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Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. The risk of glaucoma increases with age. Family history is also a strong risk factor. The most common type of glaucoma, chronic open-angle glaucoma, causes a slow, "silent" loss of vision. With routine eye exams, early signs of glaucoma can be detected and appropriate testing and treatment can be implemented. Treatment options include eyedrops, laser surgery, or more complex surgical procedures. We offer the latest in diagnostic technology including the Humphrey Visual Field Analyzer.
Cataracts cause progressive, painless loss of vision. The lens clouds naturally as we age, so people over the age of 65 usually see a gradual reduction of vision. No one is exactly sure what causes cataracts. In younger people they can result from an injury, certain medications, or illnesses such as diabetes. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light may also play a role in the formation of cataracts. Studies have also shown that people who smoke cigarettes have a higher risk of developing cataracts than non-smokers.
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in adults over the age of 55. Although there is no cure, early detection and treatment may slow progression. With the latest in high-resolution digital imaging, we are able to closely follow any progressive degeneration and recommend the latest in treatment options.
Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in Americans under the age of 55. Prevention or early detection and treatment are vital to preserving sight. All diabetics should have yearly dialated eye exams to detect any retinopathy. With the latest in high-resolution digital imaging, flourescein angiography, and laser technology, we provide state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options.
Dry eye is the term for when your eyes are insufficiently moisturized, either because they do not produce enough tears or because the tears have an improper chemical composition. It often occurs during the natural aging process, but it can also form as a result of eyelid or blinking problems, certain medications (antihistamines, oral contraceptives, antidepressants), climate (low humidity, wind, dust), injury, and various health problems (arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome).
LASIK is a safe, reliable and painless way to improve vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. LASIK, which stands for laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis, is a form of refractive surgery that changes the way light is bent, or refracted, as it passes through the cornea so that it focuses properly on the retina in the back of the eye and objects can be seen clearly. The procedure is effective for many patients with nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism.
During the procedure, a device called a microkeratome creates a flap in the outer layer of the cornea called the epithelium. Patients are given topical anesthesia and a mild sedative so they are awake but calm and cannot feel the instruments. The epithelial flap is lifted and an excimer laser beam adjusts corneal curvature so objects no longer appear blurry. The cornea is steepened for hyperopic patients, flattened for myopic patients, and made more spherical for patients with astigmatism. The flap is then closed.
The entire LASIK procedure takes only 15-30 minutes per eye, and patients are often ready to leave the office within an hour or two. A common complaint after surgery is sensitivity to light, but this will subside. Antibiotic eye drops will be prescribed for a few days, along with any other post-operative instructions. Full recovery takes a few weeks.
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