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Retinal detachment cases tend to increase during the colder months.
If you suddenly notice floaters—such as black dots, threads, or specks drifting across your vision—or flashes of light, it is important not to dismiss them as normal signs of aging and to undergo a thorough eye examination.
Retinal detachment is an ophthalmic emergency that can seriously affect vision if treatment is delayed.
When detected early, further progression may sometimes be prevented with laser treatment alone. If the condition is discovered at a later stage, however, surgery may be necessary.
For these reasons, a growing number of patients are visiting eye clinics in Haengsin, including Goyang Shinsegae Eye Clinic, for consultation and examination.
In this article, we will answer some of the questions frequently asked during consultations and explain the causes, treatment options, and postoperative care for retinal detachment.
Q1. What causes retinal detachment?
Changes in the vitreous inside the eye are a common cause.
The eye can be compared to a grape. The vitreous, which resembles the grape’s inner flesh, gradually liquefies and contracts with age. As this occurs, it may pull on the light-sensitive tissue lining the inside of the eye.
This pulling force can create a small retinal tear. Fluid may then pass through the tear, causing the retina to separate from its normal position.
Because this condition often causes no pain at first, it can easily go unnoticed. However, the detached area may become larger over time, making early diagnosis particularly important.
If you suddenly experience more floaters than usual or repeated flashes of light, we recommend undergoing a fundus examination at an eye clinic in Ilsan.
Q2. What symptoms can occur?
Common symptoms include the following:
| Symptom | Description |
| Floaters | Black dots, threads, or fly-like shapes drifting across the field of vision |
| Flashes | Brief flashes of light resembling lightning |
| Visual field changes | A shadow or curtain-like area blocking part of the field of vision |
| Reduced vision | Blurred central vision or a sudden decrease in visual acuity |
If part of your visual field appears to be covered by a curtain or shadow, the condition may have already progressed, and prompt medical attention is necessary.
If you notice any of these changes, it is important to undergo a detailed examination at an eye clinic in Haengsin or Haengsin-dong to determine the condition of your retina.
Q3. How is retinal detachment treated?
The appropriate treatment depends on how far the condition has progressed.
| Treatment | When it may be used |
| Laser treatment | When only a retinal tear is detected at an early stage |
| Cryotherapy | When the area surrounding a retinal tear needs to be sealed |
| Vitrectomy | When retinal detachment has already occurred |
| Gas injection | When the retina needs to be held securely in its normal position |
If the condition is detected early, laser treatment alone may be sufficient to prevent further progression.
If the detachment has spread over a wider area, vitrectomy and gas injection may be performed to reattach the retina.
The process can be compared to repairing wallpaper that has lifted away from a wall. Fluid inside the eye is removed, and laser treatment and a gas bubble are used to help the detached retina return to and remain in its proper position.
To establish an appropriate treatment plan, ophthalmology clinics in Ilsan, including Goyang Shinsegae Eye Clinic, carefully evaluate each patient’s individual condition.
Q4. How should I care for my eyes after surgery?
Postoperative care is an important part of the recovery process.
If a gas bubble has been placed inside the eye, you will need to maintain the position recommended by your ophthalmologist for a specified period.
Patients are often instructed to remain in a face-down position. If this instruction is not followed, the gas bubble may not press against the intended area, which can affect the outcome of treatment.
You should also avoid lifting heavy objects and strenuous exercise for a certain period. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the healing process.
Because recovery varies from person to person, it is important to follow the postoperative instructions provided by your ophthalmology clinic in Haengsin-dong.
Q5. Why are regular eye examinations important?
Retinal detachment often causes little or no pain in its early stages, which can delay its detection.
People with high myopia, a history of eye trauma, or a family history of retinal detachment may have a higher risk and may benefit from regular fundus examinations.
If you suddenly notice an increase in floaters or experience an unusual change in your field of vision, it is advisable to seek an examination without delay.
Detecting an abnormality during a routine examination may increase the possibility of preventing further progression with a less invasive treatment.
For these reasons, we recommend regularly checking your eye health at an ophthalmology clinic in Haengsin or Ilsan.
Retinal detachment may require surgery and can affect visual recovery if treatment is delayed.
However, when detected at an early stage, further progression may sometimes be prevented with laser treatment alone.
If you suddenly experience floaters, flashes of light, or changes in your field of vision, do not assume that they are merely caused by fatigue or aging. Please undergo a thorough eye examination as soon as possible.
At ophthalmology clinics in Haengsin, including Goyang Shinsegae Eye Clinic, each patient’s eye condition is carefully evaluated before an appropriate treatment plan is recommended.
Thank you.
