What it is
The macula is the center of the retina, the part that lets you read, recognize faces and see detail. Age-related macular degeneration wears it down little by little and affects central vision, although side vision is preserved.
It has two forms. The dry form is the most common and progresses slowly; the wet form appears when abnormal vessels grow under the retina and can progress quickly. In the wet form, starting treatment early is what protects vision the most.
Techniques and procedures
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01
Intravitreal injections
In the wet form a medication that stops the growth of abnormal vessels is given inside the eye. It is repeated at intervals the specialist adjusts according to the response.
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02
Follow-up with OCT
Retinal imaging shows whether there is fluid under the macula and guides when to treat. It is the test repeated at each follow-up.
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03
Amsler grid and supplements
In the dry form it is monitored at home with the Amsler grid, one eye at a time, and in some cases specific supplements are recommended. They do not replace check-ups.
Who treats it
When to get checked
- Straight lines look wavy or bent.
- There is a dark or blurry spot in the center of your vision.
- Reading or recognizing faces is hard even with the right glasses.
- You are over 50 and there is macular degeneration in your family.
- You smoke or used to: it is one of the main risk factors.
If any of these sound familiar, the sensible step is an assessment: that is where you find out what is going on and what to do about it.
General guidance. It does not replace an assessment by a specialist.
Related services
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Retinal surgery
Vitrectomy and other techniques to repair retinal detachments, macular holes, membranes and bleeding in the retina.
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Diabetic retinopathy
Diabetes damages the vessels of the retina without symptoms at first. It is caught in time with a retina exam.
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Retinal disease treatment
Vein occlusions, tears and high myopia changes: diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of the retina.
Accreditations
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Mexican Board of Ophthalmology
All three doctors, board-certified in the specialty.
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COFEPRIS
Current operating notice with the federal health authority.
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Centro Médico ABC
All three doctors, members of its medical society.
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Instituto de Oftalmología
Fundación Conde de Valenciana IAP.
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Mexican Society of Ophthalmology
Active members, current in their subspecialty.
Contact
Where we are
Arrive 10 minutes before your appointment: the clinic is in Torre A, fifth floor, and the entrance and the elevator take a moment.
- Prolongación Vasco de Quiroga 4001
- Torre A, Piso 5, Consultorio 5
- Santa Fe, 05370
- Cuajimalpa, Ciudad de México
Write to us
Leave us your details and we will contact you the same day to coordinate your visit.
Notes
What is worth knowing about your eyes
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Diabetes: your retina gets checked even if you see well
The damage starts without symptoms and shows up in a dilated exam, so the check-up is scheduled instead of waiting for trouble.
Dr. Gerardo Ledesma Gil
Read note -
Floaters, flashes and shadows
A sudden burst of them, or a shadow moving in from the side, should not wait for your next visit: it calls for a prompt retina exam.
Dr. Gerardo Ledesma Gil
Read note -
After retina surgery
Vision takes time to settle and the follow-up visits are part of the treatment, not paperwork: that is where we see if things are going where they should.
Dr. Gerardo Ledesma Gil
Read note
Frequently asked questions
What people ask us most before their first visit
Do I need a referral to book a visit?
No. You can book your consultation directly. If another doctor referred you, please bring their notes and any tests: they help us avoid repeating work that is already done.
How long does the first assessment take?
Between 30 and 60 minutes. It includes a full eye exam.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Your current glasses, a list of the medications you take and any previous eye tests or prescriptions. If you wear contact lenses, ask us how long before the visit you should take them out.
Will my pupils be dilated? Can I drive afterwards?
Often yes, especially for retina and glaucoma exams. The drops leave your vision blurry and light-sensitive for a couple of hours, so it is best to bring someone along or not drive back.
Where is the clinic?
In Santa Fe, inside an office tower: Prolongación Vasco de Quiroga 4001, Tower A, 5th floor, office 5. Allow a few minutes for the entrance and the elevator; the "Directions" button opens the route on the map.