Center for Advanced Eye Care – Eye Associates of Bucks County

Products And Services

• Blepharitis

  Blepharitis Blepharitis Treatment Langhorne PABlepharitis is a chronic inflammation - a long-term swelling - of the eyelids and eyelash follicles. It may be caused by seborrheic dermatitis, acne, bacterial infection, allergic reaction or poor eyelid hygiene. The eyes may become red or blurry, as well as tear frequently. The eyelids crust, flake, scale or redden, and the smooth inside lining of the lids may become rough. In more serious cases, sores can form when the crusting skin is removed, the eyelashes may fall out, the eyelids can deform, the infection can spread to the cornea, and patients often suffer from excessive tearing. Blepharitis can also cause styes, chalazions and problems with the tear film. Blepharitis Treatment Treatment and preventative care for blepharitis involves thorough but gentle cleaning of the eyelids, face and scalp. Warm compresses can be applied to loosen crust and dandruff shampoo can help keep the eyelids clear. This may be combined with antibiotics if a bacterial infection is causing or contributing to the problems.

  Link: Blepharitis

• Cataracts

  Cataracts are a clouding of the lens inside of the eye. It is a process that happens to everyone. As a result, it is the most commonly performed surgery in the United States. Modern Cataract Surgery is done through small incisions that do not require a stitch or suture. An ultrasound probe is used to remove the cataract and a lens implant is inserted in its place. The procedure is painless and most patients return home and resume most normal activities the same day. This type of surgery has the lowest complication rate of any surgery performed in the United States. Over the past decade Cataract Surgery has advanced and new technologies have made the procedure safer and more reliable. Many patients have become less dependent on glasses as a result of the procedure. The surgeons at Eye Associates of Bucks County continue to stay on the cutting edge of Cataract Surgery. We are proud to offer all of the new technologies in Cataract Surgery. EABC is the only practice in the area to offer many of these advances. During our consultations we help you decide if these advancements will be beneficial to you. Cataract Consultations at Eye Associates of Bucks County While Cataract Surgery is a very common procedure, at EABC, we understand that no procedure is routine when it is your eye. Our patients are offered surgical consultations with our surgeons. These appointments are scheduled for longer increments so that our surgeons can spend the necessary time with their patients. Our patients are educated about Cataract Surgery and the many new options they have. The education is provided through videos, literature, and most importantly, uninterrupted time with the surgeons during which patients are given the time to ask questions. Our doctors and staff remain accessible throughout the pre- and post-op period to answer additional questions. Since some options require out of pocket expense by the patient, we also work to create a no pressure environment so that you can make the right decision for yourself. Every patient during a cataract consultation has their eye measured by the LenStar LS 900 and the Nidek OPD-III. These pieces of equipment have been proven to provide the most accurate data and are both the most recent models available. The information obtained from them help our surgeons chose which lenses and other technologies you may be a candidate for. Each patient that chooses a premium lens implant also has a scan of the retina (OCT scan) to ensure that there are no retinal problems that may limit the vision post-operatively. Femtosecond Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery The Femtosecond Laser is the newest advance in Cataract Surgery. It utilizes a Femtosecond Laser to make incisions, open the lens capsule, and cut the cataract into The Femtosecond Laser is the newest advance in Cataract Surgery. It utilizes a Femtosecond Laser to make incisions, open the lens capsule, and cut the cataract into small pieces that can be extracted. Dr. Pendse was one of the first surgeons in the Delaware Valley to be certified to use this technology. He is also one of a handful of surgeons in the world that is certified in two different laser platforms (Alcon LenSx and Optimedia Catalys). He is one of the most experienced laser cataract surgeons in the area. The incisions creased by the laser have been shown to seal tighter and heal quicker. This may reduce the dangerous risk of infection with cataract surgery. Separate incisions may also be created that are more accurate and precise than can be made by blades. These incisions can reduce astigmatism (Limbal Relaxing Incisions), which means less dependence on glasses after surgery. Creating a more precise opening in the lens capsule is thought to be important in more reliable and stable positioning of the lens implant after surgery. This ensures more accurate results with surgery and more stability long term. Cutting the lens into small fragments enables the surgeon to remove the cataract with less trauma to the eye. This is critical in patients with advanced cataracts, Fuchs Corneal Dystrophy, Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome, and a history of previous trauma to the eye. In all patients, the reduced trauma leads to quicker visual recovery after surgery. Femtosecond Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery is an advance that makes cataract surgery safer, more precise, and speeds recovery. If you are interested in learning more about FLACS view the video below and make an appointment for a consultation at Eye Associates of Bucks County. ORA System (Intraoperative Aberrometry) ORA is a system that basically obtains a real time assessment of the refractive error of the eye (glasses prescription) during surgery. It has been proven to be the most reliable way to select a lens implant in a patient that has had previous refractive surgery (Radial Keratectomy (RK), LASIK, or PRK).

  Link: Cataracts

• Chalazions

  Chalazions ("small pimples" in Greek) are cysts, or fluid-filled sacs, on the edge of the eyelid. Small glands in the eyelids called meibomian glands normally secrete a thick, fatty fluid called sebum into the hair follicles of the eyelashes. When these glands become chronically inflamed, chalazions – also called meibomian cysts – form. Chalazions Treatment A doctor usually treats chalazions by prescribing antibiotic eye drops and warm compresses. He or she may also drain a firm cyst by pressing on it to release the sebum trapped inside or inject a steroid medication to decrease inflammation.

  Link: Chalazions

• Diabetic Eye Diseases

  Patients with diabetes are at a higher risk for developing eye conditions because a high blood sugar level can damage blood vessels in the eye. Over 40 percent of patients diagnosed with diabetes develop some form of eye disease as a result. These conditions can cause blood or fluid to leak from the retina or new blood vessels to grow on the surface of the retina which can lead to significant damages to your vision and overall quality of life. It is important for patients with diabetes to have dilated eye exams once a year to detect any signs of diabetic eye disease as soon as possible. You can also minimize your risk of developing diabetic eye disease by keeping your blood sugar and blood pressure under control, eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.

  Link: Diabetic Eye Diseases

• Diabetic Retinopathy

  Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that weakens the blood vessels that supply nourishment to the retina (the light-sensitive lining in the back of the eye where vision is focused). These weak vessels can leak, swell or develop thin branches, causing a loss of vision. Changes to your vision may not be noticeable at first. But in its advanced stages, the disease can cause blurred or cloudy vision, floaters and blind spots – and, eventually, blindness. This damage is irreversible. Diabetic retinopathy is the most common diabetic eye complication and a leading cause of blindness in American adults. Macular edema, which is leaking fluid that causes blurred vision, often occurs with diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic Retinopathy Prevention Fortunately, diabetic retinopathy is preventable. People with diabetes are most susceptible to developing it, but your risk is reduced if you follow your prescribed diet and medications, exercise regularly, control your blood pressure, and avoid alcohol and cigarettes. Regular eye exams are an integral part of making sure your eyes are healthy. Diabetic retinopathy can be detected through a visual acuity test, a dilated eye exam or tonometry. Although damage caused by diabetic retinopathy cannot be corrected, patients diagnosed with the condition can be treated to slow its progression and prevent further vision loss. Treatment modalities include laser and surgical procedures.

  Link: Diabetic Retinopathy

• Dry Eye Treatment

  Dry eye occurs when the eyes aren't sufficiently moisturized, leading to itching, redness, and pain from dry spots on the surface of the eye. Causes Of Dry Eye The eyes may become dry and irritated because the tear ducts don't produce enough tears, or because the tears themselves have a chemical imbalance. Risk Factors For Developing Dry Eye People usually begin experiencing dry eye symptoms as they age, but the condition can also result from certain medications, conditions or injuries. What Happens If Dry Eye Is Left Untreated? Dry eye is not only painful, but it can also damage the eye's tissues and impair vision. Fortunately, many treatment options are available. Dry Eye Treatment Options Non-surgical treatments for dry eye include blinking exercises, increasing humidity at home or work, and use of artificial tears or moisturizing ointment. If these methods fail, small punctal plugs may be inserted in the corners of the eyes to limit tear drainage, or the drainage tubes in the eyes may be surgically closed. Eyelid surgery or blepharitis performed by one of our doctors is also a solution if an eyelid condition is causing your dry eyes. Schedule A Consultation To learn more or to schedule a consultation, contact us today at 215-757-6200 . Our practice serves Langhorne, PA, and surrounding areas.

  Link: Dry Eye Treatment

• Eye Exam

  We provide comprehensive eye care to patients of all ages. Our doctors are fully trained and experienced to diagnose, treat and prevent conditions from myopia and hyperopia to glaucoma, cataracts and everything in between. What Our Patients Have To Say "Dr Pendse performed cataract surgery on both my eyes. He was very attentive to all follow up care and my many questions. Whenever an out of the ordinary problem arose, he would be sure to see me in an expeditious manner. The staff is thorough and caring. Would definitely recommend." - Michelle F. Minimally Invasive Eye Treatments We strive to provide our patients with safe, minimally invasive treatments to effectively relieve symptoms and preserve vision and overall eye health. As a comprehensive ophthalmology practice, our services include laser vision correction and small-incision cataract surgery but also treatments for a range of conditions such as glaucoma, the diabetic eye, dry eye and macular degeneration. Eye Exam in Langhorne We provide comprehensive eye care to patients of all ages. Our doctors are fully trained and experienced to diagnose, treat and prevent conditions from myopia and hyperopia to glaucoma, cataracts and everything in between. What Our Patients Have To Say "Dr Pendse performed cataract surgery on both my eyes. He was very attentive to all follow up care and my many questions. Whenever an out of the ordinary problem arose, he would be sure to see me in an expeditious manner. The staff is thorough and caring. Would definitely recommend." - Michelle F. Minimally Invasive Eye Treatments We strive to provide our patients with safe, minimally invasive treatments to effectively relieve symptoms and preserve vision and overall eye health. As a comprehensive ophthalmology practice, our services include laser vision correction and small-incision cataract surgery but also treatments for a range of conditions such as glaucoma, the diabetic eye, dry eye and macular degeneration. Schedule a Consultation To learn more or to schedule an Eye Exam, contact us today at 215-757-6200 . Our practice serves Langhorne, PA, and the surrounding areas.

  Link: Eye Exam

• Flashes and Floaters

  Although most flashes and floaters occur in people with healthy or merely nearsighted eyes, they can be symptoms of serious problems including injury and retinal and posterior vitreous detachments. Flashes in vision are caused by pressure on the retina, the bundle of nerves in the back of the eye where images are detected and transmitted to the brain. Patients complain of flashing lights or lightning streaks. Floaters are often seen when fibers move within the vitreous humor, the gelatinous substance made of water and protein fibers that fills the eye. Patients complain of small specks or dots that can be seen against clear backgrounds. Serious vision loss can occur if the retina or vitreous detach from the eye wall. Patients experiencing flashes and floaters should contact their doctor immediately so an examination can be performed.

  Link: Flashes and Floaters

• Glaucoma

  Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness and visual impairment in the US, and can affect patients of all ages, many of who do not experience any symptoms and may not be aware that they have the disease. Glaucoma actually refers to a group of diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve as a result of increased pressure within the eye, but can also be caused by a severe eye infection, injury, blocked blood vessels or inflammatory conditions of the eye. What Are The Different Types of Glaucoma? There are two main types of glaucoma, open-angle and angle-closure. Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type of glaucoma and involves fluid in the eye not draining properly through the trabecular meshwork. Angle-closure glaucoma involves a sudden buildup of pressure in the eye and poor drainage because the angle between the iris and the cornea is too narrow. What Are The Symptoms of Glaucoma? Many patients do not experience any symptoms during the early stages of glaucoma, including no pain and no vision loss. This makes it difficult for many patients to know if they have the disease. But as glaucoma progresses, patients may experience a loss of peripheral or side vision, along with sudden eye pain, headache, blurred vision or the appearance of halos around lights. While some patients may experience symptoms from glaucoma as the disease progresses, others do not learn they have the condition until they undergo a routine eye exam. There are several different exams performed to diagnose glaucoma, including a visual field and scans of the optic nerve. These tests measure peripheral vision and measures the amount of tissue in optic nerve. Other tests may also be performed, such as tonometry to measure the pressure inside the eye and pachymetry to measure the thickness of the cornea. How is Glaucoma Treated? Once glaucoma has been diagnosed, treatment should begin as soon as possible to help minimize the risk of permanent vision loss. There is no cure for glaucoma, so treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing further damage from occurring. Most cases of glaucoma can be treated with eye drops, laser surgery or microsurgery. The best treatment for your individual case depends on the type and severity of the disease, and can be discussed with your doctor. Eye drops are used to reduce fluid production in the front of the eye or to help drain excess fluid, but can lead to redness, stinging, irritation or blurry vision. Patients should tell their doctor about any allergies they have to minimize the risk of side effects. Laser surgery for glaucoma aims to increase the outflow of fluid from the eye or eliminate fluid blockages through laser trabeculoplasty, iridotomy or cyclophotocoagulation. iStent is a new device that can be inserted at the time of cataract surgery. It adds minimal additional time to the surgery and does not alter the post-operative recovery period or drops. It also does not add any significant additional risk to the surgery. It is an excellent way to reduce the need for eye drops after cataract surgery. Microsurgery involves a surgical procedure called a trabeculectomy, which creates a new channel to drain fluid from the eye and reduce the pressure that causes glaucoma. Surgery is often performed after medication and laser procedures have failed. How Can I Prevent Glaucoma? While there are no surefire ways to prevent glaucoma from developing, regular screenings and early detection are the best forms of protection against the harmful damage that the disease can cause. While anyone can develop glaucoma, some people are at a higher risk for developing disease. These people may include those who: Are over the age of 60 African Americans over the age of 40 Have a family history of glaucoma Have poor vision Have diabetes Patients should have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once every two years, especially if they have a higher risk of developing glaucoma. Older patients may be encouraged to be tested more frequently. Schedule a Consultation To learn more about glaucoma and how you can be tested for this serious condition, please call us today to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors.

  Link: Glaucoma

• Macular Degeneration

  Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common condition in older adults and the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in people over the age of 65. Macular degeneration affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for the crisp, detailed vision needed for reading or driving. As we age, the tissue in the eye responsible for central vision slowly begins to deteriorate which can significantly affect a patient's quality of life. Types of Macular Degeneration Macular degeneration can be classified as either wet (neovascular) or dry (non-neovascular). Dry macular degeneration is the more common diagnosis, and is considered to be an early stage of the disease. This type of the disease usually develops as a result of aging and thinning of macular tissues and the depositing of pigment within the macula. Only about 10% of patients see their condition progress to the more advanced and damaging wet macular degeneration. In wet macular degeneration, new blood vessels develop beneath the retina and cause a leakage of blood and fluid. This leakage can lead to permanent damages in the central vision and the creation of blind spots. Although less common, wet macular degeneration accounts for 90% of the blindness caused by all cases of this condition. Symptoms Of Macular Degeneration Patients with macular degeneration may notice gradual changes to their vision, including shadowy areas in the central vision, or fuzzy and distorted vision. These areas grow larger as the disease progresses, and can eventually turn into blind spots. Patients may also have difficulty seeing color and fine details. If the disease progresses to the wet form, patients may also see straight lines as wavy. With wet macular degeneration, central vision loss can occur rapidly, sometimes in as little as a few days or weeks. Your doctor may be able to detect early signs of macular degeneration, before any symptoms occur, through a regular eye exam. Any signs of this condition can be further confirmed by testing your central vision with an Amsler grid test. Regular eye exams are important in detecting macular degeneration and other serious eye conditions as early as possible, so that permanent side effects can be avoided. Causes Of Macular Degeneration Many cases of macular degeneration are a result of aging and the natural deterioration of the eye tissue that is needed for clear vision. This disease can also be related to a genetic factor in patients who have a gene variant known as complement factor H. Nearly half of the blinding cases of macular degeneration are linked to this genetic deficiency. Macular Degeneration Risk Factors Macular degeneration is most common in females and whites, and the risk for all patients increases with age. This condition is the leading cause of blindness in the US for patients over the age of 65. Over 14% of adults between the ages of 70 and 79 have been diagnosed with advanced or intermediate age-related macular degeneration. Other factors that may increase your risk of macular degeneration include: Obesity Smoking Heredity High-fat diet Prolonged sun exposure High blood pressure Lighter eye color Side effects of certain drugs Patients can minimize their risk of macular degeneration by practicing a healthy, active life and getting regular eye exams. It is important for all patients to exercise regularly, avoid smoking, and eat a balanced diet that includes foods known to preserve vision and prevent eye diseases. Macular Degeneration Treatment While there is no cure for macular degeneration, there are several treatment options available to help patients manage this condition and preserve their vision. The best treatment option for each patient depends on the severity and type of the condition, as well as how much, if any, permanent vision loss has occurred. Intraocular injections of Eylea, Avastin, Lucentis and Macugen are often successful in stopping abnormal blood vessel growth in wet macular degeneration. These FDA-approved medications are injected into the vitreous of the eye on a monthly basis to control the damaging effects of wet macular degeneration. Photodynamic therapy is also effective in removing newly developing abnormal blood vessels that are characteristic of wet macular degeneration. Many patients also benefit from vitamin and mineral supplements, which can clear out toxic substances that may build up in advanced cases of this condition. It is essential for patients with macular degeneration, wet or dry, to seek continuous medical treatment to manage their condition and prevent permanent vision loss from occurring. Our doctors have extensive experience in the treatment of these conditions, and can offer patients the latest, most advanced treatments to help preserve your vision and your overall quality of life. Genetic Testing We now offer genetic testing to assess risk for macular degeneration.

  Link: Macular Degeneration

• Multifocal Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)

  Artificial lenses (IOLs) are implanted in the eye to replace natural lenses for patients with cataracts, presbyopia or severe refractive errors. Until recently, IOLs were only available to correct distance vision. These monofocal lenses helped improve distance vision after cataract surgery, but patients still needed glasses or contact lenses for near vision activities like reading and playing cards. Now, advancements in technology have produced multifocal IOLs that allow patients to see clearly at all distances -- near, far and many distances in between. Multifocal IOLs such as ReSTOR®, and Crystalens® preserve distance vision and correct presbyopia so cataract surgery patients -- and patients seeking treatment for presbyopia alone -- can enjoy clear sight without relying on glasses. The procedure to replace a patient's natural lens with a multifocal IOL is the same as that used in cataract surgery. Crystalens® Multifocal IOLs Langhorne PACrystalens® is a new cataract replacement lens (IOL) that works naturally with muscles in the eye to retain the eye's ability to "accommodate" - shift focus between nearby and distant objects - after cataract surgery. It is the first FDA-approved accommodating lens. With other IOLs, patients lose this ability and require corrective measures such as glasses or contact lenses. Crystalens can treat both cataracts and presbyopia. Unlike rigid lenses, the flexible silicone Crystalens features hinges that allow it to move with the eye's muscles and accommodate seamlessly, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for vision correction. The Crystalens is implanted using the same, nearly risk-free cataract surgery techniques as with other IOLs. Tecnis® Multifocal Multifocal IOLs Langhorne PAManufactured by Abbott Medical Optics, the Tecnis® Multifocal IOL helps cataract patients achieve clear vision at all distances after surgery, including improved night vision and driving capabilities. Using wavefront technology, the Tecnis lens allows patients to restore the clear, functional vision of their youth. After surgery, up to nine out of ten patients no longer need to wear glasses, results much more successful than those achieved with standard multifocal lenses. It is the only lens FDA-approved to enhance functional vision and night-driving performance. The advanced Tecnis lens is ideal for patients who have difficulty reading and seeing objects closely, as well as those with poor night vision. This lens is implanted during the same procedure that removes the cloudy lens, and does not require any additional incisions. Patients can enjoy immediate vision improvement in most cases. Toric IOLs Multifocal IOLs Langhorne PAToric IOLs are specially designed for patients with astigmatism. Traditionally, surgical correction of astigmatism required making a series of small incisions (called LRIs, or limbal relaxing incisions) around the cornea to make it more spherical instead of football-shaped. Implanting toric IOLs often improves vision without the need for these extra incisions, and also allows patients to enjoy a faster, more comfortable recovery. ReSTOR® Lens Multifocal IOLs Langhorne PATraditionally, when a cataract develops, the eye lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The lens is usually focused for distance vision, requiring that the patient need to wear reading glasses or contact lenses to focus in on nearer objects. Through recent advancements in lens technology, an IOL is now available that can provide the patient with a greater range of vision while reducing the need for glasses and contacts. The ReSTOR intraocular lens provides a full range of functional vision for patients that desire a significant decrease in their dependence on glasses or contacts.

  Link: Multifocal Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)

• Refractive Surgery / LASIK

  Refractive surgery refers to elective procedures performed with the goal of making patients more independent of glasses. At Eye Associates of Bucks County, we offer many forms of refractive surgery. Our doctors use the most advanced technology and spend time with our patients to help them decide which procedure is best for them. What Our Patients Have to Say "Wonderful practice. The MD and staff were so friendly and professional. They did their utmost best to make me feel comfortable and any questions I had were answered. I highly recommend this practice to anyone looking for eye care." -Hedy K. The LASIK Procedure LASIK improves vision safely and precisely by reshaping the cornea to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. Vision improves within minutes, and most patients eventually enjoy 20/20 vision or better after treatment. The most commonly performed elective surgery in America, LASIK combines the advantages of two sophisticated technologies: the accuracy of the excimer laser and the benefits of lamellar keratoplasty. It is safe, precise and highly successful. Thanks to LASIK, millions of people worldwide have experienced the wonder of clear vision without glasses or contact lenses. LASIK offers many improvements over other refractive surgery procedures. These include little or no post-operative discomfort, immediate vision improvement, and the ability to drive or return to work quickly-sometimes as soon as the next day. Most patients require no corrective eyewear after surgery (although patients over 45 often need reading glasses). We the most modern bladeless LASIK with the use a Femtosecond laser to cut flaps. This form of LASIK has been proven to be the safest form of this procedure. PRK, or Advanced Surface Ablation uses the same excimer laser to reshape the cornea. Since this procedure does not require a flap, it is safer than LASIK. It does however, have a longer period of recovery. Phakic Intraocular Lens implants are implants that are placed inside the eye. It is an excellent procedure for patients with thin corneas or very high degrees of myopia. We offer the Visian ICL to ideal candidates. We also offer Clear Lens Exchange or Refractive Lens Exchange. In this procedure, the lens inside the eye is replaced with an implant. It is essentially cataract surgery before you develop a cataract. Schedule a Consultation To schedule a consultation or to find out more about refractive surgery, view the following videos, or call us today at 215-757-6200 to make an appointment.

  Link: Refractive Surgery / LASIK

• Refractive Surgery / PRK

  Photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, is a laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct mild to moderate conditions of: Nearsightedness, or myopia Farsightedness, or hyperopia Astigmatism PRK uses an excimer laser to remove a small amount of the anterior portion, or front, of the cornea to correct refractive errors. Unlike the LASIK procedure, where a flap is created to access the cornea, PRK removes the epithelial, or outer layer, of the cornea so that it can be reshaped with an excimer laser to remove tissue from the surface. This process flattens the cornea and achieves the corneal steepening needed for vision correction. The PRK procedure provides the surgeon with greater control over the location and amount of tissue being removed, which allows patients to enjoy much more accurate results. The PRK method involves gently sculpting the cornea rather than cutting, allowing the surgeon to treat greater degrees of nearsightedness, as well as farsightedness and astigmatism. Up to 95 percent of patients with a correction of up to -6.00 diopters achieved a vision of 20/40 or better after PRK, with up to 70 percent achieving 20/20. Some of the advantages of the PRK procedure include: Less depth of laser treatment Patients with thin corneas are eligible for PRK No corneal flap complications The results of PRK are considered comparable to those of LASIK, although some patients may experience vision of only 20/40, and others may still need glasses or contact lenses after their procedure. PRK does not correct presbyopia, a natural change in the eyes that affects everyone over the age of 40, so patients that need reading glasses will continue to need them after surgery. It is important for patients to maintain realistic expectations in order to be satisfied with the results of PRK.

  Link: Refractive Surgery / PRK

• Retinal Tear

  Located at the back of the eye, the retina is attached to the vitreous, the gel-like substance that makes up for most of the eye's volume. Although the vitreous begins as a thick substance with a firm shape, the consistency of the gel changes and becomes thinner and more watery as we age. A change in the shape of the vitreous can cause it to pull away from the retina and leave a tear. A retinal tear leaves the retina unprotected and can allow fluid to travel between the retina and the wall, which may lead to retinal detachment. Retinal tears may occur in patients with myopia (nearsightedness), as the condition may cause the vitreous to pull away from the retina. Although a retinal tear does not cause pain, patients may experience flashes or floaters in their field of vision, a reduction of vision, a shadow or curtain forming in the peripheral vision, or other vision changes. It is important to see your doctor at the first sign of a retinal tear. Retinal Tear Detection Early detection of a retinal tear can often prevent the retina from detaching through prompt treatment. A retinal tear is usually treated with a laser to burn the area around the tear, causing it to scar and seal the retina to the tissue underneath it. This prevents fluid from flowing through the tear and leading to retinal detachment. Treatment for a retinal tear is usually effective in relieving symptoms and preventing retinal detachment from occurring.

  Link: Retinal Tear