FAQs

Appointments & Referrals

Do I need a referral to see a retina specialist?

No, a referral is not required. You’re welcome to call us directly at (310) 269-8565 to schedule an appointment. However, some insurance plans do require a referral for specialist visits — we recommend checking with your provider first, or call our office and we’ll help you figure it out.

How do I schedule an appointment?

The easiest way is to call us at (310) 269-8565. You can also submit a request through our website using the Request an Appointment form, and our team will follow up to confirm your visit.

Do you offer same-day appointments for emergencies?

Yes. Retinal emergencies — such as sudden vision loss, a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow in your peripheral vision — require urgent care. Call our office immediately and we will do our best to see you the same day.

Can a family member or caregiver come with me?

Absolutely. We encourage you to bring someone with you, especially to your first visit. Having a second person can be helpful for remembering information your doctor shares, and they’re welcome in the exam room.

Your Visit

What should I expect at my first appointment?

Your first visit includes diagnostic imaging, a comprehensive eye exam, and a one-on-one consultation with your retina specialist. Your doctor will review your results on screen, explain your diagnosis in clear terms, and walk you through your treatment options. Please allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for your initial visit. For the full walkthrough, visit our Your First Visit page.

Will my eyes be dilated?

Yes. We’ll place drops in both eyes so your doctor can examine your retina thoroughly. Dilation is painless but will temporarily blur your vision and increase light sensitivity for several hours. We recommend bringing sunglasses and arranging a ride home if possible.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Please bring a valid photo ID, your insurance card(s), a list of current medications (including eye drops and supplements), your eyeglasses, and any records or imaging from your referring doctor. If your insurance requires a referral, bring that as well.

How long will follow-up appointments take?

Follow-up visits are typically shorter than your first — usually 30 to 60 minutes depending on whether additional imaging or treatment is needed.

Insurance & Billing

What insurance plans do you accept?

We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare. Because coverage and networks can vary, we recommend calling our office at (310) 269-8565 to confirm that we’re in-network with your specific plan before your appointment.

Do you accept Medicare?

Yes, we accept Medicare. Please bring your Medicare card to your appointment.

What if my insurance requires prior authorization?

Some insurance plans require prior authorization for certain diagnostic tests or treatments. Our office staff will work with your insurance company to obtain any necessary authorizations. If you’re unsure about your plan’s requirements, call us and we’ll help sort it out.

What are your payment options?

We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, checks, and cash. If you have questions about your financial responsibility or need to discuss payment arrangements, please contact our office.

Conditions & Symptoms

What is a retina specialist?

A retina specialist is an ophthalmologist with additional fellowship training in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the retina — the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. Retina specialists treat conditions like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears and detachments, and more.

When should I see a retina specialist?

You should see a retina specialist if you experience sudden flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, a shadow or curtain across your vision, sudden vision loss, or distorted or blurry central vision. You may also be referred by your eye doctor or primary care physician if they detect a retinal condition during a routine exam.

What conditions do you treat?

Our specialists treat a full range of retinal conditions including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears and detachments, retinal vein occlusion, macular holes, macular pucker, central serous retinopathy, and inherited retinal diseases. Visit our Conditions page to learn more about each.

Are flashes and floaters an emergency?

Not always — occasional floaters are common and usually harmless. However, a sudden increase in floaters, new flashes of light, or a shadow in your peripheral vision can signal a retinal tear or detachment, which requires urgent care. If you experience these symptoms, call us immediately at (310) 269-8565.

Treatments & Procedures

What is an intravitreal injection?

An intravitreal injection is a treatment where medication is delivered directly into the eye to treat conditions like wet macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, and retinal vein occlusion. The procedure is quick — typically just a few minutes — and numbing drops are applied beforehand so most patients experience minimal discomfort.

Does treatment hurt?

Most treatments, including injections, involve numbing drops or local anesthesia so you feel little to no pain during the procedure. Some patients experience mild pressure or temporary discomfort afterward, but this typically resolves quickly.

How many treatments will I need?

This depends entirely on your condition and how it responds to treatment. Some patients need a single procedure, while conditions like wet AMD or diabetic retinopathy may require a series of ongoing treatments. Your doctor will discuss your specific treatment plan and what to expect at your appointment.

What is the recovery time after a procedure?

Recovery varies by procedure. For injections, most patients resume normal activities the same day. For surgical procedures like vitrectomy, recovery may take several days to weeks. Your doctor will give you specific post-procedure instructions and let you know what to expect.

Location & Accessibility

Where is your office located?

We’re located at 360 N. Bedford Drive, Floor 3, Beverly Hills, CA 90210. Visit our Location page for directions, parking information, and a map.

Where can I park?

Multiple parking options are available near our office, including street parking and nearby parking structures. Visit our Location page for a detailed parking guide.

Is the office wheelchair accessible?

Yes, our office is fully wheelchair accessible.

What are your office hours?

Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. We are closed on weekends. For retinal emergencies outside of office hours, please call our office and follow the prompts for urgent care.