LA Vision loss

Vision Loss is Preventable. Awareness Matters.

Retinal Detachment

What Is It?

Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition where the retina, the light-sensing tissue at the back of the eye, pulls away from its normal position. The retina functions like the sensor in a camera, enabling the eye to detect light and transmit visual signals to the brain. When it becomes detached, it cannot function properly, which can lead to vision loss if not treated quickly. Symptoms may include sudden flashes of light, new floaters, blurred vision, or a shadow or curtain moving across part of the visual field. Because retinal detachment is an emergency, it requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage.

Safety Planning

Catching Danger Early

Eye Pressure Monitoring

Eye pressure monitoring matters after surgery because intraocular pressure (IOP) can change during healing. Swelling, inflammation, bleeding, or leftover surgical materials may cause pressure to become too high or too low. High pressure can damage the optic nerve and reduce vision, while low pressure can interfere with proper healing. Regular checks help doctors detect complications early and treat them quickly to protect vision.

Warning Signs

Families should know the warning signs of complications after eye surgery so they can seek help quickly. Serious symptoms include sudden vision loss, worsening eye pain, severe redness, flashes of light, many new floaters, or a “curtain” over vision. Other concerns include increasing swelling, discharge, strong headache or nausea (possible high eye pressure), or severe light sensitivity. If any of these signs appear, contact the surgeon or seek emergency care immediately.

Normal Recovery

After eye surgery, some discomfort and temporary changes in vision are common during the healing process. Mild redness, irritation, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light may occur for several days as the eye recovers. Patients may also notice mild swelling or tearing, especially early on. However, recovery should gradually improve over time, not worsen. Understanding what is normal can help patients and families recognize when symptoms may signal a serious complication.

For Doctors and Nurses

Retinal detachment and other post–eye surgery complications require rapid recognition and urgent ophthalmology referral. Patients may present with sudden vision loss, flashes, new floaters, or a “curtain” over the visual field. Increased intraocular pressure can cause eye pain, headache, nausea, redness, or decreased vision. Severe pain, rapidly worsening vision, discharge, or photophobia are key emergency signs. Suspected retinal detachment, acute glaucoma, endophthalmitis, or postoperative pressure crisis should be treated as an emergency with immediate ophthalmologic consultation to prevent permanent vision loss.