Floaters after laser eye surgery are a recognised occurrence in eye health. These small shapes, dots, or strands in the field of vision can appear during the recovery period following procedures such as LASIK surgery or other types of laser surgery.
This article examines the causes of floaters after laser eye surgery, relevant risk factors, potential vision changes, and considerations during the healing process.
It also outlines the role of the eye surgeon, follow-up procedures, and available treatment options. The information provided is intended to support informed discussions with an eye doctor regarding eye health and post-surgical monitoring.
Understanding Eye Floaters
Eye floaters are small shapes that appear in your field of vision. These can include black dots, lines, or cobweb-like structures that move when your eyes move. Floaters are caused by clumps or strands within the vitreous gel, the gel-like substance that fills the eye.
Floaters can vary depending on several factors, including age, the density of the vitreous gel, and previous eye conditions. People may notice floaters against a bright background, such as a blue sky or strong light.
The Relationship Between Laser Eye Surgery and Floaters
Laser eye surgery, such as LASIK surgery, is designed to correct refractive errors, including short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism. While the surgery focuses on reshaping the cornea to improve vision, some patients may notice floaters after laser eye surgery.
These floaters can result from minor changes in the vitreous gel or pre-existing conditions that become noticeable following vision correction. It is important to note that not all patients experience floaters after laser surgery, and the presence of floaters does not automatically indicate a complication.
Common Causes of Floaters After Laser Eye Surgery
Several factors can contribute to floaters following eye surgery:
- Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): As the vitreous gel naturally separates from the retina over time, small clumps may form, leading to floaters.
- Existing Floaters: Patients with floaters may notice them after their vision improves.
- Peripheral Retina Changes: Small holes or retinal tears in the peripheral retina can release cells into the vitreous, resulting in new floaters.
- Previous Retinal Tear or Retinal Detachment: Individuals with a history of retinal tears or detachment may experience changes in floaters after eye surgery.
Recognising Symptoms and Changes
Following laser eye surgery, it is possible to observe certain visual changes as the eyes adjust and begin to heal. These changes can occur gradually and vary depending on the individual’s eye structure and healing process.
- New Floaters: Small black dots, thread-like lines, or cobweb shapes may appear intermittently within your vision. These floaters move with eye movement and may be visible against bright backgrounds, such as a blue sky or white surface.
- Intermittent Flashing Lights: Some individuals may experience brief flashes of light, particularly in their peripheral vision. These flashes occur as the vitreous gel moves and slightly tugs on the retina. This is often a response to natural changes occurring in the vitreous following the surgical procedure.
- Blurry Vision: Temporary fluctuations in vision may occur during the early stages of recovery. These can be influenced by mild swelling, changes in eye pressure, or the healing of the corneal surface.
The appearance of floaters or flashes can vary depending on various factors. These visual symptoms are often associated with normal post-surgical adjustments as the eye heals and stabilises.
However, monitoring any changes and reporting new or persistent symptoms to your eye doctor during follow-up appointments is important. Regular monitoring allows your eye surgeon to assess healing progress and rule out potential issues involving the retina or peripheral vision.
Risk Factors for Developing Floaters
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of noticing floaters after laser eye surgery:
- Age: People over 40 are more likely to experience changes in the vitreous gel.
- Short-sightedness: High myopia may be associated with vitreous changes.
- Family History: A family history of retinal tears or detachment may increase risk.
- Eye Conditions: Pre-existing conditions such as high eye pressure or previous retinal tears may increase the likelihood.
- Medications or Health Conditions: Certain medications and conditions, including high blood pressure, may influence eye health.
Understanding the Healing Process
After laser surgery, the eye undergoes a healing process lasting several weeks. During this time:
- Vision may vary depending on individual factors.
- The brain adapts to the corrected vision.
- Some patients notice increased awareness of existing floaters.
Using prescribed eye drops can support recovery by reducing dryness or irritation. Contact lenses should generally be avoided immediately after surgery unless your surgeon advises otherwise.
Monitoring Vision Changes
It is important to monitor vision problems after laser eye surgery. Symptoms such as sudden new floaters, continuous flashing lights, or a shadow across your peripheral vision can indicate complications such as a retinal tear or retinal detachment.
Regular follow-up appointments allow your eye doctor to track:
- The presence of small holes or retinal tears in the far peripheral retina.
- Changes in eye pressure or signs of infection.
- Healing progress of the cornea and retina.
Managing Complications
While floaters are often normal, certain steps can help reduce risks:
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.
- Inform your eye doctor promptly of any new symptoms.
- Adhere to your eye doctor’s instructions.
- Follow prescribed medication and eye drop routines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can floaters after laser eye surgery indicate a serious problem?
Floaters are usually normal but may signal complications if accompanied by persistent flashing lights, sudden vision changes, or a shadow in the peripheral vision.
Can laser treatment remove floaters?
Yes, a laser procedure can break up larger floaters in certain cases. Your eye surgeon will assess if this is appropriate.
Is treatment always needed for floaters?
In some cases, no. Floaters may be benign and not require intervention. Treatment may be considered only if floaters affect vision or daily tasks.
Should I be concerned about flashing lights?
Intermittent flashing lights may occur during posterior vitreous detachment. An eye doctor should evaluate persistent or strong flashing lights to rule out retinal tears.
Will contact lenses affect floaters?
Contact lenses do not cause or worsen floaters, as floaters occur within the vitreous gel, not on the corneal surface. However, following your surgeon’s advice on when to resume wearing contact lenses after surgery is important.
Conclusion
Floaters after laser eye surgery are a recognised occurrence. They are usually part of the normal healing process and are influenced by factors such as age, existing floaters, and changes in the vitreous gel.
Monitoring your vision and attending follow-up appointments with your eye doctor can help detect potential complications, such as retinal tears or detachment. Using eye drops, following your eye surgeon’s recommendations, and observing vision changes are important steps in supporting eye health.
For further information or to book an appointment, please contact Eye Laser Specialists at (03) 9070 0910 or (03) 9070 5788 to discuss your situation with an experienced eye care professional.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Healthdirect Australia. (2024, September). Eye Floaters. Healthdirect. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/eye-floaters
Mastroianni, B. (2025, September 7). How To Get Rid of Eye Floaters. Verywell Health. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-get-rid-of-eye-floaters-5089376
WebMD Editorial Contributors. (2024, November 18). Do I Need to Call My Doctor About Floaters? WebMD. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/floaters-calling-doctor
