Conditions

At Lakewood Ranch Retina, we diagnose and treat the full spectrum of diseases and problems affecting the retina and vitreous. Our goal is to preserve vision and prevent blindness by managing these conditions with early detection and advanced therapies. Below are some of the common retinal conditions we care for:

Comprehensive Retinal Care

A leading cause of vision loss in older adults. AMD damages the macula (the central part of the retina), resulting in blurred or distorted central vision. We evaluate and treat both dry and wet AMD to help slow progression and maintain your best possible vision.

Diabetes can cause damage to the tiny blood vessels in the retina. Diabetic retinopathy may lead to bleeding, leakage of fluid (edema) in the retina, and vision loss if untreated. We offer monitoring and treatments – such as laser therapy and injections – to manage diabetic retinal disease, including diabetic macular edema (DME).

A retinal tear can occur when the vitreous gel in the eye pulls away, often signaled by sudden flashes of light or a shower of floaters. If fluid seeps through a tear, it can cause a retinal detachment, where the retina peels away from the back of the eye, a serious condition that can lead to permanent vision loss. We provide prompt laser or cryotherapy for retinal tears and surgical repair for detachments (such as vitrectomy and/or scleral buckle surgery) to restore the retina’s position.

Many people experience flashes of light or floating spots in their vision. While occasional floaters are common, a sudden increase in flashes or floaters can indicate a posterior vitreous detachment or retinal tear. We perform thorough examinations to determine if these symptoms are benign or require urgent treatment to prevent a detachment.

Blockages in the retinal blood vessels can occur, such as retinal vein occlusion (RVO) or retinal artery occlusion (RAO). These conditions cause sudden vision loss due to disrupted blood flow in the retina. Dr. Rohowetz can diagnose these events and provide treatments like injections or laser to manage swelling and prevent further damage.

Uveitis is inflammation inside the eye, which can involve the retina (posterior uveitis) and cause blurred vision, floaters, or pain. It has various causes (autoimmune, infections) and requires specialized care. We identify causes of uveitis and treat the inflammation with appropriate therapies (such as anti-inflammatory eye drops or injections) to protect the retina from damage.

A macular hole is a small break in the macula that can cause blurry or distorted central vision. It often occurs in older adults from vitreous pulling on the retina. We can perform surgical repair (vitrectomy with a gas bubble) to close the macular hole and improve vision.

An epiretinal membrane is a thin layer of scar tissue that can form on the surface of the macula, causing it to wrinkle or “pucker.” This can lead to distorted or blurry central vision. We monitor mild cases and, if vision is significantly affected, offer surgery to gently peel the membrane and smooth the macula.

Dislocated or malpositioned intraocular lenses (IOLs) can occur due to trauma, prior surgery, or progressive weakening of the eye’s internal structures. Symptoms include blurred vision, double vision, glare, and instability of vision that may worsen with head position. At Lakewood Ranch Retina, we evaluate the underlying cause of lens displacement and offer surgical solutions including scleral fixation of an IOL, IOL repositioning, or complete IOL exchange if needed. These procedures restore the lens to a stable position, improving both vision and comfort.

Ocular trauma can lead to a wide range of complications involving the retina, including retinal tears or detachments, vitreous hemorrhage, macular damage, and lens dislocation. Traumatic injuries may result from blunt force, penetrating objects, or surgical complications. As prior director of ocular trauma at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Dr. Rohowetz has extensive experience managing various complications resulting from ophthalmic injuries. At Lakewood Ranch Retina, we provide urgent evaluation and treatment for ocular trauma, aiming to preserve vision and restore normal anatomy.

We also manage many other retinal and macular disorders, including hypertensive retinopathy (retinal changes due to high blood pressure), vitreous hemorrhage (bleeding into the eye, often from diabetic disease or trauma), hereditary retinal degenerations, complications of eye trauma, and more. If it involves the retina, Dr. Rohowetz is equipped to diagnose and treat it.

Remember: Early detection of retinal problems is crucial. Many retinal diseases, like diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration, may not cause noticeable symptoms until damage has progressed. Regular dilated eye exams and prompt evaluation of any sudden changes (such as vision loss, new floaters/flashes, or distortion) can make a big difference in preserving your vision. At Lakewood Ranch Retina, you’ll receive a thorough evaluation and a clear explanation of any condition we find, along with a personalized treatment plan.

Contact Lakewood Ranch Retina

We look forward to hearing from you and assisting with your retinal care needs. Please feel free to reach out with any questions, to schedule an appointment (once scheduling is open), or to request more information about our services.