New Braunfels eye care
Macular degeneration (AMD) in New Braunfels, TX
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, the part of the retina used for reading, driving and recognizing faces.
New at Eye Associates of South Texas
Valeda light therapy for dry macular degeneration
We now offer Valeda photobiomodulation (PBM), one of the first FDA-authorized treatments for dry age-related macular degeneration, and we are already treating patients with it.
For years, people with dry AMD were told there was nothing to do but take vitamins and watch. Valeda changes that. In November 2024 the FDA authorized the Valeda Light Delivery System for dry AMD, based on the LIGHTSITE III clinical trial, where treated eyes gained vision compared with sham treatment.
Valeda uses three specific wavelengths of low-level light (590 nm yellow, 660 nm red and 850 nm near-infrared) to stimulate the mitochondria in retinal cells, helping the stressed cells of the macula work more efficiently. There are no needles, no injections and no heat.
How treatment works
- A short sessionYou look into the device while gentle light is shone into the eye for a few minutes. It is painless.
- A series of nineTreatments are given three times a week for about 3 to 5 weeks.
- Repeated over timeThe series is typically repeated about every four months to maintain the benefit.
Where to get Valeda
- San Antonio – North Central15650 Classen Rd, San Antonio, TX 78247
- Seguin908 E Court St, Seguin, TX 78155
Who may be a candidate
- Early to intermediate dry AMD
- Vision roughly between 20/32 and 20/70
- No wet AMD in the treated eye
- Determined by your exam and OCT scan
What is macular degeneration?
AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in adults over 50. It damages the macula, the small central area of the retina responsible for sharp detail. Side vision is usually preserved.
There are two forms. Dry AMD, the most common, progresses slowly as the macula thins. Wet AMD happens when abnormal blood vessels leak under the retina and can cause rapid vision loss, so it needs prompt treatment.
New distortion or a new dark spot in your central vision can mean wet AMD. Call the same day.
Macular degeneration care in New Braunfels
Patients come to our New Braunfels office at 457 Landa St, Suite F for macular degeneration care from Gruene, Canyon Lake, Garden Ridge, Bulverde, Spring Branch, Schertz and across New Braunfels. Dr. Kavanagh has cared for New Braunfels patients since 2001: 25 years of excellent eye care. New Braunfels patients have surgery a short drive away, at GRMC Outpatient in Seguin or at one of three San Antonio surgery centers.
Symptoms
- Blurry or dark area in the center of vision
- Straight lines look wavy or bent
- Needing more light to read
- Faces are harder to recognize
- Colors look less bright
Risk factors
- Age over 50
- Smoking
- Family history of AMD
- High blood pressure and heart disease
- Diet low in leafy greens
How we evaluate it
A dilated exam, OCT scan of the macula and sometimes angiography show whether AMD is present, whether it is dry or wet, and how it is changing over time.
Treatment options
Dr. Kavanagh and our team see patients for macular degeneration at our New Braunfels office and across South Texas. Every plan is tailored to your eyes after an exam.
For educational purposes. This page explains common conditions and treatments to help you prepare for your visit. Your exam determines the right plan for your eyes.
NormalCentral vision loss
How it can look
Macular degeneration, seen through the patient's eyes
Drag the slider to compare normal vision with a simulation of central vision loss. Everyone's experience is different, and early stages may cause no visible change at all.
Check at home
The Amsler grid
Hold the grid at reading distance with your reading glasses on. Cover one eye and look at the center dot. If any lines look wavy, broken or missing, or a dark area appears, call us. Repeat with the other eye. This is a home check, not a substitute for an exam.
Questions
Common questions
Will I go blind from macular degeneration?
AMD rarely causes total blindness because side vision is usually kept. Early treatment of wet AMD protects central vision.
Can I have cataract surgery if I have AMD?
Yes, in most cases. Dr. Kavanagh will choose a lens suited to your macula.
What is Valeda?
Valeda is a light therapy (photobiomodulation) authorized by the FDA in November 2024 for dry AMD. Low-level yellow, red and near-infrared light is shone into the eye for a few minutes per session to support the energy production of retinal cells. We offer it at our North Central San Antonio (Classen Rd) and Seguin offices.
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