes and colors. These images usually fade within six months, but wound healing (and nerve stimulation) takes 12 months, so a longer duration is not unusual. Other than that, there isn’t much you can do about it.
Best regards, Maaike
Dear Maaike,
Thank you so much for the information. Your answer has definitely helped me. It has put my mind at ease regarding the consequences of the evisceration.
Sincerely,
N.
