Condition

Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Also known as PVD, Vitreous Detachment, Weiss Ring, Sudden Floaters, Flashes and Floaters, Vitreous Separation

Updated May 16, 2026For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for medical advice. See our terms.

Bottom Line

Posterior vitreous detachment happens when the eye's clear gel pulls away from the retina. It is common with age, but new floaters or flashes need a dilated exam.

The vitreous is the clear gel that fills the back of the eye. With age, it shrinks and can pull away from the retina. This is called posterior vitreous detachment 1.

Most cases are not dangerous. Symptoms can include new floaters, a ring-shaped floater, or flashes of light.

The important risk is a retinal tear. Delayed retinal breaks and detachments can happen after an acute posterior vitreous detachment, so warning signs need urgent eye care 2.

How It Is Diagnosed

The key test is a dilated retina exam.

  • Retina exam. The doctor checks for a tear, bleeding, or detachment.
  • Eye pressure and vision. These help find other causes.
  • Retina scan. Imaging can show the vitreous pulling away near the macula.
  • Ultrasound. This helps if bleeding blocks the view.

Symptoms alone cannot prove the retina is safe. A dilated exam is needed 1.

Treatment

Posterior vitreous detachment itself usually does not need treatment.

  • No tear. Most people are watched and told what warning signs mean.
  • Retinal tear. Laser or freezing treatment can seal the tear.
  • Retinal detachment. Surgery is needed if the retina lifts off.
  • Very bothersome floaters. Rarely, a retina specialist discusses surgery after symptoms are stable.

Call again right away if new symptoms appear after a normal first exam.

Warning Signs

Get urgent eye care today for a sudden shower of floaters, flashes, a curtain, or sudden vision loss. Also get urgent care for floaters after injury or surgery.

These symptoms can mean a retinal tear or retinal detachment. Treatment works best before the retina detaches widely.

Common Questions About Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Most cases are not dangerous. The danger is a retinal tear, so new floaters or flashes need a dilated exam.

Next Steps

  1. 1Get a same-day dilated exam for sudden new floaters or flashes.
  2. 2Go to the emergency room if you see a curtain or cannot reach an eye doctor.
  3. 3Ask whether a follow-up exam is needed after the first visit.
  4. 4Call again right away if floaters, flashes, or vision loss get worse.

Find specialists for Posterior Vitreous Detachment

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