Flashes and Floaters

Diagram of Floaters in the eye

Condition

Small specks of protein and other matter get trapped during the formation of the eye before birth and remain in the eyes, leaving spots. If the vitreous (clear gel-like substance inside the eye) shrinks and pulls on the retina, flashes of light occur making spots noticeable. The pulling movement stimulates the retinal receptor cells to “fire” and causes the perception of light flashes.

Vitreous floaters are sometimes seen as threadlike strands in the patient’s visual field. Typically these lines/spots float or drift as the eye moves

Risk factors

While most people see a few spots on occasion, they can occur more frequently and become more noticeable with age.

Simulation of vision with floaters

Symptoms

Spots and floaters are the specks and threadlike strands that drift across a person’s field of vision. They appear often with flashes of light.

Treatment

Flashes and floaters are not generally a serious condition needing treatment, but they can be symptoms of vitreous or retinal detachment; both of which are serious conditions. In either of these cases, treatment with lasers and/or surgical intervention may be necessary to protect vision.

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Ever wonder what the difference is between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist? 🤔 Weve got BOTH at Eye Center of Hawaii to take great care of ALL your eye care needs!  A simple call and we will get you scheduled with the right expert for your eye care needs.
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Ever wonder what the difference is between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist? 🤔 We've got BOTH at Eye Center of Hawaii to take great care of ALL your eye care needs! A simple call and we will get you scheduled with the right expert for your eye care needs.
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Locations

OAHU LOCATIONS

Main Office Yacht Harbor Professional Center
1620 Ala Moana Boulevard
Suite 500
Honolulu, HI 96815
Tel: (808) 955-0255

Mary Savio Medical Plaza
98-1247 Kaahumanu Street Suite 310
Aiea, HI 96701
Tel: (808) 955-0255 

Pro Com Plaza
94-216 Farrington Highway
Suite B2-203
Waipahu, HI 96797
Tel: (808) 671-4778

HAWAII LOCATIONS

77-6399 Nalani Street 2nd Floor
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Tel: (808) 329-2010 

346 Waianuenue Ave
Hilo, HI 96720
Tel: (808) 935-4456

MAUI LOCATION

Kahului Building
23 Paa Street
Kahului, HI 96732
Tel: (808) 877-8955

KAUAI LOCATION

‍4418 Kukui Grove Street
Lihue, HI 96766
Tel: (808) 245-5377

Bennett Eye Institute has been transformed into Eye Center of Hawai’i.

In 1998, Dr. Michael Bennett laid the foundation for our journey, leading us to become the largest retinal practice in Hawai’i and one of the nation’s leaders in research. However, as the landscape evolved, we recognized the need to differentiate ourselves, leading to our transition to Bennett Eye Institute. Now, as Eye Center of Hawai’i, we come full circle, reflecting our dedication to delivering exceptional care with expanded services.