Optomap For Retinal Detachment Diagnosis & Treatment: How It Works

Nish Fofaria • 19 July 2024

Key Takeaways

  • Retinal detachment symptoms include sudden flashes of light, floaters, and a shadow over the field of vision.
  • Early detection of retinal detachment can prevent severe vision loss.
  • Optomap retinal imaging captures over 80% of the retina in a single panoramic image.
  • The method is non-invasive and doesn't require pupil dilation, making it more comfortable for patients.
  • Optomap retinal scans, like those offered by Eyecare Opticians, are quicker and more accurate compared to traditional methods like standard eye exams and ultrasounds.


Eyecare Opticians: Your Local Vision Care Experts


Discover quality vision care at Eyecare Opticians in Ham, Kingston Upon Thames. 


Led by Consultant Optometrist Nish, with over two decades of diverse optometric experience, we offer cutting-edge eye care solutions tailored to your needs.


Our services include advanced diagnostic tests like Retinal Photography Optomap and Optical Coherence Tomography, alongside specialized treatments for Myopia control and Dry Eyes. Rated 4.9 stars on Google, we're committed to exceeding patient expectations with the latest equipment and personalized care.


Schedule your comprehensive eye exam today!


What is Retinal Detachment?

Retinal detachment happens when the retina pulls away from its normal position. This is a medical emergency that needs immediate attention; the longer the retina remains detached, the less likely it is that vision can be restored. 


if not treated quickly, it can lead to permanent vision loss or even blindness. Unfortunately, many people ignore the early symptoms, leading to more complicated and less effective treatments later on.


Symptoms to Look Out For

  • Sudden flashes of light
  • New floaters in your vision
  • A shadow or curtain over part of your field of vision


Causes and Risk Factors

  • Severe nearsightedness
  • Previous eye surgery or trauma
  • Family history of retinal detachment
  • Aging, as the retina can thin and tear over time


Traditional Methods of Diagnosing Retinal Detachment


Standard Eye Exam

During a standard eye exam, an eye doctor uses a special magnifying lens to examine the retina. This method can identify tears and detachments, but it requires a highly skilled practitioner and doesn't always provide a complete view of the retina.


Pupil Dilation

Pupil dilation involves using eye drops to widen the pupil, allowing the doctor to see more of the retina - however, while effective, this method can be uncomfortable and time-consuming (the dilation process takes usually about 15 to 30 minutes for the drops to take full effect, which can make the entire eye exam more cumbersome for the patient). The procedure also makes the eyes sensitive to light for several hours afterward.


Ultrasound and Other Imaging Techniques

Ultrasound imaging is another method used to diagnose retinal detachment: it involves using sound waves to create an image of the inside of the eye. This method can be particularly useful when there is a lot of blood or other opacities in the eye that make it difficult to see the retina through conventional methods.


However, ultrasound doesn't offer the same level of detail as more advanced imaging technologies: the images produced are often less clear, making it more difficult to diagnose subtle issues or early signs of retinal detachment.


Optomap for Retinal Detachment Diagnosis

Optomap is an innovative technology that has streamlined the way retinal conditions are diagnosed, including retinal detachment: it's faster, more accurate, and more comfortable for patients compared to traditional methods. This advanced imaging technique provides a wide-field view of the retina, capturing more than 80% of its surface in a single image.

One of the most notable advantages of Optomap is that it doesn't require pupil dilation - as such, the process is quicker, more comfortable, and less invasive for patients. The detailed images produced by Optomap help eye doctors detect issues that might be missed with traditional methods.


Optomap employs low-power laser scanning to capture high-resolution images of the retina. The system uses two different lasers - one red and one green - to scan the retina. These lasers penetrate the different layers of the retina, capturing high-resolution images that can reveal issues like tears, detachments, and other abnormalities.


Key Features and Benefits

Optomap offers several key features and benefits that make it a superior choice for retinal imaging:


  • Wide-Field Imaging: Optomap captures more than 80% of the retina in a single image, providing a comprehensive view that traditional methods can't match.
  • Non-Invasive: The imaging process is quick, painless, and doesn't require pupil dilation, making it more comfortable for patients.
  • Early Detection: The detailed images produced by Optomap help detect early signs of retinal conditions, allowing for timely treatment and better outcomes.
  • Efficient Monitoring: Optomap images can be saved and compared over time, making it easier to monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness.


The Imaging Process

  • Step 1: The patient looks into the Optomap instrument and focuses on an LED target.
  • Step 2: The instrument uses low-power red and green lasers to scan the retina, capturing detailed images of its surface.
  • Step 3: The images are displayed on a computer screen, where the eye doctor can examine them for signs of retinal detachment and other conditions.


The entire process takes just a few minutes and doesn't require any special preparation or recovery time.


The eye doctor will then look for specific signs that indicate retinal detachment, such as a separation between the retina and the underlying tissue. They will also examine the images for other issues that could affect vision, such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and glaucoma.


Comparing Optomap with Traditional Methods

Compared to traditional methods like standard eye exams, pupil dilation, and ultrasound, Optomap offers several significant advantages:


  • More Comprehensive View: Optomap captures a wider area of the retina, providing a more complete picture of its health.
  • Greater Comfort: The non-invasive nature of Optomap imaging makes it more comfortable for patients, as it doesn't require pupil dilation.
  • Faster Results: The imaging process is quick, allowing for faster diagnosis and treatment planning.
  • Better Monitoring: Optomap images can be saved and compared over time, making it easier to track changes in retinal health.


Treatment Options for Retinal Detachment

Once retinal detachment is diagnosed, prompt treatment is essential to prevent permanent vision loss. Several treatment options are available, depending on the severity and location of the detachment.


Laser Surgery

Laser surgery, also known as photocoagulation, is a common treatment for retinal detachment. This procedure uses a laser to create small burns around the retinal tear, sealing it to the underlying tissue and preventing further detachment.


The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient setting and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Patients may experience some discomfort and blurred vision for a few days after the surgery, but recovery is generally quick.


Pneumatic Retinopexy

Pneumatic retinopexy is another treatment option for retinal detachment that involves injecting a small gas bubble into the eye. The bubble presses against the detached retina, helping it reattach to the underlying tissue.


The patient must keep their head in a specific position for several days to ensure the bubble stays in place - the bubble eventually absorbs on its own, and the retina remains attached. This procedure is less invasive than other surgical options and has a shorter recovery time.


Choose Eyecare Opticians For Optomap Retinal Exam In Kingston Upon Thames

If you're looking for a reliable and comfortable way to monitor your retinal health, consider booking an Optomap retinal exam with Eyecare Opticians in Kingston Upon Thames. Our state-of-the-art technology and experienced eye care professionals ensure that you receive the best possible care.


Detecting retinal detachment and other eye conditions early is vital for safeguarding your vision  - with Optomap, we provide you with a comprehensive and detailed assessment of your retina, identifying problems in their early stages and advising on the most suitable treatments.


You can resume your normal activities immediately after the exam, without the light sensitivity and blurred vision that typically follow pupil dilation. This makes Optomap an excellent choice for individuals who may find dilation particularly bothersome, such as children and those with busy schedules.


With Optomap, we save the images and compare them over time, which is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic eye conditions that require ongoing management. By providing a clear and consistent record of retinal health, Optomap helps our team make informed decisions about treatment and follow-up care.


Don't wait until you experience symptoms to take care of your eyes. Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step towards maintaining a healthy vision for life!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is retinal detachment and how does it affect vision?

Retinal detachment occurs when the retina pulls away from its normal position at the back of the eye. This can cause symptoms such as flashes of light, floaters, and a shadow over part of the field of vision. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss.


How often should I get an Optomap retinal exam?

It's generally recommended to get an Optomap retinal exam annually, especially if you have risk factors for retinal detachment or other eye conditions. Your eye doctor may recommend more frequent exams based on your individual health needs.


Is Optomap imaging safe and painless?

Yes, Optomap imaging is both safe and painless: the process uses low-power lasers to capture detailed images of the retina without any discomfort or side effects. It's a quick and non-invasive procedure that doesn't require pupil dilation - and at Eyecare Opticians, we’re always ready to answer any of your questions to help you get the best vision possible!


Can Optomap detect other eye conditions as well?

Yes, Optomap can detect a range of eye conditions beyond retinal detachment, including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and even cancer. The high-resolution images it provides allow for early detection and monitoring of these conditions.

Contact Lens Technology Has Changed — Here’s What You Need to Know

by Nish Fofaria • 26 November 2025
Contact Lens Technology Has Changed — Here’s What You Need to Know ... And Why Buying Lenses Online Could Be Riskier Than You Think Contact lenses have come a long way. Over the past decade, we’ve seen major advancements in oxygen permeability, comfort-based materials, moisture-retaining coatings, and even lenses designed to correct specific eye conditions such as dry eye or keratoconus. But at the same time, online contact lens sales have exploded — and not always for the right reasons. Convenience and price comparison make online ordering appealing, yet many patients don’t realise the risks that come with self-selecting lenses without proper clinical oversight. In this article, we’ll explore: • How modern contact lens technology has evolved • The benefits of newer lenses vs older generations • The hidden problems with buying contact lenses online • Why professional fitting matters for long-term eye health How Contact Lens Technology Has Evolved 1. Oxygen Permeability (Dk/t): Older hydrogel lenses restricted oxygen flow to the cornea, often leading to red, irritated eyes and higher infection risk. Modern silicone hydrogel lenses allow up to 5–6x more oxygen to reach the eye, keeping the cornea healthier and whiter throughout the day. 2. Advanced Wetting Agents: Today’s lenses are designed to lock in moisture. Technologies such as HydraGlyde®, TearStable™, and SmartSurface™ mimic natural tears to reduce dryness — especially helpful for digital-screen users and patients prone to dry eye. 3. Daily Disposable Innovation: Daily lenses are now thinner, smoother, and more breathable, minimising protein deposits and infection risk. This is a game-changer for people with allergies or sensitive eyes. 4. Specialised Optical Designs: New lenses can now help with presbyopia, astigmatism, myopia management in children, and dry eye through ultra-moisture and scleral technology. The Problem With Buying Contact Lenses Online ❗ Wrong Prescription — Contact lenses aren't like glasses. Two lenses with the same power can vary hugely in curvature, diameter, and oxygen transmission. ❗ No health assessment — Online retailers do not check for dry eye, corneal swelling or infection risk. ❗ Overwear habits go unnoticed — Sleeping or overwearing lenses increases risk of infection and scarring. ❗ Cheaper doesn’t always mean cheaper — Complications can lead to long-term damage and costly treatment. Why Professional Lens Fitting Matters At Eyecare Opticians Kingston, a contact lens assessment includes: • Corneal health examination • Tear film & dry eye evaluation • Precision fitting based on eye shape + lifestyle • Aftercare & monitoring • Access to the latest lens technology • Long-term eye protection & complication prevention Book a Consultation Eyecare Opticians – Kingston upon Thames 📞 020 8549 0331 🌐 eyecareopticians.com

Glaucoma & OCT Scans: Early Detection Is the Key to Protecting Your Sight

by Nish Fofaria • 17 November 2025
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss in the UK — yet most people don’t realise they have it until significant damage has already occurred. That’s because glaucoma often develops silently, without pain or obvious symptoms in the early stages. At Eyecare Opticians, Kingston upon Thames, we use advanced diagnostic technology, including OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography), to detect glaucoma years earlier than traditional methods alone. What Is Glaucoma? Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve — the nerve that sends visual information from your eye to your brain. This damage is often caused by increased pressure inside the eye, but glaucoma can occur even with normal pressures. Why Glaucoma Is Known as the “Silent Thief of Sight” In most cases, glaucoma causes: - No pain - No redness - No early warning signs Common Symptoms of Glaucoma - Gradual loss of side (peripheral) vision - Blurred vision - Difficulty seeing in low light - Halos around lights - Headaches or eye pain Glaucoma Diagnosis at Eyecare Opticians Your glaucoma assessment may include: - OCT Scan - Optomap Ultra-Widefield Scan - Eye Pressure Measurement (IOP) - Visual Field Testing - Optic Nerve Examination Who Is at Risk? - Over age 60 - Family history of glaucoma - High eye pressure - Diabetes - Short- or long-sightedness - Steroid use Treatment Options Treatments include prescription drops, laser procedures, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). Book Your Glaucoma Screening Eyecare Opticians 307 Richmond Road, Ham, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 5QU 020 8549 0331 www.eyecareopticians.com

Understanding Cataracts: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Options

by Nish Fofaria • 17 November 2025
Cataracts are one of the most common causes of reduced vision worldwide, particularly as we get older. Although they can develop gradually, the good news is that modern diagnostics and treatment make cataracts highly manageable—and often completely curable. At Eyecare Opticians in Kingston upon Thames, we regularly help patients detect cataracts early using advanced imaging such as OCT and Optomap. What Is a Cataract? A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, located behind the iris (the coloured part of the eye). The lens should be clear, allowing light to pass through and focus sharply on the retina. When a cataract develops, vision becomes blurred, hazy, or dim—much like looking through frosted glass. Common Symptoms of Cataracts - Blurred or cloudy vision - Difficulty seeing at night - Glare or halos around lights - Colours appearing faded or dull - Sensitivity to bright lights - Frequent changes in your glasses prescription Causes of Cataracts 1. Ageing – the most common cause. 2. UV Exposure – sunlight accelerates cataract formation. 3. Medical Conditions – diabetes, long-term steroids. 4. Eye Injuries or Surgery. 5. Genetics. Diagnosis at Eyecare Opticians We use: - OCT 3D eye scans - Optomap ultra-widefield imaging - Digital vision testing Treatment Options Early cataracts may simply be monitored or managed with updated glasses. Advanced cataracts are treated with surgery—one of the safest and most effective procedures in modern medicine. Prevention Tips - Wear UV-protective sunglasses - Eat an antioxidant-rich diet - Stop smoking - Manage conditions such as diabetes - Have regular eye exams, especially over 50 Book Your Cataract Assessment Eyecare Opticians, 307 Richmond Road, Ham, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 5QU 020 8549 0331 www.eyecareopticians.com