Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic Retinopathy is a serious diabetic eye disease that occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the small blood vessels in the retina. It is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults and is most common in people with long-standing or poorly managed diabetes.

There are two main stages of the disease:

  • Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR): Early stage, often without symptoms
  • Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR): Advanced stage, with abnormal blood vessel growth and risk of severe vision loss

With regular eye checks and the right care, diabetic retinopathy treatment can help manage the condition and protect your sight.

Diabetic Retinopathy Symptoms

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy

In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy may have no noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, you may experience:
  • Blurry or fluctuating vision
  • Dark spots or floaters
  • Poor night vision
  • Difficulty reading or focusing
  • Sudden vision loss (in severe cases)

If you have diabetes, even without symptoms, regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection.

Looking to book an eye examination?

We recommend that everyone should have an eye test with an optometrist at least once every 2 years.

How Diabetic Retinopathy is Diagnosed

At Spectacle Hub, our experienced optometrists use advanced diagnostic technology to assess and monitor diabetic eye health. A diabetic eye examination may include:

  • Retinal photography
  • Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
  • Dilated eye examination
  • Visual acuity and intraocular pressure testing


These assessments allow us to detect subtle changes in the retina, often before symptoms appear. Early intervention is key to successful diabetic eye disease treatment.

Diabetic Retinopathy Diagnosis

Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment Options

Treatment for diabetic retinopathy depends on the stage and severity of the disease. Our approach to diabetic eye care management includes:

Monitoring and Lifestyle Advice

In early stages, improving blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels can help slow progression. We work with your GP or endocrinologist to support your broader diabetes management.

Laser Treatment

In cases of abnormal blood vessel growth or retinal swelling, laser therapy may be used to reduce leakage and prevent further vision loss.

Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment
Anti-VEGF Injections​

Anti-VEGF Injections

These injections block the growth of new blood vessels in advanced cases and can help preserve vision when administered early.

Surgical Intervention

In severe cases, surgery such as vitrectomy may be required to remove blood or scar tissue from the retina.

If required, we refer you to a trusted ophthalmologist for specialist care while continuing your routine monitoring and management.

Book a diabetic eye check today with a trusted optometrist.

Schedule an appointment online for early detection and personalised care.

Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment in Melbourne and Geelong

With clinics in Craigieburn, Caroline Springs, Armstrong Creek, and Curlewis, we provide accessible diabetic retinopathy treatment in Melbourne and Geelong. Our optometrists are skilled in identifying early signs of damage and supporting your treatment journey with ongoing care and education.

Whether you are newly diagnosed with diabetes or have lived with it for years, our clinics offer reliable support, tailored monitoring, and easy access to expert care when you need it most.

diabetic retinopathy melbourne

Why Choose Spectacle Hub for Diabetic Eye Care?

Spectacle Hub is a trusted provider of diabetic eye care in your local community. Here’s why patients choose us:

  • Advanced retinal imaging and diagnostic technology
  • Regular monitoring to detect progression early
  • Strong links with diabetes specialists and ophthalmologists
  • Convenient locations across both Melbourne and Geelong
  • Compassionate, clear communication every step of the way

We understand how overwhelming a diabetes diagnosis can be, and we’re here to help you manage your vision and long-term eye health with confidence.

Diabetic eye screening

When Should You See a Diabetic Retinopathy Expert?

All people with diabetes, type 1 or type 2, should have a comprehensive eye examination at least once a year. You should see a diabetic retinopathy expert at Spectacle Hub immediately if you experience:

  • Sudden vision changes
  • Dark patches or spots in your vision
  • Flashes of light or floaters
  • Any symptoms that interfere with your daily life


For more information on diabetic eye disease, visit the Diabetes Australia website.

Book a Diabetic Eye Examination Today

Protecting your sight starts with a simple appointment. If you live in Melbourne or Geelong and need expert care for diabetic eye health, Spectacle Hub is here to support you.

Diabetic Eye Examination

BOOK AN EYE TEST

CAroline Springs

  • CS Square L01 063
    29-35 Lake Street
    Caroline Springs VIC 3023
  •  carolinesprings@spectaclehub.com.au
  • (03) 9363 3255

Craigieburn

  • Craigieburn Central
    B0014/340 Craigieburn Road
    Craigieburn VIC 3064
  •  craigieburn@spectaclehub.com.au
  • (03) 8339 4306

Curlewis

  • Woolworths Town Centre
    Shop 2/90 Centennial Blvd
    Curlewis VIC 3222
  •  curlewis@spectaclehub.com.au
  • (03) 5251 1661

BOOK AN EYE TEST

CAroline Springs

  • CS Square L01 063
    29-35 Lake Street
    Caroline Springs VIC 3023
  •  carolinesprings@spectaclehub.com.au
  • (03) 93633 3255

Craigieburn

  • Craigieburn Central
    B0014/340 Craigieburn Road
    Craigieburn VIC 3064
  •  craigieburn@spectaclehub.com.au
  • (03) 9363 3255

Curlewis

  • Woolworths Town Centre
    Shop 2/90 Centennial Blvd
    Curlewis VIC 3222
  •  curlewis@spectaclehub.com.au
  • (03) 5251 1661