Patient Resources

A retina specialist is a board-certified ophthalmologist who has completed additional fellowship training in the medical and surgical management of diseases affecting the retina and vitreous. Retina specialists are uniquely trained to treat complex conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, macular hole, epiretinal membrane, and other sight-threatening disorders.

You should seek prompt evaluation if you notice new flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, a dark curtain or shadow in your vision, sudden loss of vision, or new distortion in your central vision. These symptoms may be signs of retinal diseases that can have a major impact on vision and may require specialized medical or surgical care.

Your visit may include a review of your medical history, vision testing, eye pressure check, pupil dilation, retinal examination, and imaging such as OCT or fundus photography. Additional testing may be recommended depending on your condition.

In most cases, yes. Dilation helps your doctor examine the retina more carefully. Your vision may be blurry for 4-6 hours afterward, and you may be more sensitive to light. Patients are often advised to bring their sunglasses to wear after the exam.

Because dilation can temporarily blur vision and increase light sensitivity, some patients prefer to bring a driver, especially for a first visit or if they are likely to undergo treatment.

Treatment may include retinal laser, intravitreal injections, cryotherapy, pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckle, or vitrectomy surgery, depending on the diagnosis.

Not all retinal conditions require surgery. Some can be monitored, while others respond well to injections or laser. If any procedure is needed, we will explain the diagnosis, treatment options, and expected recovery in detail.

You may notice mild irritation, tearing, redness, or the feeling of something in the eye for a short time. Severe pain, worsening vision, increasing redness, purulent materials, or significant light sensitivity should be reported immediately.

Yes. Retina specialists work together with referring ophthalmologists or optometrists. Many patients benefit from routine vision care as well as specialty retinal care.

Yes. We value close communication with referring doctors and work to keep them informed about your diagnosis, treatment plan, and follow-up care.