DR. MD Maksude Mowla › Services › Retina Services
Our specialists are available 6 days a week for in-person and virtual consultations.
The retina is the light-sensitive layer that lines the inner surface of the eye. It works like the sensor in a camera — capturing light and converting it into electrical signals that travel through the optic nerve to the brain, where they are interpreted as images.
The retina contains specialised cells called photoreceptors: cones, which are concentrated in the central macula and provide sharp colour vision, and rods, which are distributed across the peripheral retina and support vision in low light.
Retinal conditions range from mild, slowly progressive changes to sudden, sight-threatening emergencies. Many serious retinal conditions — such as retinal detachment — present with sudden symptoms and require same-day assessment. Others, like age-related macular degeneration, develop quietly over years without obvious symptoms in the early stages.
Our retina specialists offer comprehensive care across the full spectrum of retinal and vitreous diseases, from initial diagnosis and monitoring through to complex surgical intervention.
Our retina clinic manages the following conditions:
Retinal Detachment
A medical emergency in which the retina separates from its underlying tissue. Vision loss can be rapid and permanent without urgent surgical repair.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Deterioration of the macula affecting central vision. Dry AMD progresses slowly; wet (neovascular) AMD involves abnormal new vessel growth and can cause rapid central vision loss.
Macular Hole
A small break in the centre of the macula causing blurred or distorted central vision. Vitrectomy surgery is highly effective in closing macular holes.
Epiretinal Membrane (ERM)
A thin sheet of fibrous tissue that grows on the retinal surface, causing image distortion (metamorphopsia) and blurring.
Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)
Blockage of a retinal vein causing haemorrhage and swelling. May lead to significant vision loss depending on which vein is affected.
Vitreous Haemorrhage
Bleeding into the vitreous cavity causing sudden floaters, haze, or vision loss.
Vitreomacular Traction (VMT)
The vitreous gel pulls abnormally on the macula, causing distortion or vision loss.
Retinal symptoms vary by condition. Seek urgent assessment for any of the following:
• Sudden increase in floaters — new spots, strings, or cobwebs in the visual field
• Flashing lights, especially in peripheral vision
• A dark shadow, curtain, or veil spreading across part of the visual field
• Sudden loss of vision in one eye — this is a medical emergency
• Blurred or distorted central vision
• Straight lines appearing wavy or bent (metamorphopsia)
• A blank or dark patch in the centre of vision
Important: Many retinal conditions, including early macular degeneration, have no symptoms in their initial stages. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before attending regular eye examinations. Early detection makes a profound difference to treatment outcomes.
A comprehensive retinal assessment may include the following investigations:
Dilated Fundus Examination
After dilating drops are instilled, the retina is examined in detail using specialist lenses and indirect ophthalmoscopy.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
High-resolution cross-sectional imaging of the retina and macula — the most important diagnostic tool in retina practice. Identifies fluid, structural changes, and disease activity with remarkable precision.
Fluorescein Angiography (FFA)
A fluorescent dye is injected and a series of photographs capture retinal blood flow, revealing leaking vessels, areas of poor circulation, or abnormal new vessel growth.
OCT Angiography (OCTA)
Non-invasive imaging of retinal blood vessels — provides angiographic information without dye injection, useful for selected cases.
B-Scan Ultrasonography
Used when the retina cannot be seen directly due to vitreous haemorrhage or dense cataract.
Treatment is tailored to the specific retinal condition:
Intravitreal Injections (Anti-VEGF)
Injections of anti-VEGF medication into the vitreous cavity are the primary treatment for wet AMD, diabetic macular oedema, and retinal vein occlusion. They suppress abnormal vessel growth and reduce retinal swelling, preserving or improving vision.
Laser Photocoagulation
Laser energy is applied to seal leaking vessels, treat retinal tears, or reduce the stimulus for abnormal vessel growth. Used for retinal tears, diabetic retinopathy, and certain cases of vein occlusion.
Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV)
Surgery to remove the vitreous gel and treat retinal detachment, macular hole, epiretinal membrane, and vitreous haemorrhage. A gas or silicone oil bubble may be placed inside the eye to support the retina during healing.
Scleral Buckle
A silicone band placed around the outside of the eye to support the retinal reattachment — used in selected retinal detachment cases, often in younger patients.
Follow-up frequency depends on the condition and treatment received:
Intravitreal injection patients
Typically reviewed monthly or every 6–8 weeks. Imaging at each visit guides the treatment decision — injections are given as frequently as needed based on disease activity.
Post-vitrectomy
Frequent review in the first weeks post-surgery, then monthly until fully recovered. Patients with a gas bubble must avoid flying and should maintain a specific head posture as instructed.
AMD and long-term conditions
Regular monitoring is lifelong. Disease activity can change over time and new treatment may be needed even after years of stability.
Patient advice:
• Report new floaters, flashes, or vision changes promptly — do not wait for the next scheduled appointment
• Monitor central vision with an Amsler grid at home — your doctor will show you how
• Protect eyes from UV light with wraparound sunglasses
• Control blood pressure and cholesterol — both affect retinal vascular health
Common questions about retinal conditions and treatment
Retina services cover a wide range of conditions including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinal vein and artery occlusions, epiretinal membranes, macular holes, vitreomacular traction, vitreous haemorrhage, and complex vitreoretinal disorders requiring surgical intervention.
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive, painless imaging test that produces high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina. It detects subtle changes in retinal layers, aids accurate diagnosis, and is essential for monitoring treatment response over time.
Intravitreal injections deliver medication (such as anti-VEGF agents or steroids) directly into the vitreous cavity of the eye. The eye is numbed with anaesthetic drops beforehand, so most patients experience minimal discomfort. They are performed as a short outpatient procedure.
The number of sessions depends on the specific condition and its response to treatment. Some patients require monthly injections initially, followed by maintenance visits every 2–3 months. Your specialist will tailor the frequency based on imaging findings and clinical progress.
Yes — untreated or poorly managed retinal conditions can result in irreversible vision loss. Early diagnosis and timely treatment significantly improve outcomes. Regular monitoring is essential, particularly for progressive or chronic retinal diseases.
