Updated September 03, 2013.

Written or reviewed by a board-certified physician. See About.com's Medical Review Board.

Definition:

A detached retina occurs when the retina separates from the rest of the eye. In retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), retinal detachments are usually caused by scar tissue causing the retina to contract and pull away from its supporting structures. A detached retina is a serious condition that can cause permanent vision loss.