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Understanding Macular Degeneration Surgery: What to Expect
Macular degeneration is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. As the condition advances, individuals may experience blurry or distorted central vision, making everyday activities—such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces—more difficult. While there is no cure for macular degeneration, there are various surgical and non-surgical treatments available to help slow its progression and preserve remaining vision.
For some cases of wet macular degeneration, laser surgery may be an option. This procedure aims to stabilize retinal damage and prevent further vision loss by targeting abnormal blood vessels that contribute to macular degeneration. However, not all patients will benefit from laser treatment, and the most effective approach depends on the severity and type of macular degeneration present.
Understanding your treatment options is essential to making informed decisions about your eye health. Keep reading Nationwide Vision’s guide to learn more about macular degeneration, available treatment options, and what to expect if laser surgery is recommended as part of your care plan.
The Two Forms of Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a progressive eye disease caused by age-related changes in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. While vision loss often develops gradually, macular degeneration can significantly impact daily activities, such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces.
There are two primary forms of age-related macular degeneration (AMD): dry AMD and wet AMD. Understanding the differences between these types is crucial for early diagnosis, treatment, and long-term vision preservation.
Dry AMD
Approximately 80% of macular degeneration cases are classified as dry AMD¹. This form develops when the macula gradually thins, causing the buildup of drusen, small yellow protein deposits that interfere with normal vision processing. Over time, people with dry AMD may experience blurry or distorted central vision, making everyday tasks more challenging.
Although dry AMD progresses more slowly than the wet form, it can still lead to significant vision loss. While there is no cure, eye doctors often recommend lifestyle changes and nutritional supplements containing antioxidants, zinc, lutein, and zeaxanthin—all of which may help slow progression and support long-term macular health.
Wet AMD
Wet AMD is less common but far more severe. This form occurs when abnormal blood vessels develop beneath the retina. These fragile vessels often leak blood and other fluids, leading to scarring and permanent macular damage.
Because wet AMD progresses quickly, it can cause rapid central vision loss if left untreated. Early detection through regular eye exams is essential. If diagnosed in time, treatments such as anti-VEGF injections and laser therapy can help slow abnormal blood vessel growth, reduce fluid leakage, and prevent further vision deterioration.
Treatment Options for Macular Degeneration
The best way to preserve vision with macular degeneration is through early detection and timely treatment. Since treatment options vary between dry and wet AMD, it’s essential to schedule an eye exam as soon as you notice symptoms such as blurriness, distortion, or dark spots in your central vision. At Nationwide Vision, our eye care specialists will evaluate your condition and recommend the most effective approach to slow disease progression and protect your eyesight.
Wet AMD
Wet AMD progresses faster than dry AMD, but medical treatments can help slow its progression and minimize vision loss. Some of the most effective treatment options include:
Anti-VEGF Injections: Medications such as anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drugs² help prevent abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina. These injections reduce fluid leakage and stabilize vision.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): This two-step procedure involves injecting a light-sensitive medication into the bloodstream, followed by a low-energy laser treatment that targets and eliminates abnormal blood vessels.
Laser Photocoagulation: A focused laser procedure³ that helps seal leaking blood vessels, preventing further damage to the macula and reducing the risk of vision loss.
Dry AMD
While there is no cure for dry AMD, research suggests that certain nutritional supplements can help slow its progression. These supplements typically include antioxidants, zinc, lutein, and zeaxanthin, all of which are essential for maintaining macular health.
In addition to supplements, lifestyle adjustments can also help manage dry AMD. Maintaining a nutrient-rich diet, avoiding smoking, and protecting your eyes from UV exposure are proactive steps that may reduce the risk of worsening vision loss.
Macular Degeneration Surgery at Nationwide Vision
Laser photocoagulation surgery is a treatment option for wet macular degeneration, designed to slow the disease’s progression and help prevent further vision loss. While this procedure cannot restore lost vision, it works by sealing abnormal blood vessels to reduce leakage and minimize additional damage to the retina. However, because laser treatment may cause some scarring, it can introduce blind spots in your vision. Your Nationwide Vision provider will evaluate whether macular degeneration surgery is the right option for you, depending on the severity and location of abnormal blood vessel growth. This treatment is typically most effective when abnormal blood vessels are grouped together, rather than spread throughout the retina.
Preparing for Surgery
Before undergoing laser photocoagulation, your eye doctor will review all available treatment options with you. Because surgery carries some risks, including the potential for additional vision loss, many patients first try anti-VEGF injections or other non-surgical treatments before deciding on laser surgery.
If you and your doctor determine that surgery is the best option, little preparation is required. Your eyes will be dilated with special drops before the procedure, and since you may experience temporary blurred vision afterward, it’s recommended that you arrange for someone to drive you home.
During Surgery
When you arrive for your procedure, you will be seated comfortably while your doctor begins by dilating your pupils and applying numbing drops or a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort.
Once the procedure begins, you will rest your chin on a support device, and your doctor will place a specialized lens in front of your eye to help focus the laser. You will be instructed to look straight ahead or focus on a designated light.
A controlled laser will then be used to target and seal the abnormal blood vessels, preventing further leakage. Each laser pulse will create a brief flash of light, and the number of pulses used will depend on the severity of the condition. The procedure is quick and typically lasts about 30 minutes.
Recovering from Macular Degeneration Surgery
Following the procedure, your doctor may cover your eye with a patch or bandage. Your pupils will remain dilated for several hours, and you may experience temporary blurred vision or floaters, which should gradually improve over time.
Your doctor will provide you with post-operative care instructions, including how long to keep your eye covered, what medications you can take for discomfort, and when to return for follow-up visits. It’s important to remember that laser photocoagulation does not cure macular degeneration, nor can it reverse vision loss that has already occurred. However, by sealing leaking blood vessels, this procedure helps slow the disease’s progression and preserve as much central vision as possible.
If you are experiencing symptoms of wet AMD, scheduling an evaluation at Nationwide Vision can help determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
Explore Your Macular Degeneration Surgery Options at Nationwide Vision
Think you may need macular degeneration surgery? Find a Nationwide Vision location near you to schedule an appointment. Our team of highly trained eye care professionals provide comprehensive eye care including routine eye exams, preventative care, and treatment.