Retinal Detachment Surgery
Retinal detachment is a serious condition of the eye in which the retina stops receiving oxygen. The symptoms of a retinal detachment can be frightening. Objects might appear to float across your eye, or a grey veil may move across your field of vision.
If not treated quickly, a retinal detachment can cause you to lose your vision permanently. Retinal detachment repair is a surgical procedure that is used to restore circulation to the retina and preserve vision.
FDA Approved
Advanced Technology
At a Glance
Quick facts about surgery for Retinal Detachment to help you understand the basics
- Treatments offered
Retinal detachment is treated surgically by reattaching the retina using vitrectomy, scleral buckle, or a gas bubble to seal retinal breaks and restore retinal anatomy
- Finance
Transparent pricing and full aftercare support;financing options discussed during consultation
- Why Choose
Centre for Sight is chosen for its experienced retina specialists, advanced surgical technology, and patient-centric care that delivers safe, reliable outcomes
- Locations
London, Sussex, Surrey
Key Benefits
- Highly experienced eye specialists
- Advanced diagnostic and surgical technology
- Comprehensive eye care
- Personalised treatment plan
- High standard of safety and clinical protocols
Retinal Detachment Surgery Overview
The retina is the lining of the back of the eye, which allows the eye to see. If a hole appears in the retina it will detach rather like wallpaper peeling off a wall. The retina cannot work when it is detached. The only way to repair the retina is by an operation to find and seal any holes. This may take the form of a simple laser procedure or freezing (cryotherapy) if caught early enough. If the retina is detached, a procedure called a vitrectomy may be required in addition to laser and/or cryotherapy.
Certain symptoms may indicate retinal detachment which , these include the onset of new floaters, loss of vision a shadow or curtain of visual loss, visual distortion, flashes and floaters, blurred vision and / or patchy vision.
Almost all patients with retinal detachments must have surgery to place the retina back in its proper position. Otherwise, the retina will lose the ability to function, possibly permanently, and blindness can result. The method for fixing retinal detachment depends on the characteristics of the detachment. In each of the following methods, your ophthalmologist will locate the retinal tears and use laser surgery or cryotherapy to seal the tear.
Information about Retinal Detachment
1
Treatment for Retinal Detachment
2
The Consultation
Following a detailed assessment, your Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon will discuss the best course of treatment for you. The consultant will be the same person who carries out your procedure and your checks at follow-up appointments.
The consultation process is very detailed and can take up to 2 hours. Tests and investigations are performed by nurses, optometrists and technicians and your pupils will be dilated with eye drops. You will be provided further information about the procedure and shown video animations.
You will then be seen by a very experienced fellowship-trained consultant who will evaluate your eyes and come to a final decision. The consultant will inform you about your suitability and what options there are for lenses as well as explain the process further and expectation of outcomes following surgery. You will be provided with an informed consent.
3
The Procedure
- The hole can be sealed by sewing a small piece of plastic onto the outside of the eye, creating a dent in the eye ball, which will close the hole. You may be able to feel the plastic on the eye after the operation.
- Alternatively, it is possible to go inside the eye and, by removing the jelly in the eye (known as the vitreous), a gas bubble may be inserted to support the retina. This procedure is known as a Vitrectomy and is performed by making three small incisions in the eye. The operation takes approximately one hour to perform. The gas bubble will float inside the eye and close the hole. Laser or freezing treatment is used to seal the hole.
Treatments for Retinal Detachment
Comparing Retinal Detachment Procedures
Please note that your consultant will recommend the most suitable treatment option (surgical method + lens choice) tailored to your eye health, vision goals and lifestyle.
Procedure Type
How it works
Best For
Pros
Cons
Procedure Type
Pneumatic Retinopexy
How it works
Gas bubble injected into the eye pushes retina back; tear sealed with laser/cryo
Best For
Simple, small, superior retinal breaks
Pros
Minimally invasive, quick recovery
Cons
Not suitable for complex cases, strict head positioning required
Procedure Type
Scleral Buckling
How it works
Silicone band placed around eye to indent wall ad close retinal breaks
Best For
Young patients, uncomplicated detachments
Pros
Preserves natural vitreous, long term stability
Cons
More invasive, longer recovery, refractive changes
Procedure Type
Vitrectomy
How it works
Vitreous gel removed; retina flattened and supported with gas or silicone oil
Best For
Complex or large detachments, PVR, diabetic RD
Pros
High success rate, versatile
Cons
Cataract risk, longer recovery, positioning required
Procedure Type
Laser/Cryotherapy
How it works
Seals retinal tears by creating adhesions
Best For
Small tears or adjunct to surgery
Pros
Prevents progression, quick procedure
Cons
Not effective alone for full detachment
What are the Symptoms of Retinal Detachment?
Before the actual retinal detachment occurs there is often a tear in the retina. This may present with the following symptoms:
Symptoms:
Light flashes, which occurs mainly with jerky eye movements, or in the dark. (Light flashes and dots which occur as a result of fluctuations in blood pressure, for example when standing up or re-erecting after bending, are harmless!) Semi-transparent streaks that “migrate” with eye movements. These are usually so-called “Mouches volantes” which are annoying but not dangerous, however should always be checked by your consultant ophthalmologist
A “rain of soot”, the perception of a large amount of small black dots or floating particles sinking downwards within your eye
These symptoms can be indicative of the retina being torn. Such a tear in the retina can be “repaired” by means of a laser, similar to a weld – a retinal scar remains and at this position a very small visual field defect that typically stays unnoticed.
When the retina detaches itself in the area of the macula, central vision is compromised: with loss of clarity and detail with only blurred and distorted vision remaining.
Retinal detachment does not cause any pain. Untreated retinal detachment can lead to blindness of the eye affected.
The vitreous body shrinks with increasing age and may lift off the retina. In areas where it is conjoined with the retina, a tear might then develop
Blunt force trauma e.g. an object or a child’s finger bouncing against the eye
Result of a cataract-operation
Inflammatory processes in the choroid membrane, e.g. diabetic retinopathy in cases of diabetes mellitus
Risks/side effects (not exhaustive):
A retinal detachment can occur at any age, but it is more common in people over age 40. Every patient is different and some detached retinas are more complicated to treat than others. Some patients might need more than one operation.There is an 85-90% success rate with one operation of your retina going flat and staying flat. There is a 5-10% risk that you will need further surgery due to new breaks forming in your retina or the development of scar tissue. Possible complications could be:
Bruising of the eye or eyelids
High pressure inside the eye
Inflammation inside the eye
Cataract
Double vision
Allergy to the medication used
Infection in the eye (endophthalmitis) – this is very rare, but can lead to serious loss of sight
Not Sure If You're Eligible?
Book a comprehensive eye examination to better understand your vision and available treatment options.
Who is suitable for Retinal Detachment Surgery?
Your surgeon will speak with you about the benefits and risks involved before your procedure.
Your consultant ophthalmologist will give you eye drops to reduce any inflammation and to prevent infection. Please don’t rub your eye as this may increase infection and lead to complications.If you experience discomfort, we suggest that you take a pain reliever, such as paracetamol – take care not to exceed the dose stated on the packaging. It is normal to feel itching, and have sticky eyelids and mild discomfort in the operated eye for five to ten days following retinal detachment surgery. If you have severe pain that persists, you must call your consultant ophthalmologist.
It is also common for some fluid to leak from around your eye. Occasionally, the area surrounding your eyes can become slightly bruised – this is especially common after a scleral buckle procedure. Any discomfort should ease after one to two days.
In most cases, your eye will take about two to six weeks to heal. We will make an appointment for you to see your doctor again, usually within seven to 14 days of your operation. Try to rest while your eye is healing.
Costs and Finance Options
Please contact us to obtain your personalised quote.
Private Medical Insurance
Many of our consultants work with all the major insurance providers*
Self Pay
Pay in full for patients who prefer a straightforward approach
0% APR Financing
6-24 month payment plans with approved credit
Military Discount
5% discount for active military and veterans
Private Medical Insurance is unlikely to cover Laser Eye Surgery procedures, Implantable Contact Lenses or Laser Lens Replacement
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Minimally invasive procedure
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FAQs
Below are some of the most common questions relating to retinal detachment.
What is retinal detachment and why is it serious?
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye, cutting off its blood supply and risking permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
What are the treatment options for retinal detachment?
Retinal detachment is treated surgically using pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckle surgery, or vitrectomy, depending on the severity and type of detachment.
Is retinal detachment surgery successful?
Yes, retinal detachment surgery has a high success rate, with retinal reattachment achieved in about 85–90% of cases after one procedure.
How long does recovery take after retinal detachment surgery?
Visual recovery may take several weeks to months, and some patients may need specific head positioning and activity restrictions during healing.
Can vision return to normal after retinal detachment surgery?
Final vision depends on how quickly the detachment was treated and whether the macula was involved; early treatment offers the best visual outcome.
Have Questions?
Our patient care team is here to answer any questions you may have.
Patient Success Stories
Absolutely exceptional
From my initial consultation on 30th September to my follow up appointment on 28th October having had cataract surgery and multi focal lenses inserted in both eyes I have received exceptional care, kindness and professionalism. The entire procedure has far exceeded my expectations and absolutely everyone in the team have been incredible. I was made to feel special every step of the way which was painless and totally comfortable. I can wholeheartedly recommend Centre For Sight at East Grinstead.
Cataract
Jan McKinnell
A friend recommended Centre for Sight.
I had two cataracts removed and am delighted with the outcome. All the staff were highly professional, took meticulous care and their work was exemplary. Particular thanks to Adora who was so kind and reassuring throughout. I highly recommend Centre for Sight for anyone considering treatment.
Eventually I went to Specsavers in Egham for some mild driving glasses and the optician looked into my eyes and said that he had never seen such a good job on lens replacements. Best he had ever seen.
Cataract
Florence Angell
As I write this – five days after the first eye was done, I can see clearly! I’m hoping for further improvement as the coming weeks pass.
Overall, the team are extremely professional, all led under the leadership and expertise of Mr Daya. He only has one objective – to make your vision better. And that he has achieved.
Thank you so much.
Best wishes,
Nick
Cataract
MCALEER /NICHOLAS MR
Cataract Surgery Performed Expertly.
Cataract surgery performed expertly by Mr Sheraz M Daya on both eyes. Trifocal lense implants in one procedure and I am now glasses free with better than perfect vision. From start to finish the attention to detail, friendly professionalism and expertise of everyone at Centre For Sight was outstanding.
I cannot praise Mr Daya and his team too highly, and would recommend the procedure to anyone. It truly can be life changing.
Many thanks to everyone at Centre For Sight and in particular Mr Daya.
Cataract
Des Farrell
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