Can laser eye surgery fix floaters?
Millions of people worldwide are dealing with floaters in their eyes, specks that appear to float across their field of vision. Although they are typically harmless, they can be irritating and cause significant vision disturbances. The good news, however, is that advances in laser technology have made it possible to treat floaters effectively. In this blog post, we’ll explore whether laser eye surgery can fix floaters and what you need to know if you’re considering laser treatment for this condition.
What causes floaters?
Before we delve into whether laser eye surgery can treat floaters, understanding the different types of floaters and what causes them is worth understanding. Floaters refer to small spots or shadows that appear to drift across your field of vision, and they are caused when the vitreous gel in the eye starts to shrink1https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/vitreous-detachment#:~:text=When%20your%20vitreous%20detaches%2C%20strands,that%20need%20treatment%20right%20away, leading to specks that appear as floaters. In some instances, serious conditions such as retinal detachment or bleeding can cause floaters, but most floaters are harmless – though annoying.
What is laser eye surgery?
By reshaping the cornea, laser eye surgery corrects refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It changes how light enters the eye, focusing it onto the retina for a clearer image.
Should you consider laser eye surgery for floaters?
Laser eye surgery can treat a range of vision conditions, but can it be used to treat floaters? The answer is no. Laser eye surgery is only used to treat the eye’s surface, and floaters are inside the eye, so it cannot be used as a treatment. You can, however, have laser therapy to treat floaters, but this is a different procedure.
If your floaters are mild, your doctor may suggest more conservative treatments, such as eye drops or lifestyle changes, before considering laser therapy.
To discuss your options on how to treat floaters or for more information about laser eye surgery, book a free assessment.
Hi, I’m Dr. Matthew Russell, your laser and cataract surgery specialist
HI I’M DR. MATTHEW RUSSELL YOUR LASER EYE AND CATARACT SURGERY SPECIALIST
With over 15 years of experience, I enjoy the privilege of helping patients of all ages reclaim clear vision or preserve it for as long as possible.
Vision correction and high-precision cataract surgery hinge on the expertise and skill set of the provider who also has access to the most precise tools for the job. Ophthalmic surgeons like me know how to make treatment safe, comfortable and positive for the patient. They know how to minimise the risk of complications and maximise successful outcomes.
I have a passion for helping my patients enjoy the clear, high-definition vision they need to live rich and active lives. Now, I have hand-picked a team of professionals that share my passion and commitment to exceptional care.
Dr. Matthew Russell
MBChB, FRANZCO
