Retina & Vitreous Services offered by leading specialists dedicated to preserving your vision. Our expert team addresses age-related macular degeneration, diabetic eye diseases, and more to provide personalized care for every patient.
Whether you're facing age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vascular occlusions, or a retinal tear, our team of retina specialists offers advanced imaging technology and innovative treatments designed to preserve your vision. With extensive experience in clinical research and a commitment to personalized care, our specialists provide accurate diagnostics and customized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.
At the core of our approach is a sincere dedication to your well-being, ensuring you’re supported with compassion, clear guidance, and exceptional care every step of the way.
Retinal diseases are conditions affecting the back layer of the eye, where light is converted into signals for the brain.
When managing retinal diseases, the primary aim is to halt or reduce further damage while preserving or even restoring sight whenever possible. With the advancement of modern techniques, many treatment options have proven to be both effective and safe, offering hope and improved outcomes for patients.
It is important to remember that once vision is lost in a specific area, reversing that damage can be challenging. Therefore, early diagnosis plays a crucial role in curbing the severity of the condition.
Our retina specialist treats a wide variety of conditions that affect the retina and the vitreous—the gel-like substance behind the retina. These conditions can range from common, slowly progressive issues to acute medical emergencies. Below are some of the primary conditions and diseases we treat:
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It is a leading cause of vision loss in people aged 50 and older, impacting millions of individuals worldwide. Approximately 80% of AMD cases are the "dry" form, which progresses more slowly, while the "wet" form, though less common, causes more rapid and severe vision loss. Early detection and treatment, are crucial for identifying and treating AMD before significant vision impairment occurs.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is treated by a retina specialist using innovative treatments such as anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, and, for advanced dry AMD, medications to slow the progression of vision loss and maintain quality of life.
Diabetic eye disease is a group of eye conditions that can affect individuals with diabetes, potentially leading to vision loss or blindness. The primary conditions include diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. Diabetic retinopathy, the most common cause of vision loss among people with diabetes, occurs when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina. Approximately 1 in 3 people with diabetes over the age of 40 show signs of diabetic retinopathy. Regular eye exams, good blood sugar control, and early treatment can significantly reduce the risk of severe vision complications from diabetic eye disease.
Diabetic eye disease is treated by a retina specialist using advanced techniques such as anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, and, in some cases, surgical procedures to manage diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, helping to preserve and improve vision.
A retinal detachment occurs when the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, pulls away from its normal position, leading to blurry vision and, if untreated, potential vision loss. A retinal tear is a precursor to detachment, where the retina develops a hole or rip, often due to age-related changes in the eye's vitreous gel. Common symptoms include sudden flashes of light, an increase in floaters, and a shadow or curtain over part of your vision.
A retina specialist treats these conditions using advanced techniques such as laser therapy (photocoagulation), cryopexy (freezing therapy), or surgical procedures like pneumatic retinopexy, vitrectomy, and scleral buckling to reattach the retina and restore vision. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent permanent vision loss, so if you experience any warning signs, seek immediate care.
A macular hole is a small break in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. It often occurs as part of the natural aging process when the vitreous gel inside the eye shrinks and pulls on the retina. Symptoms may include blurry, wavy, or distorted central vision, and as the hole enlarges, a dark spot may appear. Macular holes are typically treated with a surgical procedure called a vitrectomy, during which the vitreous is removed and a gas bubble is inserted to help the hole close and restore vision.
A macular pucker, also known as an epiretinal membrane, is a condition where scar tissue forms on the macula, causing the retina to wrinkle or bulge. This can lead to wavy or distorted vision and difficulty seeing fine details. While mild cases might not require treatment, more severe symptoms may be managed with a vitrectomy, where the scar tissue is removed, helping to improve or stabilize vision.
Retinal vascular occlusions occur when blood flow to the retina is blocked, leading to sudden and potentially severe vision loss. There are two main types: retinal artery occlusion (RAO) and retinal vein occlusion (RVO). RAO involves a blockage in the arteries supplying blood to the retina, with central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) generally having a worse prognosis than branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO). RVO, on the other hand, occurs when the veins responsible for draining blood from the retina become blocked, leading to bleeding, swelling, and reduced blood supply to the retina. Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) and branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) are the primary forms of RVO, with CRVO often presenting a more severe risk of vision loss.
Common symptoms include sudden vision loss, blurry or distorted vision, and, in some cases, a dark area or "shadow" in the field of vision. Risk factors for retinal vascular occlusions include age (typically over 50), high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma, atherosclerosis, and smoking. In younger patients, additional tests may be needed to rule out underlying clotting or inflammatory conditions.
Floaters are small specks or cobweb-like shadows that drift across your field of vision. They are caused by tiny clumps of cells, pigment, or gel matrix within the eye's vitreous gel. While floaters are often harmless, a sudden increase in floaters—especially accompanied by flashes of light—may indicate a more serious issue, such as a retinal tear or detachment. Most floaters settle on their own, but in severe cases, our retina specialist may recommend a vitrectomy to remove them and improve vision.
PVD occurs when the vitreous gel inside the eye shrinks and pulls away from the retina, a natural part of aging for most people by age 70. Symptoms may include flashes of light, floaters, or, in rare cases, a shadow or curtain over the vision. While PVD itself often requires no treatment, if it leads to a retinal tear, our retina specialist may recommend laser therapy or cryopexy (freezing treatment) to secure the retina and prevent detachment.
VMT happens when part of the vitreous remains stuck to the macula during a PVD, causing tension that can damage the macula and lead to vision loss. Symptoms include distorted vision, wavy lines, and objects appearing smaller than they are. Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may only require monitoring, while more severe cases may necessitate a vitrectomy to relieve the traction and restore normal vision.
While many eye conditions can be managed by your optometrist or general ophthalmologist, certain situations call for the expertise of a retina specialist. Often, you may be referred to a retina specialist if your eye doctor detects specific signs of retinal issues during a routine eye exam or if you experience particular symptoms.
If your optometrist or ophthalmologist sees something unusual at the back of your eye during a regular check-up, they may refer you to a retina specialist for a more detailed evaluation. Retina specialists use advanced imaging technology, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography, to get a precise view of your retina and diagnose conditions like diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), or retinal tears.
You should see a retina specialist if you notice sudden changes in your vision, such as:
These symptoms could indicate serious conditions like retinal detachment, vitreomacular traction, or macular holes, all of which require prompt treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
If you've experienced an injury to your eye, your doctor might refer you to a retina specialist to ensure that the retina and vitreous are not damaged. Quick evaluation and treatment are crucial in these cases to preserve your vision.
If you're experiencing any symptoms suggestive of retinal issues, don't wait. Book an appointment with our seasoned retina specialists today for tailored treatment options and expert care!
If you’ve been prescribed Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) to manage conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, it’s important to know that this medication, while highly effective, can sometimes affect your eyes—specifically, your retina. Although the risk is rare, Plaquenil can lead to changes in your central vision if not monitored closely. Our retina specialist can perform a detailed eye exam to check the health of your retina before you start taking Plaquenil.
This baseline exam helps your doctor track any changes over time, allowing them to catch potential issues early—before they affect your vision. Regular follow-up visits, typically once a year, become even more important if you stay on the medication long-term. By seeing a retina specialist, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your vision is being closely protected while you benefit from the medication’s positive effects.
Ongoing management of macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy often involves regular visits to our retina specialist for specialized treatment, including anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections. These injections are a highly effective treatment option that work by reducing abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage in the retina, which helps stabilize and even improve vision.
Patients typically receive these injections on a regular schedule, often every 4 to 12 weeks, depending on their specific condition and response to treatment. Our retina specialist will create a personalized treatment plan, carefully monitor your retinal health, and adjust your care as needed to ensure the best possible outcome for your vision. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial for maintaining eye health and preventing further vision loss.
Recognizing the symptoms of retinal disease is crucial for maintaining healthy vision. While some symptoms may seem mild or develop gradually, others require immediate attention to prevent permanent vision loss.
Eye floaters appear as small, shadowy shapes that drift through your field of vision. While occasional floaters are common and often harmless, a sudden increase or persistent presence of floaters may indicate a retinal issue. It's important to consult our retina specialist if you notice changes in your floaters.
A bit of blurriness that comes and goes may not seem alarming, but if it persists or worsens, it could signal a developing retinal condition. Early detection can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
If you find yourself needing new glasses more often than usual, it may not just be a sign of aging. Frequent prescription changes can indicate underlying issues with your retina or macula.
Struggling to focus your vision, especially if it happens regularly, could be a symptom of retinal disease. Seeing our retina specialist can help determine whether this is due to a retinal condition or another eye issue.
Seeing flashes of light, particularly if they are sudden and persistent, can be a warning sign of a retinal tear or detachment. This is a medical emergency and requires prompt attention.
A sudden loss of central or peripheral vision in one or more areas of your visual field should never be ignored. This could indicate a serious problem such as a retinal detachment, which requires emergency care.
If straight lines appear wavy or you experience visual distortions, it may be a sign of conditions like macular degeneration or vitreomacular traction. Early intervention by our retina specialist can help manage these symptoms and prevent further vision loss.
Eye pain, especially when accompanied by swelling, could indicate inflammation or an infection within the retina or surrounding tissues. Immediate evaluation by our retina specialist is essential to prevent complications.
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If you experience any of these symptoms, whether mild, moderate, or severe, it is always best to err on the side of caution and consult our retina specialist. One study showed that over 75% of patients with macular degeneration only saw a specialist after they had permanent vision loss.
Early detection and treatment can significantly improve your chances of maintaining healthy vision.
During your visit, the specialist will review your medical history, perform a thorough eye exam, and use advanced imaging techniques like optical coherence tomography (OCT) or fluorescein angiography to assess your retina.
Yes, many retinal conditions are treatable, especially if detected early. Treatment options include medications, anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, and surgery, depending on the condition.
It is crucial to begin treatment as early as possible, as often times delayed treatment can lead to irreversible vision loss.
Anti-VEGF injections are used to treat conditions like wet AMD and diabetic retinopathy by reducing abnormal blood vessel growth and fluid leakage in the retina. They help stabilize and often improve vision.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, wearing sunglasses to protect against UV light, having regular eye exams, and seeing our retina specialist at the earliest sign of retinal issues can help prevent retinal problems.
How often should I see a retina specialist if I have a retinal condition?
The frequency of visits depends on your specific condition. Some patients may need to see a retina specialist every month, while others may only need annual check-ups. Certain treatments may require more regular appointments in the early stages of treatment, becoming less frequent as the condition is stabilized.
If you're experiencing any symptoms suggestive of retinal issues, don't wait. Book an appointment with our seasoned retina specialists today for tailored treatment options and expert care!
Explore advanced retina care services for managing retinal diseases, including macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease at Specialty Vision.
