Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is a serious problem that usually affects middle-aged or older people. If it isn’t treated immediately, it will lead to vision problems or even vision loss.

What causes retinal detachment?

In most cases, the retina detaches because of small tears or holes. These may occur as the retina thins with age. More often, they happen because the vitreous partially separates from the retina. The vitreous is firmly attached to the retina in a few places, and as we get older, it separates and may tear the retina at those areas of attachment. In most people, the vitreous has separated from the retina by age 60. Nearsightedness (myopia), infection, or injury such as a hard blow to the eye can also make the vitreous separate. It’s more common in people with a family history of retinal detachment.

What are the symptoms of retinal detachment?

You may notice that spots or flashes of light have suddenly appeared in your vision. This can mean the vitreous is separating and possibly tearing the retina. Your vision may seem wavy or watery, or you may have a shadow or curtain in your side (peripheral) vision.

How is retinal detachment treated?

If the retina is torn, you may be able to prevent detachment by getting the tear treated quickly. If there is no or minimal detachment, tears can sometimes be sealed with a laser (called laser photocoagulation).

Some retinal detachments can be fixed without surgery by doing a procedure called a pneumatic retinopexy.

The most common surgery to fix a retinal detachment is called a vitrectomy. This involves cutting the vitreous away from the retina and taking it out of the eye. Then the retina is repositioned against the back wall of the eye and a laser is used during the surgery to reattach the retina.

Another type of surgery involves a silicone band or pressure pad (called a scleral buckle) put on the outside of the eye to push the back wall of the eye against the retina.

In partnership with the Canadian Ophthalmology Society, we are pleased to provide brochures on specific eye conditions. This co-designed resource offers detailed information to help you better understand and manage your eye health.

Download the six-page brochure (PDF) on Retinal Detachment.