At Kirk Eye Center, patients throughout Northern Colorado benefit from Dr. John Kirk’s 25+ years of experience and commitment to offering the most advanced, personalized care for serious eye conditions, including retinal tears. As a Colorado native with deep ties to the community, Dr. Kirk combines cutting-edge technology with a compassionate, patient-focused approach, all under one convenient roof.
The Risk of Retinal Detachment
The most serious complication of an untreated retinal tear is retinal detachment. A tear allows fluid from the eye to seep underneath the retina, gradually lifting it from its normal position. Once detached, the retina cannot function properly, and your vision can become blurry, distorted, or lost entirely in the affected area.
A detached retina can worsen quickly without treatment, and the window for successful repair becomes smaller. Permanent vision loss is a real and preventable risk.
Subtle Symptoms Can Lead to Big Problems
Retinal tears may present with symptoms such as:
- Flashes of light
- The sudden appearance of floaters
- A shadow or curtain-like effect in your peripheral vision
These signs can be subtle or mistakenly dismissed as signs of aging. But when caught early, retinal tears can often be sealed using in-office procedures, preventing detachment altogether.
Vision Loss Is Often Irreversible
The affected photoreceptor cells die once the retina is detached and deprived of nutrients and oxygen. Even if surgery is performed later, some degree of permanent vision loss may occur. This is why early detection and prompt treatment are key to preserving your sight.
Protect Your Vision with a Retinal Evaluation in Loveland, CO
If you notice unusual visual changes or have risk factors like severe nearsightedness, a history of eye trauma, or previous eye surgery, don’t wait. An eye exam with dilation can detect retinal tears before complications arise.
Untreated retinal tears can lead to irreversible damage. Acting early could mean the difference between clear vision and permanent loss. Call us today at 970-669-1107 to schedule an appointment to preserve your vision.