Our retinal specialist in our Melbourne rooms offers compassionate and expert care of various retinal conditions
At Armadale Eye Clinic we are pleased to be able to provide the expertise of our retina specialist to Melbourne residents as well as those from surrounding communities. Our practice is well-equipped with the facilities to perform both medical treatments and retinal surgery. Melbourne residents and those coming from further afield are welcome to come under the care of our retina specialists for a variety of diseases and conditions which affect the retina.
Retina specialists are trained to manage two broad categories of retinal disease – those that require medical therapy, such as medication, and those which are resolved with surgical treatment. Patients suffering from both types of retinal conditions in Melbourne and further communities are able to access a high standard of care and treatment at our Armadale Eye Clinic rooms.
The retina refers to the light-sensing tissue lining the inside of the eyeball and is essential for the process of vision. The retina itself is comprised of ten layers and is supported by further surrounding structures that provide oxygen and nutrients to meet the high-energy demands of the retinal cells. Depending on the type of diseases and the area of the retina affected, patients may experience a significant loss of vision or no symptoms at all.
Retinal detachment
A retinal detachment is an ocular emergency requiring immediate attention by a retinal specialist. This condition involves a separation of the sensory retinal tissues from the underlying structures – some clinicians describe this as like wallpaper peeling away from the wall. Untreated retinal detachments cause a permanent loss of vision in the area of the detachment as the retinal cells are unable to receive the metabolic support required to keep functioning. In the case of a detachment, retinal surgery in our Melbourne facilities or at another site is promptly indicated to save your sight. Symptoms of a retinal detachment include the sudden appearance of dark spots or lines in your vision, seeing flashing lights, or the sensation of a dark curtain coming across a part of your field of view. Some patients may also be aware of a total loss of vision in a certain area of their vision.
Retinal tear
All retinal tears deemed to carry a risk of deteriorating into a retinal detachment should be seen promptly by a retinal specialist. Many tears or holes in the retina present with no symptoms at all and are incidental findings during a routine eye exam. Some patients may notice symptoms similar to a detachment, such as the appearance of floaters or flashing lights, but their vision remains otherwise unchanged. Depending on the risk factors around the tear or hole, your ophthalmologist may recommend laser treatment to ensure it doesn’t escalate into a detachment.
Central serous chorioretinopathy
This is a retinal condition involving the accumulation of fluid beneath the retina. Risk factors are typically quoted as males aged in their 30s to 50s with a type A (highly stressed) personality, but people not fitting these characteristics can also experience central serous chorioretinopathy. Steroid medications are also a known risk factor for this retinal disease. During an active central serous chorioretinopathy, you may experience a blurring or distortion of your central vision, or the object may appear smaller than when viewing from the unaffected eye. Many retina specialists may opt to simply monitor this condition as it often self-resolves. Stubborn cases can be treated with a laser procedure or medications.
Macula Hole
A macula hole can occur as a result of vitreous traction on the central macula. This can lead to a sudden loss of central vision in the affected eye. Surgical repair is considered fairly urgent and recommended by our retinal specialists to prevent permanent central vision loss. Surgical repair is usually very successful.
Epiretinal membrane
A fibrotic membrane / scar can form over the macula. This can lead to gradual worsening central distortion and vision loss in the affected eye. Progressive vision loss may require surgery by one of our retinal surgeons. Timely surgery can prevent progressive vision loss.
Other retinal conditions
Conditions such as genetic retinal diseases, diabetic retinopathy, or macular degeneration may also require the attention of our retina specialists. Melbourne residents are encouraged to speak to their GP or optometrist about a referral to our clinic for high-quality care of a variety of retinal conditions.
We are fortunate to be able to provide the care and expertise of some highly trained retinal surgeons to Melbourne and surrounding communities. If you or a family member are concerned about the presence of retinal disease, contact us today.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
OPENING HOURS:
Weekdays: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
CONTACT US:
Phone: (03) 9070 5753
FAX: 8692 1131
Email: info@armadale-eye.com.au
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