“She is not allowed to move”: Brigitte Macron underwent emergency retinal surgery, Dr Kierzek explains the risks

“She is not allowed to move”: Brigitte Macron underwent emergency retinal surgery, Dr Kierzek explains the risks
Brigitte Macron was unable to attend the Interdee brand fashion show this weekend. Her daughter Laurence explained that the First Lady had undergone emergency retinal surgery. We interviewed Dr. Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of True Medical, to understand the challenges of this intervention.

While the Marois hotel hosted a fashion show for the Interdee brand accompanied by an artistic exhibition, the absence of Brigitte Macron immediately attracted attention. The First Lady was to be present alongside her daughters, Laurence and Tiphaine Auzière, but her eldest daughter spoke to explain the situation: “She is not allowed to move. She had emergency retinal surgery this weekend“. From the Élysée, Brigitte Macron was nevertheless able to interact via FaceTime with the guests, sunglasses on, to present the exhibition.

An ophthalmological emergency not to be neglected

According to Dr. Kierzek, several pathologies may require urgent eye surgery, such as a retinal detachment, membrane or macular hole. “In the event of detachment, you must consult immediately“, he specifies. The signs which should alert are varied: sudden appearance of “flying flies”, flashes of light, impression of a black veil or “curtain” in the visual field, and loss of vision which can affect the reading or recognition of faces.

The emergency is vital: the detachment corresponds to the separation of the retina from the layer which nourishes it. Without surgery, visual cells can be irreversibly destroyed, leading to permanent loss of vision. The treatment is exclusively surgical, with techniques such as vitrectomy or gas injection to reattach the retina.

After the operation: strict rest and vigilant monitoring

The post-operative period is crucial. “When a gas bubble is injected into the eye to flatten the retina, it is often necessary to maintain a precise position for several days.“, explains Dr. Kierzek. Sudden movements, displacements and physical efforts can compromise the result and encourage recurrence.

The following weeks remain high risk: the risk of recurrence is particularly high in the first two months. Patients must limit their activities and scrupulously follow medical instructions to protect the operated eye. Possible complications, although rare, may include intraocular infection, hemorrhage, secondary cataract, or incomplete visual outcome if the macula has been affected for too long.

A reassuring virtual presence

Despite her physical absence, Brigitte Macron insisted on participating in the parade via FaceTime, illustrating both her commitment to the family event and the strict constraints imposed by this type of intervention. His vigilance over his convalescence shows the importance of respecting medical instructions to avoid any serious complications.