# Eye Floaters and Vitreolysis

Source page: https://www.kudretgozistanbul.com/en/treatments/eye-floaters-and-vitreolysis

**Author:** Opr. Dr. Mehmet Ali Özdil | **Medical Approval:** Op. Dr. Deniz Oygar Baylançiçek | **Date:** 2026-09-05

> **Summary:** Eye floaters are dots, threads or cobweb-like shapes drifting across vision, usually as the vitreous gel liquefies with age; most are harmless and need no treatment. Vitreolysis uses a laser to break up selected, distinct floaters that clearly disturb vision and lie well away from the lens and retina (for example a Weiss ring).

## Quick Facts
- **Procedure duration:** usually 15-30 minutes
- **Anaesthesia:** local, with eye drops; usually painless
- **Incision:** none (laser treatment)
- **Not suitable:** patients with a retinal tear or at risk of retinal detachment
- **Price:** depends on the underlying cause and treatment

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## What It Is
Floaters are vitreous opacities (clumps of collagen) in the transparent gel filling the back of the eye. They vary in shape and size, are more visible against light, and can block light from reaching the retina. In vitreolysis, a laser breaks them up to clear vision. Results vary from person to person, and suitability is decided at the examination.

## Causes
- Age-related liquefaction of the vitreous
- Eye trauma
- Diabetes (vitreoretinal degeneration)
- Some eye infections causing vitreoretinal inflammation
- High myopia (more fluid vitreous)

## Symptoms
- Floating black spots, stains, threads or cobwebs
- Flashes of light
- Shading or a screen-like effect
- Sudden loss of vision

**Warning signs:** sudden flashes, a marked increase in floaters or a curtain over part of vision can signal a retinal tear; see an eye doctor without delay.

## Who It Suits
- Selected cases of distinct floaters that significantly affect vision and lie at a safe distance from the lens and retina.
- Not for patients with a retinal tear or at risk of retinal detachment.

## Prices
The price depends on the underlying cause and the procedure; the plan is set after a detailed examination.

## Risks and Possible Side Effects
- **Temporary rise in eye pressure:** measured after treatment, controlled with drops if needed.
- **Floaters not clearing completely:** some patients need an additional session.
- **Temporary blurring or small new specks:** usually fade quickly.
- **Effects on the lens or retina:** very rare; thorough examination and careful technique minimise them.

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## The Treatment Journey

### During Treatment
- Performed under local anaesthesia in an outpatient and operating theatre setting.
- Eyelid and eyelashes cleaned with antiseptic solution.
- Eye anaesthetised with drops.
- A special contact lens is placed on the eye and the laser breaks up the floaters.
- The eye is cleaned again with drops and covered with a protective lens.

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## References
- Floaters, NEI
- What Are Floaters and Flashes?, AAO
- Laser Vitreolysis, EyeWiki (AAO)