About
Atlantic Retina Center
2004
Founded
3
Fellowship-trained surgeons
5
Offices across Delmarva
100%
Focused on the retina
Our story
Atlantic Retina Center opened in January 2004, founded by Dr. Joseph Schwartz. Dr. James Rial joined later that same year, and Dr. Paul Lagonigro joined the practice in 2012. Together, our three surgeons built a single-specialty vitreoretinal group devoted entirely to diseases of the retina, vitreous and macula.
All of our physicians are fellowship-trained retina specialists, board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. As a team, they specialize in treating the full range of retinal disease, from the most common conditions to complex surgical cases, and every one of our surgeons covers the entire vitreoretinal scope.
At every visit, our team takes serial year-over-year retinal photos so we can compare your images over time and track how a condition is changing. It is a simple habit that helps us catch small shifts early and guide care that is right for you.
What our team treats
The retina is a thin layer of nerve tissue that lines the back of the eye. It senses light and transmits visual images to the vision center in the brain, and the macula at its center is responsible for sharp, detailed central vision. When the retina is affected by disease or injury, timely specialist care matters.
Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of central vision loss after age 60.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetes can damage the delicate blood vessels of the eye, threatening sight if left untreated.
Retinal Tears & Detachment
A torn or detaching retina is an urgent condition, flashes, floaters or a shadow need prompt evaluation.
Macular Pucker
Scar tissue across the macula can wrinkle it, causing blurred or distorted central vision.
Macular Hole
A small break in the macula can cause blurred or missing central vision and often requires surgery.
Retinal Vascular Occlusion
A blocked retinal vein or artery, often linked to diabetes or hypertension, can cause sudden vision loss.
Our mission
To treat every patient the way we would want our own family to be treated.
We are committed to providing high-quality, state-of-the-art care for patients with retinal disease in a warm, welcoming environment, helping our patients protect and preserve their vision.
Convenient retina care across the Delmarva peninsula
