- GlaucomaGlaucoma is a disease where the optic nerve is damaged inside of the eye, causing peripheral vision loss and even central vision loss if the disease is advanced. There may be no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. High eye pressure is the most significant risk factor in developing glaucoma, although increased age, family history and African-American heritage are risk factors as well. If diagnosed early, blindness from glaucoma can be preventable, therefore early detection and treatment is extremely important. The doctors at the Eye Center of Charleston are experienced in the medical, laser-assisted, and minimally-invasive surgical treatment of glaucoma.
- OphthalmologyDr. Ellyn, beloved by colleagues and patients alike, has practiced ophthalmology in the Charleston area for over 30 years. Formerly working as a self-employed ophthalmologist in downtown Charleston, Dr. Ellyn has been with the Eye Center of Charleston since 2014. He has always had a passion for education and is a past recipient of the esteemed “Opthalmology Golden Apple Award” for outstanding teaching excellence, awarded by the Storm Eye Institute at MUSC.
- Macular DegenerationAge-related Macular Degeneration, also known as AMD, occurs when the central part of the retina, known as the macula, undergoes damaging, age-related changes that affect central vision, sparing side vision. Age, genetics, and smoking are several significant risk factors for developing this disease. There are two forms of AMD, “dry” and “wet.” “Wet” AMD typically refers to bleeding and leaking of fluid in the central retina, which can cause a very rapid decrease in central vision. There is no cure for AMD, but certain eye vitamins, dietary changes, lifestyle changes, and other medical treatments are available that can decrease the risk of further vision loss from AMD.
- Laser Eye SurgeryDr. Das first became interested in ophthalmology during his medical school training. His passion for the field developed as he learned more about the precision of eye surgery, various eye pathology, the rewarding doctor-patient relationship, and the opportunity for impactful medical mission’s work. During his time at MUSC, he was inducted into both the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. In order to gain a more well-rounded understanding of the systemic diseases that affect the eye, he decided to complete his internship in Internal medicine at MUSC. During his ophthalmology residency at Storm Eye, Dr. Das participated extensively in volunteer work with the Fight for Sight Program and Respectable as well as in research including glaucoma and physician wellness. He currently also works at the Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center serving our nations veterans and teaching cataract surgery to residents at the Storm Eye Institute.
- CataractsAt the Eye Center of Charleston, we appreciate and are grateful for the skill, patience, encouragement and availability of all professionals and staff. Before, during and after our cataract surgeries, we felt safe, secure and treated with care.
- Cataract SurgeryAstigmatism can result in blurry or distorted vision at distance and at near. This is because the natural curvature of your cornea (the clear window on the front of the eye) is more irregular in shape. A good example is your cornea has more football shape and a uniform basketball shape. Sometimes if a cataract has developed, this can cause irregularity to the lens inside of the eye, also contributing to astigmatism. Glasses, contact lenses, or lens implants with cataract surgery can help to alleviate this problem.
- Eye ExamA problem that occurs to everyone! Around the age of 40, your near vision, or reading vision, may start to decline, even if you have good distance vision. This is a normal age-related change to your eyes. Over the counter reading glasses are an easy way to help this problem, but always best to have a comprehensive eye exam to see if prescription glasses are better for your vision.
- Internal Medicine
- Diabetes Care
- Diabetic RetinopathyThe American Diabetes Association recommends that all diabetic patients have a dilated eye exam at least once a year. Early signs of damage in the body from diabetes can appear in the retina, known as diabetic retinopathy. Mild retinopathy is described by swelling and/or bleeding in the retina, while severe retinopathy can lead to retinal detachment and irreversible vision loss. Therefore, it is very important to be screened by your ophthalmologist to detect early signs if present.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Skin CancerThe doctors at Eye Center of Charleston are trained to perform eyelid biopsies in the clinic. New or existing skin lesions occurring around the eyelid can range from benign growths to skin cancer. Please have a thorough exam with your ophthalmologist if this problem arises.
- Lesions