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Retina·Surfside, Orange County

Solar Retinopathy Treatment in Surfside, California

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

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.

Solar Retinopathy requires expert evaluation because the retina cannot regenerate lost cells. Surfside patients benefit from our comprehensive retinal imaging to detect and monitor changes at the earliest possible stage.

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 Surfside 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?

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

  • 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?

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

Solar Retinopathy FAQs for Surfside Patients

Common questions from Surfside patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose solar retinopathy using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. Surfside patients receive the same comprehensive diagnostic technology used at major academic eye centers, right here in Orange County.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for solar retinopathy including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. Dr. Bonakdar personalizes each Surfside 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 Surfside, 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 solar retinopathy diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

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

Solar Retinopathy Care for Surfside Residents

Solar Retinopathy demands prompt, expert evaluation—the retina cannot regenerate, so early intervention is critical. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for Surfside residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. Dr. Bonakdar uses widefield retinal imaging and OCT scanning to detect and monitor retinal pathology with high sensitivity. For Surfside patients with solar retinopathy, we provide thorough diagnostic workups and coordinate with retinal surgeons when intervention is needed, ensuring seamless continuity of care.

About Surfside

Tiny exclusive gated beachfront colony

Population: 300+

Ultra-affluent residentsBeach loversPrivacy-seeking residents

Languages Spoken in Surfside

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

English

Eye Health Priorities for Surfside

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

Conveniently Located Near Surfside Landmarks

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

Surfside Colony Beach
Surfside Colony Guard Gate
Pacific Coast Highway

Getting to Our Office from Surfside

Drive Time
25 min
Primary Route
22 Freeway
Distance
12.6 mi

Surfside patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 22 Freeway in approximately 25 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

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

Surfside Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Surfside Colony

Zip codes: 90743

Why Surfside 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 Surfside 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.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Solar Retinopathy Specialist in Surfside

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.

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

Patient Stories from Surfside

See why your neighbors in Surfside 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 Solar Retinopathy Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for Surfside and Orange County residents.