Retinal detachment treatment in St. George, UT, should never be delayed. This serious eye condition happens when the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, pulls away from its normal position. Without timely care, a detached retina can lead to permanent vision loss.
At Richens Eye Center, patients have access to specialized retina care through our retina conditions treatment team. The practice is led by Dr. Sharon Richens, a board-certified ophthalmologist, eye physician, and surgeon who is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Our board-certified ophthalmologists examine sudden vision changes, diagnose retinal concerns, and recommend care based on the type and severity of the condition.
What Are the Symptoms of Retinal Detachment?
Retinal detachment is usually painless, but the warning signs can appear quickly. Seek urgent eye care if you notice:
- A new or increased number of floaters
- Flashes of light in one or both eyes
- A dark shadow or curtain in your side vision
- Blurry, distorted, or reduced vision
- Loss of peripheral or central vision
What Causes Retinal Detachment?
A retinal detachment can happen when a tear or hole allows fluid to move under the retina. It may also occur when scar tissue pulls on the retina or when fluid collects underneath it.
Not every patient with these risk factors will develop a detached retina. However, some people have a higher risk of retinal detachment, including those who have:
- Severe nearsightedness
- A previous retinal tear or detachment
- A family history of retinal detachment
- Eye trauma or injury
- Prior eye surgery, including cataract surgery
- Diabetic retinopathy or another retinal condition
How Is Retinal Detachment Diagnosed and Treated?
Our team of doctors may perform a dilated retinal exam to view the back of your eye and check for a tear, hole, or detachment. Additional imaging may be recommended if the retina cannot be clearly seen.
Treatment depends on the location, size, and severity of the detachment. Some retinal tears can be treated with laser therapy or cryotherapy before a full detachment occurs.
If the retina has already separated from the back of the eye, surgery may be needed. Options may include pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckle surgery, or vitrectomy.
After treatment, vision can take time to improve. Some patients regain significant sight, while others may have lasting changes depending on how long the retina was detached and whether the central retina was affected.
Why Choose Richens Eye Center for Retinal Detachment Treatment in St. George?
Richens Eye Center provides specialized retina care for patients in St. George, UT, Mesquite, NV, and surrounding communities. Our retina team includes Dr. Will Wagner, a full-time retina specialist with fellowship training in medical retina from the Cleveland Clinic, and Dr. Akbar Shakoor, a board-certified ophthalmologist with expertise in medical and surgical treatment of retinal and vitreous disorders.
This experience allows our team to diagnose retinal symptoms carefully and recommend appropriate care for complex retinal conditions, including retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retinal Detachment
Schedule Retinal Detachment Care in St. George, UT
If you are experiencing new floaters, flashes, a shadow in your vision, or other symptoms of retinal detachment, seek care as soon as possible.
Contact us to schedule urgent retinal care with Richens Eye Center in St. George, UT, or Mesquite, NV. Call 435-986-2020 for the St. George Downtown or Mesquite locations, or 435-628-1112 for the St. George Sunset location.
