Ophthalmologist & Facial Aesthetics
Ophthalmologist & Facial Aesthetics
Floaters are black/grey strands or webs that float across the vision and move along with the eye as you gaze in different directions. They are often reported as “flies” or “spiderwebs”. Floaters are the shadows cast by protein lumps in the vitreous gel (back of the eye). Floaters can be age-related, but a sudden increase in size/numbers can indicate the onset of a vision-threatening retinal detachment or bleed.
Flashes are the light streaks or arcs of light that flash across the vision & persists even when the eyes are shut. Flashes occur because the vitreous gel tugs at the retina. Flashes may be an indication that you may be developing a vision-threatening retinal detachment [when the vision nerve layer dislodges from the back of the eye].
Floaters and Flashes occur in the following conditions:
Vitreous gel peeling off & tugging at the retina (which may be age-related) Retinal detachments or tears. Bleeding inside the vitreous gel (especially in people with diabetes and high blood pressure). Tumours or Inflammation in the eye.
As part of the comprehensive assessment, medicated eye drops are instilled to dilate the pupil for a retinal exam. Although these eye drops are painless, it does cause transient blurred vision and light sensitivity (4-6 hours), which can be a little disorienting.
3 things you can do to make the experience seamless are:
Bring a pair of sunglasses with you to the appointment. This is helpful for the light sensitivity after the assessment is complete. Do not schedule any activities for after your assessment. Most people tend to go home and rest for a few hours as the eye recovers. Arrange for a friend/relative/car service to drive you home as it is unsafe to do so while your pupils are still fully dilated.
The treatment of flashes & floaters starts off with a crucial comprehensive assessment by Dr. Djan to determine the source of your symptoms. Once a cause is found, you may require one or more of the following regimens:
▪ Observation
▪ Medication
▪ Vitreous injections
▪ Laser
▪ Minimally-invasive Surgery