Ciliochoroidal detachments occur under a variety of pathological circumstances and are most commonly noted following intraocular surgery where hypotony is combined with postoperative inflammation. Although the condition is easily recognized, the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved are not well understood. In this review, the pathophysiologic mechanisms are summarized, with special emphasis on fluid dynamics within the suprachoroidal space. The clinical features, etiology and treatment of ciliochoroidal detachments are also reviewed.