Figure 1. A peripheral retinal tear already treated with laser (A), with OCT through the tear (B). Image: Bacherini D, et al. Diagnostics 2025;15:2930, Fig. 8, CC BY 4.0. Source
What is it?
A retinal tear is a small rip in the retina, the thin light-sensing layer that lines the back of the eye. It usually happens when the gel inside the eye pulls away with age and tugs on a weak spot. A tear can cause sudden floaters or flashes of light. If fluid passes through the tear and lifts the retina, it becomes a retinal detachment, which can cause permanent vision loss.
What do I do about it?
Most tears that cause symptoms need laser treatment. In the office, I place a ring of tiny laser spots around the tear. These heal into a scar that seals the retina down, like a spot weld. It takes a few minutes and you go home the same day. Without treatment, at least half of these tears lead to a detachment; after laser, that risk drops to under 5 in 100. Some small holes without pulling don’t need treatment, and I’ll tell you which kind you have. I’ll recheck the eye over the next few weeks to make sure the seal holds and no new tears have formed.
When should I call?
Call my office the same day at 408-540-3559 if you notice:
- A sudden shower of new floaters
- New or more frequent flashes of light
- A shadow or curtain coming over part of your vision
- Sudden blurry or lost vision
This page is for general education and does not replace an exam. Call Cai Retina at 408-540-3559 with questions.