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Prolongación Vasco de Quiroga 4001, Santa Fe
55 9152 2030

Retina

Floaters, flashes and shadows

1 min read Dr. Gerardo Ledesma Gil

Retina, vitreous and macula

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A sudden burst of them, or a shadow moving in from the side, should not wait for your next visit: it calls for a prompt retina exam.

Floaters are shadows cast by the gel that fills the eye, and with the years almost everyone sees a few. Having them for a long time, unchanged, is usually part of the scenery. What changes the conversation is when they show up all at once.

When not to wait

  • Many new floaters all at once, especially if there were none before.
  • Flashes of light, like lightning, even with your eyes closed.
  • A curtain or shadow coming in from one side and advancing.
  • Loss of vision in part of your field, however small.

Any of those four calls for a prompt dilated retina exam. Most of the time there will be nothing to treat, and that is also an answer worth having the same day.

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Frequently asked questions

What people ask us most before their first visit

Do I need a referral to book a visit?

No. You can book your consultation directly. If another doctor referred you, please bring their notes and any tests: they help us avoid repeating work that is already done.

How long does the first assessment take?

Between 30 and 60 minutes. It includes a full eye exam.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Your current glasses, a list of the medications you take and any previous eye tests or prescriptions. If you wear contact lenses, ask us how long before the visit you should take them out.

Will my pupils be dilated? Can I drive afterwards?

Often yes, especially for retina and glaucoma exams. The drops leave your vision blurry and light-sensitive for a couple of hours, so it is best to bring someone along or not drive back.

Where is the clinic?

In Santa Fe, inside an office tower: Prolongación Vasco de Quiroga 4001, Tower A, 5th floor, office 5. Allow a few minutes for the entrance and the elevator; the "Directions" button opens the route on the map.