# What is Retinal Detachment?

Source page: https://www.kudretgozistanbul.com/en/blog/eye-diseases/what-is-retinal-detachment

**Author:** Kudret Eye İstanbul | **Medical Approval:** Op. Dr. Mehmet Ali Özdil | **Date:** 2026-09-05

> **Summary:** Retinal detachment is a very serious condition in which fluid gathers beneath the light-sensitive retina and the sensory retina separates from the pigment epithelium. It is often preceded by a retinal tear, is generally painless, and needs prompt surgery to prevent permanent sight loss.

## Quick Facts
- **Most common type:** Rhegmatogenous detachment, from vitreous fluid leaking through an unsealed retinal tear.
- **Main risk groups:** Advanced age, high myopia (minus six dioptres and above), eye injuries.
- **Pain:** Generally none.
- **Treatment:** Retinal tears are usually sealed with laser; detachment needs surgery (vitrectomy, scleral buckle, gas injection).
- **Hospital stay:** Generally not admitted; sometimes one night of observation.

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## What Is Retinal Detachment?
The retina perceives light and sends it to the brain through the optic nerve; it is attached to the pigment epithelium. Detachment is its separation from the inner part of the eye. It often starts as a retinal tear (a break while the retina is still attached); left untreated, the retina separates completely and permanent damage can follow.

## Warning Signs
- Flashes of light (photopsia)
- A sudden increase in black spots or floaters
- A curtain across the field of vision
- Straight lines looking broken, objects looking different sizes
- Loss of central vision
- Generally no pain; burning in the eye is not typical

Untreated, it leads to sight loss; see an ophthalmologist immediately.

## Causes and Risk Factors
The retina of people with high myopia is thinner, raising the risk of tears considerably. The cause cannot always be identified. Risk factors:
- High myopia of minus six dioptres and above
- A previous retinal detachment in the other eye
- Injuries to the eye, eye surgery
- Complications after cataract surgery
- Family history of retinal tears
- Weakening or tautness of the retina
- Diabetes
- Reduction in vitreous fluid
- Structural problems of the eyeball
- Advanced age

## Treatment and Retinal Surgery
A retinal tear caught before detachment develops can be sealed with laser; once detachment has developed, the treatment is surgery, chosen according to the state of the retina.
- **Vitrectomy:** The most used method, a form of microsurgery; the vitreous is removed and replaced with a special fluid and the retina repaired. Advantages: prevents sight loss, allows very delicate work, places the retina back healthily.
- **Scleral buckle:** Silicone is placed on the outer part of the eye to reattach the retina.
- **Gas injection:** Gas is injected to return the retina to its position.
- **Argon laser:** Also listed among retinal operations; retinal tears are usually sealed with laser treatment.
- Risks include raised eye pressure and bleeding inside the eye; burning and stinging after surgery are normal.

## Recovery After Retinal Surgery
- Avoid lifting heavy objects and heavy sport.
- If gas was injected, lie face down as advised and do not fly.
- Keep the operated area clean; keep the eye covered for several days and avoid water.
- Protect the eye from blows and pressure.
- Take prescribed medication exactly on schedule and attend check-ups.