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Laser Floater Treatments (LFT)

Laser floater treatment is an effective, in-office option for treating eye floaters. At Anh Nguyen Ophthalmology, our ophthalmologists and eye care specialists are highly skilled in performing LFT to help you achieve clearer vision that is unburdened by floaters.

What are Floaters?

Floaters, also called vitreous opacities, are small spots in your vision that resemble floating specks, strings, or cobwebs (vitreous strands). They may drift around when you move your eyes or dart away when you try to look directly at them. The majority of eye floaters are due to age-related changes such as posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) that occur as the vitreous gel (jelly-like substance) within the eyes ages and contracts. Clumps of collagen fibers form inside the vitreous, which appear like small shadows when they float in the path of light traveling from the pupil onto the retina. These shadows are what we call floaters.

While most cases of floaters are not dangerous, being aware of changes is important. If you experience a sudden increase in floaters along with light flashes or loss of vision, contact your eye specialist right away. This can be a sign of an emergency that requires immediate attention.

What are Laser Floater Treatments (LFT)?

Laser floater treatment (LFT), also called vitreolysis, is a non-invasive procedure to eliminate vitreous floaters. LFT is a YAG laser treatment that delivers precise low-energy pulses into the vitreous humor, specifically targeting floaters to achieve clearer vision. During the procedure, patients may see small spots or shadows being vaporized into gas during treatment. These spots are dissolved and reabsorbed by the vitreous humor. This quick treatment is performed on an outpatient basis so patients can return home following their procedure.

Benefits of Laser Floater Treatment (LFT) include:

  • Non-invasive.
  • Painless.
  • Quick procedure.
  • No significant downtime.
“ As a fellow healthcare professional, I was very happy with Dr Nguyen and her staff. Everyone was exceptional! Dr Nguyen is very understanding and patient. Nikki is very friendly and attentive. You can tell they all care about their patients! Would recommend them 100%!  ”

Laser Floater Treatments Recovery

Recovery from laser floater treatment is typically quick and easy. Most patients can return to their regular activities the same day or shortly following their procedure. Some individuals may experience mild blurriness or light sensitivity, which should resolve with time. Some floaters may also be visible right after the procedure, but they should decrease as the body reabsorbs the treated fragments.

Over the days following treatment, patients should experience an improvement in floaters. Our team will schedule a follow-up visit with you to monitor your progress and check for any possible complications.

Am I a Candidate?

Ideal candidates for laser floater treatment are those experiencing significant visual disturbances caused by floaters that tend to interfere with vision, those whose floaters occur at a safe distance from the retina and lens for treatment, and those with stable eye health and no active retinal disease or inflammation. Patients who have had the natural lens in their eye replaced with an artificial lens (an IOL) can be especially good candidates for LFT. Overall, the best way to determine if this procedure is right for you is to schedule a consultation with one of our eye care specialists today.

Schedule an Appointment

Laser floater treatment is one of the most effective ways to address unwanted vitreous floaters. To begin discussing your options for floater treatment, contact Anh Nguyen Ophthalmology by calling or filling out our online form.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does laser treatment for vitreous floaters cost?

The cost of LFT varies based on different factors. For detailed pricing information, please contact Anh Nguyen Ophthalmology today to schedule a consultation.

Does Laser floater treatments work for all floaters?

Certain types of posterior vitreous floaters cannot be safely treated with LFT. These are floaters located too close to the retina or lens. In these cases, surgery may be required.

What are the side effects of YAG Laser Vitreolysis?

Following LFT, patients may see small specks or spots within their vision. This is caused by gas bubbles that will quickly resolve on their own. A minority of patients may experience mild discomfort, eye redness, or temporary blurry vision. Although rare, certain side effects or complications, such as retinal tears, retinal detachment, intraocular pressure spikes, or cataracts, may occur. For a full overview of possible side effects, please schedule a consultation with one of our eye care specialists.

Is laser vitreolysis FDA-approved?

Yes, laser vitreolysis is FDA-approved for treating symptomatic vitreous floaters. The FDA has approved devices and technologies for this procedure, which uses a YAG laser to vaporize or break apart floaters in the eye.

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