Proudly rated 4.8 from 7,600+ patient reviews
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
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
Proudly rated 4.8 from 7,600+ patient reviews
“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…”
“I was always treated very friendly and professional and helpful”
“Good visit with Dr . Mina .”
“Dr. Garcia was cheerful and engaged. She took the time to explain the findings of the tests. She also happily answered some questions I had concerning my vision overall.”
“I had to wait about 25-30 minutes to see the doctor.”
“Excellent experience with my recent visit. This was on a Saturday, which is very convenient given my busy schedule. Dr Cameron took his time to do a thorough eye exam. Friendly and…”
“Dr. Kaluzny provides outstanding professional treatment and recommendations. The wait time spent in the office of two hours was unacceptable.”
“Dr. Joe Krug sets the standard for ophthalmology. He retires in a week…a huge loss.”
“He’s an amazing ophthalmologist. He has saved my sight two times in the past 10 years. He will be missed by a lot of glaucoma patients.”
“I always feel listened to and understand the explanations.”
“The waiting room needs new furniture. The seats are so worn I was afraid they would damage my clothes.”
“Dr Ryder and staff were amazing.”
“Wonderful and attentive staff. They all work together with Dr Stein to make sure I am receiving the best care. I like that they always answer any questions or concerns that I…”
“The server at this location was much faster and streamlined than other locations I’ve been to for my eye care. Much less crowded and each step in the process was handled much…”
“Professional eye care. Dr. Wang was cordial as well as her assistant.”
“I have been seeing Dr Krug and staff for over a decade. Great professionalism, competence and courtesy.”
“The doctor was very, very, very thorough and really deep examinations of my eyes to make sure everything was OK. I was very impressed with the amount of care and knowledge she…”
Retina Resources
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Retina FAQs
What happens during my first retina visit?
Your appointment will take 2–3 hours and includes a comprehensive eye exam, medical history review, and specialized retinal imaging. Your eyes will be dilated for thorough examination. Additional tests like OCT imaging or fluorescein angiography may be performed to assess your condition.
Are eye injections painful?
Despite how intimidating they sound, retinal injections are virtually painless. We use numbing drops to prepare your eye, and the injection itself takes only seconds. Most patients describe mild pressure at most — discomfort is minimal and brief.
How often will I need treatment?
Treatment frequency depends on your specific condition and how you respond. Many patients with wet AMD or diabetic macular edema begin with monthly injections, then transition to longer intervals. Your Charlotte eye surgeon will build a personalized schedule based on your response.
Will my vision be restored after treatment?
Treatment generally prevents further vision loss rather than reversing damage already done. Early intervention often preserves your existing vision and may produce some improvement. The key is catching conditions before significant damage occurs — which is why regular monitoring matters.
Can retinal disease be prevented?
Some risk factors like aging and genetics can't be changed, but controlling diabetes and blood pressure, not smoking, eating a diet rich in leafy greens and fish, wearing UV protection, and scheduling regular eye exams all meaningfully reduce your risk.
Why do I need frequent follow-up visits?
Retinal conditions can change rapidly, and your response to treatment must be carefully monitored. Regular visits allow your specialist to adjust your treatment plan and catch any changes before they affect your vision — protecting the sight you have.









