A retina is a thin layer of tissue that contains the cells responsible for sending visual signals to the brain. A detached retina is when the thin layer at the back of the eye) becomes loose. It needs to be treated quickly to stop it from permanently affecting the vision. If left untreated, a detached retina can lead to blindness. A retina specialist can examine the retina and the blood vessels that supply it and suggest the appropriate course of treatment. Here are some of the facts about the detached retina:
1. Symptoms of a detached retina:
- Suddenly flashes of light will appear in the vision
- Dots or lines suddenly appear in your vision or suddenly increase in number
- Your vision suddenly gets blurred
- You may have a dark “shadow” moving across your vision
2. How is a detached retina tear diagnosed?
A detached retina is not visible from the outside of the eye. Only a comprehensive eye exam can detect them. Your eye doctor will use a light magnification instrument to view the inside of your eye.
3. Treatment for a detached retina:
If you experience symptoms such as flashing lights or floaters, it is important to see an ophthalmologist right away. They will perform a number of tests to determine whether or not the retina is affected. If the tests show that the retina can be detached, you will be referred to a retina specialist who will perform surgery to prevent the problem from getting worse.
There are several different treatment options available for a detached retina, depending on the severity of the condition. Here are some common surgical procedures used to treat detached retina:
- Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the area around the retina to seal it back in place.
- Laser surgery: A laser is used to weld the retina back to the eye wall. In some cases, a detached retina can be treated with medication or a special type of contact lens. Here’s a useful read on laser surgery for retinal tear.
4. What happens during surgery for a detached retina or tear?
Surgery to fix a retinal tear or re-attach the retina may involve:
- Replacing or removing the jelly inside your eye.
- To push the retina against the back of your eye, inject a bubble of gas into your eye.
- To push the wall of your eye attach a small band around your eye.
- Seal the tear in your retina with a freezing treatment.
- During surgery you’re awake but your eye is numbed.
Recovery time after retinal surgery varies from one patient to another. But as a general guide, after surgery:
- Your eye may be sore and red
- Your vision may be blurry
- You may not be able to drive
- You may need to take time off work
- You may need to avoid flying
Looking for a retina specialist in Kolkata?
If you live in Kolkata and are searching the internet with the phrases such as “retina specialist near me” or ‘best retina specialist my location’, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have retina specialists who have extensive experience in treating a wide range of conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and retinal tear and diabetic retinopathy. To consult our retina specialist, visit the nearest branch.