Make annoying floaters or ‘flecks in your vision’ a thing of the past

Living with floaters is like having debris floating in and out of your vision. They are very distracting and usually most visible when you look at bright light. We often hear of patients who have stopped reading as much, no longer enjoy television or avoid sunlight.

Why do floaters develop?

In 99% of cases, floaters are nothing to worry about. They are an extremely common part of ageing and over time the brain learns to ignore them. However, if you are worried, or they are impeding your vision, it is important get an eye specialist to look at your eyes. Floaters can be a symptom of a more serious condition:

• Retinal Tear
• Vitreous Haemorrhage
• Retinal Detachment
• Reaction to Prescriptions

Floaters are usually a symptom of the natural part of the ageing process called posterior vitreous detachment. We treat this condition regularly, as it occurs in three-quarters of the over-65s. It happens when the outer part of your vitreous humour, the clear jelly that fills the eyeball, shrinks away from the retina. The collagen in the jelly thickens and clumps together, forming floaters. You may also see flashing lights as the shrinking humour pulls on light-sensitive tissues in the eye.

What are my treatment options for floaters?

Floaters can be treated in a couple of ways: surgery and laser treatment: Vitrectomy Surgery – If your floaters are caused by posterior vitreous detachment, we may suggest this surgical treatment. It involves a local anaesthetic and tiny incision to remove the vitreous gel containing the floaters. This gel is then replaced with a safe silicone oil or gas. The whole procedure takes less than three hours. And once your anaesthetic has worn off, you will be able to go home as soon as you are ready. Before you leave, you will be given eye drops and full instructions on how to look after your eyes. Laser treatment – Alternatively we can use a YAG (Yttrium Aluminium Garnet) Laser to dissolve the collagen, breaking up the floater until it is completely gone. You will be able to come in for the treatment and leave just a few hours later.

You are in expert hands at the Harley Street Eye Clinic

We know how valuable sight is and we understand potential problems can be concerning. That is why we will talk you through your options in detail and answer any questions you have.

• Learn more – To discuss floater removal simply schedule a consultation with our friendly expert. We will be happy to answer your questions and put your mind at rest.
• Seek treatment – If you decide on treatment for your floaters you can make an appointment at a time that is convenient for you.
• Fast relief – You will be back home to rest that very same day, safe in the knowledge that our aftercare package lasts long after treatment.