Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition that occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye. The retina is a thin layer of nerve tissue that senses light and sends visual information to the brain. When the retina detaches, it no longer functions properly, leading to blurred vision and, if untreated, permanent vision loss.

"At Mahajan Eye Centre, we specialize in diagnosing and treating retinal detachment using advanced surgical techniques to restore vision and prevent further damage."

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As we age, the vitreous (the gel-like substance that fills the eye) shrinks and thins, sometimes pulling on the retina. If the vitreous sticks to the retina and pulls hard enough, it can tear the retina. Fluid can then pass through the tear and lift the retina away from the underlying tissue, causing detachment.

Risk Factors for Retinal Detachment:

  • Nearsightedness (myopia)
  • Previous cataract surgery
  • Eye injuries or trauma
  • Family history of retinal detachment
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Weak areas in the retina (identified during an eye exam)
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Retinal detachment is a medical emergency. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should contact an ophthalmologist immediately:

  • Flashing lights: Sudden bursts of light, sometimes compared to seeing stars after being hit in the eye.
  • New floaters: Small dark spots, lines, or cobweb-like shapes in your vision.
  • Shadow or curtain effect: A dark shadow may appear in your side (peripheral) vision.
  • Blurred vision: A gray curtain might cover part of your field of vision.

Your ophthalmologist will perform a dilated eye exam to check for retinal tears or detachment. This involves using eye drops to widen the pupils and examining the retina with a special lens. Advanced diagnostic tools such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and ultrasound B-scan may be used to obtain detailed images of the retina.

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The only way to treat retinal detachment is through surgery. At Mahajan Eye Centre, we offer a variety of surgical treatments based on the severity of the detachment and the underlying condition.

1. Laser Photocoagulation

This is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure used to seal a retinal tear before it progresses to detachment. A laser creates tiny burns around the tear, forming scar tissue that secures the retina to the underlying tissue.

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2. Pneumatic Retinopexy

In cases of smaller retinal detachments, a gas bubble is injected into the vitreous cavity. The bubble presses the retina against the eye wall, allowing it to reattach. The patient must maintain a specific head position to keep the bubble in place until the retina heals. Over time, the body absorbs the gas, and the eye fills with natural fluid.


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3. Scleral Buckling

This surgery involves placing a small silicone band (called a scleral buckle) around the outside of the eye to gently press the eye wall inward. This pushes the retina back into place and allows it to heal. The scleral buckle is usually left on the eye permanently but is not visible to others.

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4. Vitrectomy

A vitrectomy is performed for more complex or larger detachments. The surgeon removes the vitreous gel, which is often the cause of the detachment, and repairs the retina. A gas bubble or silicone oil may be used to hold the retina in place after surgery.

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  • Eye Patch: You may need to wear an eye patch for a few days to protect the eye.
  • Positioning: If a gas bubble or silicone oil is used, maintaining a specific head position is crucial for proper healing.
  • Recovery Time: Visual recovery can take several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the detachment. It is essential to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
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A Retinal Tear/ Hole (torn retina) occurs when the retina has a tear or hole but has not yet detached from the back of the eye. If left untreated, a torn retina can progress to a detachment.

How is a Torn Retina Treated?
  • Laser Photocoagulation: A laser is used to seal the edges of the retinal tear, preventing fluid from passing through and causing a detachment.
  • Cryopexy: This treatment uses a freezing probe to seal the retina in place. The intense cold creates scar tissue that holds the retina to the wall of the eye.
Differences Between Torn Retina and Retinal Detachment:
  • A torn retina involves a tear or hole in the retina without separation, while a detached retina has already lifted away from the back of the eye.
  • Both conditions are serious, but a torn retina has a better prognosis if treated early.
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At Mahajan Eye Centre, we use the latest technology and surgical techniques to treat retinal detachment and torn retinas. Our facilities include:

High-Speed Microincision Vitrectomy Machine:

At Mahajan Eye Centre, we use the state-of-the-art Retikare Vitrectomy Machine, capable of performing vitrectomy at an impressive 7500 cuts per minute. This high-speed precision tool allows for safer and more efficient surgical procedures by minimizing traction on the retina, reducing the risk of complications, and improving surgical outcomes. The machine's advanced fluidics ensure stable intraocular pressure throughout the procedure, providing a smoother experience for both the surgeon and the patient. This technology enables us to handle complex retinal cases with confidence and deliver superior results.

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Zeiss Visulas 532 Green Laser – Efficient Retinal Laser

This state-of-the-art laser machine is used for retinal laser treatments, including panretinal photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy and focal laser for macular edema. The laser isalso used for treating retinal hole and tears. The precision of the 532 nm green laser ensures effective treatment while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.


Zeiss Lumera Microscope – Enhanced Surgical Visualization

The Zeiss Lumera Microscope used during surgery provides unparalleled visual clarity, essential for performing intricate procedures like vitreoretinal surgery.High-definition optics allow the surgeon to see even the smallest details, ensuring the highest level of accuracy during surgery. Its depth of field and contrast capabilities are particularly beneficial for complex vitreoretinal cases, enhancing both safety and visual outcomes for patients.

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Silicone Oil and Gas Bubble Tamponades based on the patient’s needs.


Our lead retina surgeon, Dr. Deepankur Mahajan, has over 18 years of experience in treating complex retinal conditions. His expertise ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care with excellent visual outcomes.

Why Mahajan Eye Centre?

Expertise and Experience

Our experienced surgeons have been managing retinal detachments for decades, ensuring high success rates and patient satisfaction.

Advanced Technology

Our investment in the latest technology (high speed vitrectomy, lasers, Lumera microscope etc.) enables us to provide safer, more precise, and efficient surgeries.

Personalized Care

We customize every aspect of your vitrectomy surgery, from pre-surgical examination to selecting the procedure or tamponading agent that best suits your condition.

Comprehensive Post-Op Care

Our team will guide you through a smooth recovery process, ensuring that any post-surgery issues, are promptly addressed if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye, disrupting its function and potentially leading to vision loss if not treated promptly.
Common symptoms include:\n- Sudden flashes of light.\n- A sudden increase in floaters (dark spots or strings in vision).\n- A shadow or curtain-like effect across part of your vision.\n- Blurred or distorted vision.\nIf you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Retinal detachment can be caused by:\n- Tears or holes in the retina: Often due to aging or trauma.\n- Tractional detachment: Caused by scar tissue pulling on the retina, commonly seen in diabetic retinopathy.\n- Exudative detachment: Caused by fluid accumulation beneath the retina, often due to inflammation or tumors.
While it cannot always be prevented, regular eye exams can detect early signs of retinal tears or thinning. If detected, timely laser or cryotherapy treatment can reduce the risk of detachment.
Treatment depends on the severity and type of detachment and may include:\n- Laser Photocoagulation or Cryotherapy: Seals small tears or holes to prevent detachment.\n- Vitrectomy Surgery: Removes the vitreous gel to repair the retina.\n- Scleral Buckling: A flexible band placed around the eye to support the retina.\n- Pneumatic Retinopexy: A gas bubble is injected to push the retina back into place.
Retinal detachment surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia, ensuring the procedure is pain-free. Postoperative discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with medications.
Recovery varies depending on the type of surgery and individual factors. Most patients can resume light activities within a few days but may need weeks for full recovery. Visual improvement may take several months.
The degree of visual recovery depends on the severity and duration of the detachment before treatment. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes, but some vision loss may be permanent in severe cases.
Yes, retinal detachment can recur, especially if risk factors like high myopia or previous trauma are present. Regular follow-ups and adherence to postoperative care instructions are essential.
Driving is not recommended immediately after treatment, especially if your vision is affected or a gas bubble was used during surgery. Discuss with your doctor when it is safe to resume driving.
• Gas Bubble: Temporarily supports the retina and dissolves naturally over time.
• Silicone Oil: Provides longer support and requires surgical removal later. It is typically used for complex cases.
• Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and swimming until cleared by your doctor. • Maintain specific head positions if instructed (especially with a gas bubble). • Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
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