Why does retinal detachment occur?

The retina is to the eye what film is to a camera. When light focuses on it, the retina is stimulated and forms an image, which is then transmitted to the brain through the optic nerve—like developing a photograph.

When, due to atrophic or degenerative processes, the retina thins or is pulled by the vitreous gel, it may tear or rupture. If left untreated, this can lead to detachment.

It is important to note that not every retinal tear or rupture necessarily results in detachment—if diagnosed early and treated properly, progression can be prevented.

What are the symptoms and risk factors?

Common warning signs include:

  • The sudden appearance of floaters
  • Flashes of light
  • A shadow or curtain obscuring part of the visual field

These signs do not always mean the retina has detached, but they are red flags that require immediate evaluation by an ophthalmologist.

Risk factors include:

  • Previous history of retinal detachment or predisposing retinal lesions
  • High myopia (nearsightedness)
  • Degenerative retinal diseases
  • Eye trauma

What does treatment involve?

There are two stages to consider:

Tears or holes: These must be treated immediately with laser therapy or cryotherapy to “seal” or block the tear.

If the tear cannot be blocked, it will lead to retinal detachment, so surgical treatment should be undertaken without undue delay.

The two main surgical options are scleral buckle surgery and pneumatic retinopexy. Both are usually performed on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia, depending on the case.

The reattachment success rate—meaning the retina returns to its proper position—is about 90% with either method. If reattachment is not achieved, repeat surgery may be necessary.