senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(512) 804-2020

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration, also called AMD or age-related macular degeneration, occurs when the macula — the central portion of the retina — begins to wear down, causing central vision loss.

People who suffer from AMD tend to lose their “straight ahead” vision, making it difficult to read, drive, and recognize faces. 

Total vision loss is unlikely, as there's typically enough peripheral vision to allow for other activities of daily life. 

Man with macular degeneration


Types of Macular Degeneration:

macular degeneration types

  • Dry AMD: small deposits called drusen damage retinal nerve cells and reduce vision
  • Wet AMD: new blood vessels form that leak and release fluid that harms the macula. This is a more severe form of AMD that can more quickly cause vision loss.

Don’t Let AMD Rob You of Your Sight

An estimated 196 million people are living with macular degeneration worldwide. Although those affected by it rarely lose all their vision, the vast majority suffer from some degree of vision loss. 

While there is currently no cure for AMD, there are certain treatments that can slow its progression — and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

If you think you're at risk or are experiencing symptoms, contact Bee Cave Vision Center today. We can diagnose and help treat the disease.


Risk Factors for AMD

  • Aged 50+

    The onset of AMD usually happens over the age of 50 and increases substantially with time. For instance, a 2% risk at age 55 can turn into a 30% risk by age 75.

  • Lifestyle factors

    Smoking or eating a diet high in saturated fat can increase your risk of AMD. Furthermore, these habits increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease–two additional risk factors for AMD.

  • Obesity

    Research shows that people with a BMI of over 30 double their chances of developing AMD.

  • Family History

    If you have a close relative with AMD, you have a higher risk of developing this eye condition.


How to Stop the Progression of Macular Degeneration

While there isn’t yet a cure for AMD or an effective way of reversing vision loss that has already occurred, you can take certain steps and adopt new habits to slow the progression of the disease.

Furthermore, certain treatments can slow its progression and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

Talk to us about how you can slow the progression of the disease and avoid vision loss by contacting Bee Cave Vision Center today. 

Photograph


Macular Degeneration FAQs

What are the first signs of AMD?

You may have AMD and not know it. Typically, symptoms may not develop until the advanced stage of the eye disease.

First signs of AMD may include: 

  • Blurred vision
  • Blind spots or dark spots
  • Straight lines appearing distorted or wavy
  • Faded colors 

 For early detection and better outcomes, it's important to undergo regular eye exams at our eye clinic, especially if you have a family history of AMD or other risk factors. 

How common is macular degeneration?

Statistics indicate that 8.7% of the world population has macular degeneration. The rate of AMD is expected to increase from 196 million in 2022 to 288 million by 2040.

What is the best treatment for macular degeneration?

Currently, the most common treatment for wet AMD is the injection of medications called anti-VEGF agents. High levels of VEGF in the eye increase the formation of abnormal blood vessels that cause much of the damage in wet AMD.

Patient Reviews
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324 Reviews
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- Oct. 29, 2024
Have had a wonderful experience with Dr. Dobson and staff. Specifically to shout out Chris and Carli... ! They have been extremely helpful and kind. I am very grateful to BCVC!
- Jun. 25, 2024
I have nothing but good things to say about Bee Cave Vision Center! 🙂
- Nov. 03, 2022
Unbelievable customer service experience yesterday at the Bee Cave Vision Center. Went in for a new... frame replacement. Served while I waited by a courteous and professional staff. Special shout out to the optician, Gail. Gail, if you need a Green Card, I'll marry you so you can stay in the country. This store should be the model for every retailer in the country.
- Apr. 15, 2022
My daughter and I were seen almost in unison, the staff and Dr were so great. Highly recommend.
- Apr. 12, 2022
Friendly, efficient, professional. Extra stars for being patient when I was late for my first visit ... because google maps steered me wrong
- Apr. 04, 2022
Very professional and friendly! They make the visit quite enjoyable.
- Mar. 31, 2022
The website is great, the staff are super friendly and accommodating and Dr. Nelson was thorough and... delightful. The office is beautiful with great parking and it's easy to find. Everything was top notch. I was able to make an appointment online which was fantastic since I was in another country with a 7 hour time difference. I will be returning for future appointments!
- Mar. 15, 2022
I went to the Dripping Springs location. The staff was friendly and efficient. The doctor took her... time to really make sure I was getting what I needed from the visit. It's nice to have a place for my eye care.
- Mar. 14, 2022
They’re so helpful and friendly and they have the latest equipment so your exam is very thorough. ... Dr Dobson is the best!
- Mar. 11, 2022
Friendly, helpful and professional group. Very good experience here.
- Feb. 25, 2022
The Best Eye doctor in Dripping Springs. The office staff is amazing and the doctors take the time ... and care to explain everything. My family loves everything about this office.
- Feb. 17, 2022
Love going here and getting my glasses adjusted so I can see properly. From Dr Dobson to the staff t... hey are top notch with your prescription to fitting you for frames that work! Always leave there smiling.
- Feb. 08, 2022
My daughter is 5 and everyone at BCVC is so great to her. We have been seeing Dr. Dobson for about 3... years. Highly recommend for anyone - adults & children!
- Jan. 25, 2022
Best ever, would not use anyone else!
- Jan. 25, 2022
Very nice office. The team there is wonderful and I had a great experience from start to finish. I�... �m looking forward to getting my new glasses and will definitely go back for my annual exams.
- Jan. 21, 2022
Always a fantastic experience. Staff is very nice and helps in any way. Dr. Dobson is an excellent E... ye Doctor. I would refer any of my friends to them.
- Jan. 20, 2022
Everyone in the office is so friendly and helpful. Dr. Dobson is an awesome doctor and someone I tr... ust to care for my eye health as well as eye sight.
- Jan. 14, 2022
Very clean and modern environment. Welcoming bunch of folks. Professional atmosphere and all of the ... latest tech. Made me feel welcome and taken care of, great service!
- Jan. 12, 2022
I was long overdue for an eye exam and stumbled upon BCVC by accident. Not only was I able to get an... appointment on the same day, but everyone was so wonderful and kind! The overall environment was very calm and pleasant as well. Such a fantastic experience 🙂 Thank you!
- Jan. 10, 2022
Staff was courteous and professional. Dr Dobson was very thorough and was easy to talk to. I felt ... confident that I was receiving an excellent examination.

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Macular Degeneration Treatment in The Uplands

Our optometry practice in The Uplands

Photograph of Brad  Dobson
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
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  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

Don’t let AMD stop you from doing the things you love.

(512) 804-2020