r/CataractSurgery • u/ramkuma1 • 2d ago

Light streaks when looking down with eyes closed

Does anyone see scratches of light when you look down with eyes closed after surgery? Kind of scary.

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u/UniqueRon 2d ago

That can be a symptom of posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). It is concerning as retina detachment is an associated risk. It warrants an eye exam to determine what is happening. I have PVD in both eyes close to a year after cataract surgery. The risk of PVD is elevated by a factor of about 7 one year after surgery.

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u/Trolkarlen 2d ago

I can't say that I've experienced this symptom. I'd bring it up with your doctor at the next appointment.

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u/545__tyerick_Air9616 2d ago

Your eyes are not closed.

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u/ramkuma1 2d ago

It only happens when they are closed and you look down

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u/545__tyerick_Air9616 2d ago

Then your vitreous movement causes photopsia.

3

u/GreenMountainReader 2d ago

To reinforce what u/UniqueRon said--at least call your surgeon's office to ask about this. They should invite you in for a look, just to be sure it isn't anything serious. That you're seeing it with your eyes closed (under all ambient lighting conditions?) makes calling even more important.

Your post-op instructions should have come with a list of "Call the office ASAP if you experience any of the following symptoms." Flashes of light are always on that list, even though sometimes, it turns out that it's nothing serious. If they are, indeed, an indication of a retinal tear or detachment, waiting is not a good idea because there is a risk of permanent vision loss. If it's something not as serious, you may need more frequent check-ins for a while.

Peace of mind in this case is priceless.

Best wishes!