Diabetic retinopathy
High blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in your retina. They can leak, swell, or grow abnormally — threatening your central vision. We detect these changes early, when intervention works best.
Diabetic eye care
Protecting your vision
when diabetes is a factor.
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness. Annual diabetic eye exams give you the monitoring and early intervention your vision depends on.
2024 Best of Pflugerville5-star Google ratedSame-week appointments
Why this matters
Diabetes affects your eyes
before you notice.
The most dangerous thing about diabetic eye disease is that it causes no pain and no noticeable vision change in its earliest stages — the stages when treatment is most effective.
Diabetic macular edema
Fluid can accumulate in the macula — the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision — causing progressive blurring. Early detection allows timely treatment.
Cataracts
People with diabetes develop cataracts younger and faster. We monitor lens clarity at every exam and advise on timing if surgical referral becomes appropriate.
Glaucoma risk
Diabetes doubles your risk of glaucoma. We measure eye pressure and monitor the optic nerve at every diabetic exam.
How we protect you
Imaging, monitoring,
and coordinated care.
Retinal photography
Advanced retinal imaging documents and compares the state of your retinal vessels over time — a clear picture of how well your blood sugar management is protecting your eyes.
Coordinated care
We communicate findings with your primary care physician or endocrinologist when needed — because your eye health and your systemic health are connected.
Your schedule
When to be seen.
- Newly diagnosed
Immediately
Schedule your first comprehensive dilated exam right away — even if your vision feels fine. A baseline is critical for tracking change.
- All diabetic patients
Annually
Once per year is the standard for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. We'll tell you if your findings warrant more.
- If changes are found
Every 3–6 months
If early retinopathy or other changes are detected, more frequent monitoring guides treatment decisions.
Meet your doctor
Dr. Haley Tran, OD
As a therapeutic optometrist and glaucoma specialist, Dr. Tran manages diabetic eye health with the depth it deserves — and coordinates directly with your physician when findings matter.
- Doctor of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Therapeutic optometrist & glaucoma specialist
- 2024 Best of Pflugerville · #1 Optometrist
Patients trust us with it
"Dr. Tran is very knowledgeable, understanding and a fantastic caregiver. Her entire staff is very welcoming, fun and caring."
Google review · Aura Eye Center patient
She explained everything thoroughly and I learned more about my eyes in one visit than I had in years of other care.
Dr. Tran gave me the most comprehensive eye exam I have ever had in my life. The staff was very kind and helpful throughout.
Common questions
Answers, upfront.
My vision feels fine — do I really need this every year?
Yes. Early diabetic retinopathy has no symptoms; by the time vision changes, damage is harder to treat. Annual imaging catches change while it's still manageable.
Is a diabetic eye exam covered by insurance?
Diabetic eye exams are typically covered by medical insurance (not just vision plans) because they're medically necessary. We verify benefits before your visit.
Will my eyes be dilated?
Usually yes — dilation gives the clearest view of your retina. Your vision may be blurry and light-sensitive for a few hours, so consider bringing sunglasses or a driver.
Will you send results to my doctor?
Yes. We coordinate with your primary care physician or endocrinologist so your A1C management and your eye findings stay connected.
What if you find retinopathy?
Early findings usually mean closer monitoring, with treatment referrals timed precisely if needed. Catching it early is exactly the point — outcomes are dramatically better.
Your vision is worth
one visit a year.
Same-week appointments available. Baseline imaging, expert monitoring, and coordination with your care team.
Schedule an Appointment Call (512) 885-2134
Medical insurance accepted · Retinal photography included
Related care
You might also need.
Insurance
We accept most major insurance plans.
- VSP
- EyeMed
- Aetna
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Cigna
- Medicare
- Humana
- Spectera
- Avesis
- Davis Vision
- CareCredit
- FSA / HSA
We verify your benefits before your visit — call (512) 885-2134