Macular Degeneration Treatment

Macular Degeneration Treatment

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of central vision loss in adults over 50. With early diagnosis, advanced testing, and appropriate treatment, many patients are able to preserve useful vision.

At Laser Eye Surgery of Erie, Dr. Robert Haverly provides comprehensive evaluation, advanced diagnostic imaging, and personalized treatment for dry and wet macular degeneration.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. Common symptoms include:

• Blurry or distorted central vision
• Dark or missing spots in the center of vision
• Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
• Peripheral vision typically remains intact.

Testing and Diagnosis of Macular Degeneration

Accurate diagnosis and ongoing monitoring of AMD rely on advanced retinal imaging technologies, including:

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

OCT is a non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed cross-sectional views of the retina. It helps detect:

• Retinal fluid or swelling
• Thinning or damage to retinal layers
• Early signs of wet AMD or geographic atrophy

OCT is commonly used at follow-up visits to monitor disease progression and response to treatment.

OCT Angiography (OCT-A)

OCT-A is an advanced, non-invasive imaging technique that visualizes blood flow in the retinal and choroidal vessels without the need for dye. It is especially useful for:

• Detecting early or subtle abnormal blood vessels
• Identifying wet AMD before fluid appears
• Monitoring response to injections for AMD

Fluorescein Angiography (FA)

Fluorescein angiography uses a special dye and camera system to evaluate retinal blood flow. It is particularly helpful for:

• Confirming wet AMD
• identifying leaking or abnormal blood vessels
• Guiding treatment decisions in complex cases

Fundus Autofluorescence (FAF)

Fundus autofluorescence imaging highlights metabolic changes in retinal cells and is especially valuable for:

• Evaluating geographic atrophy (advanced dry AMD)
• Tracking progression of retinal cell loss
• Identifying areas at risk before vision changes occur

Dry Macular Degeneration

Dry AMD is the most common form and usually progresses slowly.

Early & Intermediate Dry AMD

Most patients with early or intermediate dry AMD do not require injections. Management typically includes:

• AREDS2 eye vitamins (when appropriate)
• UV-protective sunglasses
• Routine monitoring with retinal imaging
• Healthy lifestyle habits, including not smoking
• Many patients maintain stable vision for years with these measures alone.

Geographic Atrophy (Advanced Dry AMD)

Geographic atrophy (GA) is an advanced form of dry AMD that causes progressive central vision loss.

Injection treatments for GA include:

Syfovre® (pegcetacoplan) – FDA approved

Izervay® (avacincaptad pegol) – FDA approved

These medications can slow disease progression and help preserve remaining vision. Injections are typically given every one to two months, depending on the treatment plan. They do not restore lost vision.

Wet Macular Degeneration

Wet AMD is less common but more aggressive. It develops when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak fluid or blood.

Injection Treatments for Wet AMD

Wet AMD is treated with anti-VEGF injections, including:

• Lucentis® (ranibizumab) – FDA approved
• Eylea® (aflibercept) – FDA approved
• Vabysmo® (faricimab) – FDA approved
• Avastin® (bevacizumab) – commonly used off-label

Some medications also have biosimilar versions, which may be used based on medical needs and insurance coverage.  Most wet AMD injections are administered every one to two months, especially early in treatment, with schedules adjusted based on response.  With timely treatment, many patients experience stabilized vision, and some see improvement.

Ongoing Monitoring Is Essential

Macular degeneration requires regular follow-up using advanced imaging to detect changes early and guide long-term treatment decisions.

Trusted Macular Degeneration Care in Erie

With over 30 years of ophthalmology experience, Dr. Robert Haverly provides trusted, personalized care for macular degeneration at Laser Eye Surgery of Erie.

https://www.erielasereye.com/additional-service/macular-degeneration/

https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration