At CEENTA, our ophthalmology team includes highly trained retina specialists who diagnose and treat a wide range of retinal diseases and disorders. Whether you’re experiencing new floaters, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, or a retinal tear, our physicians use the most advanced medical and surgical treatments available.

Call 704-295-3000 to Schedule a Retina Appointment

  1. What is the retina?
  2. What are common retina conditions?
  3. What happens during a retina appointment?
  4. What should you do after a retina exam?
  5. Does CEENTA accept retina referrals?
  6. How can I receive retina care in Charlotte, NC?

What is the retina?

The retina

The retina is a thin, light‑sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye that sends visual information to the brain. It contains specialized cells—rods for low‑light vision and cones for color and fine detail.

The retina has two major regions:

  • Macula: The center of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision
  • Peripheral retina: Provides side vision and helps with motion detection, driving, and sports

Damage to either area can cause visual changes. For example:

  • Age‑related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula and is a leading cause of blindness in adults.
  • Retinal tears can occur in the peripheral retina and may lead to retinal detachment, a sight‑threatening emergency.

At CEENTA, our retina specialists offer comprehensive evaluation and state‑of‑the‑art treatments for these conditions and more.

What are common retina conditions?

Age‑Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in people over age 50.

  • Dry AMD: Thinning of macular tissue
  • Wet AMD: Abnormal blood vessels leak beneath the retina, causing rapid vision loss

Early detection is key, and many patients benefit from medications, injections, or vitamin therapy.

Central Serous Retinopathy (CSR)

CSR occurs when fluid accumulates under the retina.
It is more common in males ages 20–40, and risk factors include stress, steroid use, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions.

Diabetic Retinopathy & Diabetic Macular Edema

Diabetes can damage retinal blood vessels, leading to:

  • Non‑proliferative diabetic retinopathy
  • Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (new abnormal vessels)
  • Diabetic macular edema (swelling in the central retina)

Regular monitoring and timely treatment are critical to preserving vision.

Flashes and Floaters

Floaters occur when the eye’s gel (vitreous) naturally changes with age.
Flashes happen when the vitreous tugs on the retina.
Sudden increases in flashes or floaters may indicate a retinal tear or detachment and should be evaluated immediately.

Retinal Tears & Retinal Detachments

Retinal detachment is a medical emergency.
Symptoms may include:

  • A sudden shower of floaters
  • Flashes of light
  • A dark shadow or curtain over part of your vision

Our specialists provide urgent care and advanced surgical treatment.

Ocular Tumors

Ocular tumors can be benign or malignant and require experienced evaluation. CEENTA offers comprehensive diagnostic testing and coordinated care.

What happens during a retina appointment?

Your first visit typically takes up to two hours, depending on the testing required. Please arrive 15 minutes early and bring:

  1. Medical records or referral notes
  2. Glasses and sunglasses
  3. A list of medications
  4. Insurance and identification
  5. Referral documentation (if your insurance requires it)

Your visit includes:

  • Check‑in with our medical reception team
  • A detailed medical and ocular history
  • Pupil dilation (you will be sensitive to light afterward)
  • Imaging and diagnostic testing as needed (OCT, retinal photos, etc.)
  • A comprehensive evaluation by a CEENTA retina specialist
  • Discussion of findings and personalized treatment options

We provide disposable sunglasses, and you may wish to bring a driver if you are uncomfortable driving after dilation.

What should you do after a retina exam?

Your physician will review test results, answer questions, and recommend treatment.
Some treatments—such as injections or laser procedures—may be performed the same day. Others will be scheduled at a later time.

If you have questions about monitoring your vision with tools such as an Amsler grid, call 704‑295‑3180.

Does CEENTA accept retina referrals?

We accept referrals from ophthalmologists, optometrists, primary care providers, and all medical professionals. Patients may also self‑schedule if they are experiencing retinal symptoms.
Our retina specialists see patients across multiple CEENTA locations, including SouthParkBelmontConcordHuntersvilleMatthewsMonroeStatesvilleSteele Creek, and University.

How can I receive retina care in Charlotte, NC?

If you are experiencing vision changes, flashes, floaters, or have been diagnosed with a retinal condition, CEENTA is here to help. Your vision is our priority, and our team is dedicated to providing advanced, compassionate retina care close to home.

Call 704-295-3000 to Schedule a Retina Appointment

This website is optimized for more recent web browsers. Please consider these upgrade options: IE10+(IE10+, Chrome Chrome, Firefox Firefox.
 Schedule An Appointment