What is retinal surgery?

Retinal detachment repair is a type of eye surgery in which the retina is placed back into its normal position, according to MedlinePlus. This type of eye surgery is urgent, as over time, the detached retina's lack of oxygen leads to cells dying and potential blindness.

Common methods to repair retinal detachment include pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckling surgery and vitrectomy, notes WebMD. Potential risks from retinal surgery include bleeding, elevated intraocular pressure, infection and detachment that isn't completely fixed, explains MedlinePlus. More than 90 percent of people with retinal detachment can be successfully treated, according to the National Eye Institute.