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Good to know

  • Retinal detachment is an emergency: the earlier care begins, the better the chances of preserving vision.
  • Warning signs: flashes, many new floaters, a veil or curtain in the visual field. Do not delay seeking advice.
  • Tears without detachment can sometimes be treated with laser to prevent detachment.

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In the event of sudden loss of vision or pain, see eye emergencies.

Retinal Detachment: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments at Centre Médical des Aravis

Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition occurring when the retina, the light-sensitive membrane lining the back of the eye, separates from the eye wall. It is a medical emergency requiring prompt care to preserve vision.

Understanding Retinal Detachment

Imagine the retina as delicate wallpaper attached to a wall. When a detachment occurs, this “wallpaper” peels away, preventing light from properly reaching the sensitive cells and forming a clear image.

Diagram of retinal detachment

There are various causes of retinal detachment:

  • Retinal tear : A hole or tear in the retina allows vitreous fluid to seep underneath and detach it.
  • Vitreoretinal traction : The vitreous, a transparent gel that fills the eye, can pull on the retina and cause a detachment.
  • Eye injury : A severe blow to the eye can cause retinal detachment.
  • Other causes : High myopia, family history, eye surgery...

Recognising the Symptoms

It is crucial to see an ophthalmologist urgently if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • A sensation of a black ‘curtain’ or ‘veil’ moving across the field of vision
  • Sudden increase in floaters (small spots or strands that seem to float in front of the eyes)
  • Flashes of light
  • Reduced vision, with blurring or distortion

Retinal Detachment Treatment at Centre Médical des Aravis

At the Centre Médical des Aravis, we have recognised expertise in managing retinal detachment. Our experienced ophthalmologists use the most advanced surgical techniques to reattach the retina and preserve your vision.

Surgical techniques:

  • Laser photocoagulation : For small tears, the laser can ‘weld’ the retina to the eye wall.
  • Cryotherapy : A technique using cold to create a scar and secure the retina.
  • Scleral buckling surgery : Placement of a silicone implant around the eye to bring the eye wall closer to the retina.
  • Vitrectomy : Removal of the vitreous and replacement with a gas or liquid to flatten the retina.

The choice of technique will depend on the cause and severity of the detachment.

After surgery:

Careful postoperative follow-up is essential to optimise the chances of visual recovery. Our ophthalmologists will support you throughout your care pathway (parcours de soins).

Do not delay seeking medical advice! If you suspect a retinal detachment, contact our ophthalmology department immediately.

Eye surgery theatre at the Clinique d'Argonay
A question about your situation?

Your ophthalmologist answers your questions during the consultation. For a sudden symptom or sudden loss of vision, seek advice promptly: see the eye emergencies page.

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Annecy-Argonay

645 route de Champ Farçon, 74370 Argonay

Faverges

27 place Gambetta, 74210 Faverges

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5 rue Frédéric Girod, 74150 Rumilly

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35 rue Emma Lanche, 74700 Sallanches

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