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Retina·Newport Coast, Orange County

Tratamiento de Optic Pit en Newport Coast, 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.

Newport Coast residents benefit from our widefield retinal imaging that captures over 200 degrees of the retina in a single shot, allowing Dr. Bonakdar to detect optic pit changes that standard examination may miss.

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 Newport Coast 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?

Newport Coast residents who value peak visual performance should be alert to even subtle changes—the following symptoms warrant professional evaluation:

  • 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?

Newport Coast patients have access to the full range of treatment options, including the most advanced technologies and premium solutions available:

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 Newport Coast Patients

Common questions from Newport Coast 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. Newport Coast patients benefit from our full suite of premium diagnostics, including wavefront analysis and widefield imaging, for the most comprehensive evaluation available.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for optic pit including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. Newport Coast patients have access to premium treatment options including the latest lens technologies and advanced therapeutic procedures available in Orange County.
Call (949) 323-3600 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Newport Coast patients enjoy our attentive scheduling with dedicated appointment blocks and minimal waiting, respecting your time from arrival to departure.
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 Newport Coast Residents

Optic Pit demands prompt, expert evaluation—the retina cannot regenerate, so early intervention is critical. Newport Coast residents appreciate our unhurried appointments, advanced technology, and personalized approach to every aspect of eye care. Dr. Bonakdar uses widefield retinal imaging and OCT scanning to detect and monitor retinal pathology with high sensitivity. For Newport Coast patients with optic pit, we provide thorough diagnostic workups and coordinate with retinal surgeons when intervention is needed, ensuring seamless continuity of care.

About Newport Coast

Ultra-luxury coastal community with world-class amenities and ocean views

Population: 10,000+

Ultra-affluent residentsExecutivesRetireesInternational residents

Languages Spoken in Newport Coast

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

EnglishMandarinFarsiSpanish

Eye Health Priorities for Newport Coast

  • LASIK and refractive surgery consultations
  • Premium and designer eyewear fitting
  • Advanced contact lens options
  • Cosmetic and aesthetic considerations
  • Executive eye health programs

Conveniently Located Near Newport Coast Landmarks

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

Crystal Cove State Park
Pelican Hill Golf Club
Resort at Pelican Hill
Crystal Cove Historic District
Newport Coast Shopping Center

Getting to Our Office from Newport Coast

Drive Time
20 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
10.8 mi

Newport Coast patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 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 Directions

Newport Coast Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Crystal Cove
  • Pelican Hill
  • Ridge Park

Zip codes: 92657

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 Newport Coast patients.

Why Newport Coast 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 Newport Coast 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 Newport Coast

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 Newport Coast

See why your neighbors in Newport Coast 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 Newport Coast and Orange County residents.

Call (949) 323-3600

No aceptamos Medi-Cal