Macular Degeneration Treatment

Macular degeneration is a common aging process that occurs in nearly every person who reaches 100 years of age.  Macular Degeneration affects the macula portion of the retina, which is located in the very back of your eye and is responsible for sharp central vision such as that needed to focus on reading or driving.

How Does the Eye Work?

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How Does the Eye Work?

Light enters your eye through the cornea and lens.  It travels to the back of your eye where it focuses on your retina, which is similar to film in a camera.  If the film or retina becomes damaged, the resulting picture is blurry.

How Is Macular Degeneration Treated?

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How Is Macular Degeneration Treated?

At this time, claims for successful treatments range from conservative to bizarre.  There are many treatments available with questionable results.  The only proven treatment at this time is laser surgery.  Lasers are used to halt the progression of wet macular degeneration.  Laser treatment does not restore lost vision and may cause vision to be somewhat worse after the procedure.  Although this may seem counterproductive, this loss is usually less severe than the eventual loss that will occur if laser treatment is not performed.

How Can I Improve My Remaining Vision?

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How Can I Improve My Remaining Vision?

Since macular degeneration only affects the central portion of your vision, your peripheral vision remains intact. Other diseases, such as cataracts and glaucoma can destroy peripheral vision if left untreated.

Both of these diseases can be treated or controlled to keep vision at its best. To preserve your vision, schedule a comprehensive eye examination with one of our doctors at Snead Eye Group.

Snead Eye Group – Macular Degeneration Treatments

Dry Macular Degeneration

This is by far, the most common form of macular degeneration, occurring in 85% to 90% of patients with the disorder.  This form appears as dry yellow spots on the macula.  Many patients experience only mild vision loss or distortion in the beginning stages.  Although your vision will slowly and progressively decline, it will not cause complete blindness.  You may have dry macular degeneration for many years without any significant change in your vision or lifestyle.

Wet Macular Degeneration

This form occurs in only about 10% to 15% of patients with the disorder.  The good news is that wet macular degeneration if caught in time, can be stopped and often reversed.  The bad news is that if it is not caught in time, vision loss is severe and sudden.  Wet macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina causing distortion and damage.
amsler grid for macular degeneration

The Amsler Grid Test

Cover one eye and look constantly at the center dot.  Be sure all lines are straight and all small squares are the same size.  If any area on the grid becomes distorted, blurred, discolored, or otherwise abnormal, call your eye doctor.  You could have progressing macular degeneration.

Become Our Next Success Story

At Snead Eye Group, we’re dedicated to being your trusted eye care partner. Discover what REAL patients have to say about their experience with the Snead Eye Group and how we’ve made a difference in their lives.

I continue to be impressed by Snead Eye Group! My initial visit was an emergency and the staff scheduled me immediately. The second visit was a re-check, and it was quick and efficient. My third visit was an eye exam. The technician modified her exam to meet the needs of my sensitive eyes. This is a group of hardworking and caring individuals!

Cindy Syoen

This was the best experience I have ever had at an eye appointment! The staff is super caring and listens. The doctor was great and thorough. The selection of frames was great and the consultant, Heather, was knowledgeable and not pushy. I would highly recommend!

Crystal Hogan

From my first appointment, Snead Eye Group had a very pleasant office and was so professional! I was worried because my doctors were all from Connecticut, and they were all excellent. But I hit the jackpot with the Snead Eye Group. They are extremely knowledgeable and up to date on their education to be beyond current! They get 10 stars from my husband and myself!

Marianne Barnes

Office Locations & Hours

Snead Eye Group has many convenient locations across Southwest Florida. Our expertly equipped eye care and surgical centers proudly serve Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Marco Island and the surrounding areas. Discover your nearest clinic now.

Expertly Equipped

Our $1 million imaging system provides detection clarity, ensuring vision problems are identified and treated at the earliest stages.

Perfectly Precise

With the expertise of our eye doctors, we provide accurate, targeted treatment to preserve and enhance your vision.

Clearly Caring

It’s our mission to offer compassionate, personalized care. Your eye health is at the heart of everything we do.

Request Your Appointment

Ready to take the next step toward better vision? The eye doctors at Snead Eye Group are ready to help you now.