Retinal Detachment/Tear


What is a Retinal Detachment/Tear?

A retinal detachment is considered an ocular emergency and occurs when the retina is pulled away from its normal position.  The retina loses function when it is detached because the nutrition does not reach the retina. The longer retinal detachment goes untreated, the greater the risk of permanent vision loss. A retinal tear is when a small portion of the retina pulling away from its normal position but can lead to a full detachment if left untreated.

Symptoms of Retinal Detachment/Tear

These symptoms do not always mean a retinal detachment is present.  However, you should see your ophthalmologist as soon as possible if any of these occur just to be safe:

  • Flashing bright lights anywhere in your visual field
  • Changes to existing floaters or new floaters, or a sudden onset of floaters
  • A black curtain/veil/cobweb/shadow/cloud moving across your field of vision
  • Sudden reduction in any part of your visual field

Treatment options for Retinal Detachment/Tear

Patients with retinal detachment require vitrectomy surgery to put the retina back into its proper position. Patients with retinal tears will require laser therapy to seal and repair the tear back into its correct position.

 

For Patients

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To see one of our surgeons you will need a referral.
Please visit your local General Practitioner or Optometrist. Once you have the referral please get in touch with us to book your appointment.

For Referrers

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Thank you kindly for your referral.
Please provide your patient with a written referral or send an electronic referral to us via our web form. Please contact us for details.

Send A Letter

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Alternatively you can send a letter (via mail or fax). Please include the reason for the referral and results of any diagnostic testing that was performed. A list of current medications and pertinent medical history is also useful if known.