Early care for diabetic eye disease available in Sydney

Advanced retinal treatments may help manage leaking blood vessels and swelling to support clearer vision when diabetes affects your eyes

Early care for diabetic eye disease available in Sydney

Advanced retinal treatments may help manage leaking blood vessels and swelling to support clearer vision when diabetes affects your eyes

With diabetic eye disease treatment, you may help protect your vision

Quickly discover how modern therapies may help manage the risks of diabetes-related eye changes
  • Treatment for diabetic eye disease is recommended when damage to the retina, or signs of leaking or new blood vessels, is detected in someone with diabetes.
  • This includes diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular oedema, and related complications.
  • Suitability depends on the extent of retinal changes, vision impact, overall health (diabetes control, blood pressure, cholesterol), and eye health status.
  • If screening finds leakage, swelling, new vessels or vision loss risk, your ophthalmologist may recommend treatments like injections, lasers or surgery.
  • Early diagnosis and close monitoring increase the chance of favourable outcomes.
  • Diabetic eye disease treatments aim to reduce leaking blood vessels, swelling in the retina and abnormal vessel growth.
  • Common therapies include intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF medications to reduce fluid and abnormal vessels, and retinal laser photocoagulation to seal leaking vessels and reduce oxygen demand in damaged areas.
  • In advanced cases, vitrectomy surgery may remove blood or scar tissue inside the eye.
  • These treatments may stabilise vision and reduce the risk of further damage, but work best when combined with good systemic control of diabetes, blood pressure and lipids.
  • The advantage of timely treatment for diabetic eye disease is potential stabilisation of vision and reduction in risk of serious vision loss.
  • Treatments are increasingly effective and widely available in major clinics.
  • However, treatments require ongoing monitoring and sometimes repeated injections or laser sessions.
  • Outcomes vary based on how early damage is identified, how well diabetes is managed and whether other eye problems exist.
  • Some vision loss may still occur despite optimal treatment.
  • A thorough assessment helps you understand the likely benefits and commitments required.
  • As with most treatments, diabetic eye disease interventions carry risks.
  • Intravitreal injections may cause temporary discomfort, floaters or, rarely, infection.
  • Laser therapy can affect peripheral vision or contrast if extensive. Surgery (vitrectomy) has higher risks including bleeding, retinal detachment or cataract progression.
  • The progression of the disease itself may also affect outcomes.
  • Your ophthalmologist will discuss all risks based on your eye condition, the treatment chosen and your general health, so you can make an informed decision.
  • If advanced treatment isn’t yet required, alternatives include close monitoring with regular eye checks, optimising diabetes control, blood pressure and cholesterol, and using updated glasses or low-vision aids if vision is already affected.
  • Lifestyle management, such as diet, exercise and quitting smoking, also plays a key role. Early detection and optimised health may reduce the need for invasive treatments.
  • Early and appropriate treatment for diabetic eye disease may preserve vision and reduce the risk of significant vision loss.
  • When treated promptly, many people maintain functional vision and feel reassured about their eye health.
  • Outcomes depend on how advanced the disease is, how well diabetes and other health factors are managed, and how closely follow-up is maintained.
  • Some people may still have lasting changes in vision requiring glasses or aids.
  • Your ophthalmologist will discuss your individual prognosis and help set realistic expectations.

GAIN VISUAL FREEDOM IN 3 EASY STEPS

Eye treatment options can be confusing, we’ve made the path to healthier vision easy to follow

STEP 1: GET IN TOUCH

Every eye is different. The first step is to find out which treatment could help you see more clearly and protect your long-term vision. Call our caring team or use our online calendar to book an appointment.

STEP 2: WE’LL MEET

During your appointment, we’ll examine your eyes and explain which treatment options may suit your condition and lifestyle. You’ll receive expert advice and a clear, personalised plan.

STEP 3: ENJOY FREEDOM

After treatment, many people feel relief knowing their eyes are healthier and their sight is clearer. With proper care, you can look forward to years of confident, comfortable vision.

Take the first step toward clearer, healthier vision

Book an appointment to learn more about your eyes and the treatment options that may suit you

Take the first step toward clearer, healthier vision

Book an appointment to learn more about your eyes and the treatment options that may suit you

Hi, I’m Dr Daya Sharma

I’m a cataract, corneal and refractive surgeon with subspecialty training from Moorfields Eye Hospital in London and Sydney Eye Hospital. I perform laser vision correction procedures, refractive lens surgery, and advanced cataract surgery using the latest diagnostic and surgical technology. My work is focused on helping people reduce their dependence on glasses and improve their quality of vision at all distances. I’m actively involved in research, publication and surgical education, and I take pride in offering honest, thorough guidance to every patient. My approach is personal, careful and always tailored to individual needs and lifestyles.

Hi, I’m Dr Shanel Sharma

I’m an ophthalmologist with subspecialty training in paediatric eye conditions, strabismus, medical retina and general ophthalmology from leading hospitals in Sydney and London, including Moorfields Eye Hospital. I hold a Fellowship with RANZCO and have published widely in peer-reviewed journals. My focus is providing careful, individualised care using evidence-based treatments. I’m accredited to treat a range of conditions and perform procedures including intravitreal injections, strabismus surgery and botulinum toxin treatments. I always aim to make the process clear, calm and supportive.