Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Information to help you understand your condition and discuss your care with your eye specialist.

What is a posterior vitreous detachment?

A Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) is when the clear gel (vitreous) inside the eye naturally separates from the retina (back of the eye) over time. This is a normal occurrence and common after age 50, but can occur earlier after eye surgery, trauma or in short-sighted (myopic) people.

Symptoms

• Sudden new floaters (dots, lines, cobwebs, rings, blobs, insects)
• Flashes of light, especially in dim light
• Painless

Why it matters

• Most PVDs are harmless
• Occasionally a PVD can result in retinal tears which may lead to a retinal detachment, which usually needs urgent attention and surgery

Treatment

• If uncomplicated, no treatment is needed, only observation
• If a retinal tear is present, laser to seal the retina can be performed
• If a retinal detachment has developed, surgery is usually required

Prognosis

• Flashes usually settle within a few weeks
• Floaters may fade over months, but often don’t disappear completely
• The most important thing is early detection of a retinal tear, as treatment at this stage can prevent a retinal detachment
• Most PVDs do not cause serious problems, but staying alert to changes in your vision helps protect your sight

When to seek help

• Sudden new or increasing floaters, or new flashes of light.
• A shadow or curtain across your vision, or a sudden reduction in vision.
• Contact us immediately if you notice any of the above changes
• If this occurs out-of-hours please attend your nearest emergency department

Your ophthalmologist or optometrist can answer questions specific to your situation. Please take time to ask any questions you have.

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