Procedures
Retina Specialist
At NVISION, our retina specialists combine years of expertise, advanced training, and cutting-edge technology to diagnose and treat a wide range of retinal conditions. From retinal disease testing to personalized treatment plans, our team is dedicated to preserving your vision and managing your condition, no matter the complexity of your case.
Retinal Disease Testing
During routine eye exams, eye doctors will usually perform an ophthalmoscopy (also known as fundoscopy or funduscopy) which is a specific examination technique used to directly visualize the interior structures of the eye, particularly the retina, optic disc, and blood vessels. The primary goal is to check for signs of retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
However, certain retinal conditions may require additional examinations for accurate diagnosis and management. Specialized retinal disease testing includes procedures like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), Fluorescein Angiography, and fundus autofluorescence, among others. These tests provide detailed images and information about the retina’s structure and function, allowing for more comprehensive evaluation than standard ophthalmoscopy alone, and should be performed by trained retina specialists.
Who Should Get Tested For Retinal Diseases?
At risk-patients should get tested for retinal diseases at least on an annual basis, although some cases might require more frequent testing. Regardless of the scheduled frequency, individuals should seek a retinal exam as soon as possible if they experience any sudden changes in vision or other concerning symptoms
Retinal disease testing is strongly recommended for:
- Individuals experiencing visual symptoms like blurred vision, dark spots or flashes of light.
- People with chronic health conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
- Older adults, particularly those over 60.
- Individuals with a family history of inherited retinal diseases.
- Patients on medications known to affect retinal health.
Retinal Diseases and Conditions We Treat
Retinopathy
Retinopathy is a condition characterized by damage to the retina, often due to underlying health issues such as diabetes or hypertension. The most common type is diabetic retinopathy, which occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the retinal blood vessels, leading to leakage, swelling, or even the growth of new, abnormal vessels. Symptoms may include blurred vision, floaters, and in severe cases, vision loss.
Treatment for retinopathy primarily focuses on managing the underlying condition—such as controlling blood sugar levels in diabetes—and may include laser therapy to seal leaking blood vessels, anti-VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) injections to reduce swelling and prevent new vessel growth, and surgical options like vitrectomy to remove blood or scar tissue from the eye.
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. There are two main types: dry and wet macular degeneration. Dry macular degeneration involves gradual thinning of the macula, while wet macular degeneration is characterized by abnormal blood vessel growth underneath the retina that can leak fluid or blood.
Symptoms include blurred or distorted central vision. Treatment options vary; for dry macular degeneration, lifestyle changes and nutritional supplements may help slow progression. For wet macular degeneration, anti-VEGF injections can reduce fluid leakage and improve vision. Laser therapy may also be employed to destroy abnormal blood vessels.
Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from its underlying supportive tissue, which can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. Symptoms often include sudden flashes of light, floaters, or a shadow over part of the visual field. Treatment typically involves surgical procedures such as pneumatic retinopexy (injecting gas into the eye), scleral buckle (placing a band around the eye), or vitrectomy (removing vitreous gel) to reattach the retina. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and nature of the detachment.
Retinal Tears
Retinal tears are small breaks in the retina that can lead to retinal detachment if not addressed. Symptoms may include flashes of light or an increase in floaters. Treatment usually involves laser therapy or cryotherapy (freezing treatment) to seal the tear and prevent detachment. These procedures are effective in stabilizing the condition and preserving vision if performed promptly after diagnosis.
Retinal Vein Occlusion
Retinal vein occlusion occurs when a vein in the retina becomes blocked, leading to swelling and bleeding in the affected area. This condition can be classified into central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) and branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). Symptoms often include sudden vision loss or blurry vision. Treatment options may include anti-VEGF injections to reduce swelling and improve blood flow, laser treatments to manage complications, and addressing underlying conditions such as hypertension or diabetes to prevent further occurrences.
Macular Pucker
A macular pucker, also known as epiretinal membrane, occurs when a thin layer of scar tissue forms on the surface of the retina, leading to distortion in vision. Symptoms often include blurred or wavy central vision. If symptoms are mild, monitoring may be sufficient; however, if vision becomes significantly impaired, surgical intervention called vitrectomy may be necessary to remove the scar tissue and improve visual clarity. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and has a good success rate in restoring vision.
More Related Diseases and Conditions
In addition to the more common retinal diseases, NVISION retina specialists also treat rarer and more complex conditions, including:
- Retinoblastoma – A rare eye cancer that primarily affects children.
- Stargardt Disease – An inherited disorder that causes progressive vision loss.
- Retinitis Pigmentosa – A group of genetic disorders that affect the retina’s ability to respond to light, causing slow vision loss.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retina Specialists and Treatment
Why would you be referred to a retina specialist?
You may be referred to a retina specialist for several reasons:
- If your primary ophthalmologist identifies potential issues (like diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal tears, or detachment) they may recommend seeing a retina specialist.
- You might also be referred if there is a need for advanced diagnostic tests or imaging techniques to evaluate your retinal health.
- If you experience sudden changes in vision, such as flashes of light, floaters, or significant vision loss, your ophthalmologist may refer you to a retina specialist for immediate investigation and management.
What is the difference between an ophthalmologist and a retina specialist?
The primary difference between an ophthalmologist and a retina specialist lies in their training and areas of focus within eye care.
An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in comprehensive eye care; they can perform eye exams, diagnose and treat various eye conditions, prescribe medications, and conduct surgeries.
A retina specialist is an ophthalmologist who has completed additional fellowship training specifically focused on diseases and surgeries of the retina and vitreous body. This extra training equips them with advanced skills in diagnosing and treating complex retinal conditions.
When should you see a retina specialist?
You should consider seeing a retina specialist if you experience any sudden changes in vision or other concerning symptoms related to your eyes:
- Blurred vision, dark spots, or sudden loss of peripheral vision could be signs of serious retinal issues that require immediate attention.
- Floaters or flashes of light can indicate potential retinal detachment or other complications that warrant further evaluation by a specialist.
- Distorted vision—where straight lines appear wavy—can be indicative of macular degeneration and should also prompt a visit to a retina expert.
- If you have diabetes and notice changes in your vision, it is crucial to consult with a retina specialist due to the increased risk of diabetic retinopathy.
Start Treatment Today With A Retina Specialist
If you’re experiencing symptoms like sudden vision loss, blurred vision, or unusual spots in your sight,or if you have been diagnosed with a retinal condition and are in need of specialized treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out. Early intervention by a retina specialist can be critical in preventing further damage to your vision.