A retina specialist is an ophthalmologist who specializes in surgical, medical, and laser treatment of the retina. Retina surgery is a specialty area within the field of ophthalmology. A retina specialist will diagnose and treat disorders of the retina and the posterior eye. They are usually the leaders in retinal diseases.
The retina is a thin layer of tissue at the back of the inside of the eye that is sensitive to light. The purpose of the retina is to receive light and convert the light into signals for the brain to interpret into an image. The retina works very similarly to a camera. The retina helps us read, drive and see detail. Damage to the retina can result in reduced vision or blindness.
An ophthalmologist must receive additional training to become a retinal specialist. They usually have four years of college, four years of medical school, one year of internship, three years as an ophthalmology residency, and one or two years as a retina-vitreous fellowship.
A retina specialist can work at a hospital or an eye care clinic. They work on delicate tissues in very small spaces like the eye cavity. A retina specialist will use tools such as a microscope and laser with their procedures and surgeries.
A retina specialist will treat disorders relating to the retina such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, retinoblastoma, macular pucker, floaters, and more. Patients who have experienced trauma to the eye or who have a family history of certain types of diseases can be treated by a retina specialist.
If you are in need of a retina specialist most likely, you will need to visit an ophthalmologist first. Once an ophthalmologist visits with you to assess the issues, then you will be referred to a retina specialist. Many times, the specialist is in the hospital or clinic as the ophthalmologist.
