Retinal Tears and Detachments: Urgent Eye Conditions You Shouldn’t Ignore
- The Straits Eye Centre
- Sep 19
- 4 min read
Introduction: Why Retinal Detachments Are an Emergency
Some eye conditions develop slowly. Retinal detachment is not one of them. When the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye, pulls away from its normal position, it puts vision at immediate risk.
A retinal tear is often the first step, creating a hole that allows fluid to seep behind the retina. If untreated, this progresses to a retinal detachment, a medical emergency that can cause permanent vision loss.
Knowing the warning signs and seeking prompt treatment can mean the difference between preserving and losing sight.
What Are Retinal Tears and Detachments?
Retinal Tear: A small break in the retina, often caused by vitreous gel (the clear substance inside the eye) pulling away.
Retinal Detachment: Occurs when fluid passes through a tear, lifting the retina off the back of the eye like wallpaper peeling away.
There are three main types of detachment:
Rhegmatogenous: Caused by tears or holes in the retina (most common).
Tractional: Caused by scar tissue pulling on the retina, often linked to diabetic retinopathy.
Exudative: Caused by fluid build-up without a tear, often linked to inflammation or tumours.
Causes and Risk Factors
Aging: Vitreous shrinkage increases risk of tears.
Severe myopia (short-sightedness): Longer eyeballs stretch the retina.
Eye injury or trauma.
Previous eye surgery: Including cataract surgery.
Family history of retinal detachment.
Diabetic eye disease.
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Seek medical attention immediately if you notice:
Sudden flashes of light.
New floaters (tiny specks or cobweb-like shapes).
A shadow or curtain over part of your vision.
Sudden decrease in vision.
These warning signs often appear suddenly and worsen quickly.
Risks of Untreated Retinal Detachment
If not treated urgently, detachment can cause:
Permanent central or peripheral vision loss.
Retinal scarring.
Blindness in the affected eye.
Early treatment offers the best chance of preserving vision.
Diagnosis in Singapore
An eye specialist uses:
Dilated eye exam with specialised lenses.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Cross-sectional imaging of the retina.
Ultrasound scan: For cases where bleeding blocks direct view.
Treatment Options for Retinal Tears and Detachments
Retinal Tears
Laser photocoagulation: Uses laser to seal the tear.
Cryotherapy: Freezing treatment to secure the retina.
Retinal Detachments
Pneumatic retinopexy: Injecting gas bubble to push retina back.
Scleral buckle: A band placed around the eye to relieve traction.
Vitrectomy: Removal of vitreous gel and sealing of retinal breaks.
Treatment depends on severity, location, and overall eye health.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Vision recovery depends on how much of the retina was detached and how long it was untreated.
Some may regain good vision, while others may have lasting impairment.
Regular follow-up is essential, as recurrence can occur.
Prevention and Eye Health Tips
While not all detachments can be prevented, risks can be reduced:
Regular eye exams, especially for high myopia or diabetes.
Protective eyewear during sports or work.
Controlling blood sugar in diabetic patients.
Seeking care immediately when new symptoms arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is retinal detachment painful?
No, most people do not feel pain. Symptoms are visual, such as flashes or shadows.
2. How fast does a retinal detachment progress?
It can progress within hours to days. Prompt treatment is critical.
3. Can retinal detachment happen in both eyes
Yes. If you’ve had one detachment, your other eye is at higher risk.
4. Can glasses or contact lenses prevent detachment?
No. Corrective lenses improve vision but do not prevent retinal tears or detachment.
5. Is surgery always required?
Tears may be treated with laser or freezing alone. Detachments usually require surgery.
6. Will I regain full vision after treatment?
Some patients do, but others may have permanent vision changes, especially if the macula was detached.
7. What lifestyle precautions should I take after surgery?
Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and flying if a gas bubble was used, until cleared by your doctor.
8. Who is most at risk?
Those with high myopia, previous cataract surgery, diabetes, or eye trauma.
Meet Our Specialists
At The Straits Eye Centre, your vision care is in the hands of a dedicated team of experienced ophthalmologists. Each of our doctors brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to delivering thorough, patient-focused care for all ages. Whether you need advanced cataract surgery, paediatric eye management, or treatment for complex eye conditions, our team works together to provide the same attentive care we would want for our own families.
Dr Jayant V Iyer
Senior Consultant & Medical Director
Special interest: Cataract, Glaucoma, General Ophthalmology With specialist training in Singapore and the UK, Dr Jayant V Iyer has served as Head of Department at Sengkang General Hospital and Senior Consultant at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. He is committed to delivering safe, precise surgical care with clear communication at every stage.
Dr Jason Lee
Senior Consultant & Medical Director
Special interest: Oculoplastics, General Ophthalmology, Myopia, Cataract, Diabetic Retinopathy Dr Jason Lee has extensive training in eyelid, orbital, and tear system surgery, with fellowships completed in Taiwan and China. Previously a Senior Consultant at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, he co-founded The Vision Mission, a non-profit bringing sustainable eye care to communities in Asia.
Cost, Medisave, and Insurance
Many procedures at The Straits Eye Centre are eligible for Medisave claims under MOH guidelines, and certain insurance plans may cover part or all of your treatment costs. Our patient care team will guide you through eligibility, claim limits, and paperwork, so you can focus on your recovery. For more details, refer to our Medisave & Insurance Guide.
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at Parkway East Hospital
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