Retinal Tear

What is a retinal tear?

A retinal tear is a break or defect in your retina, which is the thin inner lining of your eye that generates vision. If not treated, a tear can lead to a retinal detachment, which may result in vision loss.

If you have concerns about a retinal tear or the health of your retina in general, the experienced physicians at Retina Associates of New York can provide the care you need to minimize your risk of vision changes.

What causes a retinal tear?

You may develop a retinal tear from excessive pulling or pressure on the retinal layers that cause the tissue to tear. Types of conditions that may lead to a retinal tear include:

• Trauma
• High myopia (nearsightedness)
• Inflammatory or infectious conditions of the eye
• Posterior vitreous separation, in which the vitreous of the eye loses its jelly-like consistency and liquifies, resulting in pulling on the retina and causing a tear. This is more common as you get older.

If fluid inside the eye seeps underneath the retina through the tear, it may lead to a retinal detachment.

What are the symptoms of a retinal tear?

With an acute retinal tear, you may experience a sudden onset of floaters and flashes of light. Your vision may also be diminished, and a “dark cloud” may occur, obstructing your peripheral or central vision.

If you are experiencing sudden and unexpected changes in your vision, contact Retina Associates of New York for a comprehensive eye examination.

How is a retinal tear treated?

Treatment for your retinal tear depends on its severity. A small retinal defect may heal on its own and not require treatment. However, if needed, the physicians at Retina Associates of New York can repair your retinal tear using laser therapy to surround the tear, sealing it down to prevent progression to a retinal detachment.

After treatment for your tear, the physicians at Retina Associates of New York will recommend ongoing monitoring and care due to your increased risk of developing another tear.

Call Retina Associates of New York immediately if you suspect a retinal tear for treatment right away.