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Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition that occurs when the retina pulls away from the back of the eye. Because the retina is responsible for processing light and sending visual signals to the brain, a retinal detachment can threaten permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.

At Trinidad Vision, we provide comprehensive retinal evaluations and advanced diagnostic technology to help identify retinal conditions early and guide patients toward timely treatment.

What Is Retinal Detachment?

The retina is a thin layer of tissue located at the back of the eye that detects light and helps create vision. When the retina separates from the underlying tissue that supports it, it can no longer function properly.

Retinal detachment is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate attention to help preserve vision.

There are several types of retinal detachment, including:

  • Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
  • Tractional retinal detachment
  • Exudative retinal detachment

Each type develops differently and may require a different treatment approach.

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Common Risk Factors

Several factors may increase the likelihood of retinal detachment, including:

  • Aging and natural changes within the eye
  • Severe nearsightedness (myopia)
  • Previous retinal tears or detachments
  • Family history of retinal detachment
  • Eye injuries or trauma
  • Previous eye surgery, including cataract surgery
  • Diabetic eye disease
  • Thinning areas of the retina, such as lattice degeneration

Patients with these risk factors may benefit from regular comprehensive eye exams to monitor retinal health.

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Signs and Symptoms of Retinal Detachment

Symptoms of retinal detachment may appear suddenly or worsen over time. Common warning signs include:

  • Sudden flashes of light
  • New or increased floaters
  • Blurred or distorted vision
  • Loss of peripheral vision
  • A shadow or curtain appearing over part of the visual field
  • Sudden decrease in vision

Any sudden changes in vision should be evaluated immediately.

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How Retinal Detachment Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing retinal detachment typically involves a comprehensive dilated eye examination and detailed retinal evaluation.

Comprehensive Retinal Examination

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Our team carefully examines the retina to identify retinal tears, holes, or areas of detachment.

Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

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Additional testing and imaging may be used to evaluate the severity and location of the detachment.

Evaluation of Retinal Health

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We assess the overall condition of the retina and determine whether additional retinal abnormalities are present.

Treatment Planning

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If a retinal detachment is identified, prompt referral and treatment planning are critical to helping preserve vision.

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Treatment Options for Retinal Detachment

Treatment depends on the type, location, and severity of the retinal detachment.

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Laser Treatment

Laser therapy may be used to seal retinal tears before a full detachment develops.

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Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy uses controlled freezing treatment to help repair retinal tears.

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Pneumatic Retinopexy

A gas bubble may be placed inside the eye to help reposition the retina.

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Scleral Buckle Surgery

This procedure places a supportive band around the eye to help relieve pressure on the retina.

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Vitrectomy

Vitrectomy surgery removes the vitreous gel and allows the retina to be repositioned and repaired. Prompt treatment significantly improves the likelihood of preserving vision and reducing long-term complications.

When to Seek Emergency Eye Care

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Sudden flashes of light
  • New floaters
  • A dark curtain or shadow across your vision
  • Sudden blurred vision
  • Partial or complete vision loss

Retinal detachment is a medical emergency, and delaying treatment may increase the risk of permanent vision loss.

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Dr Jake Trinidad
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Dr. Jake Trinidad

Medical Director & Lead Surgeon
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Why Choose Trinidad Vision

At Trinidad Vision, we provide comprehensive retinal evaluations using advanced diagnostic technology designed to identify serious retinal conditions as early as possible.

Our team is committed to helping patients throughout San Antonio protect their long-term eye health and vision.

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I’ve found the ophthalmologist that I was looking for!!

“This was the most comfortable Dr appointment I’ve ever had..  there was no waiting.. the machines for checking out your eyes were so easy..  and I was so happy to reunite with a first grade student that I had the pleasure of teaching .. Dr. Trinidad!!  What a sweet surprise..
His office has great technicians and the atmosphere was very welcoming !!  I’ve found the ophthalmologist that I was looking for !!"

five stars
Trudy A.
Dr Trinidad  and his staff are a great team.

“They are well organized. Office wait time has been very short, about 5 minutes each time I have visited!  Just had surgery and now I have 20/20 vision. I highly recommend  Dr Trinidad”

five stars
Keelin W.
Dr Trinidad is absolutely the best!

“I’m almost 86 years old been to a lot of ophthalmologists and he is without a doubt the most communicative, caring, brilliant, best kept secret in San Antonio! Highly recommend not doing anybody with him he has it all.”

five stars
Trudy A.
Very compassionate and professional and gave me peace of mind.

"My visit with Dr.Trinidad and his staff was for my annual Diabetic eye exam. It went extremely well, Dr Trinidad's staff made me feel very much at ease. After Dr. Trinidad examined my eye's.He took his time to explain his     findings and scheduled a followup.I would highly recommend Dr. Trinidad. He was very compassionate and professional and gave me peace of mind. Thank you so much to Dr. Trinidad and staff."

five stars
Joseph Luciano
They were helpful and knowledgeable.

"I had an excellent experience with Dr. Trinidad and his medical assistants and other employees... The Dr. and his staff was wonderful, and they were able to diagnose my problems effectively, providing me with the information and advice needed."

five stars
Grant H.
Just had surgery and now I have 20/20 vision

"Dr Trinidad  and his staff are a great team. They are well organized. Office wait time has been very short, about 5 minutes each time I have visited!  Just had surgery and now I have 20/20 vision. I highly recommend  Dr Trinidad"

five stars
Keelin W.
Absolutely the warmest Dr. Visit I had in awhile

"Absolutely the warmest Dr. Visit I had in awhile, the communication how Dr. Trinidad explained everything so detailed was very impressed. Honestly felt like I was talking to a childhood friend 👌. Nicole as a representative at the front was incredibly pleasant. They also had T. Ford, Versace, CHANEL and offer botox (I think)."

five stars
Donivon Y.
Above and beyond

"Everyone had patience, was understanding, and went above and beyond to calm my nerves through out my whole visit. Not only did Dr.Trinidad take his time  to make sure I understood what he was seeing/going on with my eyes but he truly does care and is passionate about his work. I definitely will be making him the person I go to for all my eye visits."

five stars
Kayla W.

Insurance & Financing Options

Eye allergy evaluations and treatments may be partially or fully covered by medical insurance, depending on the severity and underlying cause. At Trinidad Vision, we work with major insurance providers, including VSP and other vision plans, and offer financing options for treatments not covered.

Our team is happy to assist with insurance questions and financing plans so you can access the care you need without financial stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is retinal detachment an emergency?

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Yes. Retinal detachment is considered a medical emergency and should be evaluated immediately.

Can retinal detachment cause permanent vision loss?

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Yes. Without prompt treatment, retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss.

Are flashes and floaters always a sign of retinal detachment?

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Not always, but sudden new flashes or floaters should always be evaluated promptly to rule out retinal tears or detachment.

Who is most at risk for retinal detachment?

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Patients with severe nearsightedness, previous retinal problems, eye trauma, diabetes, or a family history of retinal detachment may have a higher risk.

Can retinal detachment happen in both eyes?

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Yes. Patients who have experienced retinal detachment in one eye may have an increased risk in the other eye.