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Floaters & Vitreous Degeneration

Seek customised treatment with Dr Allan Fong, Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist

Understanding Vitreous Degeneration & Modern Treatment Options
What is Vitreous Degeneration?

Vitreous degeneration refers to the age-related changes that occur in the vitreous humour, the clear gel-like substance that fills the eye between the lens and the retina. Over time, the vitreous humour can become more liquid and shrink, leading to the formation of clumps or strands.

These clumps can cast shadows on the retina, which are perceived as floaters. While vitreous degeneration is a natural part of ageing, it can sometimes lead to more serious conditions, such as retinal detachment.
Symptoms of
Vitreous Degeneration
The most common symptom of vitreous degeneration is the presence of floaters, which are small spots or threads that drift through your field of vision. Other symptoms may include:
Causes of Vitreous Degeneration
Vitreous degeneration is primarily caused by ageing. As we age, the vitreous humour naturally becomes more liquid and less gel-like, leading to the formation of floaters. Other factors that can contribute to vitreous degeneration include:

Myopia (Nearsightedness)

People with severe myopia are more likely to experience vitreous degeneration at an earlier age.
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Eye Trauma

Injury to the eye can accelerate the degeneration of the vitreous humour.
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Eye Surgery

Certain types of eye surgery, such as cataract removal, can increase the risk of vitreous degeneration.

Inflammation

Inflammatory conditions affecting the eye can lead to changes in the vitreous humour.
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Ageing

The risk of developing vitreous degeneration increases with age.
Treatment Options for Vitreous Floaters and Degeneration
While floaters and vitreous degeneration are often harmless, treatment may be necessary if they significantly impair vision or indicate a more serious condition. Treatment options include:
Observation
In many cases, floaters do not require treatment and may diminish over time as the brain adapts to them.
Medications

In most cases, anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed if vitreous degeneration is associated with inflammation. If you see a sudden onset of floaters, please consult Dr Fong for early check for the small but real possibility of retina tear or retina detachment.

Choosing the Right Treatment

Choosing the right eye treatment for floaters and vitreous degeneration involves a few key considerations:
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Severity of Symptoms

Mild floaters that do not interfere with vision may not require treatment, while more severe cases may benefit from surgical or laser interventions.

Patient’s Overall Eye Health

A thorough examination of the eye can help determine if there are any underlying conditions that need to be addressed.

Treatment Preferences and Risks

Understanding the risks and benefits of each treatment option helps in making an informed decision that aligns with the patient’s preferences and lifestyle.
Meet Our Doctor

Dr Allan Fong

方齐扬医生

Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist

BBM, PBM, MBBS (S’pore), MMed (Ophth),
FRCS (Edinburgh), MRCOphth (London), FAMS

Medical Director
Senior Consultant Eye Surgeon
Visiting Consultant @ SNEC
Adjunct A/Professor, Duke-NUS

Dr Allan Fong is a Senior Consultant at Angel Eye & Cataract Centre. He is an experienced ophthalmologist specialising in comprehensive eye care, including the management of vitreous degeneration and floaters. With experience in both medical and surgical ophthalmology, Dr Fong is well-equipped to provide effective and individualised treatment plans.

Dr Allan Fong from Angel Eye & Cataract Centre photo
Dr Allan Fong from Angel Eye & Cataract Centre photo
Get in touch

See a better way of life

Don’t let floaters & vitreous degeneration affect the way you live. At Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, we offer comprehensive eye care tailored to your unique needs. Schedule a consultation or make an enquiry today!

For urgent enquiries and appointment requests, please call or WhatsApp us directly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vitreous Degeneration Surgery

We understand you may have many questions about vitreous degeneration surgery. Here are answers to some of the most common queries about the surgery, recovery, and expected outcomes.

Can vitreous degeneration lead to blindness?
While vitreous degeneration itself does not cause blindness, it can lead to conditions like retinal detachment, which can threaten vision if not treated promptly.
Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye exam, including a dilated eye exam to inspect the vitreous humour and retina.
Laser vitreolysis is generally safe but is not suitable for all types of floaters. A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine if it is an appropriate option.
While floaters cannot be entirely prevented, maintaining overall eye health through regular eye exams and protecting the eyes from trauma can help reduce the risk.
Stress and anxiety do not directly cause floaters, but they can make you more aware of them. Stress can also impact overall health, which may indirectly affect eye health.