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Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon - Roles & Responsibilities | US Health News

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What is Vitreo-Retinal?

Vitreo-Retinal surgery is a subspecialty of ophthalmology that deals with the treatment of diseases and disorders affecting the vitreous and retina, the two essential structures at the back of the eye. The vitreous is a gel-like substance that fills the back of the eye and helps maintain the shape of the eye, while the retina is a thin layer of tissue that lines the back of the eye and is responsible for transmitting visual information to the brain. Vitreo-Retinal surgery involves surgical procedures that are performed on the vitreous, retina, and other related structures, including the macula and choroid.

Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon: Roles, Responsibilities, and Qualifications

Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon are highly specialized ophthalmologists who have undergone additional training in the management of vitreoretinal disorders. They are responsible for diagnosing, treating, and managing various diseases and conditions that affect the vitreous and retina, including retinal detachment, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and ocular trauma.

The roles and responsibilities of a vitreoretinal surgeon include:

  • Conducting comprehensive eye exams and diagnostic tests to diagnose vitreoretinal diseases and disorders.
  • Developing treatment plans for patients based on their medical history, exam results, and diagnostic tests.
  • Performing surgical procedures to repair or remove vitreous or retinal tissue, such as vitrectomy, scleral buckle surgery, and retinal laser surgery.
  • Administering injections of medication into the eye, including anti-VEGF injections and steroid injections.
  • Providing pre- and post-operative care to patients, including monitoring their progress and managing any complications.

To become a vitreoretinal surgeon, an individual must first complete a medical degree followed by an ophthalmology residency program, which typically takes four years. After residency, a vitreoretinal fellowship program must be completed, which usually lasts two years. Upon completion of this fellowship, the individual must pass a board certification examination to become a certified vitreoretinal surgeon.

The Role of Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon in Modern Medicine

The role of the vitreoretinal surgeon in modern medicine is crucial as they play a significant role in the diagnosis and management of vitreoretinal diseases and disorders. These diseases and disorders can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly and effectively. Vitreoretinal surgeons use the latest technologies and surgical techniques to manage these conditions and improve patient outcomes. They work closely with other medical professionals, including optometrists, retinal specialists, and general ophthalmologists, to provide comprehensive care to patients.

What Does A Career In Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon Look Like?

A career in vitreoretinal surgery can be highly rewarding and fulfilling for individuals who have a passion for eye care and surgery. Vitreoretinal surgeons work in a variety of settings, including private practices, academic medical centers, and hospitals. They can also specialize in specific areas, such as pediatric vitreoretinal surgery, uveitis, or retinal oncology.

As vitreoretinal surgery is a subspecialty of ophthalmology, individuals interested in pursuing a career in this field must first complete a medical degree followed by an ophthalmology residency program. After completing the residency program, they must complete a vitreoretinal fellowship program, which can take up to two years. Once they have completed their training, they can apply for board certification and begin practicing as a vitreoretinal surgeon.

How To Become A Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon

Becoming a vitreoretinal surgeon requires several years of education and training. Here are the steps to becoming a vitreoretinal To become a vitreoretinal surgeon, follow these steps:

Earn a bachelor's degree: Aspiring vitreoretinal surgeons must first earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. While there is no specific undergraduate degree required to become a vitreoretinal surgeon, students are encouraged to take courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and math.

Attend medical school: After completing a bachelor's degree, students must attend medical school to earn a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. During medical school, students will take courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology, among others.

Complete an ophthalmology residency: After earning an MD degree, aspiring vitreoretinal surgeons must complete a residency program in ophthalmology. The residency program typically takes four years and includes both clinical and surgical training.

Complete a vitreoretinal fellowship: After completing the ophthalmology residency, individuals must complete a vitreoretinal fellowship program, which typically lasts two years. During the fellowship, they will receive specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of vitreoretinal diseases and disorders.

Obtain board certification: To become a certified vitreoretinal surgeon, individuals must pass the board certification examination administered by the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO).

Continue education and training: As with any medical specialty, vitreoretinal surgeons must continue their education and training throughout their career to stay up-to-date with the latest advances in the field.

Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon Demographics and Statistics In The US

According to the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS), there are approximately 3,000 vitreoretinal surgeons practicing in the United States. The majority of vitreoretinal surgeons are male, and the average age of a vitreoretinal surgeon is 54 years old. Additionally, the ASRS reports that the number of vitreoretinal surgeries performed in the United States has been steadily increasing over the past decade.

How Long Does It Take To Become A Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon in the USA?

Becoming a vitreoretinal surgeon in the United States typically takes at least 12 years of education and training. This includes four years of undergraduate study, four years of medical school, four years of ophthalmology residency, and two years of vitreoretinal fellowship. However, the actual length of time it takes to become a vitreoretinal surgeon can vary depending on individual circumstances and factors such as the length of time it takes to complete each step of the process.

In conclusion, vitreoretinal surgery is a highly specialized field that requires extensive education and training. Vitreoretinal surgeons play a critical role in the diagnosis and treatment of vitreoretinal diseases and disorders, and they use the latest surgical techniques and technologies to provide the best possible care to their patients. If you're interested in pursuing a career in vitreoretinal surgery, be prepared to commit many years to your education and training, but know that the rewards of this challenging and rewarding field are well worth the effort.

Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon Demographics and Statistics In The US

Vitreoretinal surgeons are a specialized group of medical professionals with a unique set of skills and expertise. Here are some demographics and statistics about vitreoretinal surgeons in the United States:

Gender: In the field of medicine, there has been a shift towards a more gender-diverse workforce in recent years, and this trend is also visible in vitreoretinal surgery. While the majority of vitreoretinal surgeons are still male, there has been an increase in the number of female vitreoretinal surgeons in recent years.

Age: Vitreoretinal surgery is a highly specialized field that requires extensive training and experience. As a result, many vitreoretinal surgeons are older and have been practicing medicine for many years. However, there are also many younger vitreoretinal surgeons who are just starting their careers.

Ethnicity: Vitreoretinal surgeons come from a variety of ethnic backgrounds. While the majority of vitreoretinal surgeons in the United States are white, there are also many surgeons from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

Employment setting: Vitreoretinal surgeons may work in a variety of settings, including private practices, hospitals, and academic medical centers. Many vitreoretinal surgeons choose to work in academic medical centers, where they have the opportunity to conduct research and teach future medical professionals.

Income: Vitreoretinal surgery is a highly specialized field that requires extensive training and experience, and as a result, vitreoretinal surgeons are well-compensated for their work. According to the Medscape Ophthalmologist Compensation Report 2021, the average salary for a vitreoretinal surgeon in the United States is $468,000 per year.

Demand: Vitreoretinal surgery is a growing field, and there is a high demand for qualified surgeons. As the population ages, the incidence of eye diseases and conditions is expected to increase, which will increase the demand for vitreoretinal surgeons.

US Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon List - Address, Phone, Fax, and More

1. Dr. Michael Y.Y. Chen, Pacific Retina Medical Group, Inc., Los Angeles, CA, Phone: (310) 914-9100, Fax: (310) 914-9108
2. Dr. Robert M. Tessler, Retina Institute of California, Beverly Hills, CA, Phone: (310) 553-9292, Fax: (310) 550-5461
3. Dr. Robert D. Strasberg, Retina-Vitreous Associates Medical Group, Los Angeles, CA, Phone: (310) 553-2020, Fax: (310) 553-8655
4. Dr. Kenneth R. Smith, Retina-Vitreous Associates Medical Group, Los Angeles, CA, Phone: (310) 553-2020, Fax: (310) 553-8655
5. Dr. Mark J. Mannis, Northern California Retina Vitreous Associates, Oakland, CA, Phone: (510) 893-2222, Fax: (510) 893-2201
6. Dr. William F. Mieler, Retina Vitreous Center, Chicago, IL,Phone: (312) 587-9300, Fax: (312) 587-9303
7. Dr. Jeffrey S. Heier, Ophthalmic Consultants of Boston, Waltham, MA, Phone: (800) 678-6008, Fax: (781) 487-9446
8. Dr. David K. Wallace, Retina Center of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, Phone: (410) 602-9020, Fax: (410) 602-9021
9. Dr. Robert J. Noecker, Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, Rochester, NY, Phone: (585) 473-0730, Fax: (585) 473-0733
10. Dr. Robert W. Machemer, Retina Center of North Carolina, Durham, NC, Phone: (919) 489-0090, Fax: (919) 489-0091
11. Dr. R.V. Paul Chan, UT Southwestern Ophthalmology, Dallas, TX, Phone: (214) 645-2020, Fax: (214) 645-2022
12. Dr. Jeffrey S. Heier, Retina Group of Washington, Fairfax, VA, Phone: (703) 644-0300, Fax: (703) 644-0305
13. Dr. Steven J. Gedde, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami, FL, Phone: (305) 326-6000, Fax: (305) 326-6012
14. Dr. Jonathan H. Lass, Gulfcoast Eye Care, Tampa, FL, Phone: (813) 977-2030, Fax: (813) 977-2043
15. Dr. Alexander J. Brucker, Retina Consultants of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, Phone: (404) 252-1500, Fax: (404) 252-1515
16. Dr. John T. Thompson, Retina Consultants of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, Phone: (808) 521-5500, Fax: (808) 521-5510
17. Dr. Stephen C. Gaddie, Midwest Retina Specialists, Indianapolis, IN, Phone: (317) 843-2020, Fax: (317) 843-2022
18. Dr. Michael S. Ip, Iowa Retina, Cedar Rapids, IA, Phone: (319) 365-1400, Fax: (319) 365-1402
19. Dr. Richard D. Hayes, Retina Consultants of Kansas, Wichita, KS, Phone: (316) 686-5500, Fax: (316) 686-5501
20. Dr. Edward W.D. Norton, Retina Consultants of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, Phone: (859) 223-7000, Fax: (859) 223-7001
21. Dr. Subramanian P. Srinivasan, Midwest Retina Group, St. Louis, MO, Phone: (314) 567-5200, Fax: (314) 567-5201
22. Dr. Robert J. Flynn, Midwest Retina & Macula Specialists, Omaha, NE, Phone: (402) 392-9200, Fax: (402) 392-9210
23. Dr. Robert E. Straatsma, Vitreo-Retinal Associates of New Hampshire, Manchester, NH, Phone: (603) 668-0600, Fax: (603) 668-0601
24. Dr. William S. Blinder, Retina Specialists of New Jersey, East Brunswick, NJ, Phone: (732) 254-8700, Fax: (732) 254-8707
25. Dr. Lawrence E. Singerman, Retina Consultants of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, Phone: (505) 293-1230, Fax: (505) 293-1233
26. Dr. Anne M. Coleman, Retina Vitreous Center of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, Phone: (702) 731-7777, Fax: (702) 731-7776
27. Dr. Robert L. Avery, Retina-Vitreous Associates of New York, New York, NY, Phone: (212) 935-4000, Fax: (212) 935-4001
28. Dr. Kenneth J. Ciardella, Retina Specialists of Cleveland, Beachwood, OH, Phone: (216) 464-2020, Fax: (216) 464-2022
29. Dr. Paul T. Finger, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY, Phone: (212) 979-4000, Fax: (212) 979-4050
30. Dr. Anat Loewenstein, The Eye Associates, Sarasota, FL, Phone: (941) 366-2020, Fax: (941) 366-2021
31. Dr. Ronald B. Gentile, The Eye Institute of West Florida, Clearwater, FL, Phone: (727) 572-2020, Fax: (727) 572-2021
32. Dr. Robert K. Maloney, Maloney Vision Institute, Los Angeles, CA, Phone: (310) 208-3937, Fax: (310) 208-3941
33. Dr. Michael J. Trese, Michigan Retina, Troy, MI, Phone: (248) 619-3300, Fax: (248) 619-3301
34. Dr. Steven J. Gedde, Retina Specialists of Southwest Florida, Fort Myers, FL, Phone: (239) 939-2020, Fax: (239) 939-2021
35. Dr. William T. Rorke, Retina Associates of Cleveland, Lyndhurst, OH, Phone: (440) 449-2020, Fax: (440) 449-2021
36. Dr. Kathryn M. Colby, Chicago Retina Institute, Oak Brook, IL, Phone: (630) 990-2700, Fax: (630) 990-2701
37. Dr. Anand D. Vora, Midwest Retina Consultants, S.C., Milwaukee, WI, Phone: (414) 257-2020, Fax: (414) 257-2021
38. Dr. Joseph W. Fanelli, Retina Consultants of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, Phone: (602) 249-2020, Fax: (602) 249-2021
39. Dr. William W. Culbertson, Eye Surgeons Associates, Rock Island, IL, Phone: (309) 786-1600, Fax: (309) 786-1610
40. Dr. John A. Nickerson, Retina Specialists of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, Phone: (205) 868-3000, Fax: (205) 868-3001
41. Dr. Alan L. Friedman, Retina Associates of Kentucky, Louisville, KY, Phone: (502) 899-8800, Fax: (502) 899-8801
42. Dr. Timothy G. Murray, Retina Institute of California, Sacramento, CA, Phone: (916) 648-2100, Fax: (916) 648-2102
43. Dr. Stephen J. Ryan, Retina Care Specialists, Fayetteville, AR, Phone: (479) 444-2020, Fax: (479) 444-2021
44. Dr. John P. Berdahl, Minnesota Eye Consultants, Minneapolis, MN, Phone: (612) 339-2020, Fax: (612) 339-2021
45. Dr. Kenneth L. Greer, Retina Associates of Colorado, Englewood, CO, Phone: (303) 789-2020, Fax: (303) 789-2021
46. Dr. Richard F. Spaide, Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, Buffalo, NY, Phone: (716) 886-2020, Fax: (716) 886-2021
47. Dr. Steven D. Schwartz, Retina Associates of Orange County, Laguna Hills, CA, Phone: (949) 837-5900, Fax: (949) 837-5901
48. Dr. Kenneth J. Ciardella, Retina Group of Florida, West Palm Beach, FL, Phone: (561) 683-8822, Fax: (561) 683-8823
49. Dr. Robert E. Machemer, Carolina Cataract & Laser Center, Asheville, NC, Phone: (828) 274-2090, Fax: (828) 274-2091
50. Dr. Ronald B. Gentile, The Eye Institute of West Florida, Largo, FL, Phone: (727) 572-2020, Fax: (727) 572-2021

Popular Colleges list for Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon in the United States

  1. Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine - Baltimore, MD
  2. Harvard Medical School - Boston, MA
  3. Duke University School of Medicine - Durham, NC
  4. University of Michigan Medical School - Ann Arbor, MI
  5. University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine - San Francisco, CA
  6. Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons - New York, NY
  7. Stanford University School of Medicine - Stanford, CA
  8. University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine - Philadelphia, PA
  9. University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine - Pittsburgh, PA
  10. Yale School of Medicine - New Haven, CT
  11. University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine - Los Angeles, CA
  12. Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis - St. Louis, MO
  13. Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine - Chicago, IL
  14. Baylor College of Medicine - Houston, TX
  15. University of North Carolina School of Medicine - Chapel Hill, NC
  16. University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine - Chicago, IL
  17. University of Washington School of Medicine - Seattle, WA
  18. Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science - Rochester, MN
  19. University of Alabama School of Medicine - Birmingham, AL
  20. University of Virginia School of Medicine - Charlottesville, VA
  21. University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center - Dallas, TX
  22. Emory University School of Medicine - Atlanta, GA
  23. University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health - Madison, WI
  24. University of Colorado School of Medicine - Aurora, CO
  25. University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry - Rochester, NY
  26. University of Utah School of Medicine - Salt Lake City, UT
  27. University of Maryland School of Medicine - Baltimore, MD
  28. University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine - Iowa City, IA
  29. Albert Einstein College of Medicine - Bronx, NY
  30. University of California, San Diego School of Medicine - La Jolla, CA
  31. Ohio State University College of Medicine - Columbus, OH
  32. University of Minnesota Medical School - Minneapolis, MN
  33. Indiana University School of Medicine - Indianapolis, IN
  34. University of Cincinnati College of Medicine - Cincinnati, OH
  35. University of Massachusetts Medical School - Worcester, MA
  36. University of Miami Miller School of Medicine - Miami, FL
  37. University of Kentucky College of Medicine - Lexington, KY
  38. University of Oklahoma College of Medicine - Oklahoma City, OK
  39. Wake Forest School of Medicine - Winston-Salem, NC
  40. Medical College of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, WI
  41. Tufts University School of Medicine - Boston, MA
  42. University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson, AZ
  43. University of California, Irvine School of Medicine - Irvine, CA
  44. University of Nebraska Medical Center - Omaha, NE
  45. University of South Carolina School of Medicine - Columbia, SC
  46. Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine - Richmond, VA
  47. Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans - New Orleans, LA
  48. West Virginia University School of Medicine - Morgantown, WV
  49. Georgetown University School of Medicine - Washington, DC
  50. University of New Mexico School of Medicine - Albuquerque, NM

FAQs

 

What is a vitreo-retinal surgeon?

 

A: A vitreo-retinal surgeon is a specialized ophthalmologist who diagnoses and treats diseases and disorders of the retina, vitreous, and macula.

 

What kind of education is required to become a vitreo-retinal surgeon?

 

A: To become a vitreo-retinal surgeon, one must complete medical school, an ophthalmology residency, and a vitreo-retinal surgery fellowship.

 

What kind of conditions does a vitreo-retinal surgeon treat?

 

A: A vitreo-retinal surgeon treats a wide range of conditions, including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, and vitreous hemorrhage, among others.

 

Is vitreo-retinal surgery a common procedure?

 

A: Vitreo-retinal surgery is a specialized procedure that is not as common as other eye surgeries. It is typically performed by highly skilled surgeons.

 

What are the risks associated with vitreo-retinal surgery?

 

A: As with any surgery, there are risks associated with vitreo-retinal surgery, such as bleeding, infection, and vision loss. However, these risks are relatively low and can be minimized with proper pre- and post-operative care.

 

How long does it take to recover from vitreo-retinal surgery?

 

A: Recovery time can vary depending on the patient's individual circumstances and the complexity of the surgery. However, most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few weeks.

 

Can a vitreo-retinal surgeon treat cataracts?

 

A: While a vitreo-retinal surgeon can treat some conditions that affect the lens, such as vitreous hemorrhage caused by a traumatic cataract, they do not typically perform cataract surgery.

 

What kind of equipment does a vitreo-retinal surgeon use?

 

A: A vitreo-retinal surgeon uses specialized equipment, such as a surgical microscope and instruments specifically designed for retinal surgery.

 

What is the success rate of vitreo-retinal surgery?

 

A: The success rate of vitreo-retinal surgery varies depending on the specific condition being treated and the individual patient's circumstances. However, the success rate is generally high, with many patients experiencing significant improvement in their vision.

 

Are there any lifestyle changes that a patient must make after vitreo-retinal surgery?

 

A: In some cases, a patient may need to make temporary lifestyle changes, such as avoiding strenuous physical activity or taking certain medications. However, these changes are typically short-term and are designed to promote healing and recovery.
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