Retinal Detachment
Fuad Makkouk, M.D. is fellowship trained in surgical retina from Yale University. Additionally, Dr. Makkouk uses the latest techniques to prevent vision loss and blindness from retinal detachment. In addition, he sees patients at Austin Eye Center in Austin, Texas. In fact, a sudden decline in vision may signal a retinal detachment. Without timely intervention, it may lead to permanent vision loss. Therefore, call today or book an appointment online for a consultation with Dr. Fuad Makkouk.
Retinal Detachment
The retina is a thin layer of light-sensitive cells at the back of the eye. It also captures light and sends visual signals to the brain. Retinal detachment can be caused by trauma to the head or face. However, it can also occur without any obvious cause. The vitreous is the gel-like substance that fills the eye. Generally, retinal detachment happens when the vitreous pulls away from the retina and creates a tear. As a result, fluid can seep beneath this tear and separate the retina from the back of the eye.
Retinal Detachment Symptoms
Signs of a detached retina include blurry vision, flashes of light, floaters, or a curtain over your vision. Indeed, these symptoms can signal a serious problem. Therefore, they call for an urgent appointment with a retina specialist such as Fuad Makkouk, M.D. at Austin Eye Center. Without timely treatment, retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss and even blindness.
Diagnosing Retinal Detachment
To diagnose a retinal detachment, Dr. Makkouk begins by dilating the eye and examining it under a microscope. Afterward, he takes the time to discuss all treatment options in a way that’s tailored to each patient. As a result, this helps protect each patient’s vision going forward.
Retinal Detachment Treatment
Several treatment options exist for retinal detachment, including cryotherapy, laser surgery, and vitrectomy. Generally, each of these techniques aims to seal the tear and remove any fluid under the retina. For example, a vitrectomy is performed on an outpatient basis. Specifically, it involves removing the gel-like vitreous from inside the eye with tiny instruments to seal retinal tears. Afterward, a laser may be used to help prevent the detachment from recurring. In addition, a gas or silicone oil bubble may be injected to hold the retina in place while it heals.
Retinal Detachment Recovery
Dr. Makkouk understands that a retinal detachment diagnosis can be frightening. Therefore, he takes time to set realistic expectations based on the severity and duration of the detachment. Additionally, he uses every available technique to improve each patient’s vision after surgery. Generally, recovery takes anywhere from weeks to months. However, in more severe cases, vision may never fully return.
Because retinal detachment can cause irreversible damage, it’s important not to take chances with your sight. Therefore, if you’re experiencing blurry vision, floaters, or flashes, schedule an appointment with Dr. Makkouk today.
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Our Services
Macular Degeneration & AMD
Age-related macular degeneration damages cells in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision.
Valeda Light Therapy
Valeda is the first FDA-authorized light therapy shown to improve vision in patients with dry age-related macular degeneration.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, a condition called Diabetic Retinopathy that may lead to vision loss if left untreated.
Epiretinal Membrane
An epiretinal membrane is scar tissue that forms over the macula, often causing blurred or wavy vision.
Macular Hole
A macular hole can be symptom-free in its early stages, though many patients notice blurred or missing areas of central vision.
