Retinal detachment is a disorder of the eye in which the retina peels away from its underlying layer of support tissue.Initial detachment may be localized or broad, but without rapid treatment the entire retina may detach, leading to vision loss and blindness. It is almost always classified as a medical emergency.Permanent damage may occur if the detachment is not repaired within 24â72 hours.nitial detachment may be localized or broad, but without rapid treatment the entire retina may detach, leading to vision loss and blindness. It is almost always classified as a medical emergency. Permanent damage may occur if the detachment is not repaired within 24â72 hours.