What are the treatments for vitreous floaters?
Understanding Vitreous Floaters: What You Need to Know
Many people will, at some point in their lives, notice “floaters” in their vision. These are small, drifting shapes that seem to move around when you look from side to side. While floaters are common and often harmless, they can be a source of anxiety when they first appear. As a corneal specialist, I am often asked about them, and although I don’t perform surgical treatments for floaters, I want to give you a clear understanding of what they are, what can be done about them, and when to seek help.
What Are Floaters?
The inside of the eye is filled with a clear, jelly-like substance called the vitreous. As we get older, the vitreous slowly liquefies and becomes less uniform. Small clumps or strands can form within it, casting shadows on the retina—the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. These shadows are what we perceive as floaters.
Common Symptoms
Small dots, cobwebs, or thread-like shapes drifting across vision
“A fly buzzing around” sensation, especially against bright backgrounds like a blue sky or white wall
Sudden increase in floaters, sometimes accompanied by flashes of light (this requires urgent attention as it can signal a retinal tear or detachment)
For most people, floaters are annoying at first but become less noticeable with time. The brain gradually adapts and “tunes them out” in a process called neuroadaptation.
Do Floaters Settle Down?
Yes—usually. While floaters don’t disappear entirely, they often become less prominent over weeks to months as they sink lower in the vitreous or the brain learns to ignore them.
Supplements: VitroCap N and the FLIES Trial
There has been growing interest in whether nutritional supplements can help. VitroCap N is a supplement that contains antioxidants and micronutrients designed to support vitreous health. The FLIES trial (Floaters in the Eye Study) showed that VitroCap N led to a reduction in subjective symptoms of floaters in some patients. While more research is needed, many patients find it worthwhile to try as a non-invasive option. Stiltec is a Brisbane based company selling VitroCapN.
Treatment Options – But Not Performed by Me
For those with very bothersome floaters, two interventional treatments exist:
Laser Vitreolysis – A laser is used to break up larger floaters into smaller pieces, making them less noticeable. Results can vary, and not all floaters are suitable for treatment.
Vitrectomy – A surgical procedure where the vitreous (and thus the floaters) is removed and replaced with a clear fluid. This is effective but carries risks such as cataract formation, retinal detachment, and infection.
⚠️ As a corneal specialist, I do not perform these procedures. My focus is on corneal and refractive surgery. However, Dr Abhishek Sharma and Dr Anthony Kwan at the Queensland Eye Institute offer vitrectomy services.
When to Seek Urgent Help
Floaters are usually harmless, but if you notice a sudden shower of floaters, flashing lights, or a curtain/veil across your vision, you must seek urgent eye assessment to rule out a retinal tear or detachment. This assessment can be with your optometrists or a retinal specialist.
Take-home message: Most floaters are benign and settle down with time. Supplements such as VitroCap N may provide benefit, while surgical options exist for severe cases but carry risks. If in doubt—especially if floaters appear suddenly—have your eyes checked promptly.