Vitreous Degeneration

VITREOUS DEGENERATION

                 The vitreous is a transparent gel that fills two-thirds of the of the eye.  The vitreous is three times more viscous than water.  It acts as a shock absorber for the retina. In the young eye the vitreous is firmly attached to the retina.  As a result of age, occurring in 50% of adults      over age 60 the vitreous liquefies.  Some degree of vitreous degeneration is natural and expected.  Typically, vitreous degeneration is a benign occurrence and 85% of the time there is no significant consequence. However, in a small percentage is can cause a retinal tear and/or retinal detachment.  Only a dilated retinal examination can determine if the retina was affected Age-related vitreous degeneration is the most common cause for floaters.

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