Solar Retinopathy Treatment in Costa Mesa, California
Solar Retinopathy — At a Glance
Severity & Type
When to See a Doctor
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam if you experience persistent symptoms.
Key Symptoms
- Blurred central vision
- A central or paracentral blind spot (scotoma)
- Distorted vision (metamorphopsia)
- Symptoms usually appear a few hours after sun exposure
Treatment Options
- There is no treatment to reverse the damage.
- Vision may improve slightly over several months, but some degree of a permanent blind spot is common.
- Prevention by never looking directly at the sun, especially during an eclipse, is key.
Damage to the retina, particularly the macula, from looking directly at the sun (sun gazing). This photochemical damage can cause a permanent small blind spot in the central vision.
Although screen use doesn't directly cause most retinal conditions, Costa Mesa tech workers with high myopia—common in near-work-intensive careers—face elevated risk for solar retinopathy and should have regular retinal monitoring.
Dr. Bonakdar on Solar Retinopathy
Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert solar retinopathy diagnosis and treatment for patients in Costa Mesa 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 Solar Retinopathy?
Damage to the retina, particularly the macula, from looking directly at the sun (sun gazing). This photochemical damage can cause a permanent small blind spot in the central vision.
How is Solar Retinopathy treated?
Treatment options include There is no treatment to reverse the damage., Vision may improve slightly over several months, but some degree of a permanent blind spot is common., Prevention by never looking directly at the sun, especially during an eclipse, is key.. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.
What are the symptoms of Solar Retinopathy?
Common symptoms include Blurred central vision, A central or paracentral blind spot (scotoma), Distorted vision (metamorphopsia), Symptoms usually appear a few hours after sun exposure. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.
What are the symptoms of Solar Retinopathy?
Costa Mesa professionals working at screens may first notice symptoms during extended computer use or at the end of a long workday:
- Blurred central vision
- A central or paracentral blind spot (scotoma)
- Distorted vision (metamorphopsia)
- Symptoms usually appear a few hours after sun exposure
How is Solar Retinopathy treated?
For Costa Mesa's digital professionals, we prioritize treatments compatible with extended screen use and offer strategies to optimize visual comfort during work hours:
Solar Retinopathy FAQs for Costa Mesa Patients
Common questions from Costa Mesa patients about our eye care services
Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182
Solar Retinopathy Care for Costa Mesa Residents
Solar Retinopathy demands prompt, expert evaluation—the retina cannot regenerate, so early intervention is critical. Many Costa Mesa residents work in screen-intensive professions, so we factor digital lifestyle demands into our diagnostic and treatment recommendations. Dr. Bonakdar uses widefield retinal imaging and OCT scanning to detect and monitor retinal pathology with high sensitivity. For Costa Mesa patients with solar retinopathy, we provide thorough diagnostic workups and coordinate with retinal surgeons when intervention is needed, ensuring seamless continuity of care.
About Costa Mesa
Diverse arts and shopping district community
Population: 113,000+
Languages Spoken in Costa Mesa
Our practice serves the diverse Costa Mesa community. We provide care to patients who speak:
Eye Health Priorities for Costa Mesa
- Computer vision syndrome treatment
- Digital eye strain solutions
- Blue light protection
- Dry eye from reduced blinking
- Ergonomic vision consultations
Conveniently Located Near Costa Mesa Landmarks
Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Costa Mesa patients living near:
Getting to Our Office from Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 55 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 DirectionsCosta Mesa Neighborhoods We Serve
- South Coast Metro
- Mesa Verde
- Eastside Costa Mesa
- Westside Costa Mesa
Zip codes: 92626, 92627, 92628
Why Costa Mesa Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Solar Retinopathy
Retinal Imaging Technology
Widefield retinal photography and OCT scanning detect solar retinopathy 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 Costa Mesa patients need retinal intervention, we coordinate seamlessly with fellowship-trained retinal surgeons.
Ongoing Monitoring
Structured follow-up schedules ensure solar retinopathy progression is tracked and treatment adjusted as needed.

Your Solar Retinopathy Specialist in Costa Mesa
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating solar retinopathy 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.
Patient Stories from Costa Mesa
See why your neighbors in Costa Mesa 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."
Comprehensive Exam
"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."
Schedule Your Solar Retinopathy Consultation
Expert diagnosis and treatment for Costa Mesa and Orange County residents.