Retinal Detachment

Emergency surgical repair of a detached retina is crucial to prevent permanent vision loss and restore sight.

What is a Retinal Detachment?

A retinal detachment is a serious and sight-threatening event that occurs when the retina—the thin, light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye—separates from its underlying layer of blood vessels, the choroid. This separation cuts off the retina from its essential supply of oxygen and nutrients. Without prompt treatment, this can lead to irreversible vision loss.

Common Symptoms

The onset of a retinal detachment is often sudden and painless. Key symptoms to watch for include a sudden increase in "floaters" (small specks or lines drifting through your vision), flashes of light in one or both eyes (photopsia), or the appearance of a dark shadow or "curtain" gradually obscuring a part of your visual field. Any of these symptoms should be considered a medical emergency.

Causes and Risk Factors

The most common cause of detachment is a tear or hole in the retina, which allows vitreous fluid (the gel-like substance filling the eye) to seep underneath and lift it. Risk factors include severe nearsightedness (myopia), previous eye surgery such as cataract removal, significant eye injury, a family history of retinal detachment, and certain other eye diseases.

Our Approach to Treatment

Treatment for a retinal detachment is always surgical and aims to reattach the retina to the back of the eye and seal any tears or holes. At The Retina Institute, we utilize the most advanced surgical techniques available, including pneumatic retinopexy, vitrectomy, and scleral buckling. The specific procedure is carefully selected based on the characteristics of the detachment to ensure the highest probability of successful reattachment and visual recovery. Early and precise intervention is paramount.