Most floaters are condensed vitreous collagen fibers and never completely disappear. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis in all cases unless there is a medical reason to be in the hospital. Some doctors believe that patients with an absolutely clear lens develop cataracts as a result of vitreous surgery, but our doctors are skeptical. Surgeons differ widely on the percentage of patients that suffer cataract progression due to vitreous surgery. Retinal detachment can occur after vitreous surgery performed for any reason, including floater removal.
Opinions vary widely on the frequency of retinal detachment after floater surgery.