Flashes and Floaters

Allison Menezes, M.D.
Fellowship-trained Retina Specialist

The vitreous is a clear, jelly-like substance that fills the back of the eye in front of the retina. As the eye ages, the vitreous may detach from the retina (vitreous detachment) and cause the appearance of floaters in the vision.

Retinal Detachment

The floaters created appear as dots or squiggles. When the vitreous pulls or tugs on the retina, one may see lightning flashes. The pull of the vitreous can sometimes cause holes in the retina and can lead to a retinal detachment.

If you develop new flashes or floaters or a shadow blocking your peripheral vision, an eye exam is necessary to check for a retinal tear or detachment promptly.

Retinal Tear/Detachment

The retina is a delicate structure that lines the back wall of the eye like wallpaper.  When the vitreous detaches from the retina, sometimes it can pull hard enough to tear the retina.  Previous eye surgery, trauma, nearsightedness and family history of retinal detachment can increase the risk of a retinal tear. When the retina tears, fluid can leak between the retina and the back outer wall of the eyeball, pushing the retina off of the eye, like peeling wallpaper off a wall.  If you have a retinal tear, laser surgery can significantly reduce the risk of retinal detachment.  If a retinal detachment has occurred, then retinal surgery is needed to reduce the risk of vision loss. 

Learn more about Macular Holes