Both forms of macular degeneration usually affect both eyes simultaneously. Symptoms and Treatment Macular degeneration slowly or suddenly produces a painless loss of vision. Occasionally, the first symptom is a distortion in one eye, so that fine, straight lines appear wavy. Sometimes a doctor can see early physical changes near the macula even before symptoms develop. Macular degeneration can severely damage vision but rarely leads to complete blindness.
Little treatment is available for macular degeneration.
However, when new blood vessels grow in or around the macula, laser photocoagulation sometimes can destroy them before they do further harm. Retinal Detachment Retinal detachment is separation of the retina from its underlying support. The meshwork of nerves that make up the light-sensitive part of the retina forms a thin film that clings tightly to the supporting tissue beneath it. When these two layers separate, the retina can't function, and unless they're reattached, it can be permanently damaged. Detachment may begin in a small area, but if it isn't treated, the entire retina can detach.