What’s new in retina care, why it matters and how Florida Retina Institute can help.

What if the most important part of your eye exam isn’t the chart you read, but the questions you ask and the technology behind the scenes?

In today’s rapidly evolving field of retina care, science is transforming how we detect, treat and even prevent vision loss. From gene therapy and long-lasting medications to personalized screenings and clinical trials, the future of eye health is brighter than ever.

For seniors and families across Central Florida, these advancements are not just medical milestones—they are life-changing. Florida Retina Institute, with 20 locations across Florida and Georgia, including 11 serving Central Florida and Orlando, is at the forefront of this transformation, combining compassionate care with cutting-edge medical innovation.

Breakthroughs That Preserve Sight
One of the most promising developments in retina care is the FDA approval of treatments for advanced dry macular degeneration, particularly those targeting geographic atrophy. These therapies help slow disease progression and preserve vision longer than previously thought possible.

For patients with wet macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, newer medications are stronger and longer-lasting, reducing the need for frequent injections. This not only improves comfort but also helps patients maintain their independence and quality of life.

Emerging gene therapies and stem cell treatments are also showing promise, offering hope for individuals with inherited retinal diseases or severe vision loss. These innovations reflect a broader shift toward personalized, precision-based care.

Why Early Detection Matters
Routine eye exams are more than a vision check. They are a vital tool for detecting silent diseases like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. Florida Retina Institute’s Nisarg P. Joshi, MD, recommends asking your eye doctor about early signs of these conditions, especially if you have risk factors such as:

• Family history of eye disease
• Diabetes or high blood pressure
• Smoking or poor diet
• Age-related changes in vision

Patients should also ask how often they need follow-up exams. One schedule does not fit all when it comes to eye health. Your care should be tailored to your unique profile.

Dispelling Myths and Encouraging Timely Care
A common misconception is that if your vision feels fine, your eyes must be healthy. In reality, many retinal diseases progress silently until they reach advanced stages. Another concern is the reliance on internet remedies or delaying care due to fear of injections or surgery. These delays can mean the difference between maintaining vision and facing permanent loss.

Dr. Joshi encourages patients to speak openly with their physician. “We’re here to provide answers that are personalized to you,” he says.

Lifestyle Habits That Support Eye Health
The same habits that protect your heart and brain also benefit your eyes:

• Control blood pressure and blood sugar
• Avoid smoking
• Eat leafy greens and omega-3-rich foods
• Exercise regularly
• Protect your eyes from UV light

For patients with diabetes, strict glucose control is especially important in preventing retinopathy. Small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a big difference in preserving long-term vision.

Florida Retina Institute: Local Roots, Visionary Care
Already serving the Central Florida communities and beyond, Florida Retina Institute is preparing to break ground on a new facility designed to expand services and meet growing demand in Lake Mary. This expansion reflects Florida Retina Institute’s deep commitment to the region and its vision for the future of ophthalmologic care.

Patients benefit from the expertise of fellowship-trained retina specialists who take a collaborative, patient-first approach. The recent addition of Gabrielle Turski, MD, PhD, and Madeleine Yehia, MD, brings fresh perspectives and strengthens the Institute’s mission to deliver exceptional, personalized care.

Florida Retina Institute also leads the way in retina research and clinical trials, offering patients early access to promising treatments. Under the direction of Dr. Matthew Cunningham, Florida Retina Institute participates in national and international studies, with dedicated research locations in Orlando, Wildwood and Jacksonville.

Specialized Services Offered
Florida Retina Institute provides expert diagnosis, treatment and management for a wide range of retinal and macular conditions, including:

• Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
• Diabetic Retinopathy and Diabetic Macular Edema
• Retinal Tears and Detachments
• Macular Holes and Epiretinal Membranes
• Inherited Retinal Diseases
• Pediatric Retina Care
• Uveitis
• Access to Clinical Trials and Emerging Therapies

A Vision for the Future
As the landscape of vision care continues to evolve, Florida Retina Institute remains committed to delivering care that is both compassionate and cutting-edge. Through the strength of its physician team, the addition of new talent and its leadership in research, Florida Retina Institute is proud to serve the Orlando community with retina care that is visionary in scope and deeply rooted in local values.

Its multicultural and multilingual team proudly offers expert, personalized care that reflects the diversity of its patients. With leading technology, compassionate expertise and unparalleled access to cutting-edge research, Florida Retina Institute is the practice you tell your family and friends about. Proudly serving Central Florida and beyond.

Florida Retina Institute
Multiple locations
(877) 357-3846
FloridaRetinaInstitute.com