Macular degeneration affects the macula — the centre of the retina that gives you sharp, detailed vision. The common dry form is managed with monitoring, AREDS2 supplements and lifestyle changes, while the wet form is treated with anti-VEGF injections that can stop leakage and often improve sight. The key to protecting vision is the right diagnosis and prompt, tailored care.
What is macular degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of central vision loss in older adults. It damages the macula, so central, detailed tasks — reading, recognising faces, driving — become difficult, while peripheral vision is usually preserved. It does not cause complete blindness, but it can significantly affect daily life if not managed.
There are two forms. Dry AMD is the more common, slowly progressive type, while wet AMD is less common but faster and sight-threatening — and treatable with injections. Telling them apart with imaging is essential, because their care is very different. Learn more about macular degeneration as a condition.
Dry vs wet AMD — and how each is treated
For wet AMD we offer rapid access to anti-VEGF injections. Related: dry AMD, wet AMD.
What an assessment involves
A macular assessment is quick and non-invasive. Your retinal specialist examines the macula and an OCT scan captures detailed cross-sections of the retina, showing drusen, fluid or leakage. Drops are often used to widen the pupil for a thorough view. This tells the specialist whether you have dry or wet AMD and how advanced it is — the foundation of the right treatment plan.
If wet AMD is found, treatment can begin promptly with anti-VEGF injections. If it is dry AMD, you will receive a monitoring schedule, supplement advice where appropriate, and guidance on protecting your vision.
Worried about your central vision? A macular assessment gives you clear answers and a plan.
Book a macular assessmentOngoing care and monitoring
Dry AMD
Steady OCT monitoring, AREDS2 supplements where suitable, and lifestyle measures. Home checks with an Amsler grid help you spot any change between visits.
Wet AMD
A course of anti-VEGF injections followed by an OCT-guided treat-and-extend schedule. Keeping to your appointments is key to protecting vision.
Warning signs
Contact the clinic promptly if straight lines look wavy, a new blur or dark patch appears in your central vision, or colours seem faded — these can signal wet AMD that needs urgent treatment.
How much does macular degeneration care cost?
A macular consultation with OCT imaging is from £240. Dry AMD is managed medically, so there is no surgical fee — only consultation and monitoring costs. Wet AMD anti-VEGF injections are typically £900–£1,800 per injection depending on the drug, with several usually needed in the first year. Your written plan sets out expected visits and costs. See the full price list or request a personalised quote below.
Macular degeneration FAQs
What is macular degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) damages the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It makes tasks such as reading, recognising faces and driving difficult, while peripheral vision is usually preserved. It is the leading cause of central vision loss in older adults.
What is the difference between dry and wet AMD?
Dry AMD is the common, slowly progressive form caused by ageing changes and drusen, and is managed with monitoring and risk reduction. Wet AMD is less common but faster and sight-threatening, caused by leaking blood vessels under the macula, and is treated with anti-VEGF injections. Imaging tells them apart, which is essential because their care differs.
Can macular degeneration be treated?
Yes. Wet AMD is treated with anti-VEGF injections that can stop leakage and often improve vision, especially when started early. Dry AMD has no surgical cure but is managed with monitoring, AREDS2 supplements for suitable patients, and lifestyle changes, with newer therapies for advanced dry AMD emerging.
What are the early signs of macular degeneration?
Early signs include blurred or distorted central vision, straight lines appearing wavy, a blank or dark patch in the centre of vision, faded colours, and needing brighter light to read. Any new distortion or central blur should be assessed promptly, as it can indicate wet AMD.
Does AMD cause complete blindness?
No. AMD affects central vision but usually spares peripheral vision, so it does not cause total blindness. However, untreated it can significantly affect reading, driving and recognising faces. Early diagnosis and treatment — particularly for wet AMD — protect the most useful vision.
How much does macular degeneration care cost?
A macular consultation with OCT imaging is from £240. Dry AMD is managed medically with no surgical fee. Wet AMD anti-VEGF injections are typically £900–£1,800 per injection depending on the drug, with several usually needed in the first year. You receive a written plan of expected visits and costs.