Surgery
Retinal Detachment Surgery
Retinal detachment surgery reattaches the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, an emergency procedure to save sight.
Quick answer
Retinal Detachment Surgery: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Retinal detachment surgery repairs a retina that has peeled away from the back of the eye. Techniques include injecting a gas bubble (pneumatic retinopexy), a scleral buckle, or vitrectomy to remove gel and reattach the retina.
- Why it is done: It is used urgently for a detached retina, which causes sudden flashes, floaters or a shadow across vision and can lead to permanent sight loss if not treated quickly.
- What happens: Under local or general anaesthetic, the surgeon reattaches the retina using the appropriate technique, often sealing tears with laser or freezing and supporting the retina with a gas bubble or band.
What it is
Retinal detachment surgery repairs a retina that has peeled away from the back of the eye. Techniques include injecting a gas bubble (pneumatic retinopexy), a scleral buckle, or vitrectomy to remove gel and reattach the retina.
Why it is done
It is used urgently for a detached retina, which causes sudden flashes, floaters or a shadow across vision and can lead to permanent sight loss if not treated quickly.
What happens
Under local or general anaesthetic, the surgeon reattaches the retina using the appropriate technique, often sealing tears with laser or freezing and supporting the retina with a gas bubble or band.
Recovery
If a gas bubble is used, you may need to hold a specific head position for a time and avoid flying until it clears. Vision recovers gradually over weeks to months, depending on how much the retina was affected.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include infection, bleeding, raised eye pressure, cataract and the retina detaching again, sometimes needing further surgery. The final vision depends on how central the detachment was and how quickly it was treated.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Retinal Detachment Surgery: frequently asked questions
Why is retinal detachment an emergency?
A detached retina can rapidly lead to permanent loss of vision, especially if the central (macula) area becomes involved. Prompt surgery gives the best chance of saving sight.
Why might I need to keep my head in a certain position?
If a gas bubble is used to hold the retina in place, positioning your head keeps the bubble against the repaired area while it heals. Your surgeon will explain the exact posture and duration.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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