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Retinal detachments are associated with a tear or hole in the retina. The internal fluids of the eye may leak through the hole or tear, causing the retina to separate from the tissues underneath. Risk factors for retinal detachment include age-related eye changes, eye injury or surgery, nearsightedness, and diabetes. Symptoms of retinal detachment include bright flashes, floaters, or loss of part of the visual field. Emergency retinal detachment surgery is necessary to prevent vision loss.
Review Date 7/24/2025
Updated by: Franklin W. Lusby, MD, Ophthalmologist, Lusby Vision Institute, La Jolla, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
