Retinal tears can usually be treated at the time that they are detected by using laser. The laser creates a chorioretinal scar or "spot weld" around the tear. Once this heals in about 48 hours, the retina will no longer detach beyond the laser barrier. This is very effective for preventing retinal detachment which would otherwise require an operation and potentially much greater risk. The risks of retinal laser for retinal tears is very low and because the area of the retina that is typically treated is outside the center, there is no impact on vision. Retinal tears are thought to occur when the vitreous body or vitreous humor undergoes a phase transition from nearly solid at birth to liquid. The adhesiveness or stickyness to the peripheral retina results in tears forming in those areas. When patients present with new flashes, floaters, curtain or shadow in the vision, they are thought to have about a 15% chance of having a retinal tear. Retinal tears when untreated have a high risk of creating a retinal detachment by allowing fluid to pass into the subretinal space. This is why patients are asked to see a retinal specialist if they have new symptoms of - flashes, floaters, curtain or shadow.