A retinal tear is a serious condition that happens when the thin tissue at the back of your eye rips. This often occurs when the gel inside the eye pulls away from the retina. If a tear is not treated, fluid can leak behind it and cause a retinal detachment. Our board-certified retina specialists at RVSU use advanced imaging to find tears and treat them quickly. All four of our physicians trained at the top eye hospital in the country to provide the best care for your sight.
As the gel inside the eye changes with age, it can pull on the retina. If it pulls too hard, it creates a small rip or tear. This often happens without any pain, so you must know the warning signs.
Seeing new specks or lightning flashes is the first sign of a tear. This is the best time for a retina specialist to check your eye.
If a tear is left open, fluid starts to collect under the retina. This can lead to a “shadow” or “curtain” appearing in your vision.
Without a professional seal, the retina can fully peel away. This requires major surgery and can lead to permanent vision loss.
A retinal tear often has no pain and can be hard to notice at first. Contact our office right away if you notice any of the following.
Notice box: If you see new flashes or floaters, you need a dilated eye exam immediately. This is the only way a retina specialist near me can find a tear before it causes a detachment.
At every visit, our specialists perform a thorough dilated eye exam. We use the most advanced tools to find even the smallest tears in the retina.
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