Retinal Detachment Treatment
If you’ve been experiencing sudden changes in vision, such as flashes of light, new floaters, or loss of peripheral vision, these could be symptoms of retinal detachment. At the Center for Retina and Macular Disease, we offer advanced treatments to address this serious condition, helping to restore your vision and prevent further complications.
What is Retinal Detachment?
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina, the thin layer of light-sensitive cells at the back of the eye, pulls away from its normal position. This condition can disrupt the connection between the retina and the blood vessels that provide it with oxygen and nutrients. Without timely treatment, it can lead to permanent vision loss.
There are three types of retinal detachments:
- Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: The most common type, caused by a retinal tear that allows fluid to pass through and separate the retina from the eye wall.
- Tractional retinal detachment: Often related to scar tissue, which pulls the retina out of place.
- Exudative retinal detachment: Caused by fluid buildup under the retina due to conditions like inflammation or injury.
Symptoms of Retinal Detachment
Symptoms of Retinal Detachment
Common retinal detachment symptoms to watch for include:
- Sudden appearance of flashes of light or floaters
- A shadow or curtain-like effect over part of your vision
- Loss of peripheral vision
- Blurred vision that worsens quickly
If you notice these signs, contact us immediately to diagnose retinal detachment and begin treatment.
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes and Risk Factors
A few common causes and risk factors for retinal detachment include:
- Posterior vitreous detachment, a natural aging process where the gel inside the eye pulls away from the retina
- Eye trauma or previous eye surgery
- Severe nearsightedness
- Family history of retinal detachments
Benefits of Retinal
Detachment Treatment
Receiving prompt care for a detached retina offers several benefits:
- Protects your vision and prevents further vision loss
- Reduces the chance of complications, like scar tissue formation
- Addresses associated issues, such as retinal tears
Are You a Candidate for Retinal Detachment Treatment?
You might need treatment if you experience any of the following:
- A retinal tear detected during a dilated eye exam
- A partially or fully detached retina
- High risk of retinal detachment due to family history or other factors
What to Expect During Retinal Detachment Treatment
Your treatment begins with a detailed consultation and thorough examination. During the appointment, your eye doctor will perform tests such as a dilated eye exam to closely inspect the retina and determine the extent of the detachment or tears. They will ask about any symptoms you have been experiencing, such as vision changes or flashes of light, and will explain the findings in clear terms. Based on the evaluation, a customized treatment plan will be created for you.
Treatment options include:
- Laser Surgery: For small retinal tears, laser surgery creates small burns to seal the retina and prevent retinal detachment.
- Scleral Buckle Surgery: A flexible band is placed around the outside of the eye wall to gently push the retina back into position.
- Vitrectomy: During this procedure, the vitreous gel pulling on the retina is removed, and the space is filled with a gas bubble or silicone oil to help reattach the retina.
Your eye doctor will guide you through every step of the treatment process, including pre-procedure preparation and post-procedure care instructions.
Risks of Retinal Detachment Treatment
While retinal detachment treatments are generally successful, they come with some potential risks. These include infection, increased pressure in the eye, the development of new retinal tears, or a recurrence of retinal detachment. In rare cases, cataracts may develop as a result of the treatment. Our experienced team takes every precaution to minimize these risks and provide the best possible outcome for your vision.
Signs You Should Meet with an Eye Specialist
If you experience any of the following, it’s time to schedule an evaluation with an eye specialist:
- Sudden flashes of light or new floaters
- A shadow or curtain effect blocking part of your vision
- Loss of peripheral vision
- Difficulty focusing or blurred vision
Additionally, you should see an eye doctor if it has been more than a year since your last comprehensive eye exam, even if you are not experiencing noticeable symptoms. Regular check-ups can help detect retinal issues early before they lead to vision loss. Early detection is key to maintaining long-term eye health.
Retinal Detachment Treatment with the Center for Retina and Macular Disease
At the Center for Retina and Macular Disease, our team specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of retinal conditions, including retinal detachment. Using advanced techniques such as vitrectomy, laser surgery, and scleral buckle procedures, we aim to restore vision and prevent further complications. Our experienced eye surgeons provide personalized care tailored to your specific needs.
If you’re ready to discuss your treatment options for retinal detachment, contact the Center for Retina and Macular Disease today to schedule your consultation.