Seeing a retina specialist can feel unsettling, especially if you are worried about your vision and eye health. Your first visit is typically a thorough evaluation and understanding the process can make the experience much less stressful.
Below, we’ll walk through who retina specialists are, what we do, and exactly what you can expect before, during, and after your appointment.
A retina specialist is a medical doctor with advanced training in diseases and conditions that affect the retina (the layer at the back of the eye that converts light into the images you see).
In order to become a retina specialist, we complete four years of medical school, a year of internship where we learn advanced medical and surgical care of all parts of the body, three years of ophthalmology residency, followed by an additional one to two years of fellowship training focused on medical and surgical retina care.
Retina specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of serious eye conditions that can threaten your vision if left untreated. Some of the most common conditions we help treat include:
To diagnose these conditions accurately, in addition to an eye exam, retina specialists use advanced imaging tools such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography, fundus photography, and ultrasound imaging. These technologies provide detailed views of the retina and can reveal even very subtle changes or problems.
Treatment options vary by condition but may include intravitreal injections (medication delivered directly into the eye), laser therapy to seal retinal tears or treat abnormal blood vessels, and vitrectomy surgery for more complex retinal problems.
Your first retina specialist appointment will likely be more comprehensive (and longer) than a typical eye exam. Plan for your visit to last between one and three hours, depending on the type of evaluation and whether additional testing or treatment is necessary.
Here’s what typically happens during your appointment:
Appointments usually begin with a thorough review of your medical and vision history. Be prepared to discuss any eye symptoms you’ve been experiencing, your overall health conditions, medications you’re taking, and any family history of eye disease.
Your retina specialist will perform vision testing in order to establish a baseline and measure your intraocular pressure to check for signs of glaucoma or other conditions.
Your visit will include the use of special eye drops to dilate your pupils. This allows them to see the entire retina clearly. The dilation effect can last for several hours after your appointment, so be aware of how you’re getting to and from your appointment in case you need someone to take you home.
Depending on your symptoms and initial examination, your retina specialist may use advanced imaging technology such as OCT scans, fundus photography, or fluorescein angiography. These tests provide detailed information about the health and structure of your retina.
Your retina specialist will use specialized equipment to carefully examine your retina for any signs of disease, damage, or abnormalities.
After your examination, your retina specialist will explain their findings, discuss your diagnosis if one is made, and review treatment options. In some cases, treatment may begin during your first visit.
Because of the dilation, you’ll likely experience light sensitivity and blurred vision for several hours after your appointment. This is completely normal and temporary.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions during your appointment. Some important ones to consider include:
We encourage our new patients to prepare accordingly.
Many retinal diseases progress quietly, without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. By the time vision changes occur, significant damage may already have taken place. Early detection through comprehensive retinal evaluations can help prevent vision loss and protect your sight over the long term.
At Mid Atlantic Retina, our retina specialists combine state-of-the-art imaging with extensive clinical experience to provide precise diagnoses and individualized treatment plans for every patient.
After your first visit, your retina specialist will create a personalized treatment and follow-up plan based on your diagnosis and individual needs. This may include scheduling regular checkups to monitor your retina, starting treatments or scheduling procedures, such as injections, laser therapy, or surgery, and coordinating care with your primary doctor or other specialists if you have conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure that affect your eyes. You may also receive recommendations on lifestyle and medical changes, such as improving blood sugar control, managing cholesterol or blood pressure, and quitting smoking, since these steps can help protect your vision over time.
At Mid Atlantic Retina, our goal is to make every appointment as clear and predictable as possible. Between visits, it is important to pay attention to any changes in your vision. If you notice new floaters, loss of vision, or sudden pain, contact us as soon as possible rather than waiting for your next scheduled appointment.
If you are experiencing vision changes or have been referred for a retinal evaluation, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with a Mid Atlantic Retina specialist. We will walk you through what to expect before, during, and after your visit, and make sure you leave with a clear understanding of your next steps. You can also learn more about our services or contact our team if you have questions before you come in.
Dr Brett Foxman, Dr Scott Foxman, Dr Thomas Margolis and Dr Daniel Connors will continue to treat patients at the Northfield, Vineland and Cape May Court House locations.
