Retinal Detachment: A Long Term Effect of High Myopia

What is retinal detachment?

The retina is the thin, light‑sensing layer lining the back of the eye. A retinal detachment happens when the retina peels away from its normal position. This typically starts with a small tear or hole. Fluid then slips through the tear and lifts the retina off, much like wallpaper coming loose. Without quick treatment, the detached area can expand and cause permanent vision loss.

How high myopia increases the risk

In highly myopic eyes, the eyeball is longer than average. This stretching:

• Thins the retina and surrounding tissues

• Increases traction (pulling) on the retina from the gel inside the eye (the vitreous)

• Makes retinal tears and holes more likely, which can lead to detachment

Warning signs you should never ignore

• Sudden flashes of light (especially in dim lighting)

• A shower of new floaters (dots, cobwebs, or specks)

• A dark curtain or shadow moving across your vision

• Sudden, painless blur or loss of side vision

These are eye emergencies. If you notice them, seek urgent same‑day care.

What happens if retinal detachment is left untreated

If a detachment spreads to the central retina (the macula), detailed vision can be lost quickly. The longer the retina remains detached, the lower the chance of a good visual recovery—even if surgery is later performed.

How retinal detachment is treated

• Laser or freezing treatment (photocoagulation or cryotherapy): Seals small retinal tears before they progress to detachment.

• Vitrectomy: Removes the vitreous gel pulling on the retina; the surgeon reattaches the retina and uses a gas bubble or silicone oil to hold it in place.

• Scleral buckle: A soft band is placed around the outside of the eye to relieve traction and close the break.

• Pneumatic retinopexy: A gas bubble is injected into the eye to press the retina back while laser or freezing seals the tear.

Results are often best when treatment happens quickly—ideally within days.

Why preventative myopia management matters

The single biggest driver of risk is how long the eye becomes. Slowing eye growth in childhood can reduce the chances of retinal tears and detachment later in life. Modern myopia management (e.g., specially designed spectacle lenses, contact lenses, orthokeratology, and therapeutic eye drops, alongside more outdoor time and smart near‑work habits) can significantly slow progression. Early, regular eye exams allow your practitioner to monitor axial length, detect weak retinal areas, and act fast if problems appear.