Macular Degeneration Treatment
Advanced Treatment Options to Help Preserve Your Vision
Personalized Treatment for Macular Degeneration
Treatment for macular degeneration is tailored to the type of macular degeneration you have, the stage of the disease, and the overall health of your retina. Because dry and wet macular degeneration require different approaches, an accurate diagnosis is essential for developing the most effective treatment plan.
For patients with wet macular degeneration, early treatment is critical to control abnormal blood vessel growth, reduce retinal swelling, and help preserve central vision. For those with dry macular degeneration, regular monitoring, nutritional support, healthy lifestyle habits, and ongoing retinal evaluations may help slow disease progression and maintain retinal health.
At Cali Eye Institute, we use advanced retinal imaging and diagnostic technology to carefully evaluate your condition and monitor changes over time. Based on your examination findings, your ophthalmologist will recommend a personalized treatment plan focused on preserving your vision, slowing disease progression, and helping you maintain the highest possible quality of life.
Anti-VEGF Injections for Wet Macular Degeneration
One of the most effective treatments for wet macular degeneration is anti-VEGF therapy.
VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) is a protein that stimulates the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina. These fragile blood vessels can leak fluid and blood, causing damage to the macula and resulting in vision loss.
Anti-VEGF medications work by blocking this process and helping to control abnormal blood vessel growth.
How Treatment Works
The medication is carefully injected into the vitreous cavity of the eye during an in-office procedure.
These injections can:
- Slow or stop disease progression
- Reduce retinal swelling
- Control abnormal blood vessel growth
- Help preserve central vision
- Lower the risk of further vision loss
Many patients require ongoing injections at regular intervals to maintain treatment benefits and protect their vision.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
Photodynamic therapy may be recommended for certain patients with wet macular degeneration.
This treatment uses a light-activated medication combined with a specialized laser to target abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina.
The goal of photodynamic therapy is to:
- Reduce leakage from abnormal blood vessels
- Limit damage to surrounding retinal tissue
- Slow disease progression
- Support long-term retinal health
In some cases, photodynamic therapy may be used alongside other treatment options as part of a comprehensive management plan.
What to Expect During Your Evaluation
Benefits of Dry Eye Treatment
While macular degeneration cannot be cured, early diagnosis and timely treatment can help slow its progression and preserve your remaining vision. Beginning treatment before significant retinal damage occurs gives you the best opportunity to maintain your independence and quality of life.
Preserves Central Vision
Early treatment helps protect the macula and maintain the central vision needed for everyday activities.
Slows Disease Progression
Timely care can slow the advancement of macular degeneration and reduce further retinal damage.
Controls Blood Vessel Growth
For wet macular degeneration, treatment helps manage abnormal blood vessels and reduce retinal leakage.
Protects Retinal Health
Ongoing monitoring and treatment help support the long-term health and function of the retina.
Maintains Daily Independence
Preserving vision helps you continue reading, driving, recognizing faces, and performing everyday tasks.
Improves Long-Term Outcomes
Serving Torrance, Lancaster & Ventura
Cali Eye Institute is proud to offer advanced cataract care across multiple locations in Southern California, making it easier for patients to access expert treatment close to home.
- Torrance – Cali Eye Institute
- Lancaster – Lancaster Eye Institute
- Ventura – Anacapa Vision
Across all locations, our experienced ophthalmologists use the latest technology, including laser-assisted techniques, to provide precise, personalized care. We focus on understanding your unique vision needs and guiding you through every step of the process to help achieve the best possible outcome.
Macular Degeneration Specialist Dr. Babak Shabatian
Macular degeneration affects central vision and can make everyday activities like reading and driving more difficult. Dr. Babak Shabatian, founder of Cali Eye Institute, provides focused care for patients with macular degeneration, helping them maintain vision and independence for as long as possible.
With advanced training in retinal diseases, Dr. Shabatian closely monitors changes in the macula and intervenes early when needed. His approach is centered on slowing disease progression, managing symptoms, and preserving functional vision through personalized treatment plans.
Each patient’s condition can progress differently, which is why Dr. Shabatian emphasizes regular evaluations and tailored care. From early-stage monitoring to advanced treatment options, he guides patients through every phase of the condition with clear communication and ongoing support.
His background, including medical education at Boston University, leadership as Chief Resident during his ophthalmology residency, and fellowship training in vitreous and retinal diseases, allows him to manage complex retinal conditions with confidence and precision.
Through Cali Eye Institute, along with Lancaster Eye Institute and Anacapa Vision, Dr. Shabatian provides consistent, long-term care for macular degeneration patients across Torrance, Lancaster, and Ventura, with a strong focus on protecting vision and quality of life.
Office Information
Cali Eye Institute, Torrance, CA
19000 Hawthorne Blvd, Suite 100
Torrance, CA 90503
Tel: 310-909-8880
Office Hours
Monday-Thursday: 8:30am-5:00pm
Friday: 8:30am-4:30pm
Lancaster Eye Institute, Lancaster, CA
1739 W Avenue J
Lancaster, CA 93534
Tel: (661) 940-0555
Office Hours
Monday - Thursday: 8:30am-5:00pm
Friday: 8:30am-4:30pm
Anacapa Vision, Ventura, CA
1280 S. Victoria Ave., Ste. 160
Ventura, CA 93003-6504
Tel: (805) 658-3937
Office Hours
Mondays and Fridays: 8am-3pm
Tuesdays - Thursday: 8am-4pm
Why Choose Cali Eye for Macular Degeneration Treatment?
Advanced Retinal Imaging Technology
We utilize sophisticated diagnostic technology to detect and monitor retinal changes with exceptional precision.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Every patient receives individualized care based on the type and severity of macular degeneration and their specific visual needs.
Comprehensive Retinal Care
From diagnosis through long-term management, our team provides ongoing support and monitoring to help preserve your vision.
Experienced Eye Specialists
Our ophthalmologists have extensive experience diagnosing and treating retinal conditions, including both dry and wet macular degeneration.
Convenient Locations
With offices in Torrance, Lancaster, and Ventura, accessing expert laser cataract care is simple and convenient.
Patient-Focused Approach
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can macular degeneration be cured?
Currently, there is no cure for macular degeneration. However, modern treatments can help slow progression and preserve vision.
What are anti-VEGF injections?
Anti-VEGF injections are medications administered inside the eye to help stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels associated with wet macular degeneration.
Are eye injections painful?
The eye is numbed before treatment, and most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure.
How often will I need treatment?
Treatment schedules vary depending on the severity of the condition and how your eye responds to therapy. Some patients require ongoing injections to maintain results.
Do vitamins help macular degeneration?
Certain vitamin and mineral supplements may help reduce the risk of progression in appropriate patients. Your doctor can recommend whether supplementation is right for you.
When should I seek treatment for dry eye?
If dryness, irritation, redness, fluctuating vision, or discomfort are affecting your daily life, a comprehensive dry eye evaluation can help determine the most effective treatment options.
Why are regular follow-up visits important?
Macular degeneration can change over time. Regular monitoring allows early detection of progression and timely treatment when needed.
