Can A Retinal Tear Heal Without Treatment?

Submitted by Michael J. Elman, M.D. on May 4, 2024

Retinal tears are often asymptomatic. However, if left untreated, they can pose severe risks to vision. It is important for patients to fully understand the causes and potential outcomes of a retinal tear. The doctors at Elman Retina Group are dedicated to improving and maintaining the health of your eyes.

Ahead, learn more about the causes of retinal tears, discuss whether they can heal without treatment, and highlight the importance of treatment along with the retinal tear recovery period.

What Causes Retinal Tears?

A retinal tear occurs when the thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye, known as the retina is damaged. Several factors can contribute to the development of a retinal tear, including age-related changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye, trauma or injury to the eye, high levels of nearsightedness (myopia), or genetics.

Can A Retinal Tear Heal Without Treatment?

If the tear is small and peripheral, a retinal tear may heal on its own without any treatment. However, this is not always true since there are risks associated with untreated retinal tears. Without intervention, a retinal tear can progress to a more severe condition known as retinal detachment. This can lead to permanent vision loss.

While the body’s natural healing processes may help to seal off a small tear, you cannot ignore the risk factor. Even if a tear appears to have healed, there is still a risk of recurrence or progression to retinal detachment in the future.

Treatments for Retinal Tear

There are various treatments for retinal tears. Experts may recommend laser photocoagulation, cryopexy, and vitrectomy.

In laser photocoagulation, the retinal tear is surrounded by tiny burns caused by a laser. Scarring from the burns closes the rip and stops liquid from seeping through. Laser photocoagulation is frequently successful in treating minor, peripheral retinal tears.

Cryopexy involves freezing the area around the retinal tear using a specialized probe. Cryopexy also creates scar tissue that seals the tear and prevents further progression. This treatment may be suitable for certain types of retinal tears.

Conversely, a vitrectomy is a surgical process in which the vitreous gel in the eye is removed and replaced with a gas bubble or saline solution. A vitrectomy can be required if the retinal tears are large or complex.

Book Your Retinal Tear Treatment in Baltimore

While a retinal tear may sometimes heal without treatment, you should not take the risk with your vision. If you experience symptoms of a retinal tear or have risk factors for this condition, seek timely attention from an eye care professional.

If you want to opt for retina tear treatment, contact us at (410) 686-3000 and schedule an appointment with our doctors. Early detection and treatment of retinal tears can preserve your vision.