What is a retinal tear?

The retina is a layer of tissue at the back of the eye that processes light.  A retinal tear occurs when the layer of tissue gets torn. It allows the fluid in the eye to spread underneath the retina and can cause the retina to peel off. This can lead to a retinal detachment which requires surgery if left untreated.

Symptoms

The following symptoms are very concerning for a retinal tear or retinal detachment:

  • sudden increase in size and number of floaters
  • sudden appearance of flashes in the vision
  • shadow in the periphery (side) of the vision
  • seeing a grey curtain moving across the eye
  • sudden decrease in vision

Treatment & Diagnosis

Retinal tears or retinal detachments are diagnosed with a dilated eye examination. In some cases, an ultrasound of the eye may also be performed.

A retinal tear that has not progressed to a retinal detachment can be treated with laser surgery in the rooms. Laser is used to seal the retina to prevent fluid from leaking into the hole and prevents a retinal detachment from occurring. Retinal detachments can only be treated in hospital in a day surgery procedure.

Please do not hesitate to contact us to make an appointment if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms.

Retinal Tear Examples

Why choose our eye physicians & surgeons in Adelaide to diagnose & treat your Retinal Tears & Detachments

  • Years of experience

  • High patient satisfaction & reviews

  • 5 locations to pick from apart from our main two clinics you can also see us at Murray Bridge, Minlaton and also twice per year in Ceduna

  • A wide range of treatment options

  •  Highest standard of patient care in the diagnosis, education, and management of eye-related conditions and their treatments.

Give our Eye Physicians & Surgeons in Adelaide a call today if you are looking for an experienced caring & friendly practice.

If you have any other questions, please contact us