Macular Degeneration

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At Luxe Eye and Wellness, we use advanced digital retinal imaging to evaluate the health of your eyes without the need for traditional dilation drops. Our optometry office in Old Town Alexandria offers Optomap wide angle retinal imaging, which captures a detailed view of the retina in seconds. This technology allows our doctors to screen for retinal conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal tears while minimizing discomfort and avoiding the side effects of dilation. The imaging process lets patients see the back of their eyes just as the doctor does and is safe for children, adults, and pregnant patients seeking comprehensive eye exams in Alexandria VA.

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What to Expect

The IPL technology targets pigmentation and vascular issues, improving skin tone and texture. The controlled heat stimulates collagen production while the body naturally removes treated tissue, enhancing overall skin appearance. The procedure typically lasts 15-30 minutes and is well-tolerated with minimal discomfort.

The treatment targets imperfections and stimulates collagen production over multiple sessions. Results for light pigmentation and sun spots can appear in 1-2 treatments, while most concerns may need 2-6 sessions, spaced 2-4 weeks apart.

Glaucoma is a disease that damages your eye’s optic nerve. Most commonly, this occurs when fluid builds up in the front part of your eye which increases the pressure in your eye, damaging the optic nerve. There are four types of glaucoma: open-angle, normal tension, angle-closure, and secondary.

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Macular degeneration, commonly referred to as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is the single largest cause of sight loss in the developed world and affects more than 10 million Americans. It usually affects people over the age of 60, but has been known to affect those who are younger. It is a painless condition that usually affects both eyes with the loss being experienced in the central vision. It does not affect the peripheral vision, meaning that it does not cause total blindness.

What is the macula?

The macula is the most sensitive part of the retina and is responsible for our central vision and what allows us to see fine details with clarity.

Varieties of AMD

Wet AMD

Wet AMD is one variety of the condition in which abnormal blood vessels grow into the macula, leaking blood or fluid which then causes scarring and a rapid loss of central vision. Wet AMD can develop suddenly and rapid referral to a specialist is essential as it can be treated if caught quickly.

Dry AMD

Dry AMD is the most common variety of age-related macular degeneration and is a gradual deterioration of the retina as the cells die off over time and are not regenerated. Up to 15% of people with dry AMD go on to develop wet AMD, and so any sudden changes in your vision should be followed up with your optometrist as soon as possible.

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