Q: Description of a retina.
A: The retina is the delicate lining at the back of the eye that functions much like the film in a camera. It receives light through the lens in your eye, forms that light into images, and sends those images to the brain, enabling you to see.
The retina is composed of several layers of cells, including nerve cells, that do many things. Unlike the lens in the front of your eye, which can be replaced if it becomes cloudy (cataracts), these cells cannot be replaced by current medical technology.
Q: Description of the vitreous.
A: The vitreous is the clear, gel-like mass that fills the space between the lens and the retina.
Q: What can be done about my retinal problem?
A: Much damage to the retina, including:
- retinal detachments,
- scarring of the surface or underneath the retina,
- diabetic damage,
- holes and tears,
can be treated. Depending on the type and amount of the damage, and how long it has lasted, some vision can often be restored.