Diabetic retinopathy occurs when blood vessels in the eye are damaged, causing fluid or blood to leak. If left untreated, this condition causes vision loss and blindness. Lifestyle changes, medication, and laser therapy have proven effective treatment methods, but surgery is sometimes the only way to deal with severe cases.

At Memphis Eye & Cataract Associates in Memphis, TN, we offer comprehensive diabetic retinopathy treatments and other eye care to protect your vision.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection and treatment are crucial to save your vision and prevent blindness. Practicing proper eye care is important no matter your health condition, but it is especially important in people with diabetes. Optometry has advanced dramatically, and with frequent visits to our eye doctor, you can slow the spread of diabetic retinopathy and discuss effective treatment options.

Diabetic Eye Exams

During a diabetic eye exam, our ophthalmologist will conduct several tests to look for signs of eye damage caused by diabetes. These tests include an optical coherence tomography (OCT) to look for glaucoma, an eye dilation test, and a retinal examination to detect cataracts.

Understanding Diabetic Eye Surgery

The procedure, known as vitreoretinal surgery or vitrectomy, may be needed to fix extensive scar tissue that could cause or has already caused retinal detachment. Additionally, surgery can treat your eye when it has collected a large amount of blood. Our surgeon will remove any scar tissue using a laser to avoid further deterioration in your vision.

What to Expect during Surgery

We typically perform the procedure under local anesthetic or sedation, meaning you are awake but numb and may not feel pain. Our surgeon will use a special microscope for a clear view of the retina and small instruments to remove the blood and some vitreous gel. A saline solution will replace any vitreous gel extracted, and your eye will retain its normal appearance and shape.

Expert Diabetic Retinopathy Care

Our ophthalmologist at Memphis Eye & Cataract Associates will guide you through the entire process of diabetic eye surgery. While surgery can be frightening, it can be life-changing with the help of an ophthalmologist and good post-operative eye care. Schedule an eye doctor appointment and find out if you qualify for diabetic eye surgery by calling our Memphis, TN office at (901) 767-3937.