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Retina Specialist in Buffalo, NY
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What Is Retinal Disease?
The retina is a thin, light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye. Its job is to convert light into electrical signals, which are then sent to your brain—allowing you to see. Because of how delicate this structure is, damage to the retina can lead to severe and often permanent vision problems.
Several diseases can affect the retina, including:
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Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
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Diabetic Retinopathy
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Retinitis Pigmentosa
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Epiretinal Membranes
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Retinal Tears and Traumas
Because many retinal diseases progress silently, regular monitoring and early diagnosis are essential, especially if you are at increased risk.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD occurs when the macula, the central portion of the retina, begins to break down. This condition is most common in older adults and is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss. There are two types of AMD:
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Dry AMD is the more common form, accounting for over 80% of cases. It involves the gradual thinning of the macula over time.
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Wet AMD is less common but more severe. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak, causing inflammation and vision loss.
While there is no cure for AMD, early diagnosis and ongoing care from a retina specialist can help slow its progression and preserve vision.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina. High blood sugar levels can damage these vessels, causing them to leak, swell, or form new, fragile vessels that are prone to bleeding.
If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can progress and cause vision loss. In its advanced stages, it may lead to retinal detachment, macular edema, or permanent damage to the retina.
Management of diabetic retinopathy focuses on controlling blood sugar levels and treating retinal changes with laser therapy, injections, or surgery.
Retinal Disease Treatment in Buffalo
Retinal disease treatment aims to prevent the progression of retinal damage and keep the sensitive retinal tissue healthy. Blood flow must be even and unobstructed to prevent swelling, leaking, or retinal tears and detachment.
At Buffalo Ophthalmology, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to your specific condition. Our retina specialist uses high-resolution imaging and the latest therapeutic techniques to manage disease progression and protect your sight.
AREDS Supplements
Sometimes, before the onset of AMD, your retina specialist may prescribe an AREDS supplement containing a formula that provides the optimal nutrients to promote retinal health. These vitamins are backed by clinical research to protect the macula from damage.
Anti-VEGF Injections
For more severe cases of AMD and other retinal diseases, the primary task is stopping the growth of the new, unhealthy blood vessels. Anti-VEGF injections are designed to stop any harmful new blood vessels from forming. Steroid medications may be used to boost the effectiveness.
Laser Eye Surgeries
In the most severe cases of AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal diseases that cause blood vessels to leak fluid into the retina, a surgery called laser photocoagulation may be used. This involves using a laser to burn the ends of weak blood vessels in the retina, preventing them from leaking any further.
Buffalo’s Premier Retina Specialist
Our retina team has extensive experience managing complex and vision-threatening conditions, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, retinal vascular occlusions, and more. The team is led by two of the region’s most trusted retina specialists:
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Ausra Selvadurai, M.D., trained at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, the nation’s top-ranked eye hospital, and is widely recognized as Western New York’s leading expert in retinal disease and uveitis. She provides modern treatments, including intravitreal injections, laser therapy, and high-resolution imaging—combining exceptional diagnostic skill with a compassionate, patient-focused approach.
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Dr. Peter Forgach, M.D., brings decades of surgical and clinical experience to the retina team, with expertise in the management of advanced diabetic eye disease and macular degeneration.
Get the Expert Care You Deserve
If you’ve been diagnosed with a retinal condition or are at risk due to diabetes, age, or family history, early intervention can make all the difference. Schedule your appointment with Buffalo Ophthalmology and take the next step toward preserving your sight.