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Retina Program

Retinal disorders affect the tissue in the back of the eye that is responsible for processing light. Without appropriate care, some retinal conditions can lead to vision loss. Our retina specialists provide expert care for the full spectrum of retinal diseases, combining advanced diagnostics, leading-edge treatments, and access to innovative therapies.

A male ophthalmologist conducts an eye examination using a slit lamp biomicroscope in a bright medical office.

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6175733288
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Trusted retina disorders expertise

Our retina program is one of the largest subspecialty groups of its kind in the country. When you choose our team, you get access to the most advanced diagnostic and treatment tools, including clinical trials.

Mass Eye and Ear is recognized as a leader in eye care, ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top ophthalmology hospitals in the nation.

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Part of Ophthalmology
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Our approach to retinal conditions

Retinal conditions can affect vision in ways that are difficult to navigate. Our specialists combine clinical expertise with a thoughtful, patient-centered approach to care.
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Advanced retina disease treatments
Our eye experts use the most advanced tools to diagnose and treat retinal diseases. When appropriate, patients may have the option to participate in clinical trials evaluating new therapies. In 2019, Mass Eye and Ear performed the first FDA-approved gene therapy for an inherited retinal disease.
Early and accurate diagnosis

Getting a quick, precise diagnosis is key to finding the right treatment.

We use advanced testing such as:

  • Autofluorescence imaging
  • Visual Field Testing
  • Visual Evoked Potential
  • Non-invasive angiography (optical coherence tomography -angiography -OCTA)
  • Full-field and multifocal Electroretinography (ERG)
  • Swept-source, high-speed, wide-field optical coherence tomography (OCT)

These tools allow us to assess the retina’s structure, measure the electrical response of the eye’s light-sensitive cells, and detect eye problems before vision deteriorates.

Genetic testing for inherited retinal disease
If you have an inherited retinal disease, genetic testing is an integral part of your care. We partner with the Genetics and Genomics team to offer genetic testing and counseling.
Pioneering research to eradicate blinding retinal disease

Our researchers have made major discoveries that have improved the diagnosis and treatment of many retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), inherited retinal disorders, diabetic retinopathy, and ocular melanoma. For example, we have:

  • Developed proton beam therapy for eye tumors
  • Co-discovered optical coherence tomography (OCT), the most widely used non-invasive imaging tool in retina care
  • Discovered photodynamic therapy (PDT) for the treatment of wet AMD
  • Developed Macugen™, the first anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy for wet AMD
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Our approach

Retinal conditions and treatments

The retina is the layer of nerve tissue in the back of your eye. It receives light from your eye's lens and converts it into electro-chemical signals to send to your brain. Our specialists are experts in all types of retinal disorders and treatment options.
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Conditions and treatments

Our specialists

No matter what disease or condition you have, Mass General Brigham has specialists near you who can help.
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Find a retina specialist

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6175733288

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Specialists
Care for retinal conditions may involve collaboration with other eye care specialists. These programs support diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow-up care when additional expertise is needed.

  • Ophthalmology

    Find expert eye care in Greater Boston. Mass General Brigham ophthalmologists treat cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and complex eye diseases.

  • Inherited Retinal Disorders Program

    Our physicians provide comprehensive care for patients with inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs). These rare, hereditary disorders are caused by mutations in genes that are needed for vision.

  • Vision Rehabilitation (Low Vision) Center

    Irreversible vision loss can be a difficult diagnosis to accept. Learn more about our expert vision rehabilitation and how it can improve your quality of life.

  • Ocular Oncology and Eye Tumor Program

    Access expert diagnosis and the most advanced treatments available for ocular melanomas and eye tumors at Mass General Brigham.

  • Neuro-Ophthalmology

    Neuro-ophthalmology care for complex vision conditions caused by disorders of the brain, nerves, and eyes. Learn how our specialists diagnose and treat neuro-ophthalmic conditions.

  • Pediatric Ophthalmology

    If your child needs eye care, we can help. Learn about our collaboration between Mass Eye and Ear and Children’s Hospital Ophthalmology Foundation.

  • Comprehensive Ophthalmology and Cataracts Program

    Cataracts are common with aging, but you don’t have to live with them. Learn more about our comprehensive ophthalmology services and cataract treatments.

  • Optometry and Contact Lens Service

    Our optometrists are experts in eyeglass prescriptions and contact lens fittings. Learn more about the specialized types of contact lenses we offer.

  • Glaucoma Program

    Without treatment, glaucoma can lead to progressive vision loss. Fortunately, the right treatment can save your vision. Find out more about our glaucoma care

  • Cornea Program

    Our Cornea Program includes experts in diseases affecting the clear, dome-shaped outer layer of the eye. Learn more about our research-based, advanced care.

  • Center for Thyroid Eye Disease and Orbital Surgery

    We provide coordinated, state-of-the-art care for thyroid eye disease and tumors in the eye socket. Learn more about our leading-edge treatment options.

  • Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery

    Ophthalmic plastic surgeons specialize in functional and cosmetic disorders affecting the eyelids, eye socket, and tear ducts. Read more about our program.

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Services and programs

Contact the Retina Program

Call us to speak with a team member who can help you understand your options and guide you to the care that is right for you. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
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617-573-3288
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International Patient Services

Contact information for international patients

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Contact