Retinal Detachment/Tears

Retinal DetachmentA retinal detachment is a condition that involves the retina separating from the supporting structures of the back of the eye. The most common cause of a retinal detachment is because one or more small holes have been formed on the retina. The eye fluid then can enter the hole(s) and start to peel the retina off of the back of the eye. The holes can form because of trauma, degenerations of the retina or after an eye surgery.

Retinal Detachment
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The symptoms of a retinal detachment may include the sudden development of floaters and flashes. Bleeding from the tear in the retina can cause the floaters, and pull from the vitreous jelly causes the flashes. If the retina starts to become detached a patient may see a blurry image in the edge of their vision, as progression increases the blurriness may enter the center. If the retina fully detaches, the macula also becomes detached, the vision becomes rapidly worse. Patients experiencing these symptoms should see an eye doctor immediately.

There are treatment options for a retinal detachment. If the retina has only experienced small tears then treatment with a laser usually can fix the tear, close monitoring will follow. If the retina becomes fully detached then a silicone band, called a scleral buckle, may be placed behind the eyelids to help the retina become reattached. A vitrectomy, a surgical procedure where the vitreous gel is removed may be needed to help repair the retina. If a retinal detachment involves only the peripheral retina, then surgical repair usually helps maintain excellent vision. If the detachment has progressed to involve the center of vision, the macula, then some vision may be lost, even after surgical reattachment of the retina.

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Your Eye Appointment
What to bring with you!

Make the most of your appointment time. Your Doctor will want to review your medical history as well as address your eye care concerns. You will get more out of your appointment if you stop now and prepare.

1. Bring any eyeglasses or contact lenses you currently wear.

2. Bring a list of all current medications.

3. Bring a list of serious illnesses or surgeries in your past.

4. Bring a list of your current illnesses or report on your wellness program.

5. Bring your insurance card and referral from your primary Doctor if your insurance requires a referral. Or, if you are paying cash, bring your credit card or checkbook. Payment will be expected at the time of your appointment and on the day of surgery. You may wish to take advantage of CareCredit or ChaseHealthAdvance, and can apply on-line before your appointment.

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The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider.