Retinal detachment

The retina is the light-sensitive layer lining the inside of the eye, like the film in a camera. In a detachment, the retina separates from the wall of the eye, usually because fluid passes through a tear. The detached part stops seeing and, without treatment, vision loss can become permanent.

THE EYE IN CROSS-SECTION

From tear to detachment

Fluid passes through the tear and separates the retina from the wall of the eye.

1

Tear

It can cause flashes and floaters. Treated early with laser, detachment is often prevented.

2

Detachment

The lifted retina stops seeing: a shadow appears and spreads. It is treated with urgent surgery.

Warning signs

• Flashes of light, especially at the edge of vision and in the dark.
• A sudden shower of floaters, dots or “cobwebs”.
• A shadow or curtain spreading from one side of your vision.
• Blurred or distorted central vision, if the macula is involved.

Retinal detachment is painless. If you notice these signs, seek an eye examination the same day, with the back of the eye examined through a dilated pupil.

Who is at higher risk?

• People with short-sightedness, especially high myopia.
• People who have had cataract or other eye surgery.
• People who had a detachment in the other eye or have relatives with one.
• Eye injuries and some weak areas of the retina seen on examination.

How is it treated?

If a tear is found without detachment, laser or cryotherapy creates a scar around it and greatly reduces the risk of detachment. An established detachment is treated with surgery: vitrectomy, with gas or silicone oil inside the eye, or surgery on the outside of the eye with a buckle. The earlier, the better the result, especially if the macula is still attached.

If you have gas in your eye, you must not fly or go to high altitude until it has gone, and you may need to keep your head in a position advised by the surgeon.

This information does not replace an individual medical assessment. Follow the advice of the team looking after you.