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Retina·University Hills, Orange County

PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature) Treatment in University Hills, California

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. · Updated February 2026

PFV (formerly called PHPV) is a congenital developmental eye abnormality where fetal blood vessels that normally regress before birth fail to disappear. This can cause a white pupil (leukocoria), cataracts, glaucoma, and abnormal eye development. The condition ranges from mild to severe and may threaten vision in the affected eye. Early diagnosis is critical to differentiate PFV from retinoblastoma (eye cancer) and to determine if surgical intervention can preserve or improve vision.

University Hills patients experiencing pfv/phpv (persistent fetal vasculature) benefit from our 35+ years of diagnostic experience and advanced imaging capabilities, ensuring accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.

Dr. Bonakdar on PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature)

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert pfv/phpv (persistent fetal vasculature) diagnosis and treatment for patients in University Hills and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.

What is PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature)?

PFV (formerly called PHPV) is a congenital developmental eye abnormality where fetal blood vessels that normally regress before birth fail to disappear. This can cause a white pupil (leukocoria), cataracts, glaucoma, and abnormal eye development. The condition ranges from mild to severe and may threaten vision in the affected eye. Early diagnosis is critical to differentiate PFV from retinoblastoma (eye cancer) and to determine if surgical intervention can preserve or improve vision.

How is PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature) treated?

Treatment options include Comprehensive eye examination and imaging, Differentiation from retinoblastoma (critical), Cataract surgery if significant cataract present, Vitrectomy surgery for severe cases. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature)?

Common symptoms include White pupil (leukocoria) in infancy, Smaller eye size (microphthalmos), Cataract in one eye, Crossed eyes (strabismus), Poor vision in affected eye. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature)?

University Hills residents experiencing any combination of the following symptoms should schedule a comprehensive evaluation:

  • White pupil (leukocoria) in infancy
  • Smaller eye size (microphthalmos)
  • Cataract in one eye
  • Crossed eyes (strabismus)
  • Poor vision in affected eye
  • Glaucoma (elevated eye pressure)
  • Usually affects only one eye

How is PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature) treated?

Treatment for University Hills patients is tailored to the specific type and severity of their condition. Options available at our practice include:

Comprehensive eye examination and imaging
Differentiation from retinoblastoma (critical)
Cataract surgery if significant cataract present
Vitrectomy surgery for severe cases
Glaucoma management if present
Amblyopia (lazy eye) treatment in children
Long-term monitoring for complications

PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature) FAQs for University Hills Patients

Common questions from University Hills patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose pfv/phpv (persistent fetal vasculature) using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. University Hills patients receive the same comprehensive diagnostic technology used at major academic eye centers, right here in Orange County.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for pfv/phpv (persistent fetal vasculature) including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. Dr. Bonakdar personalizes each University Hills patient's treatment plan based on condition severity, lifestyle demands, and long-term visual goals.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible from University Hills, with appointment times designed to fit your schedule.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for pfv/phpv (persistent fetal vasculature) diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182

PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature) Care for University Hills Residents

University Hills patients seeking care for pfv/phpv (persistent fetal vasculature) benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. We provide thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment tailored to your individual needs. Whether your condition requires ongoing monitoring, medical therapy, or surgical co-management, our practice ensures continuity of care from diagnosis through recovery.

About University Hills

Academic community surrounding UC Irvine

Population: 15,000+

University studentsFaculty and staffGraduate studentsInternational students

Languages Spoken in University Hills

Our practice serves the diverse University Hills community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishMandarinKoreanVietnameseFarsi

Eye Health Priorities for University Hills

  • Comprehensive eye examinations
  • Contact lens fittings
  • Glasses and eyewear
  • Eye disease treatment
  • Emergency eye care

Conveniently Located Near University Hills Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills patients living near:

University of California, Irvine
UCI Medical Center
Aldrich Park
University Town Center

Getting to Our Office from University Hills

Drive Time
20 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
6.7 mi

University Hills patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 20 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get Directions

University Hills Neighborhoods We Serve

  • University Park
  • UCI Campus Area

Zip codes: 92617

Don't Delay Treatment for PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature)

Without timely care, pfv/phpv (persistent fetal vasculature) can lead to lasting visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best outcomes for University Hills patients.

Why University Hills Patients Choose EyeCare Center for PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature)

Retinal Imaging Technology

Widefield retinal photography and OCT scanning detect pfv/phpv (persistent fetal vasculature) changes that may not be visible during standard examination.

Early Detection Focus

Retinal conditions are often treatable when caught early—our comprehensive exams screen for pathology before symptoms appear.

Retinal Specialist Network

When University Hills patients need retinal intervention, we coordinate seamlessly with fellowship-trained retinal surgeons.

Ongoing Monitoring

Structured follow-up schedules ensure pfv/phpv (persistent fetal vasculature) progression is tracked and treatment adjusted as needed.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature) Specialist in University Hills

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating pfv/phpv (persistent fetal vasculature) and complex eye conditions. Trained at the #1-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsBascom Palmer
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from University Hills

See why your neighbors in University Hills trust us with their vision.

Comprehensive Exam

"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."

emily garcia
Santa Ana, CA

Comprehensive Exam

"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."

Eduardo arias
Santa Ana, CA

Schedule Your PFV/PHPV (Persistent Fetal Vasculature) Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for University Hills and Orange County residents.