Our Physicians

You may be wondering why it is necessary to see a specialist from an already specialized field like ophthalmology. There are many diseases that affect primarily the front part of the eye or "anterior segment". This is what most general ophthalmologists are experts in treating.

However, a retina specialist is a physician (M.D.) trained specifically in treating conditions of the light sensitive tissue at the back of the eye (the retina) and the fluid that fills the eye (vitreous). Some retina specialists prefer to practice only the medical aspect of this field while others perform mostly vitreoretinal surgery. Most do both.

Because there are many specific forms of imaging and treatments that are only available at a retina specialist’s office, the majority of retinal disorders are treated by a physician who has additional training in this area.

Your first visit will take approximately two hours due to the need for eye dilation, imaging, counseling, and possible treatment. This includes vision screening, eye pressure measurement, and drops for dilation, which will make your sight blurry and your eyes sensitive to light for about two or three hours. Although dilation does not prevent your ability to drive if you have good vision, it is recommended to consider having a driver with you for added safety, especially if you have limited vision.

After dilation you will have either imaging or see the doctor. If imaging is necessary, it will be performed throughout your examination. Once completed, your doctor will then discuss the results and treatment options available to you.

Although it can be frustrating to wait during each step of your evaluation, remember that most imaging is conducted during the same visit, which is one of the reasons for seeing a retina specialist. This extends your appointment time but allows for a one-stop, thorough evaluation without the need for multiple visits to gather this information.

Retina specialists do not prescribe glasses, adjust glasses, or prescribe contact lenses.  They also do not perform laser refractive surgery such as LASIK. However, they do use many forms of laser treatment, but these do not change your glasses prescription. Retina specialists can also perform lens or cataract extractions and fix other complications of cataract surgery.