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Retinal Detachment

Are you experiencing sudden flashes of light or seeing dark spots? This could be a sign of an eye emergency known as retinal detachment.

Retinal detachment may not initially cause pain or vision loss, but it can lead to blindness if left untreated.

Monterey County Eye Associates in Monterey, Salinas, and King City, CA, can treat retinal tears and detachment before you lose your vision.

Retinal Detachment  Is a Medical Emergency

If you experience flashes, floaters, or dark spots in your vision, it's crucial that you schedule an appointment as soon as possible. The fastest way to get in touch is by calling us. We have offices in Monterey, Salinas, and King City.

Meet Our Retina Specialist Eric J. Del Piero, MD

Dr. Del Piero is a board-certified ophthalmologist who has been in practice for more than 30 years. He is a fellowship-trained retina and vitreous specialist who stays up to date on all the technological and surgical advancements in ophthalmology. He was named Monterey County Physician of the year in 2006 and 2007 by his peers. 

Dr. Del Piero can diagnose and treat your retinal detachment, retinal tear, or retinal disease before it leads to permanent vision loss. When you choose Monterey County Eye Associates, you are choosing top-quality care for your vision from a seasoned, respected professional.

Dr. Del Piero examining a patient's eye

Delaying Treatment Could Cause Vision Loss Contact Our Monterey County Practice Today

Your vision is too important to delay retinal treatment. Our experienced staff is here to help you through the entire process. Depending on your needs, our compassionate team serving Monterey County can schedule you an emergency appointment and Dr. Del Piero can provide you with immediate care to prevent any permanent changes in your vision. 

If you are showing any signs or symptoms of retinal detachment, contact our Monterey, CA, practice immediately. 

(831) 424-1150

Dr. Del Piero in lab
We have offices in Monterey, King City, and Salinas to serve you.

"I have received excellent care at the Monterey Bay Eye Center."

1

Joan Kerr

2022

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I have received excellent care at the Monterey Bay Eye Center.  The staff is friendly and efficient.  The facility is clean and comfortable.  The equipment is up-to-date.  All my questions are answered thoroughly.  I can definitely recommend it!

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1

Candy Kelly

2021

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Every member of this fine team provided services that helped to make me more comfortable & confident, answered all my questions, and then one of these kind people wrapped me in warm cotton blankets, making it much easier to relax & allow them to do what they do best...

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A Closer Look At Retinal Detachment

Diagram of retina and retinal detachment
Retinal detachment occurs when your retina pulls away from its usual position and separates itself from the blood vessels that supply it with oxygen and nourishment. The longer this condition goes without proper treatment, the higher your risk of blindness. Contact our Monterey, CA, practice to get treatment from Dr. Del Piero, our retina specialist. We have offices in Monterey, Salinas, and King City. 

Are You a High-Risk Patient? Call Our Monterey Practice Today

If you are at an increased risk of retinal detachment due to previous cataract surgery, family history, a high-risk eye condition, or another factor, and are not currently under an eye doctor's care, contact our Monterey practice. Our caring and experienced team can monitor your ocular health during routine exams, and we will be able to get you in quickly and act effectively to preserve your eyesight if you suffer retinal detachment. We have offices in Salinas, King City, and Monterey.

An emergency situation requires the care of a trained and experienced ophthalmology team. Contact our Monterey, CA, office at the first sign of symptoms:

(831) 424-1150

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"Monterey Bay Eye Center has saved my sight."

1

Jeanie

2021

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Monterey Bay Eye Center has saved my sight with awesome lenses that have kept me from buying glasses for many years. I am confident in their advice and their great work. Thank you

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Shell Fisher

2021

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Though I am a relatively new patient of Monterey Bay Eye Center and my surgery is scheduled for this September, I have every confidence that the health of my eyes is in the hands of the finest Ophthalmologist.

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Diagnosing Retinal Detachment What To Expect

Both your eyes will be examined even if you are only experiencing symptoms in one eye. 

If retinal detachment is detected, it will be treated immediately.
If retinal detachment is detected, it will be treated immediately.

Dilation

Dr. Del Piero will use special eye drops to make your pupils dilate, which will make it easier to examine the inner structures of your eye.

Examination

Dr. Del Piero will use a bright light and a special lens to examine the back of your eye. This will allow him to see any retinal tears or detachments.

Ultrasound

This test is usually only used if bleeding has happened within the eye, making it difficult to see the retina with just a lens and light.

The Treatments Our Monterey County Practice Offers For Retinal Detachment

Our Monterey County practice offers several options for retinal detachment treatment. Depending on the severity, Dr. Del Piero will provide one of these treatments:

Photocoagulation

Photocoagulation uses a highly precise laser to create scar tissue on the retina. This scar tissue acts like surgical staples that can seal retinal tears and reattach the patient's retina in its proper position.

Cryopexy

Cryopexy uses similar principles as photocoagulation, but, rather than a laser, intense cold from a freezing probe is used to repair the torn retina. The probe is held against the wall of the patient's eye, next to the retinal detachment or tear. This freezing probe creates scar tissue that can hold the retina in place and seal retinal tears. The probe may have to be used in several different places depending on the severity of the tears.

Pneumatic Retinopexy

Pneumatic retinopexy uses an air or gas bubble that is injected into the vitreous to push the detached retina back into position. As the gas bubble expands, it pushes against the detached retina and forces it to the back of the eye, causing the retina to flatten. The gas bubble will eventually be absorbed by the body. Cryopexy is then used to mend the damaged retinal tissue.

Scleral Buckle Surgery

The sclera is the white portion of the eye. During scleral buckle surgery, Dr. Del Piero attaches a small piece of rubber or sponge to the sclera creating an indentation on the surface of the eye. This buckling can relieve the tugging of the vitreous on a person's retinal tissue. In some cases, this added support can allow the retina to reattach to the surrounding tissue.

Vitrectomy

A vitrectomy involves the removal of the vitreous gel within the eye. This allows Dr. Del Piero better access to the retina to make the repairs and allows him to see any other retinal tears or issues. Removing the vitreous can also relieve pressure within the eye and allow the retina to reattach itself. After the repairs have been made, the vitreous is replaced with gas or silicone oil to hold the retina in place until the body naturally replenishes the fluid.

Contact Our Monterey County Practice For Fast, Effective Retinal Treatment

Our Monterey, CA, practice is equipped to handle every retinal issue, no matter how severe. With our broad scope of treatment options, you can be sure you are getting the best quality care to handle your specific issue. Our practice prides itself on using the most sophisticated eye surgery technology available. Our staff serving patients throughout Monterey County is fluent in English and Spanish.

If you are concerned for your eye health and vision, contact our office in Monterey, CA, to learn more about our treatment options. 

(831) 424-1150

Staff and optical machines

"Very professional, courteous and thorough."

1

STEVE DENNIS

2021

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Very professional, courteous and thorough .  Thanks to my cataract surgery my vision is perfect and the colors are amazing.  I highly recommend Monterey Bay Eye Center

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1

Norma Ray

2022

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Confident and comfortable are the words that come to mind. I love this place.

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Other Retinal Conditions Our Monterey, CA, Practice Can Treat

Macular Degeneration

Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in people 60 years old and older. The condition involves the gradual deterioration of the macula (the central portion of the retina) and its blood vessels. AMD often presents no initial symptoms, though eventually causes blurry vision, dark or blurry spots in your central vision, and diminished color perception.

Although macular degeneration is incurable, lifestyle and dietary changes can slow its progression if caught early. For more advanced cases of AMD, treatments include medication and laser therapy.

Diabetic vision

Diabetic Eye Care

Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes-related condition in which the blood vessels that nourish the retina become blocked. The eye responds by growing new blood vessels, but these new blood vessels grow abnormally. Without treatment, the blood vessels can leak into the retina, resulting in vision loss.

For early-stage non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), lifestyle changes and non-invasive techniques may be sufficient for managing the disease. For advanced or proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), surgery may be necessary to prevent blindness.

The FAQs Of Retinal Detachment

Can a detached retina heal itself?

No. A detached retina must be repaired by an experienced professional to ensure you do not lose your vision. Waiting to seek treatment can lead to blindness.

If my retina is detached, can I still see?

No. A completely detached retina will cause vision loss. Most people can still see clearly during the beginning stages of this condition. However, as it progresses, more symptoms will appear and vision loss will continue to get worse.

How long can my retina be detached before I permanently lose vision?

It depends on the severity. A retinal detachment can cause a patient to lose vision in a matter of days. Most retinal detachments occur suddenly and can affect a patient's vision within hours or days. 

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of retinal detachment, call us now at (831) 424-1150 to arrange to see our doctor as soon as possible. 

Monterey County Trusts Us To Care For Their Vision

1

Cate Mulligan

2021

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Lovely people …very throughout examination and  I would recommend them highly

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Stanley Mellin

2021

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I have been a patient for almost 10 years. Always receive excellent care

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The team of doctors at Monterey County Eye Associates

Monterey County Eye Associates
Leland H. Rosenblum, MD - MBEC
Eric J. Del Piero, MD

Our team of ophthalmologists provides state-of-the-art eye care using the latest technology. They are proud to be affiliated with: 

  • AAO: American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • ABO: American Board of Ophthalmology

To schedule an appointment, please call us at one of our four ophthalmologist office locations in Monterey, Ryan Ranch, Salinas, and King City, or contact us online.

Contact Us Today

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