Retina Specialist vs. Ophthalmologist: Who Should You See?

If you have been told you need to see a "retina specialist," you may be wondering how that differs from the eye doctor you already see. The distinction matters, because retinal conditions are time-sensitive and are treated with tools and techniques that only a fellowship-trained specialist uses every day.

Optometrist, Ophthalmologist, Retina Specialist

• Optometrist (OD): Performs eye exams, prescribes glasses and contacts, screens for disease, and manages many routine eye conditions.
• Ophthalmologist (MD): A medical doctor and surgeon who diagnoses and treats eye disease, performs cataract surgery, and manages a broad range of conditions.
• Retina specialist: An ophthalmologist who completed additional fellowship training devoted entirely to the retina, macula, and vitreous — the light-sensing tissue at the back of the eye and the gel that fills it.

Dr. Pooja Garg is a board-certified ophthalmologist with fellowship training in vitreoretinal disease and surgery, which means her practice is focused specifically on the conditions most likely to threaten central and peripheral vision.

Conditions That Call for a Retina Specialist

• Age-related macular degeneration, both dry and wet
• Diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema
• Retinal tears and retinal detachment
• Retinal vein and artery occlusions
• Macular holes and epiretinal membranes
• Sudden flashes, floaters, or a curtain in your vision
• Uveitis and other inflammatory conditions affecting the back of the eye

Do You Need a Referral?

Many patients arrive by referral from their optometrist, ophthalmologist, or primary care physician. Others call us directly. Either path is fine — but check your plan: if your insurance requires a script, referral, or authorization, you will need to obtain it from your primary care physician before your appointment.

What Happens at a Retinal Consultation

Plan for a longer visit than a routine eye exam. Your appointment typically includes dilation, a detailed retinal examination, and advanced imaging such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), which produces a cross-sectional map of the retina in seconds. If needed, we may perform fluorescein angiography to study blood flow. Dr. Garg then reviews the images with you and explains what she sees in plain language, along with your options.

Because your eyes will be dilated, bring sunglasses and arrange for someone to drive you home.

When to Call Right Away

Do not wait for a routine appointment if you notice a sudden shower of floaters, flashing lights, a shadow or curtain across your field of vision, or a sudden drop in vision. These can signal a retinal tear or detachment, which is an emergency.

Call (954) 633-8202 and our team will get you seen promptly at our Coconut Creek or Delray Beach office.