Retinal Tears and Detachment

A retinal tear is a small break or opening in the retina.

What Is Retinal Tear?

A retinal tear is a small break or opening in the retina. If fluid passes through the tear, the retina can detach, leading to permanent vision loss if untreated.

Who it affects:

Most often adults over age 50, especially those with high myopia (severe nearsightedness), prior eye surgery, or trauma.

Common Symptoms

Sudden increase in floaters (small dark spots or cobwebs)

Flashes of light in one eye

A shadow or curtain over part of your vision

Warning Signs:

Any sudden new flashes, floaters, or a dark curtain in your vision is an emergency — seek care immediately.

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Treatments

Laser or freezing (cryo) treatment for small tears, usually performed in the office

Pneumatic retinopexy, involving the placement of a gas bubble

Surgery (such as vitrectomy or scleral buckle) for retinal detachment

For more information about flashes and floaters, read our detailed blog post here. For information on retinal detachment repair, explore these pages for vitrectomy and scleral buckle surgery.

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