Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is when the retina peels away from the back of the eye. It is a same-day surgical emergency — prompt surgery usually saves most of the vision; delay costs it. Sudden floaters, flashes, and a curtain over vision are the classic warning signs.

Red flag symptoms — go to an eye hospital immediately

• Sudden shower of new floaters — dots, cobweb, smoke in vision.
• Flashes of light in the corner of vision, often more noticeable in the dark.
• A curtain, shadow, or veil across part of your vision.
• Sudden blurring or distortion of central vision.
• If vision loss is already happening, every hour matters.

Who is at higher risk

• High myopia (−5 D or more) — the main single risk factor.
• Previous cataract or eye surgery.
• Eye injury — blunt or penetrating.
• Previous retinal tear/detachment in either eye.
• Family history.
• Advanced diabetic retinopathy.

Treatment

• Retinal tear (no detachment yet) — laser or freezing (cryo) in the clinic seals the tear and prevents detachment.
• Detachment — needs surgery within hours to days: vitrectomy with gas or silicone oil tamponade, scleral buckle, or pneumatic retinopexy.
• Post-op positioning (face-down for days) is often required — follow it strictly.
• Final vision depends on whether the macula (central retina) was still attached at surgery.

Prevention

• Annual dilated retinal exam for high myopes, diabetics, and post-surgical eyes.
• Eye protection in sport and work.
• Any new floaters or flashes — go on the same day, not next week.