The retina is divided into two areas- the central area or "macula" and the peripheral retina. The macula has the highest concentration of retinal cells and provides the sharpest vision. We need our macula to read fine print and thread a needle. The leading cause of blindness in America, macular degeneration, causes damage to the macula.

The peripheral retina is used for peripheral vision which is critical for many activities such as driving and playing sports. A common disease of the peripheral retina is the retinal tear. This can lead to a retinal detachment and loss of peripheral and ultimately central vision as well.