Our retinal specialist gives Melbourne residents expert care of various retinal conditions
Our retinal specialist gives Melbourne residents expert care of various retinal conditions
The retina is the light-sensing tissue at the back of the eyeball and is crucial for vision. A complex structure, the retina is formed of 10 interconnected layers and is supported by additional purpose-specific tissues and structures that provide oxygen and nutrients to the retinal cells. Despite being such a delicate structure, some retinal diseases may simply be monitored closely; conversely, other retinal conditions are considered emergencies and must be treated immediately.
There are two broad classifications of retinal disease and treatment – medical, such as those requiring intravitreal injections, or surgical. Retina specialists may have a preference for managing one or both types. At Mornington Peninsula Eye Clinic, we are pleased to provide management of both medical and surgical retinal conditions under the care of our experienced retina specialist for the Melbourne community. We have access to facilities equipped to perform both medical interventions and retinal surgery and Melbourne residents are welcome to seek the care of our retina specialists for any variety of retinal conditions. In Melbourne, we are fortunate to also have access to the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, where most of our ophthalmologists also hold public appointments. Afterhours emergencies can often be attended to at the Eye and Ear Hospital.
Retinal Detachment
This is considered an eye emergency requiring urgent attention from an appropriately experienced retinal specialist. During a retinal detachment, the sensory retinal layers separate from the underlying supportive tissues, resulting in an inability for the high energy-demand cells of the retina to receive adequate metabolic support. If not treated promptly, a retinal detachment can result in permanent and irreversible vision loss in the affected area. A retinal detachment may occur without any obvious symptoms, but many patients will report seeing dark floating spots or lines in their vision, flashing lights, or the sensation of a dark curtain coming across part of their field of view. Patients experiencing these symptoms are encouraged to seek immediate attention from an eye care professional as prompt retinal surgery in our Melbourne facilities is indicated to save your sight in the case of a retinal detachment.
Retinal Tear
Similar to a retinal detachment, retinal tears may present with floating spots and flashing lights or can be entirely asymptomatic and only detected incidentally on routine examination. Although not considered as severe as a retinal detachment, many retinal tears or holes can have high-risk characteristics of developing into a detachment, and your retinal specialist may recommend preventative laser treatment to avoid deterioration. At Mornington Peninsula Eye Clinic, our rooms are equipped with argon laser technology for the treatment of retinal tears in a procedure known as photocoagulation, which aims to firmly adhere to the retinal tissue to the underlying structures by taking advantage of the body’s natural scarring process.
Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Patients experiencing a central serous chorioretinopathy often find that though their vision is affected, they are still quite functional in their day to day tasks. Symptoms may include blurred or distorted central vision, or micropsia, the sensation that objects appear smaller than they actually are, especially when compared to the unaffected eye. Central serous chorioretinopathy involves the accumulation of fluid underneath the retina, causing a distortion of the anatomy. This condition is typically associated with males aged from their 30s to 50s, type-A personalities, and corticosteroid use, but many patients with central serous chorioretinopathy do not have any of these risk factors. Cases taking a long time to resolve or recurrent episodes at risk of permanent retinal damage may be treated by retina specialists using laser therapy or eye injections, however, many cases are suitable to simply monitor.
Other Retinal Conditions
Other retinal diseases such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and various genetic conditions may also require the care of our retina specialists. Melbourne residents may obtain a referral from their optometrist or GP to access high-quality care for a variety of retinal conditions at our clinic.
At Mornington Peninsula Eye Clinic we are proud to provide expert care with our experienced retinal surgeons to Melbourne and surrounding communities. Organise your appointment with us today by calling us now.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
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