YAG Laser Treatment for Floaters After Retinal Surgery

Q: YAG Laser Treatment for Floaters After Retinal Surgery

Hello： 1. <br>The appearance of numerous floaters after retinal laser treatment may be due to either vascular bleeding or vitreous degeneration. <br>If the examination reveals that it is merely vitreous degeneration, there is no need for concern. <br>2. <br>If there is a fixed fl

Treatment for floaters: YAG Laser?

Hello, Doctor.
I previously underwent retinal laser treatment and developed a significant amount of floaters.
I would like to ask Dr.
Gao: 1.
What could be the possible reasons for the sudden onset of numerous floaters the day after retinal laser treatment? 2.
I have been experiencing a fixed flash in my visual field for over three months now (it is more noticeable when my eyes are open or closed).
I have had my retina examined, and the doctor said it looks fine.
Are there any other tests I should undergo to confirm this? 3.
Recently, I asked a friend who mentioned he had YAG laser treatment for floaters.
Can you explain whether this type of laser vaporizes the opacities to make them disappear, or does it simply break them down into smaller pieces? 4.
Are there any instruments available to assess the degree of opacification in the vitreous? Thank you very much, Dr.
Gao.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/28

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: 1.
The appearance of numerous floaters after retinal laser treatment may be due to either vascular bleeding or vitreous degeneration.
If the examination reveals that it is merely vitreous degeneration, there is no need for concern.
2.
If there is a fixed flash in the visual field and the retina has been examined with the physician stating that everything looks fine, you should follow the physician's instructions for monitoring.
3.
The YAG Laser for floaters is used to break down larger opacities into smaller ones.
4.
Currently, there is no specific instrument available to directly measure the degree of vitreous opacities.

Reply Date: 2023/12/28

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding YAG Laser treatment for floaters after retinal surgery. Let’s address each of your concerns in detail.

1. Post-Retinal Laser Treatment Floaters: After undergoing retinal laser treatment, it is not uncommon for patients to experience an increase in floaters. This can occur due to several reasons. The laser treatment can cause changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye, leading to the formation of new floaters. Additionally, if the laser treatment was aimed at repairing a retinal tear or detachment, the associated inflammation and changes in the vitreous can also contribute to the appearance of floaters. It’s essential to monitor these symptoms, especially if they are accompanied by flashes of light or a sudden increase in floaters, as these could indicate complications.

2. Persistent Flashing Lights: The presence of a fixed flash of light in your vision for over three months is concerning. While your retina may appear normal upon examination, persistent flashes can indicate ongoing vitreous traction or other underlying issues. It is advisable to follow up with your ophthalmologist for further evaluation. Additional tests, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or ultrasound, may be necessary to assess the vitreous and retina more thoroughly.

3. YAG Laser Treatment for Floaters: YAG Laser treatment, often referred to as YAG vitreolysis, is a procedure used to treat floaters. The laser works by targeting the opacities in the vitreous gel, either breaking them apart or vaporizing them. This can lead to a reduction in the visibility of floaters. However, it is important to note that while YAG Laser can help reduce the size and visibility of floaters, it does not guarantee their complete disappearance. The effectiveness of the treatment can vary from patient to patient, and some may still experience residual floaters after the procedure.

4. Detection of Vitreous Opacities: Currently, there are no specific instruments designed solely for the detection of vitreous opacities. However, comprehensive eye examinations, including slit-lamp examinations and imaging techniques like OCT, can help assess the condition of the vitreous and identify any abnormalities. These tests can provide valuable information regarding the health of the vitreous and any potential issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.

In summary, while the appearance of floaters after retinal laser surgery can be a common occurrence, persistent symptoms such as flashing lights warrant further investigation. YAG Laser treatment can be an effective option for managing floaters, but it is essential to have realistic expectations regarding the outcomes. Regular follow-ups with your ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor your condition and ensure the best possible management of your symptoms. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you the best in your recovery!

Similar Q&A

Understanding Floaters: Causes, Symptoms, and Management Tips

Dear Dr. Gao, First of all, I would like to thank you for your previous response to my questions. Thank you. After my retinal repair surgery, I experienced floaters, particularly a prominent one in my left eye that resembles a long line with black dots at both ends. My right eye...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Peter: 1. The symptoms of eye discomfort, redness in the sclera, and a sensation of dryness or irritation may be due to conjunctivitis, fatigue, or insufficient tear production. These issues are likely unrelated to your concerns. 2. It is advisable to use artificial tea...

Post-Retinal Hole Surgery: Understanding Vision Changes and Concerns

Hello, doctor. I suddenly noticed an increase in floaters and blurred vision. Five days ago, I underwent retinal laser surgery on my right eye, where a hole had been lifted. Currently, the floaters have not increased, and I do not experience flashes or shadows. However, when I wa...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Kelly: Based on your description, since your vision returned to normal after 15 minutes, there is no need to worry. After undergoing retinal laser treatment, it can cause minor peripheral vision defects and temporary swelling, which may lead to a feeling of dimness, reduced...

Post-Laser Treatment Care for Retinal Holes: Tips and Precautions

Hello Doctor, I have myopia of 500-600 degrees and underwent laser surgery for myopia in the 90s. Recently, I have been experiencing floaters (which are fluctuating and not fixed, sometimes not visible) and visited a doctor for a retinal examination. The doctor mentioned that the...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Hello Tang Tang: 1. Applying a warm compress to the eyes is fine. 2. You can engage in normal activities, but you should still try to avoid sudden and intense changes in temperature. Dr. He Jianxian, Ophthalmology Department, Nantou Hospital.

Understanding Retinal Issues: Flashes, Floaters, and Astigmatism Solutions

Hello, Doctor. 1. Three weeks ago, I underwent retinal laser photocoagulation. The doctor mentioned that there were no tears, only some traction. After the procedure, I still experienced flashes of light. He advised me to return for check-ups if I continued to see flashes (whic...

Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology
Hello, 1. Laser treatment is aimed at retinal reinforcement, not specifically for floaters (the source of flashes). 2. These all fall within the scope of floaters. 3. Astigmatism correction, like myopia, primarily involves glasses, contact lenses, laser treatments, and so on.