Skin cells such as keratinocytes or fibroblasts are sampled from the patient by biopsy and expanded ex vivo. Reprogramming into iPSCs is achieved by conventional protocols using retroviral transfection or, preferentially, by alternative protocols that employ nonintegrating vectors or vector-free treatment with small molecules. Directed differentiation regimens are used to derive the required type of fully differentiated retinal cells, such as RPE or photoreceptors, from the iPSC cultures. Following further enrichment and expansion steps, retinal cells will be reimplanted directly into the subretinal space during intraocular surgery. By supplementing or replacing diseased cells, the transplanted cells may prevent further disease progression and visual decline. RPE cells generated from human 4-factor iPSCs have characteristic polygonal shapes, express ZO-1 junction proteins, and vectorially transport fluid, as evidenced by “dome” formation.