Macular degeneration is a leading cause of central vision loss, particularly in older adults. It affects the macula—the area of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision—making everyday tasks, such as reading or recognising faces, challenging.
Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
Dry AMD is the most common form of macular degeneration, characterised by a gradual deterioration of the macula. It progresses slowly, leading to a gradual loss of central vision over time. Although it does not involve abnormal blood vessel growth, lifestyle modifications and nutritional supplements may help slow its progression.
Important: Dry AMD can eventually convert to wet AMD, which requires urgent treatment.
The key difference between dry and wet AMD lies in their progression and treatment. Dry AMD is managed with lifestyle changes and nutritional supplements, whereas wet AMD involves the rapid growth of abnormal blood vessels that cause sudden vision loss. Dry AMD can progress to Wet AMD, which can cause more rapid and severe sight loss.
Because early detection can mean the difference between preserved vision and rapid decline, it’s crucial to monitor any changes closely. While many clinics rely solely on standard OCT scans—which detect fluid leakage—OCT‐Angiography (OCT‐A) actually visualises the blood vessels from which the fluid leaks, enabling a more precise diagnosis and earlier intervention in wet AMD.
Early detection is critical for treating wet AMD. Standard OCT scans only detect fluid leakage, but OCT‐Angiography (OCT‐A) directly visualises the abnormal blood vessels called choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) responsible for the leakage. This breakthrough technology enables:
| Feature | OCT-A | FFA (Fluorescein Angiography) |
|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Non-invasive | Invasive (requires dye injection) |
| Detection Accuracy | Direct visualisation of CNV | Indirect detection via fluid leakage |
| Procedure Time | Quick (5–10 minutes) | Longer (30+ minutes) |
| Side Effects | None | Possible nausea, allergic reactions |
OCT-A is an integral part of our diagnostic process that enables early intervention in wet AMD.
For patients diagnosed with wet AMD, the gold standard is intravitreal injections. Medications such as Eylea or Vabysmo are injected directly into the eye to reduce fluid build-up and abnormal vessel growth, thereby preserving your vision.
Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) occurs when a vein in the retina becomes blocked, causing fluid accumulation and swelling that can lead to sudden vision loss—often in one eye.
Symptoms of Retinal Vein Occlusion
Types of RVO
Treatment for RVO with Macular Oedema
Intravitreal injections using Eylea or Vabysmo or Ozurdex help reduce swelling and prevent further damage, stabilising your vision over time.
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that damages the retinal blood vessels, potentially leading to permanent vision loss if untreated.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
Treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy
At DS Eye Surgeon, we use OCT and OCT-A to assess the severity of diabetic retinopathy and monitor its progression. Intravitreal injections are the gold standard for preventing further vision loss in advanced cases.
Intravitreal injections are the cornerstone of managing retinal conditions. By delivering medication directly into the eye, these injections help reduce inflammation, control abnormal vessel growth, and prevent further vision deterioration.
Types of Intravitreal Injections We Offer
Eylea & Vabysmo
Ideal for wet AMD, retinal vein occlusion, and diabetic retinopathy. Typically administered during an initial loading phase of 3–4 monthly injections, then every 8–12 weeks.
Ozurdex
A slow-release steroid implant used for diabetic retinopathy and RVO, effective for 4–6 months per dose.
Treatment Fees
For patients with both cataracts and a retinal condition (such as wet AMD, diabetic maculopathy, or RVO), we offer a combined procedure. This approach removes the cataract and administers an intravitreal injection during the same surgery, resulting in:
Cataract removal sharpens vision while the injection stabilises the retina.
We believe that clear communication and compassionate care are the cornerstones of successful treatment. Here’s what you can expect when you choose DS Eye Surgeon:
If you’re experiencing blurred vision, sudden sight changes, or difficulty reading, don’t wait. Book your consultation today and take the first step toward preserving your vision with expert, compassionate care.
