[1][2][3] It may start in a small area, but without quick treatment, it can spread across the entire retina, leading to serious vision loss and possibly blindness.

[8][10][14] A slit lamp examination of the front of the eye may also reveal small pigment particles, called Shafer's sign, which may indicate a retinal tear.

[8][9][10] If the view of the retina is not clear, imaging techniques such as ultrawide-field fundus photography, B-scan ultrasonography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) may help to identify a detachment.

[8][13][14] Fundus photography provides a detailed view of the back of the eye, potentially revealing retinal tears or breaks.

[8][16] On B-scan ultrasonography, a detached retina typically appears as a membrane floating in the vitreous cavity, moving in a wave-like motion.

[2] These are selected based on how the patient presents, including the number, location and size of retinal tears, surgeon preference, and cost.

[8][10][21] Pneumatic retinopexy is an office-based procedure often used for small and uncomplicated retinal detachments, particularly those involving a single tear in the superior part of the retina.

[9][10][22] Following the procedure, patients are advised to maintain a specific head position to ensure the gas bubble remains in place over the tear and to facilitate proper healing.

[8][10][25] Patients treated with a gas bubble are advised to maintain a face-down position and refrain from air travel, high altitudes, and scuba diving.

[10][21] Next, the silicone band is placed to create an indentation on the sclera, applying inward pressure that helps reattach the retina to the back of the eye.

[8][9] This approach is often preferred for younger patients, those who have not undergone cataract surgery, those without posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), and those with retinal dialysis, a type of tear commonly caused by trauma.

[8][9][14][21] Possible complications of this procedure include missed retinal breaks, improper positioning of the buckle, infection, inflammation, and double vision immediately after surgery, which typically resolves on its own.

[10][14] Other factors that can affect the prognosis include the extent of the detachment and the timing of surgery, with earlier treatment generally leading to better outcomes.

[10][14] PVR, a condition where scar tissue grows on the retina, occurs in approximately 8–10% of patients undergoing treatment for retinal detachment.

[8] Individuals with certain types of retinal tears or breaks may require treatments such as lasers or freezing (cryotherapy) to prevent detachment.