Learn More About Posterior Vitreous Detachment

The round shape of the eye is partially maintained thanks to the efforts of vitreous, a gel-like substance within the eye interior. Numerous fibers attached to the retina’s surface intertwine with the vitreous, but vitreous may begin to shrink as a person ages. This shrinkage will force the fibers to pull on the surface on the retina. Although most of the fibers break, there is a possibility the vitreous may separate from the retina, causing it to “pull” the retina hard enough to cause tearing in the retina or a blood vessel, resulting in posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).

PVD is a surprisingly common condition that tends to affect people age fifty or older, and especially those over the age of eighty. People who are nearsighted are also at a greater risk. Individuals who have PVD in one eye have increased odds of having it in the other eye as well, but the other eye may not be affected until several years later.

Symptoms of PVD may include floaters which appear as tiny shadows, cobwebs, or specks that seemingly disappear when attempting to focus on them. While the condition does not lead to vision loss in most cases, there are instances where it can cause vision impairment. A dilated eye examination is the only way to diagnose PVD.

This information is presented by Retina Macula Specialists of Miami, the largest private retina practice in the city. We are a nationally acclaimed retina practice dedicated to the medical and surgical management of vitreoretinal diseases. Each of our extensively trained doctors are Diplomates of the American Board of Ophthalmology and are highly qualified to treat a wide variety of retinal conditions including but not limited to diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, macular problems like macular hole treatment, age-related macular degeneration, and CSR. We have three convenient locations in Miami, Coral Gables, and North Miami Beach. For contact information or to request an appointment, please visit https://www.retinamaculamiami.com.