Retinal Tear & Retinal Detachment Treatment in Long Beach
The retina is a thin layer of light-sensitive tissue that lines the inside surface of the eye. It receives light that has been focused by the eye’s lens, converts that light into neural signals, and sends these signals to the brain so that we can see clearly.
When the retina becomes damaged, it can lead to serious vision problems and in severe cases permanent vision loss. Two of the most common retinal emergencies are retinal tears and retinal detachment. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to preserve vision.
What Is a Retinal Tear?
A retinal tear occurs when the thin retinal tissue develops a small defect or opening. This typically happens when the vitreous gel inside the eye pulls on the retina.
Common symptoms of a retinal tear include:
Sudden appearance of floaters
Flashes of light
Black spots in the field of vision
Blurry or distorted vision
Retinal tears require prompt evaluation because they can lead to a retinal detachment if left untreated.
What Is a Retinal Detachment?
A retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the back wall of the eye. This separation prevents the retina from functioning properly and can quickly lead to significant vision loss.
Most retinal detachments begin with a retinal tear. Fluid from the eye passes through the tear and collects behind the retina, causing it to lift away from the underlying tissue.
Symptoms may include:
Sudden increase in floaters
Flashes of light
A shadow or curtain appearing in peripheral vision
Blurred or distorted vision
Retinal detachment is a medical emergency and should be treated immediately to prevent permanent vision loss.
Causes of Retinal Tears
The eye is filled with a gel-like substance called the vitreous. As we age, the vitreous gradually becomes more liquid and may pull away from the retina. This process is called posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).
While PVD is common and usually harmless, in some cases the vitreous can pull strongly enough to create a retinal tear.
Risk Factors
Several factors increase the risk of retinal tears and retinal detachment:
Age 50 and older
Family history of retinal detachment
Previous retinal tear or detachment
Prior eye injury
Previous eye surgery such as cataract surgery
Severe nearsightedness (high myopia)
Certain eye diseases
How Retinal Tears and Detachments Are Diagnosed
A retinal tear or detachment is diagnosed during a comprehensive eye examination with dilated pupils. Dilating the pupils allows the ophthalmologist to examine the retina in detail.
Early detection is critical because treating a tear early can often prevent a retinal detachment from developing.
Treatment for Retinal Tears
Many retinal tears can be treated quickly in the office.
Laser Photocoagulation
Laser treatment is the most common procedure used to repair a retinal tear. The laser creates tiny burns around the tear that form scar tissue as they heal. This scar tissue seals the retina and prevents fluid from passing through the tear.
Cryopexy (Freezing Treatment)
If blood or other factors prevent the surgeon from seeing the tear clearly with a laser, cryopexy may be used. A small probe is applied to the outside of the eye and freezes the tissue around the tear, creating a sealing scar.
Both treatments are safe, effective, and typically performed in an outpatient setting.
Treatment for Retinal Detachment
When the retina has already detached, surgery is usually required. The appropriate procedure depends on the size and location of the detachment.
Treatment options may include:
Pneumatic Retinopexy
A small gas bubble is injected into the eye to press the retina back into place while the tear seals.
Scleral Buckling
A flexible band is placed around the eye to gently press the wall of the eye inward, helping the retina reattach.
Vitrectomy
The vitreous gel is removed and replaced to relieve traction on the retina and allow it to heal properly.
Our surgeons at SoCal Eye in Long Beach perform advanced retinal procedures to restore and protect vision.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If you notice any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:
Sudden increase in floaters
Flashes of light
Blurry or dim vision
Loss of peripheral vision
A shadow or curtain over part of your vision
Prompt treatment can often prevent permanent vision loss.
Expert Retinal Care at SoCal Eye
The ophthalmologists at SoCal Eye have been caring for patients in Long Beach and Southern California for over 50 years. Our experienced team provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for retinal tears, retinal detachments, and other serious eye conditions.
If you experience sudden changes in vision, contact SoCal Eye immediately for an urgent evaluation.
Schedule an Appointment today at (562) 531-2020 or send us an Online Consultation Request
