Solar Retinopathy Treatment in Newport Beach, 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.
UV exposure in Newport Beach's sunny coastal environment is a recognized risk factor for retinal conditions. Cumulative sun damage over years of beach living can contribute to solar retinopathy progression.
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 Newport Beach 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?
Newport Beach residents may notice symptoms more acutely during outdoor activities—ocean glare, wind, and sand can amplify visual disturbances and discomfort:
- 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 Newport Beach's coastal residents, we consider your active outdoor lifestyle when recommending treatments—ensuring solutions work for beach activities, water sports, and sun exposure:
Solar Retinopathy FAQs for Newport Beach Patients
Common questions from Newport Beach patients about our eye care services
Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182
Solar Retinopathy Care for Newport Beach Residents
Solar Retinopathy demands prompt, expert evaluation—the retina cannot regenerate, so early intervention is critical. Living in Newport Beach's coastal environment adds unique considerations—UV exposure, wind, and salt air can influence both symptoms and treatment choices. Dr. Bonakdar uses widefield retinal imaging and OCT scanning to detect and monitor retinal pathology with high sensitivity. For Newport Beach patients with solar retinopathy, we provide thorough diagnostic workups and coordinate with retinal surgeons when intervention is needed, ensuring seamless continuity of care.
About Newport Beach
Affluent coastal community with active lifestyle residents
Population: 85,000+
Languages Spoken in Newport Beach
Our practice serves the diverse Newport Beach community. We provide care to patients who speak:
Eye Health Priorities for Newport Beach
- UV damage and photokeratitis from ocean glare
- Pterygium (surfer's eye) from wind and sun exposure
- Dry eye from salt air and coastal winds
- Sports vision needs for water activities
Conveniently Located Near Newport Beach Landmarks
Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Newport Beach patients living near:
Getting to Our Office from Newport Beach
Newport Beach 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 DirectionsNewport Beach Neighborhoods We Serve
- Balboa Island
- Corona del Mar
- Newport Coast
- Lido Isle
- Harbor View
- Bayshores
Zip codes: 92657, 92658, 92660, 92661, 92662, 92663
Why Newport Beach 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 Newport Beach 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 Newport Beach
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 Newport Beach
See why your neighbors in Newport Beach 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 Newport Beach and Orange County residents.