Retinal detachment is an eye problem that occurs when the retina pulls away from the tissue surrounding it. Fortunately, it is not as prevalent as other eye conditions. Statistics show it affects between 0.6 and 1.8 people per 100,000 every year and mostly affects people in their 60s and 70s. Identifying the condition early is critical to restoring the patient’s eyesight. The more prolonged the retinal detachment remains untreated, the higher the risk of losing vision. Retinal surgery is an effective method of treating this eye condition. Our team at Century Eye Care Medical in Gardena and Hawthorne would like to look at some of the details involved in retinal surgery.
What is Retinal Surgery?
Retinal surgery is a procedure used to restore the retina position in patients with retinal detachment. Retinal detachment separates the retina cells from the blood vessels that transport oxygen and nourishment to the eye. While the condition is painless, patients may develop symptoms such as:
- Blurred vision
- The sudden appearance of many floaters
- Flashes of light in one or both eyes
- Gradually reduced side vision
- Curtain-like vision
When to See an Eye Doctor
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is best to seek medical attention. An eye doctor examines the affected eye to determine the extent of the detachment. There are three types of retinal detachments:
- Rhegmatogenous: A tear in the retina causes this type of retinal detachment. It allows fluid to pass through and collect underneath, causing the retina to pull away from the underlying tissues. The areas where the retina detaches will lose their blood supply leading to vision loss.
- Exudative: This causes fluid to accumulate beneath the retina, but there are no tears or holes in the retina. This retinal detachment is often a result of aging, macular degeneration, inflammatory disorders, and eye injuries.
- Tractional: This type occurs when the scar tissue grows on the retina’s surface, causing it to pull away from the back of the eye. It often occurs in people who have poorly controlled diabetes.
Treatment for Retinal Detachment
Eye surgery is the most effective way of treating retinal detachment. However, if the examination shows the retinal tear has not progressed into a detachment, the eye surgeon may suggest laser surgery. This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. If the retina has detached, eye surgery is necessary.
Contact Century Eye Care Medical for Retinal Surgery
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms that we have discussed, contact one of our offices to speak with an eye doctor. Call our Hawthorne office today at (310) 644-8877 or our Gardena office at (310) 767-7814.