Floaters
A Retinal Tear may occur when the adherent vitreous gel pulls on the retina and creates an unwanted hole or break in the retina. The retina tear is the earliest stage of a retinal detachment and if left untreated, will progress into a detachment where the retina falls away from the eye wall and results in vision loss.
The retina is a thin, light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the back of the eye. A retinal tear occurs when this layer develops a small break or split, often due to changes in the vitreous gel inside the eye.
As part of the natural ageing process, the vitreous gel begins to shrink and pull away from the retina. This is known as posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) and is the most common cause of retinal tears.
When identified early, retinal tear treatment in Singapore can help reduce the risk of progression to retinal detachment and preserve long-term vision.
Certain factors may increase the risk of developing a retinal tear, including:
If a retinal tear is not treated, it can progress to retinal detachment, a more serious condition where the retina separates from the underlying tissue, which may lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.
A retinal tear may develop suddenly, and the symptoms are often most noticeable over a short period of time. In some cases, they can appear without pain, which is why it is important not to ignore new or unusual changes in your vision.
Common symptoms of retinal tears include:
These symptoms can sometimes make everyday activities more difficult. You may notice problems with:
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to seek prompt assessment from a retinal tear specialist in Singapore.
The most appropriate treatment for a retinal tear depends on its size, location, and whether the retina is still attached.
If the retina is still attached, the usual first-line treatment in Singapore is retinal laser treatment. A laser is applied around the tear to create a controlled seal, helping to prevent fluid from passing through and reducing the risk of retinal detachment.
However, if the retina has already detached, retinal tear surgery such as vitrectomy in Singapore, scleral buckling, or pneumatic retinopexy may be required to reattach the retina. These procedures are used to reattach the retina and stabilise the eye, depending on the severity and complexity of the detachment.
Laser treatment for retinal tear is a simple, non-invasive procedure that can usually be performed quickly in the clinic. A laser retinopexy typically takes around 5 to 10 minutes and is generally well-tolerated, with minimal downtime. If the retina has already detached, retinal surgery is usually performed in Singapore to reattach the retina and preserve vision.
The cost of retinal tear treatment can vary depending on the severity of the condition, the type of procedure required, and individual clinical needs. Your doctor will be able to provide a more accurate estimate after a full assessment.
A retinal tear requires prompt evaluation by an eye specialist. Early treatment can prevent progression to retinal detachment, which is more serious.
Retinal tears do not reliably heal without treatment. Early intervention is recommended to reduce the risk of retinal detachment.
Treatment is generally well tolerated and performed under local anaesthesia. Most patients experience minimal discomfort.
Recovery is usually quick, with most patients resuming normal activities within a few days, although specific precautions may be advised.
When treated early, most retinal tears do not result in significant long-term visual impairment. Delayed treatment may increase the risk of complications.
