Retinal Imaging in Arizona

Photos and scans of the retina help reveal changes that may affect your vision. At Retinal Consultants of Arizona, retinal imaging supports diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing patient care across Arizona.

What Retinal Imaging Can Reveal

Digital retinal imaging creates detailed pictures of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. Depending on the test, images can also show the macula, which supports central vision, the optic nerve, and retinal blood vessels.

Different imaging methods reveal different details. Photographs document the retina’s appearance, while OCT scans show its layers and thickness. Dye-based angiography helps your specialist assess blood flow and identify leaking or blocked blood vessels.

Your retina specialist reviews these images alongside your eye examination to understand what is happening inside your eye. Comparing images from different visits can help track changes, assess how treatment is working, and guide your ongoing care.

Female retina specialist discussing retinal imaging results on a computer with an older male patient.

Eye Conditions Retinal Imaging Can Help Detect

1

Diabetic Retinopathy

Leaking blood vessels, retinal bleeding, swelling, and other changes associated with diabetes.

2

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Drusen deposits, macular changes, retinal fluid, and signs of advanced disease.

3

Glaucoma

Changes to the optic nerve and thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layers, particularly with OCT imaging.

4

Retinal Detachment

Areas where the retina has separated from the underlying tissue are sometimes associated with retinal tears

5

Retinal Tears

Breaks or holes in the retina may increase the risk of retinal detachment.

6

Macular Edema

Swelling or fluid accumulation in the macula can affect central vision.

7

Macular Holes and Epiretinal Membranes

Structural changes affecting the macula are often seen with OCT imaging

8

Retinal Vein or Artery Occlusion

Blocked retinal blood vessels, bleeding, swelling, or areas of reduced blood supply

9

Hypertensive Retinopathy

Blood vessel narrowing, bleeding, and other retinal changes associated with high blood pressure

10

Inherited Retinal Diseases

Changes in retinal pigmentation, structure, or thickness associated with certain genetic conditions

What to Expect During Your Visit

For retinal photographs or OCT, you will sit in front of a camera or scanner and follow instructions on what to look at. Image capture usually takes a few minutes, although your full visit may take longer.

If your pupils are dilated, you may experience blurry vision and light sensitivity for several hours. Bring sunglasses and arrange for someone to drive you home. Our retina appointment preparation guide provides additional information to help you prepare.

How To Prepare for Your Appointment

Senior woman wearing dark wraparound sunglasses in the passenger seat of her son’s car after dilation at a retinal imaging appointment.

Imaging Tests Your Retina Specialist May Recommend

A specialized camera records the appearance of the retina. These images help your doctor compare changes between visits.

OCT uses light waves to create cross-sectional images of the retina. It helps your specialist assess retinal thickness, swelling, and fluid.

This test uses dye injected into a vein in your arm or hand. Photographs show blood flow and leakage in the retinal blood vessels.

Retinal Imaging vs. Dilation

Imaging records photos or scans. A dilated eye exam uses eye drops to widen your pupils so your doctor can examine the retina directly. The two often work together.

Some imaging systems can capture images without dilation, but they do not automatically replace a dilated exam and may incur additional costs. Your specialist will decide which tests you need.

Side-by-side comparison showing a retinal imaging camera on the left and a female eye doctor administering dilation drops to an older woman’s eye on the right.

FAQ: Retinal Imaging

Retinal imaging uses cameras or scanners to create detailed pictures of the back of your eye. Your specialist uses these images to help diagnose and monitor retinal conditions.

Imaging can reveal retinal swelling, bleeding, abnormal blood vessels, and changes associated with conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration. Your doctor interprets the images alongside your eye exam.

Your retina specialist recommends imaging based on your symptoms, examination findings, and any condition being monitored. Photographs and scans help document changes over time. Additional tests, such as fluorescein angiography, may be recommended when your doctor needs more information.

Some imaging systems can capture images without dilation, but they do not automatically replace a dilated eye exam. Your specialist will decide which tests and examinations you need.

Retinal photographs and OCT scans are usually painless. Bright lights may feel briefly uncomfortable. If you need fluorescein angiography, the injection may cause a brief sting, and the dye can sometimes cause temporary nausea. Tell your care team about any previous reaction to imaging dye.

Photographs and OCT scans usually take a few minutes. Allow additional time for dilation, other tests, and your doctor’s examination.

Coverage depends on your plan, the test, and why it is ordered. Review our accepted insurance plans and contact your insurer and our office to confirm benefits and any out-of-pocket costs.

Request a Retinal Evaluation

If your retina doctor recommends imaging or you need ongoing retinal care, our specialists can explain your results and next steps. Find a location near you and request an appointment today.

Request an Appointment Call (602) 222-2221