Lincoln Vision Center

	Retinal detachment

The retina is a thin, multi-layered tissue that covers the inside of the back of the eye, and acts much like the film in a camera. A retinal detachment occurs when the retina’s sensory and pigment layers separate, and occurs most frequently in the middle-aged and elderly. Retinal detachments are usually found because the patient calls the doctor’s office complaining of a sudden onset of light flashes; wavy or watery vision; a shower of floaters that resemble spots, bugs, or gnats; or a sudden decrease in vision. Sometimes head or eye trauma can precede these symptoms. Retinal detachment is considered an ocular emergency requiring immediate attention since it can cause devastating damage to vision if left untreated. It is critical that symptoms be reported early, because early treatment can greatly improve the chance of restoring vision.