When referring to the eye, IOL stands for Intraocular Lens. An intraocular lens is a surgical implant that is used to replace the natural lens at the time of cataract surgery. There are many different types and strengths of IOLs. An ophthalmologist who performs cataract surgery will educate patients regarding their cataracts and the best lens options for their unique visual needs.

Archives: FAQs

Q: What Is Macular Edema?

Macular edema is another term for swelling of the central retina, causing blurry or distorted vision. The macula is the center of the retina that provides for sharp vision. Edema is the medical term used for swelling. Therefore, macular edema is swelling of the central vision. This can be caused by a number of diagnoses, including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, and inflammation after cataract surgery. There are several vision-saving therapies for macular edema, including drops and eye injections . If you are experiencing blurry or distorted vision, a careful history and dilated examination by a retina specialist will determine whether you have macular edema.

Q: What Is An Eye Stroke?

An eye stroke is caused by the sudden blockage of blood flow to the retina or optic nerve, leading to a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes. In general, a “stroke” is when blood flow is interrupted to a part of the body causing a lack of oxygen and nutrients to the tissue. An “eye stroke” is when blood flow is interrupted to portions of the eye and encompasses various diagnoses such as retinal artery occlusion , retinal vein occlusion , and ischemic optic neuropathy. These conditions are not only vision-threatening but in some cases life-threatening. If you experience a sudden loss of vision in either eye, seek an immediate dilated exam with an ophthalmologist .

Q: What Is a Macular Hole?

A macular hole is a gap that forms in the center of the retina, causing a blind spot in the middle of the vision. The macula is the part of the retina responsible for central vision. Due to natural forces on the surface of the retina, a hole can form in the very center of the vision causing the patient to see a missing spot in the central vision. Most macular holes form spontaneously without any underlying risk factors. A macula hole requires timely repair by a retina specialist to prevent a permanent blind spot. Anyone experiencing a new spot of missing or blurry vision should seek a dilated exam with a retina specialist .

Q: What Is a Detached Retina?

A detached retina occurs when fluid from inside the eye moves through a retinal tear and underneath the retina, causing rapid vision loss and the need for urgent treatment. The retina is a thin layer of tissue that lines the inside of the back of the eye. Light that enters the eye is focused on the retina, which then sends the images to the brain. Sometimes, tears or holes form in the retina, particularly around the ages of 50-70. These holes may allow fluid from inside the eye to move under the retina, causing it to separate (detach) from the back of the eye. In most cases, a detached retina occurs spontaneously without any previous trauma. Symptoms of a detached retina include flashes of light, new floaters , and a grey curtain in the vision. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek an immediate dilated examination with an ophthalmologist . Treatment for a detached retina is urgent and may involve laser, gas injection, or surgery. Even with treatment, a detached retina may lead to permanent vision loss or blindness.

What Is Macular Edema?

Macular edema is another term for swelling of the central ...

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a progressive retinal condition that causes painless ...

What Is Iol?

When referring to the eye, IOL stands for Intraocular Lens. ...

What Is Diabetic Macular Edema?

Diabetic macular edema is swelling in the central retina that ...

What Is An Eye Stroke?

An eye stroke is caused by the sudden blockage of ...

What Is a Macular Hole?

A macular hole is a gap that forms in the ...

What Is a Detached Retina?

A detached retina occurs when fluid from inside the eye ...

What Causes Retinal Detachment?

There are different types of retinal detachments and thus different ...

What Causes Retinal Artery Occlusion?

Retinal artery occlusions are caused by the blockage of blood ...

What Causes Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is caused by the accumulation of damage in ...

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Retina Care Consultants specializes in Macular Degeneration, Flashes and Floaters, Intravitreal Eye Injections, and many more conditions of the retina. We treat patients from the Sarasota, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch areas of Florida.

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University Parkway Office

South Tamiami / Bee Ridge Office

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