Retinal detachment - Diagnosis 

If your GP suspects a diagnosis of retinal detachment, it is likely that you will be referred to an eye specialist (ophthalmologist), usually on the same day.

The ophthalmologist can use a device called an ophthalmoscope, which is like a magnifying glass connected to a bright light source. This is used to study the back of your eye, check for any holes in your retina and see if the retina is out of position.

An ultrasound scan can also be used to obtain an image of your retina as well as the fluid in front of a retina. An ultrasound scan is a painless test where sound waves are used to build up an image of the inside of your eye.