What Does a Vitreoretinal Surgeon Do?
What Does a Vitreoretinal Surgeon Do?
When it comes to protecting your vision, not all eye specialists serve the same role. If you’ve been referred to a vitreoretinal surgeon, you may be wondering what sets them apart from a general ophthalmologist and why their expertise matters.
How Are Vitreoretinal Surgeons Different?
While general ophthalmologists diagnose and treat a broad range of eye conditions, and perform procedures like cataract surgery, vitreoretinal surgeons are ophthalmologists who focus specifically on diseases of the retina and vitreous—the delicate structures at the back of the eye responsible for sharp, detailed vision. This subspecialty requires an additional two to three years of advanced fellowship training, making them the go-to experts for diagnosing and treating complex retinal problems.
What Conditions do Vitreoretinal Surgeons Treat?
Vitreoretinal surgeons manage a wide range of retinal and vitreous disorders, including but not limited to:
-Retinal tears and detachments: These are urgent conditions where the retina pulls away from the back of the eye, potentially causing permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
- Diabetic retinopathy: High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina. Left untreated, this can lead to bleeding, scarring, or retinal detachment.
- Macular holes and macular puckers: These affect the macula, the central part of the retina, causing blurred, distorted, or wavy central vision.
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): This leading cause of vision loss among older adults often requires ongoing management from a retina specialist.
These are just a few of the many conditions vitreoretinal surgeons manage. If you’re experiencing changes in your vision, talk to your doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis from a specialist can lead to more treatment options and a better chance of protecting your sight.
What Procedures do Vitreoretinal Surgeons Perform?
Treatment might involve surgical procedures like a vitrectomy, where the vitreous gel is removed to access the retina and make delicate repairs, or laser surgery to seal retinal tears before they lead to detachment. Many patients also benefit from non-surgical treatments like intravitreal injections, which deliver medication directly into the eye to control inflammation, stop bleeding, or slow disease progression.
When Should You See a Vitreoretinal Surgeon?
If you’re experiencing sudden vision changes, such as flashes of light, floaters, or a dark curtain across your vision, it’s critical to seek care immediately, as these may be signs of a retinal tear or detachment. Vision changes in people with diabetes also warrant prompt attention, as do any abnormalities your eye doctor may detect during a routine exam.
Specialized Retina Surgery at California Retina Consultants
Your vision is too important to ignore. Whether you're managing a chronic condition like diabetes or noticing sudden changes in your sight, timely care from a vitreoretinal specialist can make all the difference. If you’ve been referred to a retina specialist or are concerned about your eye health, don’t wait – contact us today to schedule an appointment and get the expert care you deserve.