Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common cause of vision loss in people over the age of 50. At the ELZA Institute in Zurich, we offer advanced diagnostics and targeted treatments for both dry and wet AMD. Led by Dr. Andrea Oleñik Memmel, a retina specialist with advanced training, our medical retina service is designed to protect your vision using the most up-to-date therapies.

What Is AMD?

AMD affects the macula—the central part of the retina responsible for detailed, sharp vision, such as reading or recognizing faces. There are two types:

  • Dry AMD: The most common form, caused by a gradual thinning of the macula and accumulation of waste deposits (called drusen). Vision usually worsens slowly over time.

  • Wet AMD: A more aggressive form caused by abnormal blood vessels growing under the retina. These vessels can leak fluid or bleed, leading to faster and more serious vision loss.

How We Diagnose AMD

We use advanced imaging tools to detect AMD early and monitor its progression.

These tests are painless and non-invasive, and help us tailor the treatment to your specific condition:

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

Produces detailed cross-sectional images of the retina.

Autofluorescence imaging

Highlights changes in the retinal pigment layer.

Fluorescein Angiography

Identifies abnormal blood vessels and leakage.

Intravitreal Injections: Targeted Treatment Inside the Eye

Many modern AMD treatments involve intravitreal injections—medication delivered directly into the eye using a very fine needle. These are performed under sterile conditions and are usually quick and well tolerated. They are an essential part of treating:

  • Wet AMD
  • Diabetic swelling in the retina (macular edema)
  • Blocked retinal veins
  • Advanced dry AMD (geographic atrophy)

Treatment for Geographic Atrophy (Advanced Dry AMD)

Geographic Atrophy (GA) is a severe form of dry AMD where cells in the macula slowly die off, leading to expanding blind spots in central vision.

Until recently, there was no treatment for GA. ELZA is one of the first centers in Switzerland to offer Syfovre® (pegcetacoplan)—a new medication that slows down GA progression by calming inflammation in the retina. Like anti-VEGF drugs, it’s delivered by intravitreal injection.

Anti-VEGF Therapy for Wet AMD

For wet AMD, we use a group of medications called anti-VEGF drugs. These block the signals that cause abnormal blood vessels to grow and leak under the retina.

At ELZA, we offer the full range of approved anti-VEGF treatments, including:

  • Eylea® (aflibercept)
  • Lucentis® (ranibizumab)
  • Beovu® (brolucizumab)
  • Vabysmo® (faricimab)

We customize the treatment plan for each patient—sometimes starting with monthly injections, then gradually reducing how often they are needed as the eye stabilizes.

Normal
Wet ARMD

AMD and nutrition

AMD: how to protect yourself

There are certain factors (genetic and concurrent eye diseases) that increase the risk of developing AMD, and can not be influenced. But there are risk factors for developing AMD that you can control, that have been uncovered by large, global studies.

Adjusting your lifestyle and changing your diet can be beneficial. The effect of excessive lifelong solar radiation is still under discussion: some studies have suggested there’s a relationship between AMD and excessive exposure to the sun (but other studies have found no such association).

If you decide to protect your eyes better, the following movie might give you some insights.

AMD: how to protect yourself

There are certain factors (genetic and concurrent eye diseases) that increase the risk of developing AMD, and can not be influenced. But there are risk factors for developing AMD that you can control, that have been uncovered by large, global studies.

Adjusting your lifestyle and changing your diet can be beneficial. The effect of excessive lifelong solar radiation is still under discussion: some studies have suggested there’s a relationship between AMD and excessive exposure to the sun (but other studies have found no such association).

If you decide to protect your eyes better, the following movie might give you some insights.

Why Choose ELZA for AMD Treatment?

Expert Retina Care

Dr. Andrea Oleñik Memmel is a retina specialist trained in both diagnosis and medical treatment of retinal diseases, as well as vitreoretinal surgery.

Latest Therapies

We offer all major anti-VEGF drugs and were early adopters of Syfovre® for geographic atrophy.

On-Site Diagnostics

All imaging and treatment take place at our Zurich clinic—no need to travel elsewhere.

Personalized Plans

We tailor each treatment schedule to your specific condition, visual needs, and lifestyle.

Book Your Retina Consultation at ELZA Zurich

If you have AMD—or if you’ve noticed blurry central vision, distortion, or blind spots—don’t wait. Early treatment can slow disease progression and help preserve your sight.

Call today or use our online booking system to schedule your consultation.

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