When you see postoperative eye floaters, temporary spots or strings that drift across your vision after eye surgery. Also known as floaters after cataract surgery, they’re often harmless—but not always. Many people notice them after cataract, LASIK, or vitrectomy procedures. It’s not unusual. Your eye’s gel-like vitreous shifts during surgery, pulling away from the retina. That tugging can create tiny clumps or strands that cast shadows on your retina—what you see as floaters.
But here’s the catch: not all floaters are the same. If they show up suddenly, increase rapidly, or come with flashes of light or a dark curtain over your vision, that’s not normal. Those signs point to retinal detachment, a serious condition where the retina peels away from the back of the eye. Also known as retinal tear, it needs urgent treatment to prevent permanent vision loss. Another related issue is vitreous detachment, a common age-related change that can be triggered or worsened by surgery. Also known as posterior vitreous detachment, it’s usually benign but can mimic the symptoms of something more dangerous. Doctors often can’t tell the difference just by asking you what you see. That’s why follow-up exams are non-negotiable.
What you can do right now? Don’t panic if you see a few new floaters a few days after surgery. That’s typical. But track them. If they don’t fade after a week, or if they’re joined by blurry vision, pain, or light sensitivity, call your eye doctor immediately. No waiting. No hoping it goes away. Most cases of postoperative floaters settle down on their own, but the ones that don’t? They’re the ones that need attention. You’re not overreacting if you insist on an exam. Your vision isn’t something to gamble with.
The posts below cover real cases, common misconceptions, and what actually helps—whether it’s monitoring, medication, or knowing when surgery is the only answer. You’ll find advice on spotting warning signs, what your surgeon should tell you before you leave the clinic, and why some people get floaters and others don’t—even after the same procedure. This isn’t guesswork. It’s what patients who’ve been through it wish they’d known sooner.
