Retinal detachment describes an emergency situation in which a thin layer of tissue (the retina) at the back of the eye pulls away from its normal position. A retinal detachment, itself, is painless. But warning signs almost always appear before it occurs or has advanced, such as:

• The sudden appearance of many floaters — tiny specks that seem to drift through your field of vision
• Flashes of light in one or both eyes
• Blurred vision
• Gradually reduced side (peripheral) vision
• A curtain-like shadow over your visual field

When this happens he/she should be seen by an ophthalmologist to ensure that no retinal tear or detachment has developed. If a tear develops, fluid from inside the eyeball can leak through the tear under the retina. This fluid displaces the retina. This displacement is called a retinal detachment.

If a retinal detachment is present, we offer our patients four treatment options:

• Laser retinopexy surgery
• Scleral buckle surgery
• Vitrectomy surgery
• Pneumatic retinopexy surgery

Our physicians and staff are always available to give you, the patient, as much information as possible to help you decide which treatment (if any) you desire.