Retinal Tear

A retinal tear is a small break in the retina, often caused by the vitreous gel pulling away from the retinal surface (posterior vitreous detachment). While not all retinal tears cause symptoms, they can lead to retinal detachment if fluid passes through the tear and lifts the retina. Symptoms may include sudden flashes of light and a new shower of floaters. Retinal tears are typically treated in-office with laser photocoagulation (creating a seal around the tear) or cryopexy (freezing). Early treatment is highly effective at preventing progression to retinal detachment.