Retinal Tear - More Floaters in the Eye

by Brian
(Cananda)

I have had three laser treatments because of a torn retina detachment.

I have noticed after the last laser treatment my right eye sight has more "floaters" than before.

The more laser treatments a patient gets can that build up more scar tissue which effects the eye sight?

Reply

Dear Brian,

First, if you have not sustained a retinal detachment, you are doing quite well!

The floaters, in your case, are probably a sign that there might be a tear. A tear, can turn into a retinal detachment if not treated by, say, laser.

There probably is not a true cause - effect relationship between laser and floater. Again, the floater is a result of a possible tear forming.

Second, there is a lot of retina "real estate" where tears can form. While having 3 may seem like alot, there can be more.

Sometimes, depending upon your doctor, a vitrectomy or scleral buckle can be performed to possibly decrease the chances of more tears. The amount of scar tissue should NOT affect the sight.

This would be something to take up with a retina specialist.

Best of luck! Thanks for your excellent questions.


Randall V. Wong, M.D.

Retina Specialist Fairfax, Virginia