Retina Specialist Michigan

The retina is the light sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye. The retina processes light that has passed through the front of the eye. The retina processes the information and sends this information to the brain via the optic nerve. Simply put, the retina processes a picture from the focused light, and the brain determines what that picture is. The way the retina functions is similar to the film in a camera.

A healthy retina is vital to good vision. Damage to it can cause permanent blindness. Conditions such as retinal detachment, where the retina is abnormally detached from its usual position, can prevent the retina from receiving or processing light. This condition prevents the brain from receiving this information and may lead to blindness. As we age, macular degeneration can also cause vision to deteriorate. Yearly eye exams are recommended to ensure the retina is healthy. It is especially important for diabetic patients to have yearly exams, as diabetes can cause bleeding in the back of the eye.

James R. Valice, M.D. is a board certified ophthalmologist who specializes in retinal diseases such as, Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD), Diabetic Retinopathy, Retinal Detachments and many more. Dr. Valice completed his residency training at Wayne State University's Kresge Eye Institute, as well as, a fellowship at Southern Illinois University in vitreo-retinal surgery to treat retinal diseases.

Dr. Valice is a member of the American Medical Association, American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology. For your convenience, Dr. Valice is on staff at both St. John's hospital and the Southgate Surgery Center. Dr. Valice understands the need for individualized attention when it comes to preserving your vision.

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