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A large variety of conditions can affect the vitreous and retina that lie on the back part of the eye that is not readily visible, such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal detachments or tears, macular holes, uveitis, eye cancer, flashers and floaters and retinitis pigmentosa. Most of these sound pretty frightening, but can be managed with careful, prompt care.

Is the retina an extension of your brain?

Absolutely. It forms the interior lining of the eye and contains millions of light-sensitive nerve endings. The vitreous is a clear, gel-like substance that fills the cavity between the lens and the retina.

Dr. Oren Plous at Gulf Coast Retinal Center believes that early detection optimizes patient outcomes. In addition to providing you with the highest quality eye care, the Center offers the latest in imaging technology to provide detailed information about the structure of the eye to help guide diagnosis and treatment.

Additional Conditions Dr. Plous manages at Gulf Coast Retina:

• Macular Holes: Surgical and Nonsurgical management

• Epiretinal Membranes (macular pucker)

• Infectious Retinochoroiditis and Chorioretinitis

• Autuoimmune Disorders of the Vitreous, Choroid, and Retina

• Retinal Tears and Detachments

​​​​​​​Diabetic Retinopathy

Am I at risk for developing diabetic retinopathy?

If you have diabetes, yes, you are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. This happens as high blood sugar levels cause damage to blood vessels in the retina. These blood vessels can swell and leak. Or they can close, stopping blood flow. Sometimes abnormal new blood vessels grow on the retina. Vision loss occurs when blood sugar levels are uncontrolled and untreated.

What is Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is defined as the actual degeneration of the tissue on the retina. It happens when a part of the retina called the macula is damaged. With AMD, central vision starts to fade due to the tissue dying. Patients will begin to notice a decreased ability to see fine details, whether you are looking at something close or far. But your peripheral (side) vision will still be normal. For instance, imagine you are looking at a clock with hands. With AMD, you might see the clock’s numbers but not the hands. Most patients do not notice the decreased vision tissue is damaged. At risk patients seek annual dilated eye exams to monitor for any changes in the macula.