Macular Degeneration
Frequently Asked Macular Degeneration Questions
Is macular degeneration a reversible disease?
Unfortunately, there is currently no medical treatment that can reverse the effects of macular degeneration. Although laser surgery, photodynamic therapy and eye injections efforts are designed to slow the progression of the disease and prevent blindness, the symptoms can still gradually worsen and cause damage. The earlier macular degeneration is diagnosed, the better your chances are of beating the severe side effects. Schedule a complete eye examination with our San Diego surgeon today.
How does laser surgery treat macular degeneration?
As you know, macular degeneration results in weak blood vessels that leak fluid into the eye. Advanced laser treatment uses energy light to treat these faulty vessels. What is photodynamic therapy? Laser treatment may be effective for some, but there are risks that patients should be aware of, such as damage to healthy surrounding tissue.
How does photodynamic therapy treat macular degeneration?
An advanced medication is first injected into the body through the arm. As the substance reaches the new, faulty blood vessels in the eye, it adheres to the blood vessel surfaces. The doctor then shines laser light into your eye, thereby activating the drug to destroy the vessels. This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, is quick, and is relatively painless. Unlike laser therapy, there is no risk of damage to surrounding eye tissue with this treatment.
How is dry AMD treated?
Wet AMD is the milder form of the disease. If wet AMD is not treated and progresses to dry AMD, there is no way to predictably prevent vision loss. Advanced treatments may be able to help patients keep their vision longer and slow the damage, but results are on a case-by-case basis. To have the greatest defense against this disease, early treatment is key.
Learn more about macular degeneration and advanced treatments. If you are in San Diego, La Jolla, Mira Mesa, or Scripps Ranch, call or email Advanced Eye & Laser Center of California, Inc., today for your comprehensive eye exam with Dr. Huynh and his experienced eye care team.
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