Eye Conditions

Retinal detachment

A retinal detachment is when the retina — the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye — peels away from the wall of the eye. It's a medical emergency, but treated quickly, sight can often be saved. Knowing the warning signs matters.

What it is

The retina needs to stay attached to the inside of the eye to work. Sometimes a tear lets fluid get underneath it, and the retina begins to lift away — a little like wallpaper peeling off a wall. As it lifts, you lose vision in that area.

It's often preceded by a warning stage — a sudden increase in floaters and flashes as the eye's jelly pulls on the retina. Catching it at the tear stage, before the retina detaches, makes treatment much simpler.

Warning signs

A sudden shower of new floaters
Flashes of light, like lightning
A dark shadow or curtain spreading across your vision
A sudden drop in vision
Straight lines that suddenly look distorted

Recognise these? Book a consultation and we'll help you get to the bottom of it.

When to seek help urgently

A shadow or curtain across your vision, or a sudden burst of floaters and flashes, needs same-day attention. A retinal detachment is an emergency — the sooner it's treated, the better the chance of saving sight. Contact us urgently or go to an eye emergency service.

What causes it

Age is the main factor, as the eye's jelly naturally pulls away from the retina over time.

The risk is higher if you're very short-sighted, have had eye surgery or a serious eye injury, or if retinal detachment runs in your family.

How we help

Caught early, a retinal tear can often be sealed with laser in the clinic to stop it progressing to a detachment — exactly the kind of prompt retinal care Dr Leong provides.

A retina that has already detached needs urgent treatment, and we'll make sure you're seen and looked after without delay.

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Floaters & flashes

Common questions

Is a retinal detachment an emergency?

Yes. A detaching retina is losing its blood and oxygen supply, so time matters. A shadow or curtain across your vision, or a sudden burst of floaters and flashes, should be seen the same day.

Can a retinal detachment be fixed?

Often, yes — especially when it's treated quickly. A tear caught early can be sealed with laser to prevent a detachment, and a detached retina can usually be treated, with the best outcomes coming from prompt care.

What does a retinal detachment feel like?

It's usually painless — the warning signs are visual: a sudden shower of floaters, flashes of light, or a dark shadow or curtain moving across your vision. If you notice these, seek eye care the same day.

Who is most at risk of retinal detachment?

It's more likely if you're very short-sighted, have had eye surgery or a significant eye injury, or if it runs in your family. Knowing the warning signs matters most if any of these apply to you.

This page is general information, not medical advice, and doesn't replace a consultation. For anything specific to your own eyes, call us for advice or to book an appointment with Dr Leong on 04 470 7663.

Ready to see clearly?

Book a consultation with Dr Leong, or call the clinic to talk it through. We're here to help you see your very best.

Book a Consultation 04 470 7663