Treatment for Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment is a serious condition that can cause permanent vision loss. It requires immediate attention, and can be treated at our Wilmington, DE, practice through laser surgery, pneumatic retinopexy, or scleral buckling. The doctors at Eye Physicians and Surgeons, P.A. can quickly perform a comprehensive exam in order to determine which treatment is best suited for your needs. If you are experiencing symptoms of retinal detachment, such as blind spots or a sudden and heavy onset of floaters and flashes, call us right away at (302) 652-3353.
What is Retinal Detachment?
Retinal detachment is a disconnection of the retina from its normal position. The retina, located at the back of the eye, is responsible for converting light into impulses transmitted to the brain through the optic nerve.
The retina can become detached for a number of reasons, including:
- Injury
- The shrinking of vitreous, a clear gel that fills the eye and can pull the retina as it changes
- Leakage of blood vessels within the retina, often due to complications relating to diabetes
You may be at risk of retinal detachment if you:
- Have degenerative myopia
- Have diabetes
- Have a family member who has suffered retinal detachment
- Have suffered eye trauma or injury
- Have previously experienced retinal detachment
- Have glaucoma
- Are over age 50
Common Symptoms
Retinal detachment is a serious condition that should treated immediately by an eye care professional. If left untreated, it can lead to permanently impaired peripheral vision or complete loss of vision. Attending routine examinations allows your doctor to identify and address risk factors.
Symptoms of retinal tears and detachment can include:
- Flashes of light
- An increase in the size and number of floaters (small specks, spots, or threads in your vision)
- Shadows within your peripheral vision
- Having what appears to be a gray curtain move across your field of vision
Retinal detachment is a serious condition that should be treated immediately by an eye care professional.
Types of Treatments
During your examination, the doctor will use medicated eye drops to dilate your pupils. Using specialized technology, he or she will look into your eyes to determine the level of severity. The recommended treatment will depend on whether you have small tears or complete retinal detachment. At Eye Physicians and Surgeons, P.A., our doctors provide:
- Laser Surgery: This treatment is generally recommended when there are small tears. During surgery, laser technology is used to seal the tear.
- Pneumatic Retinopexy: During this procedure, a gas bubble is inserted into the vitreous with a small needle. As it rises, it presses the retina back into position. Laser surgery can then be performed to seal the tear. Over time, the bubble will dissipate.
- Scleral Buckling: A flexible silicone band can be surgically attached around the white of your eye (scleral band) to reposition the retina. If necessary, the surgeon will drain excess fluid. Laser surgery is then used to seal the tear.
Contact Us Today
If you are experiencing symptoms of retinal detachment, contact us now at (302) 652-3353. We will use sophisticated technology to determine the cause of your symptoms and provide the appropriate treatment. Or, if you are at risk of experiencing retinal detachment and are not currently seeing an ophthalmologist on a regular basis, contact us online to book an examination.
