Retinal Detachment Specialist

Marano Eye Care

Ophthalmology & Cataract & Corneal Surgeons located in Denville, NJ, Livingston, NJ & Newark, NJ

If you see sudden bright flashes, several floaters, or shadowed side vision, it could signal retinal detachment — a vision emergency that requires immediate treatment. At Marano Eye Care, Matthew Marano Jr., MD, Edward Decker, MD, Sanjai Jalaj, MD, and the team of eye care specialists diagnose and treat retinal detachment swiftly to preserve your eyesight and health. There are branches in Denville, Livingston, and Newark, New Jersey, so book your appointment using the online scheduler or call the office nearest you for help now.

Retinal Detachment Q & A

What is retinal detachment?

Retinal detachment occurs when the retina — the layer of light-sensing cells in the back of your eye — pulls out of position. That leads to immediate symptoms, including serious vision problems. Retinal detachment is an emergency, requiring immediate care.

There are several forms of a detached retina, including:

Rhegmatogenous

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment usually occurs due to aging. It's normal for your vitreous — the fluid that fills your eyeball — to retract as you grow older. But, if the vitreous pulls too hard as it shrinks, your retina can tear. If fluid builds up underneath the retina, it can lead to detachment.

Tractional

Tractional retinal detachment happens when you have scar tissue buildup on your retina, which can force its detachment. The most common cause of scar tissue accumulation is high blood sugar caused by diabetes.

Exudative

Exudative retinal detachment happens when fluid accumulates behind your retina. That fluid buildup is different from the vitreous buildup common with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Usually, it’s due to blood vessel leakage related to a condition like uveitis.

All forms of retinal detachment require treatment, so it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms.

What are the signs of retinal detachment?

Retinal detachment symptoms can include:

Flashing lights
A large number of new floaters
Haze over part of your vision
A decrease in peripheral vision

It’s important to reach out to the Marano Eye Care team immediately if you suspect retinal detachment. Early treatment is crucial in saving your eyesight.

How do you treat retinal detachment?

The Marano Eye Care team may recommend one of the following procedures.

Laser therapy (pre detachment)

If you have a retinal tear that's at risk for retinal detachment, your ophthalmologist may recommend laser treatment. The laser slightly burns the tissue surrounding your retinal tear. The resulting scars help secure your retina to the back of your eye.

Pneumatic retinopexy

In a pneumatic retinopexy, a treatment for less severe detachment, your ophthalmologist injects a tiny gas, oil, or air bubble directly into your vitreous. The bubble presses your retina lightly to close the tear and prevent full detachment.

Scleral buckle

A scleral buckle is a small silicone belt that your ophthalmologist places around your eye. It's invisible to you and others. The belt keeps your retina in place, allowing it to reattach naturally.

Vitrectomy

Vitrectomy is a procedure to remove your vitreous. Then, your ophthalmologist injects a gas, air, or oil bubble into your eye to push your retina back in place.

Each procedure has advantages and potential drawbacks, so the Marano Eye Care team discusses your options in detail to help you choose.

For expert detached retina care, call the Marano Eye Care office nearest you or use online scheduling now.