Floaters
Floaters are opacities in the vitreous gel of the eye. They cast a shadow on the retina and generally take the form of small dots, blobs and general cloudiness.
The key to diagnosing floaters is that they move independently of the eye, continuing to drift even when the eye is still.
The vitreous is the clear gel-like substance which fills the hollow space behind the lens. As we age, the vitreous gel opacifies and eventually shrinks away from the retina.
This is very common and increases with age, occurring in almost 90% of people who reach the age of 90. Although floaters can occur when the gel is still attached, they are much more common when separation of the vitreous gel from the retina occurs.
This is known as posterior vitreous detachment or PVD. It does not cause any permanent loss of vision itself, although very occasionally PVD results in tearing of the retina, with the risk of retinal detachment. The awareness of floaters is also more common following cataract surgery.
Frequently asked questions
What are eye floaters and how can surgery help?
Eye floaters are small, shadowy shapes that appear in your field of vision, often as spots, threads, or web-like structures. While they are usually harmless, persistent floaters can be bothersome, especially if they impair vision. Floaters surgery, or vitrectomy, removes the vitreous gel containing these floaters from the eye, providing relief from these visual disturbances.
How do I know if I need surgery for my floaters?
Floaters are common and usually not a cause for concern. However, surgery may be considered if they significantly obstruct your vision and impact your quality of life. At Sapphire Eye Care, we conduct a thorough assessment to determine if you are a candidate for surgery based on the severity and impact of your symptoms.
What can I expect during the recovery period after floaters surgery?
Recovery from floaters surgery is generally quick. Patients may experience temporary visual disturbances as the eye heals. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up visits to monitor the healing process and ensure a successful outcome.
Are there any risks associated with floaters surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved with floaters surgery, such as infection or retinal detachment. However, our experienced surgeons at Sapphire Eye Care use meticulous techniques to minimise these risks. We discuss all potential risks and benefits with you in detail before the procedure.
What is the procedure for floater vitrectomy surgery at Sapphire Eye Care?
Floaters vitrectomy surgery at Sapphire Eye Care involves making tiny incisions in the eye to remove the vitreous gel and replace it with a saline solution. This surgery is typically reserved for severe cases where floaters significantly impair vision. The state-of-the-art techniques we use ensure the procedure is as safe and effective as possible. The procedure is typically carried out under local anaesthesia. The use of intravenous sedation can be discussed with your surgeon in clinic.