Understanding Retinal Scarring
Your retina acts like the camera sensor of the eye, capturing light and sending visual signals to your brain. When retinal scarring occurs, it can disrupt this delicate process—potentially leading to blurred vision, distortions, or even permanent vision loss.
At the Sevierville offices of Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun, we help patients understand and manage the effects of retinal scarring through advanced diagnostics and individualized care. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Retinal Scarring?
Retinal scarring happens when fibrous or scar tissue forms on the retina—the thin, light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. The extent of vision loss depends on where the scar develops and how large or dense it is.
In some cases, retinal scarring can lead to conditions like:
- Epiretinal membranes (ERM) – A thin layer of scar tissue that forms on the retina’s surface
- Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) – A more severe complication often following retinal detachment
These conditions can blur or distort vision and may worsen over time if left untreated.
Causes of Retinal Scarring
Several factors can contribute to retinal scarring, including:
- Eye trauma – Physical injury may damage the retina and trigger scar tissue formation
- Retinal tears or detachment – Scars can form as the retina heals from detachment
- Inflammatory conditions – Diseases like uveitis or diabetic retinopathy can inflame and damage retinal tissue
- Eye infections – Infections such as toxoplasmosis may lead to inflammation and permanent retinal scarring
- Surgical complications – Scar tissue may develop following procedures such as retinal detachment repair or laser treatment
Understanding the root cause of scarring is critical in determining the best course of action for treatment.
Symptoms of Retinal Scarring
Some patients with retinal scarring may not notice any symptoms at all—especially if the scarring is mild or located in a non-central area of the retina. Others may experience:
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Difficulty reading or seeing fine detail
- Dark spots or floaters
- Loss of central or peripheral vision
If you’re noticing changes in your vision, it’s important to schedule a comprehensive retinal exam at our Sevierville office as soon as possible.
How Is Retinal Scarring Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity and impact of the scarring. Common approaches include:
Monitoring
In mild cases where vision is unaffected, regular monitoring by a retinal specialist may be all that’s needed.
Medication
Anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroid eye drops may be used to reduce swelling and slow the progression of scar tissue.
Laser Therapy
Targeted laser treatments can control damage and help seal off areas of the retina to prevent further issues.
Vitrectomy Surgery
For more severe cases, a vitrectomy may be required. This procedure removes the scar tissue and vitreous gel to restore as much vision as possible.
Each case is unique, and our eye care team in Sevierville will determine the best treatment option based on your symptoms, eye health, and lifestyle needs.
Protecting Your Retinal Health
While not every case of retinal scarring can be prevented, you can lower your risk by:
- Managing chronic conditions like diabetes
- Wearing protective eyewear during sports or hazardous work
- Seeking prompt treatment for eye infections or injuries
- Attending regular eye exams for early detection of changes in retinal health
Concerned About Retinal Scarring? Schedule a Retinal Evaluation in Sevierville
If you’re experiencing vision changes or have been diagnosed with a retinal condition, it’s important to act quickly. Early diagnosis and expert treatment can protect your vision and prevent long-term complications.
Visit our Sevierville locations, serving patients across Sevier County and the Smoky Mountains region.
EyeCare Optical – Sevierville (Dolly Parton Pkwy)
962 Dolly Parton Parkway
Sevierville, TN 37862
(865) 428-8000
Fax # (865) 584-3892
EyeCare Optical – Sevierville (Winfield Dunn Pkwy)
750 Winfield Dunn Parkway, Suite 120
Sevierville, TN 37876
(865) 280-1165
Fax # (865) 584-3892
To request an appointment for either location online, click HERE.
Your retina is essential to how you see the world—let us help you protect it.