Retina Care the Way It Should Be
At many retina practices, you may feel like a number. Protecting your vision is our top priority — that's why at Retina & Macular Disease Specialists, Dr. Smithen sits with you, listens carefully, and makes sure you truly understand your condition and your options. Expert care for macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and the full range of retinal disease — without ever feeling rushed.
Specialized Care for
AMD & Diabetic
Eye Disease
A boutique private practice where Dr. Smithen gives every patient her complete, unhurried attention — combining elite academic expertise with the kind of personal care you simply won't find at a large clinic.
- ✓Expert in all stages of AMD — from early drusen to advanced wet AMD requiring anti-VEGF therapy
- ✓Comprehensive diabetic eye care — annual exams, early intervention, and treatment of diabetic macular edema
- ✓A boutique private practice — you will never feel rushed, and Dr. Smithen takes the time to truly understand your concerns and explain your care
- ✓Individualized treatment plans — no two patients are the same, and neither is their care
Macular Degeneration,
Diabetic Eye Disease & More
Dr. Smithen specializes in the two leading causes of vision loss — age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy — as well as the full spectrum of retinal conditions.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of central vision loss in adults over 50. Dr. Smithen provides early detection, monitoring, and advanced anti-VEGF injection therapy to slow or stop progression.
Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. Dr. Smithen identifies and treats diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema early — often before you notice any symptoms — to protect your vision.
Anti-VEGF and steroid injections delivered with expert precision directly into the eye — the gold-standard treatment for AMD, diabetic macular edema, and retinal vein occlusions.
Blockages in the retinal veins can cause sudden vision loss or blurred vision. Dr. Smithen offers prompt diagnosis and treatment to minimize damage and restore as much vision as possible.
Dr. Lindsay Smithen, MD
Dr. Smithen is a board-certified retina specialist with deep expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy — the two leading causes of vision loss in the US. She is a recognized retina expert in the Northern Virginia region.
Whether you have been referred for AMD, need a diabetic eye exam, or are experiencing sudden vision changes, Dr. Smithen provides the highest level of personalized care in a warm, compassionate setting.
What Our Patients Say
We treat every patient as an individual — with genuine warmth, expertise, and attentive care at every visit.
"The kindest and friendliest office staff that makes every patient feel totally welcomed and comfortable. Dr Smithen is likewise extremely kind and super capable. I always feel like I am in the best professional hands possible in the DMV. These five stars are definitely deserved."
"I’ve been seeing Doctor Smithen for approximately 4 years. She is very thorough when discussing my progress and treatment plans. Her staff is knowledgeable and friendly and explain the process for the treatments they provide. I would recommend this office to family and friends with no hesitation."
"Dr. Smithen and her staff are the best. Very concerned, accommodating, and friendly." "
"Dr. Smithen is kind, knowledgeable, and efficient. Unlike my experiences in larger practice-group settings, I do not encounter long delays in the waiting room. Her staff is friendly, helpful, and keeps the office running smoothly. Dr. Smithen always takes time to review my scans, explain treatment options, and answer any questions that come up."
"I have been coming here for about 2 years for routine care/eye injections. Staff and Dr. Smithen are wonderful with treatment and treat us all as individuals with our different levels of mobility and needs. Highly recommend. Extremely happy with care and information received about my treatment. And easily metro accessible."
"Dr. Smithen and her team consistently make me feel like a person rather than just a “symptom.” This applies equally to the receptionist, who welcomes patients upon arrival and resolves any administrative issues that may arise, and to the excellent team of technical assistants, who provide care with warmth and professionalism."
"I was very fortunate to find Dr. Lindsay Smithen. She has taken away any fears I had regarding my eyes. She is caring and dedicated. Her colleagues in the office are knowledgeable and kind. I recommend Dr. Smithen wholeheartedly."
"Dr. Smithen inspired confidence with her professionalism and I look forward to completing my treatment under her care. "
"From the moment I walked in I was greeted with smiles. The doctor talked to me, not at me — I learned more about my eyes than ever before. "
"Everyone is friendly and shows great care in making me feel at ease. My appointments have been as good as could be expected. "
Request an
Appointment
We are a boutique practice and we take the time to get to know every patient. New patients are welcome — your appointment will be confirmed by phone. Please do not send personal health information through this form.