New flash after laser treatment for retina tear repair

I got hit on my left eye when I play soccer about 10 months ago. Then the retina specialist found a tear in the eye after I saw an arc shape flash and several floaters in my injured eye. So I had my retina tear repaired by a single laser treatment about 7 months ago. The condition has been stable however I started seeing different type of flashes right after the treatment; they are small sparks which last only a second when I turn my left eye. Now my question is “does this symptom caused by my laser treatment since I don’t have any new tear ( I just had eye exam again)?  “ and “ Is there any other possible cause for this type of flash?”  Thanks.

[Houman Vosoghi, MD]

Most likely you have traction of the vitreous jelly on the retina adjacent to the tear.  You need to undergo repeat retina exams as long as you have symptoms.  If you see a sudden increase in floaters, flashes, or a curtain or dark cloud out in the periphery, you need to go back in for an immediate retinal exam.  Retina can't send pain signals.  All it knows is sight and that's why when it is being pulled on you see light; that's the retinas way of saying " I'm being attacked.

HV