- Primary CareWhile we do not actually perform this procedure, we do comanage with reputable ophthalmologists who have years of experience performing refractive surgery using only the newest state-of-the-art equipment. Comanagement is the term used to describe the cooperative care of patients between the primary care eye provider and the ophthalmic surgeon. The components of refractive surgery include the pre-operative examination and measurement of the eyes, the discussion of the surgical procedure, including the alternatives, risk/benefit ratio, and risks and complications; the surgery; and the post-operative care. Most often, patients prefer to receive both their pre-operative work-up and their post-operative care from their primary eye care providers because of either a long-standing relationship with their provider or because of the geographic convenience of not having to return to the surgeon for every post-operative visit. Another advantage of post-operative management by the primary eye care provider is the fact that a great majority of the post-operative examinations consist of the measurement of the eyes for residual nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or the need for reading glasses. This skill is best performed by the primary eye care provider who is familiar with the patient’s lifestyle, as well as their individual visual needs. Visit www.optimaeye.com for more information about selecting the refractive surgeon that is right for you.
- GlaucomaGlaucoma is a common eye condition characterized by a buildup of fluid in the eye. When the passages in the eye that drain excess fluid become clogged, the pressure from the fluid can damage the optic nerve. If left untreated, glaucoma can eventually lead to complete vision loss. In fact, glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States.
- Macular DegenerationAge-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over age 50. It results from changes to the macula, a portion of the retina, responsible for clear, sharp vision, and located on the inside back wall of the eye.
- Laser Eye SurgeryLASIK eye surgery works to reduce or eliminate the need for corrective lenses such as contacts or glasses. LASIK stands for “laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis.â€
- CataractsA cataract is a cloudy or opaque area in the normally clear lens of the eye. Depending upon its size and location, it can interfere with normal vision. Most cataracts develop in people over age 55, but they occasionally occur in infants and young children. Usually cataracts develop in both eyes, but one may be worse than the other.
- Cataract SurgeryWhen a cataract progresses to the point that it affects a person’s ability to do normal everyday tasks, surgery may be needed. Cataract surgery involves removing the lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial lens. The artificial lens requires no care and can significantly improve vision. New artificial lens options include those that simulate the natural focusing ability of a young healthy lens.
- Eye ExamVision problems are prevalent in every stage of life. That is why it is important for you to have regular eye examinations. For most people, vision screenings are recommended every two years. However, there are cases when you may need vision screenings more often. If it has been more than two years since your last eye exam or if you are noticing a change in your vision, schedule an appointment with a skilled optometrist today.
- Multiple SclerosisComprehensive eye exams for adults are just as important. The risk of developing certain eye diseases only increases with age. Comprehensive eye exams allow physicians to screen for everything from glaucoma to diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and macular degeneration.
- Diabetes Care
- Diabetic RetinopathyDiabetic retinopathy is a condition occurring in persons with diabetes, which causes progressive damage to the retina, the light sensitive lining at the back of the eye. It is a serious sight-threatening complication of diabetes.
- Sports MedicineIf you are passionate about sports and need corrective lenses, consider talking to your doctor about specialized sports vision wear. Your doctor can suggest protective eyewear that will prevent sports injuries as well as help to optimize your performance.