Retinal Detachment
پردہ پھٹنا — Parda Phatna
⚠ Medical emergency
Sudden floaters, flashes of light, or a dark curtain across your vision require immediate medical attention. Do not wait.
Dr. Muhammad Amjad is a fellowship-trained vitreoretinal surgeon at Al-Shifa Eye Hospital, specialising in surgical repair of retinal detachment.
What is a retinal detachment?
The retina is the thin layer of tissue at the back of your eye that converts light into electrical signals for your brain. A retinal detachment occurs when the retina pulls away from its normal position — separating it from the blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients.
Without treatment, a retinal detachment can cause permanent vision loss. It is one of the most urgent conditions in eye surgery.
Warning signs — act immediately
- A sudden shower of new floaters (black dots or cobwebs in your vision)
- Flashes of light (especially in peripheral vision)
- A dark shadow or curtain moving across your field of vision
- Blurred or distorted central vision
- A grey or dark area appearing in your peripheral vision
Surgical treatment
Vitrectomy (PPV)
The vitreous gel is removed and replaced with a gas bubble or silicone oil that presses the retina back into place. Dr. Amjad is fellowship-trained in complex vitreoretinal surgery at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London.
Scleral Buckling
A silicone band is sutured around the outside of the eye to indent the wall and relieve traction on the retina. Often combined with vitrectomy for complex cases.
Laser / Cryotherapy (for tears only)
If caught at the tear stage before detachment occurs, laser or freezing treatment can seal the tear and prevent progression to a full detachment.
Frequently asked questions
Is retinal detachment an emergency?
Yes. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency. If you experience a sudden shower of floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain/shadow across your vision, seek urgent medical attention immediately. Early surgery gives the best chance of preserving vision.
What causes a retinal detachment?
Most detachments happen when a small tear or hole develops in the retina (often related to ageing or being short-sighted), allowing fluid to seep underneath and separate the retina from its base. Trauma, diabetes, and previous eye surgery are also risk factors.
What is the success rate of retinal detachment surgery?
With modern vitreoretinal surgery, over 90% of retinal detachments can be successfully repaired. The sooner surgery is performed — particularly before the macula (central vision area) detaches — the better the visual outcome.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies depending on the type of surgery. Most patients notice gradual improvement over weeks to months. If a gas bubble was used, you may need to maintain a specific head position for a period after surgery.