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Learn More About the Retina

Patient Education

The Retina is a thin layer of light-sensitive nerve tissue that lines the back of the eye (or vitreous) cavity. When light enters the eye, it passes through the iris to the retina where images are focused and converted to electrical impulses that are carried by the optic nerve to the brain resulting in sight.

Anatomy of the Eye

The Retina

What Is The Retina?

The retina is the nerve tissue that lines the back of the eye. Like film in a camera, the retina captures the images that we see.  These images are transferred to the brain via the optic nerve for visual processing.

The Macula

The Macula

The macula is the center of the retina.  It is responsible for the central and reading vision.  Many diseases of the eye affect the macula, such as age related macular degeneration (AMD), macula hole, and epiretinal membrane.

The Vitreous

The Vitreous

The vitreous is the jelly-like substance that occupies the central cavity of the eye. It has a role in the development of the eye during the fetal stages, but it’s function in adults is not well understood. The vitreous degenerates during adult life and is responsible for floaters. Vitreous detachment can lead to retina tears, macular holes and retinal detachment.

Common Questions About Retina Specialists

What is a Retina Specialist?

Plus

A retina specialist is a medical doctor who has specialized in ophthalmology and sub-specialized in disease and surgery of the retina and vitreous body of the eye.

How much training is required for Retina Specialists?

Plus

Retina specialists are highly trained. All doctors at Retina Consultants of Southern Colorado have the minimal training as listed below.  Some even have additional training.

  • Undergraduate degree - 4 years
  • Medical School - 4 years
  • Internship - 1 year
  • Ophthalmology residency - 3 years
  • Medical and Surgical Retina-vitreous fellowship - 2 years

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