If the retinal blood vessels in the macula close as a complication of disease, such as Diabetic Retinopathy, the macula stops working. This causes loss of central or detail vision. Although there is no medical, surgical, or laser surgery for this form of Diabetic Retinopathy, eyesight may be helped somewhat with the use of special low vision aids: magnifying lenses for close-up and telescopic lenses for distance. And, with counseling, patients who have lost macular vision can learn to use some of their peripheral or side vision to help them see more clearly and to cope more effectively with the practical tasks of everyday life.

Finally, people with diabetes who have lost their central vision must continue to have regular retinal examinations because Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy can develop and damage the remaining peripheral vision.