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.
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:
Produces detailed cross-sectional images of the retina.
Highlights changes in the retinal pigment layer.
Identifies abnormal blood vessels and leakage.
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:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
Dr. Andrea Oleñik Memmel is a retina specialist trained in both diagnosis and medical treatment of retinal diseases, as well as vitreoretinal surgery.
We offer all major anti-VEGF drugs and were early adopters of Syfovre® for geographic atrophy.
All imaging and treatment take place at our Zurich clinic—no need to travel elsewhere.
We tailor each treatment schedule to your specific condition, visual needs, and lifestyle.
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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