Seek timely detection and treatment with Dr Allan Fong, Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist
The retina is a thin, light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye that captures images and sends them to the brain, enabling you to see. When the retina is damaged, either through a tear or detachment, it disrupts this process, posing a risk to your vision.
A small break or rip in the retina, often caused by the vitreous (gel-like substance in the eye) pulling away from the retina.
Occurs when the retina separates from its underlying supportive tissue, cutting off its blood supply. This is a medical emergency that can lead to permanent vision loss if untreated.
The symptoms of retinal tears and detachment often occur suddenly or over days and weeks. Common symptoms to watch for include:
New onset, persistent or increasing specks, lines, or cobweb-like shapes in your vision.
Sudden bursts of light, especially in peripheral vision.
A persistent and progressive dark shadow or curtain appearing over a part of your field of vision. This is more indicative of a retina detachment.
Vision may appear distorted, as if looking through water.
In advanced cases of retinal detachment, central or peripheral vision may be severely compromised.
If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention to have pupils dilated for a retina check. This is crucial to prevent permanent damage.
You may also wish to refer to our Floaters & Vitreous Degeneration page.
Asymptomatic Retina Tears
Occasionally, it is possible to have no symptoms (asymptomatic) and yet have an incidental finding of a retina tear during a routine or regular check of the eye. This is more common usually in high or very high myopia individuals.
As we age, the vitreous naturally shrinks and may pull on the retina, leading to tears.
High myopia increases the risk of retinal issues.
Blunt or penetrating injuries to the eye can lead to tears or detachment.
Procedures such as cataract surgery may elevate the risk.
Genetics can play a role, increasing susceptibility.
Inflammatory eye diseases or diabetic retinopathy can also contribute.
Treatment varies based on the severity and progression of the condition:
The best treatment option depends on:
Retinal tears can often be treated non-invasively, while detachment requires surgical intervention.
Early intervention is critical to preserving vision.
Age, overall eye health, and underlying conditions may influence treatment decisions.
Consulting a skilled ophthalmologist like Dr Allan Fong ensures the most suitable and effective treatment for your needs.
BBM, PBM, MBBS (S’pore), MMed (Ophth),
FRCS (Edinburgh), MRCOphth (London), FAMS
Medical Director
Senior Consultant Eye Surgeon
Visiting Consultant @ SNEC
Adjunct A/Professor, Duke-NUS
Dr Allan Fong, a highly experienced ophthalmologist at Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, specialises in diagnosing and treating retinal conditions. Adept in various retinal procedures, Dr Fong offers personalised care, ensuring each patient receives the treatment they need.
Don’t wait for retinal tears and detachment to affect your vision—early detection and treatment are crucial. At Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, we offer comprehensive retinal tears and detachement care tailored to your unique needs. Schedule a consultation or make an enquiry today!
For urgent enquiries and appointment requests, please call or WhatsApp us directly.
Untreated retinal tears can lead to detachment, which may result in permanent vision loss. Prompt treatment is essential.
No, retinal tears do not heal without medical intervention. However, small tears can be treated effectively with laser or cryopexy.
Seek immediate evaluation by an ophthalmologist, as these can be early warning signs of retinal tears or detachment.
Retinal detachment surgery is performed under anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Mild discomfort may occur during recovery, which can be managed with medication.
Recovery times vary, but most patients resume normal activities within two to six weeks, depending on the procedure performed.
Yes, there is a risk of recurrence, but careful follow-up care and preventive measures can reduce this risk.
While not all cases can be prevented, wearing protective eyewear, managing underlying conditions, and getting regular eye exams can lower the risk.
Retinal detachment is rare in children but can occur due to trauma or genetic conditions.
Vision recovery depends on the severity of the detachment and how promptly it’s treated. Early treatment improves the chances of a better outcome.
Individuals at higher risk should have regular comprehensive eye exams every one to two years, or as recommended by their ophthalmologist.
Untreated retinal tears can lead to detachment, which may result in permanent vision loss. Prompt treatment is essential.
No, retinal tears do not heal without medical intervention. However, small tears can be treated effectively with laser or cryopexy.
Seek immediate evaluation by an ophthalmologist, as these can be early warning signs of retinal tears or detachment.
Retinal detachment surgery is performed under anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Mild discomfort may occur during recovery, which can be managed with medication.
Recovery times vary, but most patients resume normal activities within two to six weeks, depending on the procedure performed.
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates, risking vision loss. Consult a retina specialist in Singapore for treatment options.
Symptoms of retinal tear include floaters and flashes. Treatment may involve laser or cryotherapy to prevent detachment.
Retinal detachment surgery, including vitrectomy or scleral buckling, is effective in reattaching the retina and restoring vision.
Treatments for retinal detachment include vitrectomy, scleral buckling, and pneumatic retinopexy, depending on severity.
A retina specialist in Singapore uses eye exams and imaging to diagnose retinal tears and offer treatments like laser photocoagulation and cryopexy.
Yes, there is a risk of recurrence, but careful follow-up care and preventive measures can reduce this risk.
While not all cases can be prevented, wearing protective eyewear, managing underlying conditions, and getting regular eye exams can lower the risk.
Retinal detachment is rare in children but can occur due to trauma or genetic conditions.
Vision recovery depends on the severity of the detachment and how promptly it’s treated. Early treatment improves the chances of a better outcome.
Individuals at higher risk should have regular comprehensive eye exams every one to two years, or as recommended by their ophthalmologist.
Royal Square Medical Centre @ Novena
101 Irrawaddy Road #21-07
Singapore 329565
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Sat: 9:00AM to 1:00PM
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Mon – Fri:
9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat:
9:00AM to 1:00PM
Sun & PH:
Closed
