Patient Education
Retinal Tears & Holes
A retinal tear or hole is a small break in the retina — the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. Retinal tears are often caused when the vitreous gel inside the eye shrinks and tugs on the retina.
Typical Symptoms
- Sudden onset of new floaters (spots, threads, or a cobweb effect)
- Flashes of light (especially in peripheral/side vision)
- A shadow or curtain at the edge of vision (suggests detachment may be developing)
- Some tears cause no symptoms at all
How It's Diagnosed
Dilated Eye Exam
A thorough peripheral retinal exam with a wide-field lens is the gold standard. Your doctor will map the entire retina looking for tears, thinning, or areas at risk.
Scleral Depression
Gentle pressure on the outside of the eye allows the doctor to see the far edges of the retina where tears most commonly occur.
Ultrasound
Used if the retina cannot be seen clearly through the pupil.
How It Affects Vision
A retinal tear alone typically doesn't affect vision. The danger is that without treatment, fluid can pass through the tear and lift the retina away from the back of the eye — a retinal detachment — which can cause significant vision loss.
Treatment Options
Laser Retinopexy (Laser Therapy)
A laser creates small scars around the tear, welding the retina to the underlying tissue and preventing fluid from getting underneath. Quick, painless, and performed in the office.
Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment)
A freezing probe applied to the outside of the eye creates a seal around the tear. Used when a tear is located far in the periphery.
Observation
Small, flat tears without symptoms may be monitored closely without treatment — particularly if they appear stable and low-risk.
When to Seek Urgent Care
Seek urgent evaluation if you develop a sudden shower of new floaters, persistent flashes of light, or a shadow spreading across your vision. These may indicate a new tear or a progressing retinal detachment, which requires prompt treatment.
Call us: 210-615-7600