What is a posterior vitreous detachment?

Posterior vitreous detachment occurs when the vitreous gel becomes smaller and disconnects from the retina, states WebMD. Vitreous gel located in the eye begins to shrink as an individual ages, in a normal process called syneresis. The main symptoms of posterior vitreous detachment are flashes of light and floaters.

Floaters form during posterior vitreous detachment when unhinged vitreous gel collects in pockets of the eye, explains WebMD. Posterior vitreous detachment is typically not serious, but at times, the separation of the vitreous gel can cause retinal detachment. Posterior vitreous detachment is typically a natural cause, but can also be brought on by an eye surgery, eye injury or inflammation.