Sympathetic Ophthalmia Treatment in Surfside, California
Sympathetic Ophthalmia — At a Glance
Severity & Type
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate care. This condition can cause permanent vision loss without urgent treatment.
Key Symptoms
- Blurred vision, pain, and light sensitivity in the uninjured eye, typically weeks to months after the injury to the first eye.
Treatment Options
- Aggressive, long-term systemic immunosuppression with steroids and other agents.
- Prompt repair of the initial injury is important. In rare cases, removal of the severely injured, blind eye (enucleation) may be considered to prevent the disease.
A rare, bilateral diffuse granulomatous uveitis that occurs after a penetrating trauma or surgery to one eye (the 'exciting' eye). The body's immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy, uninjured eye (the 'sympathizing' eye).
Sympathetic Ophthalmia is an inflammatory condition that can have serious visual consequences if not properly managed. Surfside residents experiencing eye pain with redness and light sensitivity should seek prompt evaluation.
Dr. Bonakdar on Sympathetic Ophthalmia
Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert sympathetic ophthalmia 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 Sympathetic Ophthalmia?
A rare, bilateral diffuse granulomatous uveitis that occurs after a penetrating trauma or surgery to one eye (the 'exciting' eye). The body's immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy, uninjured eye (the 'sympathizing' eye).
How is Sympathetic Ophthalmia treated?
Treatment options include Aggressive, long-term systemic immunosuppression with steroids and other agents., Prompt repair of the initial injury is important. In rare cases, removal of the severely injured, blind eye (enucleation) may be considered to prevent the disease.. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.
What are the symptoms of Sympathetic Ophthalmia?
Common symptoms include Blurred vision, pain, and light sensitivity in the uninjured eye, typically weeks to months after the injury to the first eye.. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.
What are the symptoms of Sympathetic Ophthalmia?
Surfside residents experiencing any combination of the following symptoms should schedule a comprehensive evaluation:
- Blurred vision, pain, and light sensitivity in the uninjured eye, typically weeks to months after the injury to the first eye.
How is Sympathetic Ophthalmia treated?
Treatment for Surfside patients is tailored to the specific type and severity of their condition. Options available at our practice include:
Sympathetic Ophthalmia FAQs for Surfside Patients
Common questions from Surfside patients about our eye care services
Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182
Sympathetic Ophthalmia Care for Surfside Residents
Sympathetic Ophthalmia is an inflammatory condition that requires careful diagnosis and monitoring to prevent complications like glaucoma and cataract formation. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for Surfside residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. Our approach to uveitis management for Surfside patients includes identifying the underlying cause when possible, controlling active inflammation with targeted therapy, and monitoring for side effects of treatment. We work closely with rheumatologists and other specialists when systemic evaluation is needed.
About Surfside
Tiny exclusive gated beachfront colony
Population: 300+
Languages Spoken in Surfside
Our practice serves the diverse Surfside community. We provide care to patients who speak:
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:
Getting to Our Office from Surfside
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 DirectionsSurfside Neighborhoods We Serve
- Surfside Colony
Zip codes: 90743
Urgent: Sympathetic Ophthalmia Requires Immediate Attention
Sympathetic Ophthalmia is considered an ocular emergency. Surfside residents experiencing symptoms should seek evaluation as soon as possible to prevent irreversible vision loss.
Call Now: (714) 558-1182Why Surfside Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Sympathetic Ophthalmia
Uveitis Experience
Inflammatory eye conditions like sympathetic ophthalmia require careful differentiation—Dr. Bonakdar evaluates and treats all types of ocular inflammation.
Systemic Workup Coordination
Many uveitis cases have underlying systemic causes. We coordinate lab work and specialist referrals for Surfside patients.
Steroid Management
Experienced monitoring of anti-inflammatory therapy to control inflammation while minimizing side effects like elevated IOP and cataract.
Complication Surveillance
Regular screening for uveitis complications including glaucoma, cataract, and macular edema ensures early intervention.

Your Sympathetic Ophthalmia Specialist in Surfside
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating sympathetic ophthalmia 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 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."
Comprehensive Exam
"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."
Schedule Your Sympathetic Ophthalmia Consultation
Expert diagnosis and treatment for Surfside and Orange County residents.