Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is more common in very nearsighted individuals, and in people with a family history of retinal detachment. In this condition, the thin, delicate retina tissue in the back of the eye separates from the wall of the eye itself. This is dangerous because the retina must remain in contact with the back of the eye in order to stay healthy. If a retinal detachment occurs and affects the central vision, permanent visual loss can result, even with proper treatment.

If it is caught early, retinal detachment can be treated fairly easily. Often a laser treatment or other in-office procedure can be done. However, once the detachment has progressed beyond a certain point, only surgery can correct it. Even with surgery, vision is often not fully restored.

Symptoms of retinal detachment include flashes in the peripheral vision, especially when they are accompanied by “floaters” or “spots” floating in the vision. If you see new onset of flashes and floaters, or note a change or loss in your peripheral (side) vision, it is important that you see an eye specialist as quickly as possible (usually should be the same day). This is one of those conditions where prompt recognition of the problem and treatment can save your vision.