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Retina·Laguna Woods, Orange County

Tratamiento de Optic Pit en Laguna Woods, California

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

An optic pit is a small, congenital, gray-white excavation in the optic nerve head that forms during eye development when the optic nerve fibers fail to close completely, leaving a focal depression at the disc. Optic pits are uncommon, are usually present in only one eye, and are typically located on the temporal side of the disc, though they can occur anywhere around its margin. Most optic pits cause no symptoms at all and are discovered incidentally during a routine dilated eye exam, since the pit itself does not interfere with central vision and many patients are completely unaware they have one until adulthood. The condition matters because of its principal complication: serous macular detachment, also called optic pit maculopathy, in which fluid tracks from the pit into the layers of the macula and separates the retina from its underlying support tissue. This maculopathy most commonly develops between ages 20 and 40 and causes gradually progressive blurred or distorted central vision, a change that is very different from the pit's usual silent course and should prompt urgent evaluation. Because the risk of maculopathy persists for life once an optic pit is identified, the standard of care is ongoing monitoring — periodic dilated exams and optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging of the macula — to catch fluid accumulation early, well before it causes noticeable vision changes. If OCT or exam findings show early fluid or macular thickening, or if a patient develops new central blur or distortion, prompt referral to a retina specialist is required. Treatment of optic pit maculopathy itself — which may include laser photocoagulation, vitrectomy surgery, or other retinal procedures depending on presentation — is performed by a fellowship-trained retina surgeon, not in a general optometry office; Dr. Bonakdar's role is diagnosis, baseline OCT documentation, ongoing surveillance, and coordinating a timely referral if the maculopathy develops. This condition is distinct from optic nerve coloboma with optic pits, a related but structurally different congenital anomaly involving a larger notch-like defect of the optic nerve rather than an isolated focal pit.

Optic Pit risk increases significantly with age, making regular retinal screening essential for Laguna Woods's mature residents. Many retinal conditions are treatable when caught before irreversible damage occurs.

Dr. Bonakdar on Optic Pit

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert optic pit diagnosis and treatment for patients in Laguna Woods 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 Optic Pit?

An optic pit is a small, congenital, gray-white excavation in the optic nerve head that forms during eye development when the optic nerve fibers fail to close completely, leaving a focal depression at the disc. Optic pits are uncommon, are usually present in only one eye, and are typically located on the temporal side of the disc, though they can occur anywhere around its margin. Most optic pits cause no symptoms at all and are discovered incidentally during a routine dilated eye exam, since the pit itself does not interfere with central vision and many patients are completely unaware they have one until adulthood. The condition matters because of its principal complication: serous macular detachment, also called optic pit maculopathy, in which fluid tracks from the pit into the layers of the macula and separates the retina from its underlying support tissue. This maculopathy most commonly develops between ages 20 and 40 and causes gradually progressive blurred or distorted central vision, a change that is very different from the pit's usual silent course and should prompt urgent evaluation. Because the risk of maculopathy persists for life once an optic pit is identified, the standard of care is ongoing monitoring — periodic dilated exams and optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging of the macula — to catch fluid accumulation early, well before it causes noticeable vision changes. If OCT or exam findings show early fluid or macular thickening, or if a patient develops new central blur or distortion, prompt referral to a retina specialist is required. Treatment of optic pit maculopathy itself — which may include laser photocoagulation, vitrectomy surgery, or other retinal procedures depending on presentation — is performed by a fellowship-trained retina surgeon, not in a general optometry office; Dr. Bonakdar's role is diagnosis, baseline OCT documentation, ongoing surveillance, and coordinating a timely referral if the maculopathy develops. This condition is distinct from optic nerve coloboma with optic pits, a related but structurally different congenital anomaly involving a larger notch-like defect of the optic nerve rather than an isolated focal pit.

How is Optic Pit treated?

Treatment options include Ongoing monitoring with dilated exams and OCT imaging, Prompt retina-specialist referral if maculopathy develops, Laser photocoagulation or vitrectomy surgery for maculopathy (performed by a retina surgeon). The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Optic Pit?

Common symptoms include Usually asymptomatic and found on routine exam, Blurred or distorted central vision if maculopathy develops, Gradual, progressive vision change (ages 20-40 most common). If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Optic Pit?

Laguna Woods's active adults should be particularly attentive to these warning signs, as age-related changes can cause symptoms to develop gradually:

  • Usually asymptomatic and found on routine exam
  • Blurred or distorted central vision if maculopathy develops
  • Gradual, progressive vision change (ages 20-40 most common)

How is Optic Pit treated?

For Laguna Woods's mature patients, treatment selection accounts for existing medications, systemic health conditions, and quality-of-life priorities:

Ongoing monitoring with dilated exams and OCT imaging
Prompt retina-specialist referral if maculopathy develops
Laser photocoagulation or vitrectomy surgery for maculopathy (performed by a retina surgeon)

Optic Pit FAQs for Laguna Woods Patients

Common questions from Laguna Woods patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose optic pit using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. For Laguna Woods's mature adults, we incorporate age-related screening and medication review as part of the diagnostic process, since systemic conditions can affect results.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for optic pit including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. For Laguna Woods's senior patients, we select treatments with attention to medication interactions, dexterity considerations, and overall comfort for long-term management.
Call (949) 323-3600 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Laguna Woods's senior patients appreciate our unhurried appointments and clear communication about treatment timelines and what to expect at each visit.
We accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, and Medicare for optic pit diagnosis and treatment. We don't take Medi-Cal. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

Have more questions? Call us at (949) 323-3600

We don't take Medi-Cal

Optic Pit Care for Laguna Woods Residents

Optic Pit demands prompt, expert evaluation—the retina cannot regenerate, so early intervention is critical. For Laguna Woods's active adult community, we take a comprehensive approach that considers age-related risk factors, medication interactions, and quality-of-life priorities. Dr. Bonakdar uses widefield retinal imaging and OCT scanning to detect and monitor retinal pathology with high sensitivity. For Laguna Woods patients with optic pit, we provide thorough diagnostic workups and coordinate with retinal surgeons when intervention is needed, ensuring seamless continuity of care.

About Laguna Woods

Active adult 55+ retirement community with exceptional amenities

Population: 16,000+

RetireesActive seniorsGolfersSocial community

Languages Spoken in Laguna Woods

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

EnglishSpanishKoreanMandarin

Eye Health Priorities for Laguna Woods

  • Cataracts and cataract surgery co-management
  • Glaucoma screening and management
  • Macular degeneration monitoring
  • Diabetic eye disease screening
  • Low vision aids and rehabilitation

Conveniently Located Near Laguna Woods Landmarks

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

Laguna Woods Village
Laguna Woods Village Golf Courses
Laguna Woods Village Clubhouses
Saddleback Memorial Medical Center

Getting to Our Office from Laguna Woods

Drive Time
25 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
12.4 mi

Laguna Woods patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 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

Laguna Woods Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Laguna Woods Village

Zip codes: 92637

Don't Delay Treatment for Optic Pit

Without timely care, optic pit can lead to lasting visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best outcomes for Laguna Woods patients.

Why Laguna Woods Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Optic Pit

Retinal Imaging Technology

Widefield retinal photography and OCT scanning detect optic pit 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 Laguna Woods patients need retinal intervention, we coordinate seamlessly with fellowship-trained retinal surgeons.

Ongoing Monitoring

Structured follow-up schedules ensure optic pit progression is tracked and treatment adjusted as needed.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. — Optometrist at EyeCare Center of Orange County specializing in keratoconus and scleral lenses
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. — California-licensed Optometrist with 35+ years of specialty contact lens practice. Graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry.

Your Optic Pit Specialist in Laguna Woods

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a California-licensed Optometrist (O.D.) with over 35 years of experience treating optic pit and complex eye conditions. A graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsIllinois College of Optometry
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from Laguna Woods

See why your neighbors in Laguna Woods 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 Optic Pit Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for Laguna Woods and Orange County residents.

Call (949) 323-3600

No aceptamos Medi-Cal