Retinal detachment is a retinal emergency
A retinal detachment occurs when the retina lifts away from the back of the eye. The retina is the light-sensitive layer that allows us to see. When it detaches, it cannot function properly, and vision may be permanently affected if treatment is delayed.
The most important message is simple: new flashes, a sudden increase in floaters, or a curtain-like shadow in the vision should be assessed urgently.
At The Retina Clinic London, we provide specialist retinal assessment for patients with symptoms that may suggest retinal tears or detachment, using advanced imaging and detailed examination techniques.
What are the symptoms of retinal detachment?
Symptoms may include:
- Sudden new floaters or a sudden increase in floaters
- Flashes of light
- A dark shadow or curtain moving across vision
- Sudden blurred vision
- Loss of part of the visual field
- Distortion or reduced central vision if the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision, is affected
- These symptoms do not confirm retinal detachment, but they should never be ignored.
What causes retinal detachment?
Retinal detachment can occur when a tear or hole develops in the retina, allowing fluid to pass underneath it. This may happen after a posterior vitreous detachment, where the vitreous gel inside the eye pulls away from the retina.
Risk factors may include:
- Short-sightedness
- Previous eye surgery
- Eye trauma
- Previous retinal tear or detachment
- Family history
- Certain retinal conditions
- A specialist examination is needed to identify whether the retina is intact, torn or detached.
How is retinal detachment diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually requires a dilated retinal examination. Your assessment may include ultra-widefield retinal imaging, optical coherence tomography, and careful examination of the peripheral retina.
The peripheral retina is especially important because tears often occur away from the central area of vision. A complete assessment helps ensure subtle tears or early detachments are not missed.
How is retinal detachment treated?
Treatment depends on the type, location and severity of the detachment.
Possible treatments include:
- Retinal laser treatment for some retinal tears
- Cryotherapy, which uses freezing treatment in selected cases
- Vitrectomy surgery
- Scleral buckle surgery
- Gas or silicone oil tamponade to support the retina while it heals
The treatment plan must be tailored to the individual eye. Prompt assessment and treatment may improve the likelihood of preserving vision, although outcomes depend on the type, duration and severity of the detachment.
Why choose specialist retinal care?
Retinal detachment is time-sensitive and requires experienced decision-making. The Retina Clinic London offers specialist-led retinal assessment, advanced diagnostic technology and access to an onsite surgical theatre where appropriate.
Our team will explain the findings clearly, outline the options, and guide you through the next steps with care and urgency.
The next step
If you are experiencing sudden flashes, a sudden increase in floaters, a curtain-like shadow across your vision, rapid vision loss, or a new area of missing vision, seek urgent retinal assessment without delay.
To contact the clinic, please call us on +44 (0)20 4548 5310 or visit https://www.theretinacliniclondon.com/book-a-consultation/