senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(520) 663-5393

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration, also called AMD or age-related macular degeneration, occurs when the macula — the central portion of the retina — begins to wear down, causing central vision loss.

People who suffer from AMD tend to lose their “straight ahead” vision, making it difficult to read, drive, and recognize faces. 

Total vision loss is unlikely, as there's typically enough peripheral vision to allow for other activities of daily life. 

Man with macular degeneration


Types of Macular Degeneration:

macular degeneration types

  • Dry AMD: small deposits called drusen damage retinal nerve cells and reduce vision
  • Wet AMD: new blood vessels form that leak and release fluid that harms the macula. This is a more severe form of AMD that can more quickly cause vision loss.

Don’t Let AMD Rob You of Your Sight

An estimated 196 million people are living with macular degeneration worldwide. Although those affected by it rarely lose all their vision, the vast majority suffer from some degree of vision loss. 

While there is currently no cure for AMD, there are certain treatments that can slow its progression — and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

If you think you're at risk or are experiencing symptoms, contact Family Vision Center today. We can diagnose and help treat the disease.


Risk Factors for AMD

  • Aged 50+

    The onset of AMD usually happens over the age of 50 and increases substantially with time. For instance, a 2% risk at age 55 can turn into a 30% risk by age 75.

  • Lifestyle factors

    Smoking or eating a diet high in saturated fat can increase your risk of AMD. Furthermore, these habits increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease–two additional risk factors for AMD.

  • Obesity

    Research shows that people with a BMI of over 30 double their chances of developing AMD.

  • Family History

    If you have a close relative with AMD, you have a higher risk of developing this eye condition.


How to Stop the Progression of Macular Degeneration

While there isn’t yet a cure for AMD or an effective way of reversing vision loss that has already occurred, you can take certain steps and adopt new habits to slow the progression of the disease.

Furthermore, certain treatments can slow its progression and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

Talk to us about how you can slow the progression of the disease and avoid vision loss by contacting Family Vision Center today. 

Photograph


Macular Degeneration FAQs

What are the first signs of AMD?

You may have AMD and not know it. Typically, symptoms may not develop until the advanced stage of the eye disease.

First signs of AMD may include: 

  • Blurred vision
  • Blind spots or dark spots
  • Straight lines appearing distorted or wavy
  • Faded colors 

 For early detection and better outcomes, it's important to undergo regular eye exams at our eye clinic, especially if you have a family history of AMD or other risk factors. 

How common is macular degeneration?

Statistics indicate that 8.7% of the world population has macular degeneration. The rate of AMD is expected to increase from 196 million in 2022 to 288 million by 2040.

What is the best treatment for macular degeneration?

Currently, the most common treatment for wet AMD is the injection of medications called anti-VEGF agents. High levels of VEGF in the eye increase the formation of abnormal blood vessels that cause much of the damage in wet AMD.

Patient Reviews
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156 Reviews
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- Nov. 22, 2024
I work out of town and was having some symptoms that started feeling alarming to me. Dr. Amy and her... team got me in quickly, ran some tests, and reassured me that things were OK. We then scheduled my regular eye exam for a few weeks down the road. Retest to make sure things were good - refit with new contact lenses. Insurance billing for both medical and vision taken care of with very little hassle on my end. Seeing great and resting easy. Thanks so much Family Vision! Highly recommended!
- Oct. 08, 2024
Got in an accident and my glasses flew off of my head and got bent and were very loose. I took them ... in to see if they could bend them back and tighten them. They got me taken care of right away and were able to get them back to the shape they were in. I offered to pay them for their service but they said it was no charge. This is the exact reason I frequent these kind of places as well as highly recommend them to all friends/family. Customer service is second to none!!!
- Aug. 05, 2024
A huge thank you to June and the receptionists at Family Vision Center! I was extended camping on M... t Lemmon when my glasses broke - screw came out, and I couldn't see to fix them. After reading the previous reviews, I came here for help. They were welcoming, and so quick and kind. I would absolutely recommend them based on their customer service skills. Thank you all so very much!
- Jul. 26, 2024
There are individuals still wearing masks at this location, just like 2021. Remember when those mask... -wearers bully everyone.
- May. 15, 2024
Our family LOVES this office! We have seen Drs. Dechant and Horst and have had pleasant experiences ... both times. When I took my 10 year old for her first check-up last month she was terrified. The assistant, Danielle, was so kind, patient, and aware of her needs without even asking any questions. She helped her feel comfortable and at ease - something that is not easy to do with a high-anxiety kid. We love the staff in this office and will continue to be patients as long as we live here! <3
- May. 10, 2024
The service was phenomenal. I don’t really go out my way to leave reviews unless the service was o... ut of this world and it truly was. Everyone was super welcoming, and great at what they do. 10 out of 10!
- Feb. 10, 2024
Tremendous staff. Great service and experience.
- Dec. 14, 2023
If I could give 10 stars I would. I have been seeing Dr. Amy for as long as I can remember. Long b... efore they moved to their current location on Tanque Verde. Dr. Amy and staff are like family to me and I have referred so many people to Family Vision Center that I've lost count. From my very first visit to her way back (I think at least two decades ago, but I may be off by a little) she treated me like a long time patient and even came in on her day off to check my eyes to make sure the infection I had was progressing well. That cinched it for me, she would be my doctor for life (or until she retires, which will be a sad day for me even though I know others on staff at Family Vision Center will be just as kind and caring).
- Mar. 20, 2023
Dr. Anna Jones was extremely knowledgeable, and caring. She’s very informative and explained as sh... e performed the exam, and I had learned a lot about eye health. The front desk receptionists are super friendly, helpful, and patient. I’m new to the area, and our vision insurance is not accepted at the practice. Yet, our daughter could barely see the classroom board. Family Vision Center had not only let her come for the eye exam much sooner than any other practices in town but also offered a huge discount that ended up cheaper than the places that would accept my vision insurance. Everyone in the office is extremely helpful and genuinely nice. They put the patient’s interest above all and not hesitate to go above and beyond, so my daughter can see much better yet extremely affordable. The practice is very clean, organized, and modern with large coffee station. I strongly recommend Family Vision Center to everyone in Tucson. Thank you Family Vision Center.
- Jan. 19, 2023
I've been seeing Dr. Amy Fuhr-Dechant for a couple years now and I love her! She is patient and real... ly takes her time with me to make sure I'm getting the perfect prescription. The front desk staff is amazing. The phones are always answered on the 1st or 2nd ring and if there is a hold time it is very brief. Everyone you get to talk to are kind, professional, and patient with you. The people who help you try on frames and help with the ordering process are also great. They will be honest with you and let you know if a frame isn't right for you and will help you find something that looks great on you. When I had to send my frames in to get new lenses they gave me some contacts to last me until my frames were ready to be picked up. Everyone here is very personable, professional, and kind. I recommend all of my patients to Family Vision Center.
- Dec. 27, 2022
Just want to take the time to add to my review of the Family Vision Center, on Tanque Verde in Tucso... n AZ, Again, another BIG Thank You !!! I was having an little problem with my contacts !!! And it was resolved so easily !!! Especially want to mention Desiree ( optometrist assistant) & Camilla ( front desk staff & billing) they are both such a GREAT asset to the Family Vision Center’s Business!!! Mary Palazzo OPTOMETRIST Amy Fuhr-Dechant, You are the BEST !!! The contacts that you suggested worked Perfectly !!! Your Loyal Patient, Mary Palazzo
- Dec. 27, 2022
Very friendly staff and a nice selection of frames.
- Nov. 23, 2022
Excellent care by Dr. Horst thru the years. Now doing my follow up after cataract surgery at Hodges ... eye care center. They keep an eye on You.
- May. 26, 2022
Enjoyed my eye exam and glasses selection experience. Very friendly and helpful staff, and Dr. Hors... t's exam seemed very thorough.
- Jan. 28, 2022
I was in Tucson on vacation and needed an emergency pair of replacement contacts. I called FVC to s... ee if they had any contacts on hand that fit my prescription and offered to pay. They did have my prescription but insisted I could just have them for free. FVC doesn't know me but they treated me like one of their regular patients. It saved the rest of my vacation!! Thank you!
- Aug. 01, 2021
I've been a patient here for several years, and I trust the doctors to take care of my eyes. The opt... icians on staff are skilled at helping me pick out a great pair of frames (6 pairs of regular glasses and sunglasses so far and counting!) The frame selection is good, the staff are kind, and they understand what my insurance covers. The practice has excellent COVID protocols as well, and I appreciate everyone masking up.
- Jun. 24, 2021
Dr. Jones performed a lengthy examination with patience, kindness and with great communication, taki... ng time to explain all the exam details. We had a great experience meeting with Dr. Jones. I will enthusiastically recommend Dr. Jones to all my friends, family and colleagues.
- Apr. 26, 2021
I have seen Dr. Horst and Dr. Amy Deschant at Family Vision Source. Both doctors are willing to list... en to every concern you have and make adjustments based on your own personal eyesight experience. They trust you. They are also open to suggestions and requests without any push-back, whatsoever. They are happy to explain all of their determinations in detail. I love these two.
- Mar. 31, 2021
I have been seeing Dr. Amy Fuhr Dechant for my eye's examination as well as lens/frame services for ... the past 14 years. Since I am diabetic, OPTOMAP, a diagnostic tool that she uses allows her to give her a comprehensive retinal exam without the use of dilating eye drops. Since I have Type II diabetes, she compares the current OPTOMAP with the earlier OPTOMAP stored on her computer aiding her in screening for progression of various eye diseases such as cataract, vitreous floaters, cholesterol deposits in the blood vessels. She explains the various stages of these diseases so that there are no surprises down the road. She is the best in her profession, very knowledgeable, and takes ample time to give the exact eye prescription. She is as good as it gets. Her pleasant personality and professionalism shine evermore during each visit. The lens and frame section of the Family Vision Source has a great selection, and the staff is caring and considerate. Lisa has been very helpful in finding the best frame that fits well and I do not feel rushed. Last year after several months my lens had developed some issues and she got me new lenses and had them fitted to the existing frame without the additional cost. I enthusiastically recommend Family Vision Source.
- Mar. 26, 2021
From the initial appointment setting, to the new patient paperwork online, to arriving for the appoi... ntment, to the care and professionalism from the doctor and assistant, then to the awesome help from Jun selecting new frames and lens options for my daughter (who is clearly passionate about his job and it shows), this place is the real deal. Definitely not the cheapest options for frames and lenses, but in my opinion well worth spending the extra money to support a local company with such amazing staff and service. The people leaving negative reviews are either Yelpers or just plain crazy. This place is awesome. Every single person I interacted with was courteous, professional, and knew their stuff. If you've ever been to a Lenscrafters, Nationwide, etc... this would be the complete opposite. Why play games with your eyeballs?

View All 156 Reviews

Macular Degeneration Treatment in Tucson

Our optometry practice in Tucson

Photograph of Mark  Fischer
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am - 7:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Saturday 8:30 am - 1:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
  • Dec. 25 Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • EyeMed
  • Spectera
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Cigna
  • Davis Vision
  • Anthem
  • Avesis

senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

Don’t let AMD stop you from doing the things you love.

(520) 663-5393