Laser or cryotherapy
Selected retinal tears or small localised detachments may be sealed with laser or freezing treatment before they progress.
Urgent retina care
Retinal detachment
A retinal detachment is an eye emergency. New flashes, many floaters, a shadow or curtain in the vision require urgent in-person assessment.
Do not wait for an online response
If you have sudden flashes, many new floaters, a dark curtain or shadow, or sudden loss of vision, contact an eye emergency service or attend an emergency department now.
Understanding the concern
A clear diagnosis comes before a treatment plan
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from its normal position at the back of the eye. It is often painless, but the symptoms can progress quickly and untreated detachment can cause permanent loss of vision.
The treatment depends on whether there is a retinal tear, how much retina is detached, whether the macula is involved, and whether traction, bleeding or scar tissue is present.
What patients notice
Warning signs
These features can overlap with other eye conditions. Examination is needed to establish the cause.
- A sudden increase in floaters
- Flashes of light in one eye
- A dark curtain, veil or shadow
- Loss of side vision
- Sudden blurred or reduced vision
- New symptoms after eye injury or surgery
Specialist assessment
What the consultation may involve
Urgent examination aims to locate retinal tears or detachment and establish whether the central retina is threatened or involved.
01
Dilated peripheral retinal examination
The retina is examined widely to identify tears, holes, detachment, bleeding and traction.
02
OCT imaging
OCT may document whether the macula is attached and identify associated macular changes.
03
Ocular ultrasound
Ultrasound may be needed if cataract or vitreous haemorrhage prevents a clear view of the retina.
Treatment planning
Treatment options
The safest option is selected after examining the tear pattern, extent of detachment, lens status and other features of the eye.
Pneumatic retinopexy
In suitable detachments, a gas bubble and retinal sealing treatment may be used. Positioning and close follow-up are essential.
Scleral buckle
A supporting band placed around the eye can reduce traction and support closure of retinal breaks in selected cases.
Vitrectomy
Vitrectomy removes vitreous traction and allows internal laser and gas or silicone oil support. Some complex cases combine techniques.
From first assessment to follow-up
- 01Seek urgent assessment as soon as warning symptoms begin
- 02Locate tears and determine the extent of detachment
- 03Discuss the recommended procedure, alternatives and visual limits
- 04Arrange treatment without delay and follow any positioning instructions
- 05Attend close postoperative review and report worsening symptoms
Urgent retinal care
At a glance
- Urgent dilated retinal examination
- Laser or retinal surgery where appropriate
- Structured postoperative monitoring
Urgent examination for suspected retinal detachment
Prof. Amer Awan's vitreoretinal work includes assessment and surgery for retinal detachment. Flashes, new floaters or a curtain or shadow in vision require urgent examination so the appropriate treatment can be planned without delay.
Related surgical video
Giant Retinal Tear with Retinal Detachment
From Prof. Amer Awan's official YouTube channel. This professional video contains surgical footage.
Questions patients ask
About Retinal detachment
Is retinal detachment painful?
It is often painless. Flashes, floaters, a shadow or loss of vision can be the only warning, which is why sudden symptoms need urgent examination.
Can I wait until tomorrow?
A website cannot determine the urgency of your specific eye. New detachment symptoms should be assessed immediately through an eye emergency service or emergency department.
Which operation is best?
There is no single operation for every detachment. Tear location, lens status, scar tissue, bleeding and macular involvement all influence the recommendation.
Will vision return completely?
No outcome can be guaranteed. Recovery depends on factors including duration, macular involvement, the cause of detachment and the condition of the retina.