Macular Degeneration - Dr. David Sia

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a problem with the part of the retina responsible for central vision (macula).
It is the leading cause of blindness in Australians over the age of 60.
Age-related changes and damage accumulate in the macula and causes progressive loss of central vision.
Symptoms of AMD may include blurry vision, distortion, problems with depth perception and loss of vision.
There are two types of AMD: Dry AMD and Wet AMD

This is the more common type of AMD and is characterised by the deposition of waste material under the retina, known as “drusen”.
Patients with Dry AMD may experience gradual reduction in central vision over many months to years.
There is currently no treatment for Dry AMD, however, a specific group of patients may benefit from taking AREDS2 vitamin supplementation.
Please seek specialist advise in order to determine if you will benefit from these supplements.

While being the less common type of AMD, it is a much more serious form to have.
Wet AMD occurs when new, abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and cause leakage or bleeding, which can lead to scarring.
Symptoms include a more rapid and severe loss of central vision or visual distortion.
It is crucial that Wet AMD be detected at an early stage and treatment initiated as soon as possible.
The treatment is in the form of regular injections of medications into the eye, known as intravitreal injection therapy.
If caught early, Wet AMD responds very well to treatment but each patient requires a personalised maintenance plan tailored to their specific disease in order to avoid relapse.
Dr Sia has extensive experience in treating AMD and will provide an individualised approach to your treatment.

This procedure involves numbing the eye with anaesthetic drops, followed by antiseptic drops to sterilise the surface of the eye.
The medication is then delivered into the eye using a very fine needle.