EYE FLOATERS OR FLASHERS

It is not uncommon for patients to experiences what are called floaters or flashers in their field of vision. Floaters may appear like spots, line, circles, or cobwebs — they are actually present in the back of the eye and what patients see are the shadows cast on the retina.

Floaters can be caused by posterior vitreous detachment and will often go away on their own. Floaters are not considered to be a serious eye issue, but they can certainly be annoying and frustrating for many patients. Patients who have had cataract surgery, are nearsighted, or have experienced swelling of the eye may be more prone to floaters.

For floaters that do not clear up on their own, or are causing concerns with field of vision, our ophthalmologists, Drs. Betts and Mengarelli, now have access to one of the industry’s leading lasers to treat floaters: the Ellex laser for LFT (laser floater treatment).

This minimally invasive treatment reduces floaters in the eye and is performed on an outpatient basis. This laser is a great solution for patients who are bothered by their floaters, but do not require more serious surgery to fix the concerns.

If you are experiencing floaters, a thorough eye exam is required to determine if you are a good candidate for LFT, laser floater treatment.