Detached & Torn Retina

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A retinal detachment occurs when the retina is pulled away from its normal position.

Detached and Torn Retina

A retinal detachment is a very serious problem that almost always causes blindness unless it is treated. The retina does not work when it is detached. Vision is blurred like a camera picture would be blurry if the film were loose inside the camera.

Causes of Retinal Detachment

The vitreous is a clear gel that fills the middle of the eye between the lens and the retina. As we get older, the vitreous may pull away from its attachment to the retina at the back of the eye. Usually the vitreous separates from the retina without causing any problems. But sometimes the vitreous pulls hard enough to tear the retina in one or more places. Fluid may pass through the retinal tear lifting the retina off the back of the eye, like wallpaper can peel off a wall.

The following conditions increase the chance that you might get a retinal detachment:

Nearsightedness
Previous cataract surgery
Glaucoma
Severe injury
Previous retinal detachment in one eye
Family history of retinal detachment
Weak areas in your retina that can be seen by your ophthalmologist

Warning Signs of Retinal Detachment:

Flashing lights
New floaters
A gray curtain moving across your field of vision

The doctors of Eye Surgical Associates can diagnose retinal detachment during an eye exam where he or she dilates the pupils of your eyes. Some retinal detachments are found during routine eye exams. Only after careful examination can your ophthalmologist tell whether a retinal detachment is present.

Treatments for Tears and Detachments

Retinal Tears

Most retinal tears need to be treated with laser surgery or cryotherapy (freezing) to seal the retina to the back wall of the eye. These treatments cause little or no discomfort and may be performed in your ophthalmologist's office. Treatment usually prevents retinal detachment.

Retinal Detachments

Almost all patients with retinal detachments require surgery to put the retina back in its proper place.

Vision Plans and Insurance

Eye Surgical Associates accepts many major insurance plans. Please check with your provider for coverage details. Learn more >