Floaters are small, semi-transparent specks or cobweb-like shapes that appear to float across your field of vision. They are actually small clumps of gel-like substance called vitreous that float inside the eye. Floaters are a common occurrence and are usually harmless, but they can have an impact on a person's quality of life.

Floaters can affect people's quality of life in the following ways:

1. Visual Disturbance: Floaters can cause visual disturbances and interfere with clear vision. They may appear as spots, strings, or cobwebs that move around when you try to focus on them. These visual disturbances can be distracting, especially when performing tasks that require concentration or reading.

2. Reduced Contrast Sensitivity: Floaters can reduce contrast sensitivity, which is the ability to distinguish between objects of varying shades of color or brightness. This can make it more difficult to see clearly, especially in situations with low lighting or high contrast backgrounds.

3. Impact on Daily Activities: Floaters can affect daily activities such as reading, driving, or watching television. They can make it challenging to focus on objects or follow moving objects smoothly. Some people may experience increased anxiety or frustration due to the persistent presence of floaters in their visual field.

Laser treatment for floaters, known as laser vitreolysis, is a non-invasive procedure that aims to reduce or eliminate floaters. Here are some key points about laser treatment for floaters:

1. Procedure: During laser vitreolysis, a specialized laser is used to apply targeted energy pulses to the floaters in the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance inside the eye. The laser breaks down the floaters into smaller pieces, making them less visible or causing them to dissolve.

2. Non-Invasive: Laser vitreolysis is a non-invasive procedure that does not require any surgical incisions. It is typically performed as an outpatient procedure in an ophthalmologist's office.

3. Selectivity: The laser used in vitreolysis is highly selective and only targets the floaters while minimizing damage to the surrounding tissues. This precision helps reduce the risk of complications.

4. Effectiveness: Laser treatment for floaters can be effective in improving symptoms for some individuals. However, the effectiveness may vary depending on the size, location, and density of the floaters. In some cases, multiple treatment sessions may be required to achieve the desired results.

5. Risks and Side Effects: While laser vitreolysis is generally considered safe, there are potential risks and side effects associated with the procedure. These can include temporary increase in floaters, glare, or visual disturbances. It is important to discuss these risks with your ophthalmologist before considering the treatment.