Floaters in the Eye (Singapore): Causes, Symptoms & When to Worry

Floaters are a very common visual symptom, often described as small specks, threads, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision.

In most cases, floaters are harmless and part of the natural ageing process of the eye. However, a sudden change in floaters can sometimes indicate a retinal problem that requires urgent attention.

For patients in Singapore, prompt access to retinal assessment allows early detection and treatment where needed.

What are floaters?

Floaters are caused by tiny clumps or strands within the vitreous gel, which fills the inside of the eye.

As light enters the eye, these structures cast shadows onto the retina—this is what you perceive as floaters.

They are often most noticeable:

  • against bright backgrounds (e.g. sky, screens)

  • when moving your eyes

Why do floaters occur?

The most common cause is age-related changes in the vitreous. Over time:

  • the gel becomes more liquid

  • collagen fibres clump together

  • these form the floaters you see

Age-related changes in the vitreous gel can lead to collagen clumping, which appears as floaters.

Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)

A very common cause of floaters is a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD):

  • The vitreous separates from the retina

  • Often causes a sudden increase in floaters

  • Usually harmless

However, in some cases, the vitreous can pull on the retina during this process, which may cause retinal tears or a retinal detachment.

When should you be concerned?

You should seek urgent eye assessment if you experience:

  • A sudden shower of floaters

  • Flashes of light

  • A shadow or curtain in your vision

  • Sudden reduction in vision

These may indicate:

  • a retinal tear

  • or a retinal detachment

⚠️ Early treatment can often prevent more serious complications.

How are floaters assessed?

Assessment focuses on ensuring the retina is safe.

This typically involves:

  • Dilated retinal examination

  • Careful assessment of the vitreous and retina

  • Retinal imaging if required

What to expect at your visit

During your consultation:

  • Your pupils may be dilated with eye drops

  • A detailed examination of the retina will be performed

  • Retinal imaging may be performed if needed

Questions patients often ask:

Will it be painful?

No—the examination is not painful

Will my vision be blurred afterwards?

Yes, temporarily (for a few hours due to dilation)

How long will it take?

Typically 1 hour to 1.5 hours.

Most importantly:

By the end of the consultation, you will know:

  • whether your floaters are harmless

  • whether any treatment is required

Do floaters require treatment?

Most cases

  • No treatment required

  • Reassurance and monitoring

If floaters affect your quality of life

In selected cases:

Vitrectomy (floaterectomy):

  • Surgical removal of floaters

  • Highly effective

  • Reserved for more severe symptoms

Laser vitreolysis

  • May be suitable for selected floaters

  • Not appropriate for all patients

When to arrange an eye examination

You should consider an eye check if:

  • Floaters are new or suddenly increase

  • Are associated with flashing lights

  • Are associated with blurred vision

  • Are associated with pain or sensitivity to light

  • You are unsure whether they are normal

  • They are affecting your daily activities

Concerned about floaters or flashes?

A retinal examination can quickly determine whether everything is safe: Book an appointment for a detailed eye assessment in Singapore

Further information

For a detailed explanation of floaters and when to worry, read our full guide here.