What Does a Retina Specialist Treat?
The Role of a Retina Specialist
A retina specialist is an ophthalmologist with advanced training in diseases of the retina and vitreous. Their goal is to detect problems early, provide effective treatment, and preserve sight.
The retina captures light and turns it into signals that the brain interprets as images. Damage to this tissue can quickly affect central or peripheral vision.
Depending on the condition, care may include medications, laser therapy, or delicate microsurgery. The choice of treatment is based on the severity and type of retinal disease.
Every eye is different. Our specialist tailors each treatment plan to the patient’s age, health, lifestyle, and visual goals.
When to Consult a Retina Specialist
Certain health issues and warning signs make timely retinal care essential. Do not ignore these risks or symptoms.
People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration should schedule routine retinal exams to watch for early change.
Seek prompt care if you notice any of the following changes in your vision.
- Sudden flashes or new floaters
- A shadow or curtain across part of your vision
- Blurred or distorted central vision
- Unexpected eye pain, redness, or swelling
What to Expect During a Retinal Exam
A retinal exam allows the doctor to view the back of the eye and check for tears, swelling, or bleeding.
The visit begins with questions about overall health, medications, and any vision problems you may have noticed.
You will read letters on an eye chart so the doctor can measure how clearly you see at different distances.
Eye drops widen the pupils, letting more light enter the eye and giving the doctor a better view of internal structures.
Several tools help the doctor inspect the retina.
- Direct ophthalmoscopy
- Indirect binocular ophthalmoscopy
- Slit-lamp examination with special lenses
After the exam, the doctor reviews findings, answers questions, and explains next steps if treatment is needed.
Depending on your condition, imaging such as optical coherence tomography may be ordered to provide detailed pictures of retinal layers.
Retinal Diseases and Conditions
Retinal disorders range from age-related changes to sudden emergencies. Early detection improves outcomes.
AMD affects the macula, the area responsible for sharp central vision. There are two forms.
- Dry AMD develops slowly as the macula thins.
- Wet AMD progresses faster when abnormal blood vessels leak beneath the retina.
Treatment focuses on lifestyle changes for dry AMD and anti-VEGF injections or laser therapy for wet AMD.
High blood sugar damages retinal blood vessels, leading to leakage, swelling, or closure. Laser therapy, injections, and good glucose control help limit vision loss.
A tear or separation of the retina from the back of the eye is an emergency. Symptoms include flashes, many floaters, or a curtain effect. Laser sealing, cryotherapy, or surgery can reattach the retina and protect sight.
A macular hole is a small break in the macula, while a pucker is scar tissue that wrinkles the surface. Observation may be enough for mild cases, but vitrectomy surgery can close a hole or remove scar tissue when vision is affected.
A blocked retinal vein reduces blood flow and may cause sudden vision loss. Treatment may include anti-VEGF injections, steroid implants, or laser therapy while underlying health risks are managed.
Floaters are tiny clumps in the vitreous gel that cast shadows on the retina. When the vitreous separates from the retina, a posterior vitreous detachment occurs. Although common with age, sudden new floaters should be checked to rule out a tear.
Uveitis and endophthalmitis can inflame or infect internal eye structures. Prompt antibiotic, antifungal, or corticosteroid treatment is critical to prevent damage.
Genetic conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa cause gradual loss of night and peripheral vision. Supportive care, low-vision aids, and new research into gene therapy offer hope for maintaining independence.
Diagnostic Techniques in Retinal Care
Advanced imaging helps diagnose problems and track treatment progress.
OCT produces high-resolution cross-sectional images of retinal layers to reveal swelling, holes, or detachments.
A dye injected into the bloodstream highlights retinal blood vessels, making leaks or abnormal growth easy to spot.
When bleeding or cloudiness blocks the view, ultrasound shows the shape and position of the retina.
This test measures side vision, which can be affected by retinal disease or optic nerve damage.
Your Trusted Retina Specialists in New Jersey
EyeCare Consultants of NJ is committed to preserving your sight with compassionate, state-of-the-art retinal care. Whether you visit our Woodland Park or Edison office, our team will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and help you maintain clear, healthy vision for years to come.
Highly recommend Dr. Kayserman. Extremely competent, experienced, highly personable
LS
It was my first visit. Doctor Kayserman was very understanding of the problem. I have to have surgery. I'm hoping for 🙏
Boris
Dr. Arnett has provided excellent medical attention for my retina eye surgery and has a very professional and positive bedside manner. I would highly recommend him.
R. T
Dr. Kayserman was gentle, efficient and provided extremely valuable information which was comforting to me. I felt better after seeing her and am looking forward to additional visits.
Lina N.
Dr. Arnett is very kind
Shirly