About Tears and Detachments
When the vitreous fluid within the eye breaks away from the retina, it is known as a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). This peeling away process can exert so much force that it can cause damage to the retina itself, creating a retinal tear. This phenomenon is generally a result of advanced age. Over time, the vitreous fluid shrinks, which leads to a detachment. Retinal tears and detachments are serious and often require immediate medical attention. If left untreated, it can cause long-term blindness. If you have flashes and floaters, it's important to maintain routine eye exams to monitor your health as these can potentially lead to a retinal tear or detachment. Our San Antonio, TX ophthalmologists, Dr. Allison Young and Dr. Jana Waters, are well-versed in the diagnosis and treatment of retinal damage. If you have noticed any sudden or severe changes in your vision, we recommend that you set up an eye exam as soon as possible.
Reviews
"I am so please that I was recommended to this office as well to Dr. Allison Young. The office and the personal are professional and cheerful. I have Sjögren’s Syndrome which drys everything in your body. I honestly though I was going blind and I was seeing another ophthalmologist in a huge chain operation and it seems like I was going in every three months. I honestly couldn’t see. Dr Young saw me on the first visit and explained that I had a very large cataract in my right eye and it needed to be removed. I was extremely petrified but Dr. Young has the type of additive you want every Doctor to have. It was such an easy operation for me, Dr. Young said that it was so big it took her awhile to get it out. The difference was amazing I see amazing I was so amazed how little I was seeing before. So excited to get the other eye done. The after care was just as through as the pre-op. I recommend this Ophthalmology Center and Dr. Young."
- R.M. / Google / Jun 02, 2020
"I’m always impressed by the expertise and kindness of the doctors and staff. Stone Oak Ophthalmology has taken care of my vision for 25 years. I started with Dr Held, now see Dr Young, and have been impressed by my recent visit with Dr Waters: 3 strong, brilliant and compassionate women."
- D.T. / Google / Mar 05, 2022
"Receptionist very professional yet demeanor was pleasant. Quiet waiting area. Doctor and medical attendants very upbeat. Enjoyable experience."
- D.H. / Google / Mar 04, 2022
Symptoms
The most common signs and symptoms of retinal damage include flashes of light, increased floaters, abrupt loss of peripheral vision, worsening of normal vision, the appearance of a large shadow within your field of view, or general graying of your eyesight.
Causes
The natural aging process is the main cause of retinal damage. As we age, changes begin to occur within the gel-like substance or vitreous body of our eye, which causes tugging against the retina. When the vitreous separates from the retina, it can destruct the retina. Patients who have severe nearsightedness (high myopia), diabetes, or certain medical conditions are generally at a higher risk of developing a retinal tear or detachment.
Treatment Options
Retinal tears and detachments generally require surgical intervention to restore the retina. With retinal tears, advanced laser or cryotherapy technology is often used to correct the damage. However, retinal detachments require a more invasive approach as this condition is considered more severe. On average, most patients are able to achieve improved vision after surgery, but the level of improvement will depend on the specific type and stage of the retinal damage.
Quality Ocular care
At Stone Oak Ophthalmology Center in San Antonio, TX, our team takes great pride in providing high-quality eye care that you can trust. If you have noticed sudden changes in your vision, contact our office right away to set up an eye exam. Our eye health experts can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a custom treatment plan to help save your eyesight and preserve your overall ocular health.