What is a Retina Specialist?

You have been told by your doctor that you need to see a retina specialist, but what exactly is a retina specialist?

Education and Training

A retina specialist is a medical doctor who earned a doctorate degree at an accredited medical school, completed residency training in ophthalmology, and then further specialized through advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the vitreous and retina. The education and training to become a retina specialist takes more than twelve years!

4 years of college to receive a bachelor’s degree
4 years of medical school to receive a medical doctor (MD or DO) degree and successfully pass several examinations
1 Year internship in internal medicine (with rotations in the ER, ICU, surgery, OBGYN, pediatrics, & more.)
3 years of ophthalmology residency learning to become an eye doctor and an eye surgeon
1-2 years of fellowship training in the medical and surgical treatment of vitreoretinal disease

What does a retina specialist do?

Retina specialists diagnose and treat diseases of the vitreous (gel filling the back of the eye) and the retina (thin layer of light-sensitive nervous tissue lining the back of the eye).

The retina is transparent, extremely delicate, and thinner than a butterfly’s wings!

Retina specialists perform highly-sophisticated and technically- challenging procedures involving the vitreous and retina.

Conditions retina specialists treat:

Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Age-related disease causing damage to the macula, resulting in distortion and central vision loss

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Diabetic Retinopathy
Damage to retina blood vessels due to uncontrolled diabetes mellitus

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Retinal Detachments
Detachment of retina due to retinal holes, horseshoe tears, lattice degeneration, or trauma

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Macular Hole
Hole in macula due to scar tissue formation, resulting in central vision loss

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Epiretinal Membrane
Scar tissue-related swelling and distortion of normal retinal contour resulting in distortion and vision loss

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Retinal vein and arterial occlusions
Blockage or back-up of retinal blood flow causing retinal swelling and vision loss

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Uveitis
Intraocular inflammation caused by infection, autoimmune, and systemic disease

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Vitreous Floaters
Chronic floaters in vision due to posterior vitreous detachment and vitreous degeneration

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2022-10-01T16:36:25-06:00

3 Comments

Dafina September 20, 2022 at 3:35 pm - Reply

Thank you
Amal September 23, 2022 at 8:52 am - Reply

Do you accept an international graduate for retinal fellowship
- FrontRange September 25, 2022 at 10:17 pm - Reply
  
  We do not presently have a retina fellowship but thank you for your inquiry.

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Will Ahrens

05:24 06 Aug 24

Dr. Christiansen is a first class retina specialist. He is highly professional, intelligent doctor, with a great genuine personality and down to earth calming presence or manner. He is highly efficient, confident and explains your particular situation in a very understandable and relatable way. i recently moved out of the area and the worst part of the move is not being a patient of Dr Christiansen's anymore. I highly recommend Dr. Christiansen without a doubt the best experience I have ever had with a Doctor.

Erin Rogers

15:43 03 Aug 24

I saw Dr Christensen due to vision changes involving my retina and requiring surgery. The surgery and recovery were seamless. He kept a close watch on my recovery and vision improvement. I'm so happy that my vision to where it should be. So thankful to have been treated by Dr Christensen and have my vision back!

Rebecca Murray

16:53 14 Jun 24

My husband had gone blind last year, even though he had been followed by his regular ophthalmologist with complaints about decreasing vision the entire year. His physician had missed diagnosing and treating a torn retina. A friend told us about Dr Christiansen and he immediately saw him, did two surgeries and not only improved his vision, he restored it. We cannot say enough nice things about this experience. The office was very pleasant to deal with, the staff is very patient and kind and Dr Christiansen is obviously intelligent and has the expertise to handle even very difficult (and seemingly impossible) situations.We are very grateful for the care received here.

Chers Etheridge

14:40 13 Apr 24

Great experience from A-Z. Received a call on day of referral and was seen that week. Fabulous facilities and superb doctor. I wouldn’t go anywhere else.

Gregory Culbreth

02:42 19 Jan 24

This doctor is highly intelligent, skilled, and compassionate.We would trust him with our eyesight without question.

Josh and Sophia

03:46 15 Sep 23

I had a pretty red eye that I was pretty sure wasn’t an infection because an Urgent Care had prescribed me antibiotics, which had done nothing to make my eye better. My eye has continued to get worse and I was due to leave for vacation in a couple of days. Dr. Christiansen was able to squeeze me into his schedule and was able to immediately diagnose my issue as uveitis. He prescribed a medication that helped my eye get better and allowed me to go on vacation. He then conducted a couple of follow-up visits to ensure my eye recovered fully. And then he ordered some blood work to help me determine what had actually caused the uveitis, which will help me address this issue more rapidly in the future. Bottom line: Dr. Christiansen cares about his patients and truly is a master of his profession. I wholeheartedly recommend him when you need an ophthalmologist.

Barry Brisben

15:43 29 Aug 23

I came to Dr. Christiansen due to a large cotton candy floater that had come into my vision plane post cataract and YAG surgeries from another doctor. The "floater" (which is not an accurate name for this obstruction) was blocking up to 75% of my vision and was constantly flipping around in my vision. After nearly 7 months of enduring this I was referred to Dr. Christiansen by my optometrist. Dr. Christiansen did a thorough examination of my eye and confirmed that the "floater" was quite large and could be removed by doing a vitrectomy on that eye. Obviously, this was great news but also a bit intimidating due to the serious nature of this surgery. I spoke at length with Dr. Christiansen sharing my concerns and apprehension of what an outcome could look like. He assured me that reading Dr. Google was not a fair representation of the surgery and how many he had performed with excellent results. I did the surgery, and it has been WONDERFUL. I have my vision back and my brain no longer has to labor to try to see around the huge "floater". Dr. Christiansen handled everything personally from exams to surgery to follow ups and now it is hard to remember what the "floater" was even like. Absolute perfection of the procedure and the experience. If you are suffering with this type of condition, you should go discuss it with Dr. Christiansen. He has performed thousands and knows exactly what you will need for a successful outcome. I can only say that I am exuberant over the decision to do this and am very thankful that I was referred to Dr. Christiansen and his expertise.

Shaguye Manning

16:18 12 Aug 23

Came to Dr.Christiansen with a detached retina and he has been nothing short of amazing. From his diagnosis and performing the sceleral buckle he’s taken to time to make sure I’m comfortable and informed along the way. He even called me the day before surgery to answer any further questions I had. Couldn’t recommend him enough for you retina needs.

Chris Martin

22:34 22 May 23

Dr. Christiansen went out of his way to arrange for an urgent surgery to repair my retinal detachment. He performed the surgery two days after my annual eye exam revealed the detachment. I had a reaction to the anesthesia after the surgery and Dr Christiansen stayed at the hospital for several hours after the surgery to make sure there were no complications. He took the time to answer all my questions. He genuinely cares. Thank you Dr Christiansen.

Jimmy Bege

18:17 16 May 23

Dr. Christianson is an incredibleophthalmologistt. He is a credit to his profession as his excellence will show in his appointments with you.For me, he actually saved my vision as I had emergency surgery for a detached retina. It was on his personal time that this had happened, which speaks volumes about this highly rated surgeon. His precise diagnosis and immediate surgery gave me after recovery, Great vision on the eye that needed to be restored. I highly recommend this fine doctor for your retinal treatment and recovery.

Abbie Gentry

14:08 05 Mar 23

Dr Christensen repaired my macular pucker, and the entire process went very smoothly, and my vision has improved. He answered all my questions including possible side effects of the treatment. He was very thorough in his exams, and is very personable. It was a much better experience than being rushed through a large practice.

Neil Jesse

19:39 24 Jan 23

Dr. Christiansen is a wonderful and friendly retina specialist with a very clean office and state of the art equipment. After I experienced a major retina detachment in one eye, he keenly walked me through my options and patiently answered all of my questions. Once surgery became the next logical step to save my vision, he explained the process in great detail and scheduled it to occur in a timely manner. Dr. Christiansen performed the surgery himself with the excellent staff at the Centura Hospital in Castle Rock. I'm not a doctor, but having a optics background I am truly amazed at the exceptional results of the surgery Dr. Christiansen performed. I went from essentially total blindness in one eye to nearly perfect 20/40 vision. I can't thank him enough for this quality of life improvement. On top of his medical expertise, Dr. Christiansen (and his wife the receptionist) are some of the most genuinely friendly people you'll ever meet. He is extremely accommodating to my schedule, even meeting on weekends for checkups, and every visit has been a sincere pleasure. We are so fortunate to have Dr. Christiansen in Castle Rock!

Bill Berry

22:21 14 Jan 23

Dr. Christiansen first saw me after a severe retina detachment which also resulted in a hole in my macula. It took 2 surgeries, but the result is amazing. I have great vision in my eye now. Doc is very professional and extremely talented. I recommend him highly to anyone.

shirley Hibbard

04:04 12 Dec 22

I had been diagnosed Thursday with a hole and tears in my retina at Chapel Hills Vision by Dr CID, she was wonderful. Tried to get into the Retina Specialist in CS to no avail. I called FRONT RANGE RETINA and was assisted by a lovely front desk person. I went in on Friday afternoon at 4:00, Dr Christensen met us at the front desk. Kind, knowledgeable and professional. All the presurgery exams and measurements were taken and surgery was about 5:30. So happy to have been able to get my eye repaired and be on our way!Thank you Dr and Mrs Christensen for your care and expertise!! Definitely recommend Front Range Retina!!

Adam

16:48 17 Nov 22

My 72 year old father suffers complicated vision issues that required multiple medical procedures and retina surgery a few years ago. While visiting from his home in Missouri, my father lost all vision in his left eye on Saturday of Easter weekend. My father called his optometrist at home who advised my father to go to the ER or find a retina specialist. We were able to contact Dr. Steve Christiansen with Front Range Retina. Dr. Christiansen immediately brought my father to his office, gave him a full eye exam, prescribed medicine that resolved the issue and advised my father on follow-on care once he returned to Missouri. Dr. Christiansen is dedicated, kind and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!

Brittani Carmona

01:09 16 Nov 22

I couldn't be more pleased with my experience with Dr. Christiansen at Front Range Retina. His passion for providing an elite level of care to his patients is evident - and his education, training & integrity is truly unmatched.Dr. Christiansen took all the time we needed to evaluate and answer questions for my daughter (even at the end of the day when it was past office hours). It is so rare to find this level of sincerity and care these days - I highly recommend this practice to anyone and everyone I know!

Chéri Matia

19:53 08 Sep 22

Dr. Christiansen, in my opinion, is the‘rock star’ of the retina world!He is extremely knowledgeable, has a great communication style - making information he is giving you easy to understand.I went to him for a second opinion on eye surgery and he was thorough, kind, and most of all, very respectful of not only me, but as a second opinion consultation.So glad I did go to see him. I have a much clearer understanding now of my condition as well as my options. He also bent over backwards to get me in quickly and accommodate my schedule.Lastly, it is very obvious that he is extremely bright. It is comforting to know my eye care is in such well trained hands. Will most definitely be recommending him to others without reservation! Thank you, Dr. C

Jessica

19:35 02 Sep 22

Simply put, Dr. Christiansen is one of the best retinal specialists in Colorado. I don't live in Castle Rock, but I happily travel to his clinic because I know for a fact his services are trustworthy and better than the options in my area. He has been very flexible, compassionate, and thoughtful with my treatment for the past year. If you are in need of a retinal specialist, have your records/referrals sent to Front Range Retina.

Brian King

23:29 29 Jun 22

Simply put, Dr. Christensen is the best doctor I've ever had! I would highly recommend him to anyone needing advanced eye care. First, he has the most caring, patient, and personable bedside manner I've ever received. Dr. C explains with the level of detail I need and answers all my questions thoroughly. Prior to my surgery election, he conveyed how important it was that I understood my options and was comfortable with the path. Then for the surgery, Dr. C was able to demonstrate his most important skills. His steady hands, knowledge, and mastery of equipment led to a successful procedure. I can't thank him enough for helping save my vision. I have 100% trust and gratitude for Dr. Christensen!

Nancy E. Meadows

13:46 27 Jun 22

Dr. Christianson is an outstanding doctor - professional, personable, approachable, thorough, responsive, caring, kind and really committed to his patients. Always willing to answer questions and explain things in a way a layperson can understand. He made time for me on short notice and I am now a regular patient experiencing remarkable results thanks to his fantastic care. Highly recommend.

Shirley Jones

20:03 17 Jan 22

Everything is explained in detail and all questions and concerns are addressed. I was also not rushed right into more eye surgery. The problem is being monitored and surgery will be done when it is necessary.

Jim Huenergardt

16:17 31 Dec 21

I have seen Dr Christiansen several times and he has always been very friendly and is very knowledgeable. I highly recommend him.

Robin Wearley

19:52 30 Dec 21

Dr. Christiansen went above and beyond to open his office to urgently check my eye and diagnose a vitreous detachment on Christmas Eve! I was visiting Denver from out of town and my regular opthomologist arranged for me to be seen by him. So thankful for his kindness and skill in dealing with my situation. He thoroughly explained the exam and results and shared pictures with me. Highly recommend him!

Paulette Van Orden

04:51 03 Dec 21

Thanks Dr. Christiansen, for a smooth and successful retina vitrectomy. The results were excellent and the recovery time was quick. Dr. Christiansen was always available and flexible with his scheduling. I would highly recommend Front Range Retina.

Lamar Brown

23:11 20 Nov 21

Dr. Christiansen did an excellent job on my surgery. I could always call if I had questions. He was great. Would highly recommend!

Gregory Stumpf

18:38 12 Nov 21

Roman Krivochenitser

03:00 14 Oct 21

Top notch practice and physician. As a referring provider, I have worked with many Retina providers over the years and Dr. Christiansen is hands down the best. He is communicative and responds immediately when needed. To this day, I have never had a patient that was not exceedingly pleased with their experience at this practice. Highly recommend.

Mike McGinn

13:19 04 Aug 21

I had a great experience at Front Range Retina in Castle Rock. Dr. Christiansen was able to see me for follow-up appointment after having an emergent eye procedure in another Colorado town while I was vacationing through Colorado.He was very attentive to my needs and very professional! His explanation of my complex eye issue was easy to understand and he demonstrated much patience as I was highly anxious.I highly recommend him!

Corin Meibos

12:51 19 Jul 21

Dr Christiansen reached out to check on our teenage son multiple times to see how we was doing while we were waiting on scans and labs to come back. He was calm and reassuring as a diagnosis was confirmed and assisted us the entire way. Our son was never worried through the entire experience due to the care he received. Glad he's in Castle Rock and we HIGHLY recommend!

terry nyberg

20:52 19 Jun 21

I've had a really positive experience with Dr. Christiansen.Dr Christiansen has relocated to Castle Rock and is opening a new practice here called Front Range Retina. He previously practiced retinal surgery in Colorado Springs and in Oregon.I was referred to him by my optometrist during the first week of June to evaluate if I needed surgery to correct a "macular pucker" that had become enlarged over a relatively short period. Dr. Christiansen made himself immediately accessible to me and I was able to schedule an appointment very quickly. During the exam, he explained what he found, answered all my questions, and then gave me reasons to consider why I would want to go ahead with a surgery and reasons why I would not, and the risks and benefits of doing so...His demeanor was professional and friendly. He made me feel comfortable throughout the exam. Ultimately, I decided the benefits would outweigh possible risks and asked for the surgery to be scheduled.I have a very tight work schedule and my insurance rolls over in July. I have met my deductible for this year. Somehow, Dr. Christiansen was able to schedule my surgery (yesterday) before the end of the month. He remained in contact with me prior to surgery by e-mail, and a couple of of phone calls (remarkable), again answering all questions I had and making sure I was ready for the surgery.I had the surgery yesterday and had a follow-up visit with Dr Christiansen this morning (Sat). Everything seems on track for healing as expected. Here I am a day later, writing this review without glasses. I had no pain or discomfort during or after the surgery. While the surgery I had will take several months before its results will be fully realized, I am happy with the immediate outcome. My wife came with me to the post-op exam and again Dr Christensen took time to explain the whys, hows and expectations for my surgery to her.So...I am pleased with the outcome of my surgery as it now stands.Dr Christiansen impresses me as being a competent surgeon and was professional, friendly, and accessible throughout interactions I've had with him. He clearly has a passion for the work he does, and I would not hesitate to use him for any future issues I have with my vision.Thank You Dr. Christiansen.

What is a Retina Specialist?

Education and Training

What does a retina specialist do?

Conditions retina specialists treat:

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