Symptom history
Timing, number, flashes and any missing vision help determine urgency.
Vitreous care
Vitreous Floaters
Assessment of drifting dots, threads or cobweb-like shadows.
Specialist care · Advanced technology
Vitreous floaters
Understanding the condition
Clear information for confident decisions.
Floaters often relate to age-related vitreous change but sudden symptoms need assessment.
01AppearanceDots, strands, rings or cobwebs
02Common causeAge-related vitreous change
03First priorityExclude retinal tear or bleeding
04TreatmentReassurance, monitoring or selected surgery
Symptoms
What you may notice.
Symptoms vary between people, and some conditions cause no early warning. A specialist examination is needed for an accurate diagnosis.
01
Moving dots, threads or cobweb-like shadows
02
Shapes that drift when the eye moves
03
Greater visibility against bright or plain backgrounds
04
Occasional flashes with vitreous separation
05
Hazy vision when floaters are dense
Causes and risk factors
What may increase your risk.
Having a risk factor does not confirm the condition. Your history and examination are considered together.
01Increasing age
02Short-sightedness
03Previous cataract or retinal surgery
04Eye trauma, inflammation or retinal disease
Assessment01 02 03 04
How it is diagnosed.
Dilated retinal examination
The vitreous and peripheral retina are examined for tears, bleeding or detachment.
Retinal imaging
Photography or OCT may document associated retinal findings.
Ocular ultrasound
Ultrasound can assess the retina if dense opacity prevents a clear view.
Aftercare
Recovery and follow-up.
01
Follow the recommended review interval after new-onset symptoms.
02
Return urgently if floaters increase or flashes, a curtain or visual loss develops.
03
After any procedure, follow drops, activity and travel instructions carefully.
04
Do not assume a future sudden change is caused by the same benign floaters.
Common questions
Answers with clarity.
These answers are general. Your own care plan may differ after examination.
01Are floaters always harmless?+
No. Most are benign, but sudden new floaters can accompany a retinal tear or bleeding.
02Will they disappear?+
They may persist but often become less noticeable as they move or the brain adapts.
03Can laser remove floaters?+
Laser is suitable only in selected situations and is not the standard choice for every floater.
04When is vitrectomy considered?+
Only when symptoms remain significantly disabling and the expected benefit justifies surgical risks.