Retinal tears are treated to prevent progression to retinal detachment. When a tear is identified before detachment occurs, it can often be treated in the clinic using laser or freezing techniques to seal the retina and prevent fluid from passing underneath it. Prompt treatment of retinal tears is highly effective in preventing retinal detachment.

Retinal detachment is primarily a surgical condition. In some cases where the detachment is small, localized, and does not involve the central vision, office-based laser treatment may be used in a manner similar to treatment for retinal tears. Other detachments require surgery performed in the operating room.

Several surgical approaches may be used depending on the type and severity of the detachment. Vitrectomy involves removing the vitreous gel and may include temporary placement of a reabsorbable gas bubble to support retinal reattachment. Another option is scleral buckle surgery, which involves placing a silicone band around the eye to counteract traction on the retina. Both procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia and are highly effective.

In selected cases, a retinal detachment may be treated with an office-based pneumatic retinopexy, which involves injecting a gas bubble into the eye followed by laser or freezing treatment. This approach can be effective in appropriately selected patients. If the result is not satisfactory, operating-room–based surgery such as vitrectomy or scleral buckle can be used for more definitive repair. These procedures require specialized equipment that is not available in all surgical centers.