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Comprehensive guide by Dr. Jignesh Gala — ROP specialist (Mumbai). ROP lasers | ROP surgery | Neonatal retina care.
What is Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)?
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is an eye condition that affects the developing retina of premature and low-birth-weight infants. The retinal blood vessels finish forming late in pregnancy; when a baby is born early, the normal development can be disrupted, potentially causing abnormal blood vessel growth, scarring, and — in severe cases — retinal detachment and vision loss.
Who is at risk?
Babies born prematurely and/or with low birth weight are at highest risk. Neonatologists and pediatricians routinely screen at-risk infants in the NICU so problems can be detected early and treated promptly.
Signs & symptoms parents should watch for
Early ROP is usually detected during eye screening and may not have visible symptoms for parents. In advanced cases, look for:
- Abnormal eye movements or white reflex (leukocoria)
- Crossed eyes or misalignment
- Sudden changes noticed after discharge from NICU (prompt re-evaluation recommended)
Note for parents: If your child was premature, follow the NICU/pediatrician’s schedule for eye checks — early detection saves sight.
Screening & diagnosis (brief)
At-risk infants should be examined by an experienced pediatric retina specialist or ophthalmologist who routinely manages ROP. Screening schedules vary depending on gestational age and neonatal course; NICU teams and ophthalmologists coordinate follow-up after discharge.
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the stage and severity of ROP. Major options include:
- Laser photocoagulation (ROP laser): The most common standard treatment for threshold/Type 1 ROP. Laser treats the avascular retina and reduces abnormal vessel growth.
- Anti-VEGF injections: Used in selected cases to slow abnormal vascular proliferation.
- ROP surgery (vitrectomy/scleral buckling): For advanced ROP with retinal detachment — surgically reattach the retina and preserve vision when possible.
Dr. Jignesh Gala performs both ROP laser treatment and ROP surgeries and works closely with neonatologists and pediatricians to decide the best plan for every baby.
Why choose a specialist with neonatal retina experience?
ROP treatment requires:
- Expertise in neonatal retina anatomy and the unique surgical/laser techniques for tiny eyes.
- Close collaboration with neonatology teams and pediatricians to manage systemic health during treatment.
- Experience: outcomes improve with specialist skill and high treatment volumes.
About Dr. Jignesh Gala:
- ROP specialist in Mumbai known to many pediatricians and neonatologists.
- Trained at L.V. Prasad Eye Institute (Hyderabad) — one of India’s largest ROP centers.
- Has treated more than 4,000 babies and performed over 300 retina lasers (ROP lasers and other neonatal retina procedures).
- Skilled in both laser photocoagulation and ROP surgery.
Coordination with pediatricians & neonatologists
Successful ROP care is a team effort: neonatologists detect at-risk infants, pediatricians coordinate follow-ups, and the ROP specialist performs timely screening and treatment. Dr. Gala’s close relationships with Mumbai’s pediatric and neonatal community help ensure babies receive rapid, integrated care.
Frequently Asked Questions (SEO-friendly)
Q: When should a premature baby have their first eye check?
A: At-risk infants must be examined as recommended by their NICU team and ophthalmologist — early and regular follow-up is essential. (Follow your neonatal team’s schedule.)
Q: Is ROP curable?
A: Many cases of ROP are treatable and vision can be preserved if detected early. Severe cases may need surgery and long-term follow-up.
Q: Are ROP lasers safe for newborns?
A: Laser photocoagulation is a standard, well-established treatment when performed by an experienced ROP specialist.
Keywords for FAQs: ROP FAQs, is ROP treatable, ROP laser safety
Call to Action — Book an Appointment
If your baby is at risk or you need a second opinion for ROP, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jignesh Gala — experienced ROP specialist in Mumbai.
Clinic / Booking Details:
📅 Book Your LASIK Consultation Today! (Also available for pediatric retina consultations and ROP care.)
📍 Clinic Address:
B125, Laram Centre, Ground Floor
Behind Sunil Jewellers, S.V. Road
Andheri West Station, Mumbai
Find us on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/enKhqMoWERDZsyTW9
📞 Call to schedule: 7718885245
👩💼 Appointment Coordinator: Mrs. Vrushali Chande
🌐 Visit us online:
🔗 Crystal Clear Eye Hospital
🔗 Dr. Jignesh Gala’s Official Site (linked on Crystal Clear Eye Hospital site)
▶ Watch patient stories & procedures:
📺 YouTube Channel – Dr. Jignesh Gala
Final note
Early screening and timely treatment are the keys to preserving vision in premature infants. Dr. Jignesh Gala — trained at L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, and experienced in ROP lasers and surgeries — collaborates closely with pediatricians and neonatologists across Mumbai to give newborns the best chance for healthy vision.
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