Retina Surgery

If you've been diagnosed with a retinal condition, getting clear answers about your treatment options can make the next steps feel more manageable. The Eye Care Center provides retina surgery and specialized retinal care for patients in Canandaigua, Geneva, Macedon, and surrounding Rochester-area and Finger Lakes communities.

Our retina team evaluates conditions affecting the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye that plays an important role in how you see. When surgery is recommended, we'll explain what to expect and guide you through each stage of your care.

When Is Retina Surgery Needed?

Retina surgery may be recommended when a retinal condition threatens your vision or can't be managed with monitoring, medication, injections, laser treatment, or other nonsurgical care alone. The right treatment depends on the condition, how advanced it is, and your overall eye health.

Some retinal conditions that may require specialized treatment or surgery include:

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for detailed central vision. Treatment depends on the type and severity of AMD, and not every patient with macular degeneration will need surgery. Learn more about age-related macular degeneration.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy can develop when diabetes damages the blood vessels in the retina. Depending on how the condition progresses, treatment may involve monitoring, injections, laser treatment, or retina surgery. Learn more about diabetic retinopathy.

Detached or Torn Retina

A retinal tear or detachment happens when the retina develops a break or pulls away from its normal position. Because a detached retina can lead to permanent vision loss, it may require prompt treatment. Learn more about retinal tears and detachment.

Flashes and Floaters

Floaters can look like small specks, lines, or clouds moving through your vision, while flashes may appear as brief bursts of light. Many are harmless, but a sudden increase in flashes or floaters can sometimes be a warning sign of a retinal tear or detachment and should be evaluated promptly. Learn more about flashes and floaters.

What to Expect From Retina Surgery

Your exact experience will depend on the type of retinal condition being treated and the procedure your surgeon recommends. Before surgery, our team will review your diagnosis, explain the treatment plan, and give you specific instructions for preparing for your procedure.

1. Evaluation and Testing

Your care begins with a detailed examination of your retina and overall eye health. This may include a comprehensive eye exam, imaging, and eye dilation so your doctor can closely examine the back of your eye.

2. Preparing for Surgery

Before your procedure, our team will review any instructions related to medications, eating and drinking, transportation, and arrival time. Because these instructions can vary depending on the surgery, it's important to follow the directions provided specifically for you.

3. Your Retina Procedure

Retina surgery can involve different techniques depending on the problem being treated. Your surgeon will explain which procedure is recommended, what will happen during surgery, and what you can expect on the day of your procedure.

4. Recovery and Follow-Up Care

After retina surgery, your vision may be blurry while your eye heals. You may also need prescription eye drops, activity restrictions, special positioning, or follow-up visits depending on your procedure. Your care team will give you detailed recovery instructions and monitor your progress after surgery.

For more detailed information about preparation, recovery, positioning, eye drops, activity restrictions, and other common concerns, visit our Retina Surgery Frequently Asked Questions page.

Preparing for Retina Surgery

Knowing what to expect ahead of time can make your surgery day easier. Your instructions will be personalized to your procedure, but you may be asked to:

• Review your medications and medical history with your care team.
• Follow any instructions about eating or drinking before surgery.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure.
• Plan for time away from work or certain activities while your eye heals.
• Follow any special positioning instructions if a gas bubble is used during surgery.
• Attend your scheduled follow-up appointments so your recovery can be monitored.

Your retina surgeon and care team will let you know which instructions apply to you. If you're unsure about anything before your procedure, we encourage you to contact us rather than waiting until surgery day.

Retina Surgery With Our Team

Arjun B. Sood, MD provides specialized retinal care as part of The Eye Care Center's team of experienced eye doctors. If you've been referred for a retinal condition or are concerned about changes in your vision, our team can help determine the appropriate next steps.

Patients looking for retina surgery in Rochester, NY and the surrounding Finger Lakes region can receive care through The Eye Care Center's Canandaigua, Geneva, and Macedon locations.