Retina Care in Charlotte, NC
Retina specialists dedicated to preserving and restoring vision through cutting-edge treatments for macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment.
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About Your Retina
The retina is a paper-thin tissue lining the back of your eye that converts light into electrical signals your brain interprets as sight. When retinal disease strikes, prompt action is essential as damage to retinal cells is permanent.
Unlike other eye conditions correctable with prescription eyeglasses, retinal problems can lead to irreversible vision loss. Modern treatments can halt progression in most cases, but early detection is critical — many retinal diseases show no symptoms until vision is already affected.
Conditions We Treat
We treat age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, retinal tears, macular holes, epiretinal membranes, vein occlusions, and other complex retinal conditions, from early monitoring through advanced surgical intervention.
Each condition requires a different approach. Retinal detachment is a surgical emergency. Wet AMD and diabetic macular edema respond to injection therapy. Dry AMD now has its first FDA-approved treatment. Our specialists stay at the forefront of every advance.
Treatment Options
From office-based anti-VEGF injections and precision laser therapy to advanced vitrectomy surgery and the new Syfovre™ treatment for dry AMD, we offer the full spectrum of retinal care, personalized to your condition and visual goals.
Anti-VEGF injections are virtually painless and performed in-office. Laser procedures seal tears and reduce swelling with minimal discomfort. Vitrectomy surgery addresses complex cases from inside the eye using the latest minimally invasive techniques.
Warning Signs
Seek immediate care for a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, a curtain or shadow across your vision, sudden vision loss, or distorted and wavy central vision. Retinal detachment is painless but causes permanent blindness without emergency treatment.
Many retinal diseases, including early macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, show no warning signs at all. Regular comprehensive eye exams are the only way to detect these conditions before they cause significant, irreversible vision loss.
Your Retina Treatment Options
Our retina specialists deliver personalized care at every stage, whether your condition calls for office-based injections or advanced microsurgery. Every treatment plan draws on fellowship-trained expertise and the latest technologies.
Anti-VEGF Injections
The gold standard for wet AMD, diabetic macular edema, and vein occlusions — blocking abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage. Virtually painless and performed in-office in minutes.
Laser Therapy
Precision laser treatments to seal retinal tears, reduce swelling, and destroy abnormal blood vessels. Most procedures are performed in-office with minimal discomfort and no surgery required.
Vitrectomy Surgery
Advanced microsurgery for complex cases including retinal detachment, macular holes, and severe diabetic retinopathy, using the latest minimally invasive techniques for optimal visual outcomes.
Syfovre™ for Dry AMD
The first FDA-approved treatment for geographic atrophy (advanced dry AMD) Syfovre, slows vision loss by 17–22%. Horizon Eye Care is proud to offer this breakthrough to patients who previously had no medical options.
Meet Your Charlotte Retina Specialists
Experts dedicated to preserving and restoring your vision with advanced technology.
Sheila Garcia, MD, MPH
Fellowship-Trained Retina & Vitreous Specialist
Serving Cotswold & Mallard Creek
Brent Hoffman, MD
Expert in Cornea and External Diseases, Cataract Surgery, Comprehensive Ophthalmology
Strutha C. Rouse, II, MD
Fellowship-Trained Retina & Vitreous Specialist
Serving Cotswold & Huntersville
Steven J. Ryder, MD
Fellowship-Trained Retina & Vitreous Specialist
Vision Restored, Lives Transformed
“I transferred from CEENTA to Dr Ryder at Horizon Eye Care-Cotswold. Today was my first appointment. I can say I was pleasantly surprised. I had absolutely no wait time. The office has…”
“Dr. Cameron was friendly yet quite professional. His exam seemed thorough and his recommendations sound. He answered questions I had and took his time - he was not rushed to get to…”
“All staff from checking in at the front desk, throughout my appointment were very helpful. Dr.Minkowski did a great job of explaining options/the process of cataract surgery with me, especially given my…”
“I have been coming to Dr. Minkowski for over 2 years and he is an awesome doctor. He makes you feel welcomed and worry free. He explains everything in detail and will…”
“Dr James was very communicative and thorough in his exam and left us feeling well prepared for new glasses.”
“Efficient, friendly!”
“I appreciated that Dr. Tomasko took as much time as I needed to explain my options & answer all my questions.”
“I was very impressed with Dr. Minkowski. He was very cordial and professional and obviously knowledgeable. I have very complicated eye issues and he had me do all the tests and did…”
“This was my first visit with Dr. Cameron and as a patient at Horizon. I did not have a long wait. The attendants were pleasant & professional. Dr. Cameron was very thorough,…”
“I've been Dr. James' patient for about 8 or 9 years. He's thorough, genuinely interested in eye health, collaborative with care options and very efficient. I'm very satisfied!”
“Really appreciated the details/explanation about the examination and results.”
“I was completely satisfied with my visit. Everything was explained clearly and questions were asked. I love the communication process. TY”
“Great dialogue in my health and felt he was listening to my feedback. Thorough exam but really efficient.”
“Check-in staff who arrives at 7 to set up for. Day, check-out male staff, Fiona, specialist who conducts comparative studies with machine are exemplary. Dr. Minkowski is highly professional and efficient.”
“Overall great experience!”
“Took less than hour. First time meeting Dr James. Accurate and knowledgeable. Asked questions..”
“Dr Tomasko made the whole blepharoplasty a piece of cake from start to finish. I felt cared for by confident, experienced hands.”
“Excellent provider care! Dr. Garcia is knowledgeable patient and careful. I trust her with the health of my eyes and highly recommend her.”
“Attention to details about my eyes with comparison fr last years visit to this year. Professional in every way. His Assistant sat in the room transcribing Dr Ryder’s comments. It took me…”
“Had a good visit.”
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- Posted in Blog & Retina