When it comes to retinal detachment, time is vision. Sudden flashes of light, new floaters, or a shadow across your vision could signal retinal detachment, a sight-threatening emergency that requires immediate care from a retina specialist. Knowing the warning signs and acting quickly can help save your sight. Learn more about the symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options in our patient guide, Understanding Retinal Detachment, available in both English and Spanish. Download your copy today at asrs.org/patient-education. #RetinaSpecialist #RetinalDetachment #SeeforaLifetime

Have you ever wondered what the head-mounted device is that retina specialists use to get a close look at the retina? Indirect ophthalmoscopy is performed in combination with other diagnostic tests to help diagnose and monitor eye conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachments. During the exam, the retina specialist shines a bright light into the eye from a special head-mounted device. The retina specialist then uses another lens, called a handheld lens, to magnify the image of the back of the eye and examine it in detail. To learn more, download our Advanced Retinal Imaging patient guide at SeeforaLifetime.org/Resource… #SeeforaLifetime

When Kristin suddenly lost her vision during her second pregnancy, she feared she would never see her baby. Living with type 1 diabetes and diabetic retinopathy, Kristin experienced a serious complication that left her unable to see out of either eye. Thanks to sight-saving surgery performed by ASRS Immediate Past President Geoffrey G. Emerson, MD, PhD, Kristin regained her vision. In a new Diabetes Daily feature, Kristin and Dr. Emerson share her remarkable story and explain why regular dilated eye exams and prompt attention to vision changes are especially important for people with diabetes during pregnancy. Read their story: diabetesdaily.com/articles/s… Learn more about diabetic eye disease, retina specialists and more at SeeforaLifetime.org. #SeeforaLifetime #DiabeticEyeDisease #RetinaSpecialist

Medicare open enrollment starts tomorrow, October 15, and runs through December 7. If you have a retinal condition, this is a good time to take a close look at your plan. Before you choose, ask: · Will all of my doctors and surgery centers accept this plan? · Will I have to try other drugs first (step therapy) before getting the one my retina specialist recommends? · What will I pay overall, not just the monthly premium? Our open enrollment checklist walks through these questions and more: asrs.org/MedicareOpenEnrollm…. Need help? Call 1-800-MEDICARE or contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for free local counseling. #MedicareOpenEnrollment #SeeforaLifetime #RetinaSpecialist

On #WorldSightDay, we encourage everyone to learn more about retinal conditions and the steps you can take to preserve and protect healthy retinas. Safeguard your sight by knowing the signs and symptoms of retinal disease, recognizing the risks, and seeking early treatment from a retina specialist. Looking for a trusted patient resource? Explore the ASRS patient education materials, including the "What is a Retina Specialist?" patient guide, available in English and Spanish. SeeforaLifetime.org/Resource… #LoveYourEyes #RetinaSpecialist #ASRS

Pumpkins and winter squash bring delicious flavor and plenty of color to fall meals, along with nutrients that support healthy vision. Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as lutein, zeaxanthin, and zinc, these seasonal favorites are a nutritious addition to your fall menu and a simple way to support your retina health. Learn more about healthy habits that can help protect your sight at ASRS.org/patients. #FallFavorites #RetinaHealth #RetinaSpecialist #SeeforaLifetime

Medicare Open Enrollment begins October 15. Before choosing or changing your Medicare coverage for 2027, take time to make sure your plan will meet your retina care needs. A few important questions to ask: • Is your retina specialist in network? • Are the medications you need covered? • Does the plan require prior authorization or step therapy for retinal treatments? • Is your preferred hospital or surgery center in network? • How much will you really pay for visits, tests, and treatments? The ASRS Medicare Open Enrollment guide can help you know what to look for before making a decision. Learn more: asrs.org/MedicareOpenEnrollm… #SeeforaLifetime

The American Society of Retina Specialists offers an extensive collection of FREE patient resources to help you make informed decisions about your retina health, including: • Find Your Retina Specialist locator • Retina Health Fact Sheets covering 40+ conditions • Patient Guides • Educational videos on retinal conditions and retina specialists • Patient stories and testimonials • Medicare Open Enrollment information Visit and share these science backed resources today. Explore the collection at SeeforaLifetime.org #HealthyAgingMonth

This #HealthyAgingMonth, learn the risk factors for retinal disease. Age, family history, and health conditions like diabetes can increase your risk of developing sight-threatening retinal conditions. Talk to your eye physician about your personal risk factors and the steps you can take to protect your vision. Knowing your risk and detecting retinal disease early can help preserve your sight for years to come. Learn more at SeeforaLifetime.org. #SeeforaLifetime

Regular dilated eye exams are especially important for older Americans and those at higher risk for retinal diseases like diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. Many retinal diseases have few noticeable symptoms in early stages. With regular dilatedeye exams,your eye physician can help preserve your sight by detecting symptoms of a retinal condition early, before extensive damage occurs. Can't remember the last time you had a dilated eye exam? Schedule one today. More at SeeforaLifetime.org #RetinaSpecialist #HealthyAgingMonth

Medicare Open Enrollment starts in a few short weeks. If you’re thinking about switching plans, make sure you review our Medicare Open Enrollment Patient Checklist first. Retina patients should take a close look at: • Whether your plan will continue to cover your retina specialist and needed medications • If the plan requires preauthorization for tests or procedures • Whether it uses “step therapy” (or “fail first” policies) that could delay or restrict the treatment your retina specialist recommends Take Note: Original Medicare does not allow step therapy. Get the facts you need to make an informed choice: asrs.org/MedicareOpenEnrollm… #HealthyAgingMonth #RetinaSpecialists

September is Healthy Aging Month! Maintaining healthy vision is an important part of aging well, and taking steps to protect your sight can make a lasting difference. While some vision changes are common with age, vision loss is not inevitable. Early detection and timely treatment of retinal conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment can help preserve your sight. Follow us for expert tips from retina specialists to help you protect your vision and see for a lifetime. Learn more at SeeforaLifetime.org. #HealthyAgingMonth #SeeforaLifetime

When Jose first noticed changes in his vision, he put off seeing his eye doctor. But as his vision gradually worsened, he knew he couldn’t wait any longer. Jose was referred to a retina specialist and was diagnosed with a macular hole, along with retinal tears and a retinal detachment. After undergoing multiple procedures, he regained good eyesight and returned to the activities he loves, including working, driving, traveling, and photography. Jose’s experience is an important reminder: Don’t ignore changes in your vision. Seeking care from a retina specialist can make a difference. Read Jose’s story today: asrs.org/patients/patient-st…. #SeeforaLifetime #RetinaSpecialist

You may have heard of a macular hole, but have you ever seen one? A macular hole is a small break in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for the sharp, detailed central vision needed for activities like reading and driving. Symptoms can include blurred or distorted vision or a dark spot in the center of your vision. Learn more about this condition, including symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, when you download the ASRS Retina Health Series fact sheet on macular holes, available in English, Spanish, Chinese and Large Print asrs.org/patients/retinal-di…. Image: Traumatic Macular Hole. ASRS Retina Image Bank®, Image 2858. #SeeforaLifetime

What does it take to become a retina specialist? Years of medical education and specialized training prepare retina specialists to diagnose and treat complex diseases of the retina, macula and vitreous and perform delicate, sight-saving surgery. Learn more about who retina specialists are, the conditions they treat and how they help patients preserve their vision. Download the What Is a Retina Specialist? patient guide, available in English and Spanish: asrs.org/patients/patient-ed… #SeeforaLifetime #RetinaSpecialist

Have an upcoming appointment with a retina specialist? A little preparation can help you make the most of your visit. Our Preparing for Your Retina Appointment guide offers helpful tips on what to bring, what to expect, and questions you may want to ask your retina specialist. The guide is available in English and Spanish. Download and share it with family and friends today. Learn more: asrs.org/patients/patient-ed… #SeeforaLifetime

ASRS is fighting CMS’ harmful Modifier -25 cut proposal on all fronts. While President Geoff Emerson is taking the message directly to DC, you can join in from home: asrs.quorum.us/campaign/cong…

What happens inside the eye when a retinal detachment occurs? A retinal detachment happens when the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, separates from the back wall of the eye. Watch to see what happens when the retina detaches and why prompt treatment is so important. Learn more about the symptoms, risk factors and treatment of retinal detachment in our Retina Health Series fact sheet: asrs.org/patients/retinal-di… #SeeforaLifetime

DYK? Retina specialists are among the most extensively trained and highly skilled eye care providers, having completed up to 10 years of advanced medical training to specialize in ophthalmology and sub-specialize in diseases and surgery of the retina. To learn even more, watch and share our informational video: “Retina Specialists: Helping You See for a Lifetime.” The video features three patients facing common retinal conditions whose lives have been changed and vision preserved because of the unique care provided by their retina specialist. It also covers everything you ever wanted to know about retinas and retina specialists, including: • How the retina makes sight possible • What conditions retina specialists treat • The breadth and depth of a retina specialist’s education, training, and surgical experience • The importance of seeking out a retina specialist to preserve vision and prevent blindness Watch now and share with others who might someday need the expert care retina specialists provide. Learn more at SeeforaLifetime.org. #RetinaSpecialist #SeeforaLifetime

Could menopausal hormone therapy influence AMD progression? On the JVRD Author’s Forum Podcast, Talisa E. de Carlo Forest, MD, joins host Dr. Timothy Murray to discuss her article, “Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Conversion From Intermediate to Advanced Age-Related Macular Degeneration.” The study followed women with intermediate AMD and found that a history of menopausal hormone therapy use was not associated with an increased risk of progression to either advanced non-neovascular AMD or neovascular AMD. Dr. Forest discusses the findings, the potential role of hormonal factors in AMD, and why further research into sex-specific factors may help us better understand AMD progression. Watch: piped.video/DbXpThg2-C0?si=BniM… More: ASRS.org/JVRDForum

Have questions about age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? ASRS member retina specialists have answers. ASRS spokespeople recently shared their expertise with WebMD, answering common questions about AMD, including symptoms and diagnosis, risk factors, disease progression, and treatment. Explore the WebMD AMD Q&A and hear directly from retina specialists about what patients and families should know: webmd.com/eye-health/macular… #AMD #RetinaSpecialist #SeeforaLifetime

Nearly 1 in 8 people worldwide could see at least part of today’s solar eclipse, weather permitting. The path of totality will cross Greenland and Iceland before sweeping across Spain and a small part of Portugal, while a partial eclipse will be visible across much of Western Europe, Canada and part of the northern U.S. Looking directly at the sun without proper protection can damage the retina, potentially causing permanent blurred vision or blind spots, a condition known as solar retinopathy. If you’re in a location experiencing a partial eclipse, the safest and most common way to view it is with pinhole projection. For direct viewing, special filters are required. The easiest option is commercially available eclipse glasses manufactured specifically for solar observation. Regular sunglasses are not enough. If you experience vision changes during or after the eclipse, seek immediate care from a retina specialist. Learn more: ASRS.org/SolarRetinopathy #SolarEclipse #RetinaSpecialist #SeeforaLifetime

People in Iceland, Greenland, northern Russia, Spain, and a part of Portugal will see a total eclipse on Wednesday, August 12. A total solar eclipse is when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, fully blocking the Sun's face. A partial eclipse will be visible in northern parts of the United States. Viewing an eclipse can be an awe-inspiring event. Still, retina specialists warn the public that proper precautions, including wearing specialized eye protection, should be taken to safeguard sight from harmful solar radiation. To learn more about how to safely view a solar eclipse and protect your vision, visit asrs.org/SolarRetinopathy. Should you experience vision changes during or following the viewing of an eclipse, seek immediate consultation with a retina specialist.

Rich, an engineer and father who is extremely nearsighted, experienced retinal detachment symptoms on the last day of a vacation. Fortunately, he had been proactive in having regular dilated eye exams, had established a relationship with a retina specialist, and knew immediate action was needed when symptoms appeared. Learn more about Rich's story at asrs.org/patients/patient-st…

Has someone you love been diagnosed with age-related #MacularDegeneration, or AMD? The American Society of Retina Specialists and the National Eye Institute produced the Talk with Your Doctor About AMD guide, which can help people ask essential questions about the condition. Take a look and share it with your loved one: asrs.org/content/documents/a…. More info at SeeforaLifetime.org.

That's a wrap on #ASRS2026! Thank you to everyone who joined us in Montreal for an incredible week of cutting-edge science, meaningful discussions, hands-on learning, and reconnecting with colleagues from around the world. Your passion for advancing retina care made this Annual Meeting one to remember. Safe travels home, and we'll see you next year in San Francisco for #ASRS2027! Join us! asrs.org/annual-meeting

The results are in! Explore findings from the 28th Annual PAT Survey in the exhibit hall and see how retina practice patterns continue to evolve. #ASRS2026

Last full day at #ASRS2026 and we are kicking it off with an all-star expert panel on Retinal Detachment followed by Retinal Detachment Symposium 1. Don't miss the Hereditary Retinal Disease & Genetics Panel and the Best of JVRD all before the first break.

ASRS is proud to advocate for retina specialists and their patients next week in Washington, D.C. at the #ASMFlYIN. Chair of the ASRS Federal Affairs Committee, Odette M. Houghton, MD, FASRS, shares her thoughts on connecting with policymakers and other specialty physicians to advocate for access to specialty care and other critical priorities. @SpecialtyDocs

The American Society of Retina Specialists is proud to recognize the individuals whose dedication, innovation, and leadership continue to advance the field of retina. Congratulations to this year's award recipients, honored during #ASRS2026 in Montreal. Join us in celebrating their outstanding achievements. Learn more about the ASRS awards at asrs.org/awards.

One of the best parts of #ASRS2026? Seeing retina specialists from across the globe connecting, collaborating, and learning from one another. What's been your biggest takeaway from a conversation you've had this week?

Don't wait! Physician attendees at #ASRS2026 should pick up a Retina Passport at registration and start collecting stamps throughout the exhibit hall. • Collect 30 stamps to receive an ASRS Ember Mug. • Collect 60 stamps to be entered to win complimentary registration for #ASRS2027. Be sure to turn in your completed passport by Noon on Saturday to enter the raffle, and by 2:00 PM Saturday to claim your Ember Mug.

Join us in the General Session now for another great day of "all things retina" @ASRS2026!

The Exhibit Hall comes alive tonight! Join us for the Scientific Poster & Exhibit Hall Reception to network with colleagues, enjoy refreshments, and discuss the latest retina research with poster presenters 5:10 PM - 6:30 PM. #ASRS2026

Don't miss your chance to test drive some of the field’s latest surgical products and instrumentation. Physician attendees can sign up for 30 minutes visit at the #ASRS2026 Surgical Experience Center for interactive, hands-on lab activities. Visit the exhibit hall and click the QR code on the wall of the Experience Center to secure your spot!

Are you an ASRS member attending #ASRS2026? Please attend today’s ASRS Business Meeting starting at 1:29 PM in the General Session (Room 210) to learn more about ASRS’s top advocacy priorities and hear how you can help make a difference for retina.

Physician attendees at #ASRS2026, pick up a Retina Passport at registration, collect 30 stamps in the exhibit hall to receive an ASRS ember mug and 60 stamps to enter to win free registration for #ASRS2027. Do not delay, drop off your passports before Noon on Saturday to enter the raffle and by 2:00 PM later that day to pick up your ember mug.

#ASRS2026 is underway! We're kicking things off with an AMD Neovascular Expert panel followed by the Real-World nAMD Symposia. Don't miss today's presentations highlighting the newest and most advanced retina science in the world. What are you excited to learn this week?

Bonjour Montreal! #ASRS2026 registration is open, grab your badge and join us in room 210B for Retina Surgery Around the Globe followed by the Circus of Complications.

Congratulations to the 2026 Packo Service Award recipient, Joel A. Pearlman, MD, PhD, FASRS! Learn more about the Packo Service Award and its past winners at asrs.org/packoaward. #ASRS2026

The Foundation of the ASRS has selected Yoshihiro Yonekawa, MD, FASRS, as the winner of the 13thh annual ASRS Presidents’ Young Investigator Award. Learn more about the award at asrs.org/younginvestigatoraw…. #ASRS2026

Congratulations to Carl C. Awh, MD, FASRS, winner of this year’s ASRS Founders Award! Learn more about Dr. Awh and past winners at asrs.org/foundersaward. #ASRS2026

Congratulations to Glenn J. Jaffe, MD, FASRS, 2026 recipient of The Retina Research Foundation’s Gertrude D. Pyron Award! Learn more about Dr. Jaffe's accomplishments at asrs.org/pyronaward #ASRS2026

Inspired by the World Cup? ⚽ Heading out for a soccer game of your own? A blow to the eye from a ball, elbow, or finger can cause a retinal tear or detachment. Learn how to protect your sight with ASRS's Sports Safety for Retina Health guide: SeeforaLifetime.org/Resource… #SeeforaLifetime

A few tiny floaters at a farmers' market changed Jack's life. After recurrent retinal detachments, expert retina specialist care and low vision support have helped him continue running his family's lavender farm and serving his community. Read his story: SeeforaLifetime.org/patient-… #RetinaSpecialist #SeeforaLifetime

What would you do if part of your vision suddenly disappeared? A retinal detachment is a sight-threatening emergency that can cause a dark shadow, curtain, or missing area in your field of vision, like the simulation shown here. Warning signs may include: • A sudden increase in floaters • Flashes of light • Blurred vision Prompt evaluation and treatment by a retina specialist can help preserve vision. If you experience these symptoms, don't wait. Learn more about retinal detachment and find a retina specialist near you at SeeforaLifetime.org. #SeeforaLifetime #RetinaSpecialist

When Joe's vision became blurry from diabetic macular edema (DME), he worried about missing some of life's biggest moments—including cheering on his favorite Chicago sports teams. With expert care from retina specialists, a personalized treatment plan, and a renewed commitment to his health, Joe was able to regain nearly perfect vision and focus on the future. Read Joe's inspiring story and learn why timely care from a retina specialist can make all the difference: asrs.org/patients/patient-st… #RetinaHealth #RetinaSpecialist #PatientStory #SeeforaLifetime

As Healthy Vision Month comes to a close, we hope you learned more about how healthy retinas make healthy vision possible. ASRS offers a wide range of trusted resources for people with retinal conditions, as well as their friends and loved ones. Visit SeeforaLifetime.org to explore patient guides, videos, fact sheets, patient stories, and additional resources designed to help you better understand retinal disease and when to contact a retina specialist to protect your sight. Share these trusted resources with friends and family to help support healthy vision for a lifetime. #SeeforaLifetime #HealthyVisionMonth

After sudden vision loss during pregnancy left her nearly blind, Kristin feared she might never see again. A retina specialist’s swift, carefully planned surgery restored her sight and protected both her and her unborn child. Some vision changes during pregnancy can signal serious retinal conditions that require urgent evaluation. Don’t ignore flashes, floaters, blurred vision, or sudden vision loss. Read Kristin’s full story and learn more about pregnancy and retina health: SeeforaLifetime.org/patients…. #HealthyVisionMonth #SeeforaLifetime

#DYK? Healthy habits that support your overall wellness can also help protect your retinas and preserve healthy vision. Managing blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol, staying active, eating nutritious foods, and avoiding smoking all play a role in retina health. Explore ASRS’s Healthy Habits for Healthy Vision patient guide: SeeforaLifetime.org/patient-… #HealthyVisionMonth #SeeforaLifetime

During #HealthyVisionMonth, download and print the Preparing for Your Retina Appointment Guide. The guide includes information on what to expect during your appointment with your retina specialist, what to bring, and other helpful tips. It also provides a list of questions you may want to ask your retina specialist to better understand and care for your retinal condition. Access the guide in English and Spanish at SeeforaLifetime.org/Resource…. #SeeforaLifetime #retinaspecialist

Pregnancy can bring many changes, including changes that may affect vision. You can take steps to help protect your retina health during pregnancy: • Keep blood sugar under control • Monitor blood pressure • Attend recommended eye exams • Report vision changes right away Small steps can make a big difference in protecting your sight. Learn more at SeeforaLifetime.org #HealthyVisionMonth #RetinaSpecialist #SeeforaLifetime

Healthy Vision Month is the perfect time to learn more about the retina and the important role it plays in healthy sight. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that sends visual signals to the brain, allowing you to see the world around you. Diseases of the retina can threaten vision and even lead to blindness if left untreated. Watch our “What Is the Retina?” video to learn more. SeeforaLifetime.org #HealthyVisionMonth #RetinaSpecialist #SeeforaLifetime

Most vision changes during pregnancy are temporary. However, some may be signs of serious retinal disease that require prompt care from a retina specialist. Retinal conditions during pregnancy are more likely if you have: • Diabetes • High blood pressure or preeclampsia • A history of retinal disease • Rapid changes in blood sugar Even healthy pregnancies can come with unexpected vision changes, so new symptoms should always be evaluated. Learn more at SeeforaLifetime.org #HealthyVisionMonth #RetinaSpecialist #SeeforaLifetime