What are floaters? Here’s what you should do if you see them.

These symptoms could indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.

What Are the Treatment Options?

For the vast majority of people, no treatment is needed. Your brain learns to ignore the floaters over time, and they often become less noticeable on their own.

However, if floaters are so dense that they significantly impair your vision, two main options exist:

  • Laser Vitreolysis: A laser is used to break up large floaters, making them less noticeable. This is a non-invasive procedure, but it is not suitable for all types of floaters and carries some risks.

  • Vitrectomy: A surgical procedure where the vitreous gel (and the floaters within it) is removed and replaced with a saline solution. This is highly effective but is typically reserved for severe cases due to the potential for serious complications like cataract, infection, or retinal detachment.

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