What occurs during vitreous detachment?

During vitreous detachment, the vitreous humor, which is the gel-like substance filling the space between the lens and retina of the eye, begins to pull away from the retina. This process is often a natural part of aging and can occur without any significant symptoms, although in some cases, it may cause flashes of light or floaters in the visual field.

Understanding vitreous detachment is crucial as it can lead to further complications, such as tears in the retina or even a condition called retinal detachment, which can threaten vision. Despite these potential complications, the process itself primarily involves the separation of the vitreous humor from the retinal surface, making the correct response focused on this aspect of vitreous detachment.