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Protect Your Sight: Get Checked for Glaucoma

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Your eyes help you every day to read, watch TV, drive and more. Taking care of your eyes matters. However, some eye problems can be hard to notice early on.

Known as “the sneak thief of sight,” glaucoma can quietly damage your vision without any warning signs. Many people lose some sight before doctors diagnose the disease.

Schedule routine eye care during Healthy Aging Month to find issues before they affect your vision.

Study Focuses on Elevated Eye Pressure

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can lead to vision loss or blindness. The disease damages the optic nerve, the part of your eye that sends visual information to your brain.

Harm to the optic nerve often occurs through increased pressure inside the eye. If damage occurs, any vision lost is irreversible.

A recent study published in Ophthalmology Science, focuses on how elevated eye pressure changes blood vessels in the eye.

“If we can understand that, we can inform drug delivery to improve blood flow in the back of the eye,” said Yi Hua, a University of Mississippi biomedical engineering professor, in Medical Xpress. “That can slow down the progression of glaucoma.”

Researchers used advanced 3D imaging and glowing dye to track how blood flows through the eye at different pressure levels.

The study showed extreme eye pressure resulted in a lack of oxygen in approximately 30 percent of the tissue in the optic nerve. According to the study, an oxygen deficit leads to cells dying and eventually loss of sight.

“The vision loss resulting from this damage cannot be recovered. Hence, it is crucial to find ways to detect the disease and prevent the damage before it happens,” Ian Sigal, associate professor of ophthalmology and bioengineering at the University of Pittsburgh, said in Medical Xpress.

Tests to Diagnose Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the U.S. It affects more than four million U.S. adults every year, according to a 2022 study. Of those, about 1.5 million people had vision-affecting glaucoma.

An annual comprehensive eye exam could help protect your sight for years to come. During the exam, your doctor may check for signs of glaucoma and other eye conditions using several tests:

  • Tonometry measures pressure inside your eye.
  • Ophthalmoscopy allows your doctor to examine the back of your eye and assess the shape and color of your optic nerve.
  • Perimetry measures your field of vision.
  • Gonioscopy looks at the drainage angle where your iris meets your cornea.
  • Pachymetry measures the thickness of your cornea, which can affect eye pressure readings and help guide your care.

If an eye exam detects glaucoma, several treatment methods are available. Options may include traditional medications, surgical procedures or a combination of both. Talk with your eye doctor about which treatment is best for your vision health.

People at higher risk for glaucoma may need eye exams more frequently.

Know Your Glaucoma Risk Factors

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but risk factors make certain individuals more likely to develop the disease.

Risk factors for glaucoma include the following:

  • Age 45 or older
  • Family history of glaucoma
  • History of injury to the eye
  • Black American
  • Diabetes
  • Nearsighted (myopic)
  • Farsighted (hyperopic)
  • History of elevated intraocular pressure
  • History of steroid use, either in the eye (drops) or systemically (orally or injected)

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam

Healthy Aging Month reminds us to focus on maintaining good vision as we get older. Getting an annual comprehensive eye exam is an easy way to protect your sight.

Our board-certified ophthalmologists are accepting new patients. Schedule an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam at one of our eye care centers near you.

No More Glasses: College Student Finds Her Focus With ICL

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Wearing thick, heavy glasses wasn’t a style choice for Abi Titus growing up; it was a necessity.

The Wayne, New Jersey, woman struggled for years to see clearly. Her high nearsightedness made distant objects blurry, and severe astigmatism distorted everything else.

“That’s always been a challenge in my life. I always had to go the extra mile academically [and in] all the things that I liked doing,” Titus, 21, said. “I’m squinting. I can’t see the board in class. I always have to sit in the front, and even then I have to take pictures of the board.”

Vision challenges in high school continued at the School of Engineering at Rutgers University — New Brunswick, where she’s studying chemical engineering.

“It was an ongoing conversation,” Titus said. “Am I going to get some kind of vision surgery so that I don’t have to be like this for the rest of my life?”

When the unexpected happened during a family trip to Niagara Falls last summer, it confirmed her decision to move forward with eye surgery.

“I was wiping my glasses, and they just snapped. And I didn’t bring any spares with me,” Titus said. “My vision was so bad that I couldn’t even make out shapes or outlines. It was just blurs of light. It was a disability when I didn’t have glasses, or I didn’t have a way of seeing. I was practically blind.”

Evaluation Determines Best Vision Surgery

Titus spent years researching vision correction surgeries on her own to find a solution for her eyesight. Among those procedures were LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) and the relatively new EVO Implantable Collamer® Lens (ICL).

Dr. Adrian JachensA few months after the Niagara Falls trip, Titus met with ophthalmologist Adrian Jachens, MD, to talk through what was best for her long-term vision, because not every procedure was right for her eyes.

“We did a full evaluation, as we do with all refractive surgery consults, and that refractive surgery evaluation ruled out LASIK and PRK for her,” Dr. Jachens said. “Then, we agreed that ICL would work well for her because she was a good candidate for it.”

LASIK and PRK treat vision issues by surgically reshaping the cornea. By comparison, EVO ICL is a minimally invasive, reversible vision correction procedure where a soft, biocompatible lens is placed between your iris and natural lens.

Good candidates for ICL surgery are adults 21-45 years of age who are nearsighted, with and without astigmatism. Dr. Jachens explained that ICL offers distinct advantages compared to other surgical procedures.

“ICL doesn’t have the risk of dry eye that LASIK can give people,” he said. “If you’re having LASIK, your cornea is forever changed, it’s never going to be back to normal ever again. Whereas the ICL is always reversible. [Your doctor] could always go in and remove that lens and swap it with another one.”

ICL Surgery Results in 20/20 Vision

Choosing EVO ICL, Titus scheduled her surgery with Dr. Jachens for December 23 at River Drive Surgery and Laser Center in Elmwood Park, New Jersey.

“We call it a bilateral procedure because we’re doing both eyes, but they’re not done at the same time,” Dr. Jachens said. “They are two entirely separate surgeries from soup to nuts. The real terminology is same day, sequential.”

Titus was released to recover at home. At her post-op visit the next day on Christmas Eve, Dr. Jachens confirmed the surgery was a complete success. Titus now had 20/20 vision in both eyes.

“I was just reading and reading,” Titus said. “It was great!”

Dr. Jachens prescribed eye drops and instructed her to wear sunglasses for several days because of light sensitivity.

“My vision was returning quickly,” she said. “Overall, I was like, ‘Wow, I can see!’ I’m walking around. I’m functional. I can read. It was a merry Christmas.”

Finding Her Confidence With Clear Vision

Eight months after her procedure, Titus is filled with gratitude. Life without glasses has brought crystal-clear vision and a brighter outlook.

“This is such a privilege to be able to see — as someone who wasn’t able to see before,” she said. “I wake up every morning, and I don’t have to put glasses on. I wake up, and I can see outside my window.”

College life at Rutgers improved for Titus, too. With sharper vision, she found it easier to focus more fully on her coursework.

“I remember being in the hardest level classes in my spring semester and still being able to perform well,” she said. “There was a higher sense of ease because I could literally be sitting in the back of a lecture hall, and I could see.”

Living without glasses revealed more than just clear vision, Titus saw a new version of herself in the mirror.

“My confidence level went up,” she said. “You can see my face now. I can do eyelashes. I can do my makeup differently. The possibilities [are] endless.”

With her new eyes, Titus’ world is wide open for adventure. She’s finishing summer school, gearing up to get her motorcycle license and planning trips wherever the road leads.

“I’m just trying to make the most of literally living my best life,” she said. “Trying to make the most of my opportunities. Expose myself to new things. Learn new skills.”

Dr. Jachens celebrates Titus’ recovery and improved visual clarity through ICL.

“It’s really cool because I don’t think people that have relatively good vision can appreciate just how debilitating that sort of myopia really is,” he said. “I’m just happy that Miss Titus did so well.”

ASCs Put Patient Comfort First

Following her successful ICL surgery, Titus said she would recommend procedures at an ambulatory surgery center like River Drive.

“The team is much more receptive and much more willing to accommodate you,” she said. “They were very in tune to my needs, especially during the procedure.”

ASCs offer same-day procedures using advanced technology in a comfortable setting with easy parking, often at reduced costs, and with the convenience of recovering at home.

“Because this is intraocular surgery, you need a very sterile environment,” Dr. Jachens said. “The ambulatory surgical center experience is always going to be best for both surgeon and patient. Hospitals are not really equipped, nor do they have much experience with a procedure like this.”

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam

Your eyes deserve expert care. Getting a yearly, comprehensive eye exam with dilation helps catch issues like glaucoma, macular degeneration and cataracts before they affect your vision.

“If you’re not seeing well, or if you’re having any interesting or strange new symptoms, or if your eyes aren’t feeling right — itching, burning, scratching — all the way to blurry vision, flashes and floaters, call an ophthalmologist,” Dr. Jachens said.

If you are interested in reducing your need for glasses or contact lenses or require cataract surgery, we can help you explore options. Our board-certified ophthalmologists are accepting new patients. Find an eye doctor nearby to focus on your vision needs.

This article is designed for educational purposes only. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health concern or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health concern, you should consult your healthcare provider.

Cataracts 101: An Ophthalmologist Shares Insights

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Dr. George WandlingCataracts are a common cause of vision loss, especially as we get older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that more than 20.5 million people in the U.S. aged 40 and older have cataracts.

June is Cataract Awareness Month, a time to protect your vision. Early detection and treatment can maintain and even improve your quality of life.

Board-certified ophthalmologist George Wandling, MD, performs hundreds of cataract surgeries annually at the North Metro Surgery Center in Blaine, Minnesota.

“Talk with your optometrist or ophthalmologist about seeing better!” he said. “Cataract surgery is an amazing procedure with millions of happy experiences every year.”

Dr. Wandling recently shared his knowledge about cataracts, the importance of treatment and the benefits of choosing an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) for cataract procedures.

Q. What are cataracts, and why do they happen?

A. Cataracts are a hardening, yellowing and opacification of your natural crystalline lens in your eye. They happen to everyone in time. Sometimes medications, trauma or medical conditions make cataracts happen earlier. Cataracts are live cells, meaning they continue to grow and divide. Eventually, they become too clouded or hardened over the course of our life. Nowadays, the average age for people needing cataract intervention is about 70, because the vision has been affected to such a level that the patient is bothered.

Q. What are some of the most common signs or symptoms of cataracts that people should watch for?

A. Usually, the first thing people notice is nighttime driving symptoms, such as halos or glare around light, or the general diminishing of their vision at night.

It’s time to have surgery when we are no longer able to fix bothersome symptoms from cataracts by changing your glasses prescription. At that point, glasses can’t help any longer, and we have to take the cataract out and put in a new lens.

Q. How do cataracts impact daily life if left untreated?

A. If untreated, cataracts can make us completely blind. They can wholly opacify and turn into a white cataract. Most people have seen a dog with a white cataract where you look at their eye and see that it’s completely white centrally. At that point, color and objects can’t be seen; nothing other than light can be seen. Usually, patients pursue treatment well before they get to that point.

Q. At what point should someone consider seeing an eye doctor about their vision changes?

A. If you feel like your vision is affecting your daily life, you should see an eye doctor. Whether that be driving, seeing the crawl on the TV screen or seeing your grandkid’s baseball game.

Q. Is cataract surgery the only treatment option, or are there alternatives?

A. Typically, our first step is to try the patient in glasses or contacts. If that is insufficient and we determine that cataracts are the source of vision changes and are worsening, then we need to perform cataract surgery. There are no eye drops, homeopathic remedies or exercises that can reduce cataracts.

Q. What would you say to patients who are hesitant or anxious about cataract surgery?

A. Cataract surgery is as straightforward and non-invasive as surgeries come. We are confident that we can get anyone through cataract surgery. We have anesthesia in most cases to help the patient with any anxiety they may have. The success rate of cataract surgery is phenomenal, and the complication rate is very low.

Q. How has cataract surgery evolved in recent years, especially with the use of laser-assisted technology?

A. Cataract surgery in its current form started about 40 years ago. Laser-assisted technology started about 15 years ago. The laser has really helped us with precision and fixing astigmatism, which has held people back from obtaining their best possible vision. The laser has really helped us to get people out of glasses and made more complicated surgeries easier.

Further, over the past few years, the biggest evolution has been the variety of different lenses (trifocal, light adjustable lens, etc.). The depth of focus and the ability to be glasses-free after cataract surgery continues to evolve and is available for more and more patients with any eye health and with many different conditions.

Q. Can you explain the different lenses and how the right lens is chosen for each patient?

A. There are many different types of lens implants. There are standard lens implants that serve patients very well; however, the patient may need to be in contacts or glasses after the procedure.

Within the last five or six years, the variety of different lenses has grown.

There are monofocal lenses that give a little more arm’s length vision, but you’re still expected to need readers for fine print.

Multifocal lenses or trifocal lenses give great distance, intermediate and up-close vision. Many patients who choose these lenses are able to get out of glasses entirely.

There’s something called a light adjustable lens (LAL) that gives you contiguous vision and a lot of depth of field, and often, those patients are able to be glasses free as well.

The correct choice is ultimately up to the patient and a discussion with the patient’s ophthalmologist as to which may be the best option. Sometimes different lens implants have costs associated, as often insurance doesn’t cover all lens options.

NOTE: Patients should consult with their healthcare provider about coverage.

Q. What are the benefits of having cataract surgery at an Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) rather than a hospital?

A. ASCs have shown to be better than hospitals when it comes to patient experience, and the overall time in the facility is less at an ASC. Additionally, patients have lower complication rates, the staff are specialized and are very familiar with cataract procedures, and the recovery time is faster at ASCs.

Q. How do ASCs support a more comfortable or convenient experience for patients?

A. Because outpatient surgery is the sole purpose, it is easier for ASCs to make each patient feel valued. We are able to give the proper attention to the patient, and each staff member is empowered to help and well-versed with all of the procedures that come through our ASCs.

Q. What does a typical cataract procedure look like — from arrival to discharge?

A. The patient checks in at the front desk with a family member or friend and waits to be called back into the pre-operative area. Once they are called back to pre-op, the nursing team preps the patient for the procedure. The patient will get eye drops instilled and an IV so anesthesia can be delivered just before the procedure. When it’s time for the procedure, the patient is brought back to the operating room, where the patient receives anesthesia medications to keep them comfortable. The time in the OR is typically 15 to 30 minutes.

The patient is then taken to the post-operative area, where the patient is given a light snack and something to drink. Just before discharge, the nurse reviews the post-operative eye drops and discharge instructions with the patient before helping them out to their car to be driven home by a family member or friend. The patient should take it easy on the day of the procedure. The next day, they can typically resume most activities.

Q. How quickly can most patients expect to recover and see improvement in their vision?

A. We tell patients to expect vision to be blurry for a week following the procedure but be happy when it’s less. Some patients do see great on day one, but it’s more common to be blurry for a few days after. Typically, there’s no pain, you don’t look any different, and no one can tell you’ve had cataract surgery.

Q. What kind of results can patients realistically expect after cataract surgery?

A. I would expect improvement of halos and glare and improvement in overall vision. Every patient is going to be different in terms of how sharp their vision will be after cataract surgery based upon other conditions. The satisfaction rate of cataract surgery is very high.

Q. Who is a good candidate for cataract surgery at an ASC?

A. The vast majority of people are great candidates for cataract surgery at an ASC. The exceptions are those that are very sick, those who have had recent heart procedures (including stents), those who are at risk for difficulty breathing, or those who have a very high BMI. Overall, over 99 percent of patients are appropriate for cataract surgery at an ASC.

Q. What do you wish more people knew about cataracts and cataract surgery?

A. Your vision in the office may be 20/20, but that doesn’t tell the whole story because that is an idealized situation.

A common example I use for patients is my aunt. Her vision was 20/20 and she saw well with her contacts. She was 80 years old, so I knew she had cataracts, and she really didn’t have too many complaints about her vision except for night traveling. One night, driving behind an ambulance, she was panicked because she couldn’t see anything with the severe glare.

If you’re having difficulty with your vision, insurance always pays for cataract surgery if the ophthalmologist agrees that’s the reason your vision has declined. You can have 20/20 vision and still have the need for cataract surgery.

Schedule Your Cataract Surgery at an ASC

Eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) do not have symptoms at the beginning stage of development.

During Cataract Awareness Month, take a moment to prioritize your eye health and schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Then, talk to your eye doctor about whether it is time to consider cataract surgery. Your out-of-pocket costs for cataract surgery may be lower if you have met your health insurance deductible.

If you’re searching for a board-certified ophthalmologist, we have eye care centers across the country and welcome new patients. Your eyes deserve outstanding care, so call today to make an appointment.

This article is designed for educational purposes only. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health concern or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health concern, you should consult your healthcare provider.

Clearer Vision Ahead: How Cataract Surgery Can Improve Your Quality of Life

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If your vision is cloudy or blurry, you may hesitate to drive after dark, find it difficult to read fine text or feel unsteady while walking. These symptoms may point to cataracts — an age-related eye condition that can affect your vision over time.

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts form when the natural lens in your eye loses its clarity, usually because of aging. This change happens slowly, and you may not notice it at first. Daily activities like reading or driving may become difficult or unsafe.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that more than 20.5 million people in the U.S. aged 40 and older have cataracts. During Cataract Awareness Month, we will focus on the symptoms and treatment of the main cause of vision loss in the U.S.

To preserve your eyesight, early detection through regular eye examinations and treatment are critical. Cataract surgery restores your vision and improves your quality of life safely and effectively.

Regain Confidence Performing Everyday Tasks

If you have cataracts, glare from headlights and halos around lights can make driving uncomfortable and even dangerous. After cataract surgery, many patients report a significant improvement in their ability to drive safely and confidently, especially at night.

If you hold books or menus at arm’s length or need extra light to read, cataracts may be the reason. Cataracts can blur printed words, dull colors and make reading tiring. Surgery can bring reading back into focus by returning your sharp, vibrant vision.

Cataracts can make it harder to see clearly, which may affect your coordination and ability to judge distances. Improved vision after surgery can help you navigate uneven surfaces more easily and reduce the risk of falls.

Consider Cataract Surgery at an ASC

Today, patients often undergo cataract surgery at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC). These outpatient facilities are designed for efficiency, comfort and cost-effectiveness. ASCs often have shorter wait times, lower infection risks and a more personalized experience for patients.

Choose a Lens That Is Right for You

During cataract surgery, doctors remove the cloudy lens of the eye and replace it with a permanent intraocular lens (IOL). Consult with your eye doctor about the most suitable IOLs for your vision needs and lifestyle. Consider these IOL options:

Monofocal Lens — Medicare or health insurance usually covers the cost. Glasses or contacts will likely be needed after surgery.

Astigmatism-correcting Lens — Also called toric lenses, these generally provide clear distance vision. For some people, these lenses give them the sharpest vision of their life. Reading glasses or contacts may be needed after surgery.

Multifocal Lens — This premium lens option may reduce your dependence on reading glasses. Health insurance does not cover the cost of these lenses. Consider the one-time cost of the lenses versus not buying new eyeglasses or contacts again.

Ready to See the Difference? Schedule an Appointment.

If cataracts are interfering with your daily life, do not wait to seek treatment. Our board-certified ophthalmologists are accepting new patients. Schedule an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam. Then, talk to your eye doctor about whether it is time to consider cataract surgery.

If you have met your health insurance deductible, your personal costs for cataract surgery may be significantly reduced. To take full advantage of your health plan’s benefits, schedule your procedure before the end of the calendar year.

Clearer vision and a better quality of life are within your reach. Find one of our eye care centers near you.

A Patient’s Vision Restored Thanks to a Donor’s Gift

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Corneal transplant recipient Rosalie Rhodes is grateful for the gift of sight from a young man she will never meet. She hopes to one day thank his family in person for their generous organ donation.

Bell’s Palsy Leads to Corneal Damage

A retired probation officer from Rutherford, New Jersey, Rhodes, 77, appreciates the importance of clear vision. A year ago, she was diagnosed with Bell’s palsy, a neurological disorder that causes paralysis or weakness on one side of the face.

The disorder made closing her left eyelid difficult, leading to exposure keratitis, a condition where the cornea dries out. The cornea is the clear, outer layer of the eye’s focusing system.

A specialist sewed her left eye closed to allow it to heal, but her vision did not improve. Rhodes’ condition deteriorated further and eventually resulted in vision loss.

“My vision was so impaired,” Rhodes said. “They decided that I needed a corneal transplant.”

Rhodes was referred to ophthalmologist Joseph A. DeLuca, MD, FACS, for evaluation.

“She developed an ulcer of the cornea inside the eye because she could not close her eyelid,” Dr. DeLuca explained. “They treated the ulcer until she was healed, but that left a scar. It left neovascularization of the cornea. Her sight was compromised a great deal.”

Corneal neovascularization refers to the abnormal growth of blood vessels in the cornea. In some cases, this condition can result in corneal swelling and vision loss.

After her eye exam, Rhodes and Dr. DeLuca discussed her options for treatment.

“[She] could have left it alone, and then the vision would have just been what it was, but she was motivated,” Dr. DeLuca said. “She chose to have a corneal transplant.”

Corneal Donation Needed for Transplant Surgery

Corneal transplant surgery, or keratoplasty, replaces a damaged or diseased cornea with healthy corneal tissue from an organ donor. Doctors perform more than 40,000 corneal transplants every year in the U.S.

To treat her left eye, Rhodes needed a penetrating keratoplasty (PK). Her surgeon would remove her damaged cornea then sew a clear donor cornea into place. Full vision recovery can take up to a year for some patients.

“The patient has to agree that when you do a full thickness [corneal] transplant, there’s a lot of post-operative care,” Dr. DeLuca said.

Dr. DeLuca’s office partners with the Lions Eye Bank for Long Island, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to fighting corneal blindness. After several weeks, Lions Eye Bank notified the office that a 24-year-old man passed away and his family opted for organ donation.

Filled with mixed emotions, Rhodes reported the next day to River Drive Laser and Surgery Center in Elmwood Park, New Jersey, for her corneal transplant.

“He wasn’t 70 years old or 50 years old; he was 24,” she said. “I am so grateful to the parents; they were so incredibly wonderful to do this.”

The procedure was complicated but successful. She returned a day later for a post-op exam with Dr. DeLuca.

A New View Through A Gift of Sight

Over 97 percent of all corneal transplant operations successfully restore the recipient patient’s vision. Rhodes is one of them.

“I could see! That was the first thing,” Rhodes said. “I was able to see color. I can see letters if they’re dark and on a light background. I will never have vision like I had prior to all of this, but it is a thousand percent better than I anticipated.”

Ten months later, Rhodes administers daily eye drops for dry eye, a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears. Dry eye is a common temporary side effect after a corneal transplant. Overall, Dr. DeLuca said she has recovered nicely, considering the complexity of her case.

“She’s a grand slam. She’s not wearing glasses, and she’s 20/25 after full thickness keratoplasty. Just exceptional,” he said. “It just went flawlessly, really.”

Rhodes said she appreciates Dr. DeLuca’s expertise and professionalism to restore her vision.

“I am so grateful to him and God,” she said. “I had God on my shoulder and so did he.”

As her recovery continues, Rhodes will never forget who made her corneal transplant possible. She wrote a letter to the family thanking them for their donation and submitted it to the eye bank for delivery.

“They gave me a chance to see out of that eye. I can’t thank them enough,” she said. “My heart goes out to them for their loss.”

Choose an ASC for Your Eye Surgery

Following her successful corneal transplant, Rhodes recommends eye surgery at an AMSURG ambulatory surgery center (ASC).

“I would recommend River Drive any time of the day or night,” she said. “They were so wonderful before the surgery, during [and] after.”

ASCs are outpatient facilities that offer the following benefits:

  • Same-day, high-quality surgical procedures with the most advanced technologies available
  • A home-like setting with convenient parking
  • Significantly lower costs than other facilities for the same procedure
  • The convenience of recovering at home

Schedule Your Annual Comprehensive Eye Exam

Annual comprehensive eye exams with dilation can prevent conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration and cataracts before they impair your vision. During May – Healthy Vision Month – consult your eye specialist regarding the frequency of preventative vision check-ups.

“Don’t wait to see the ophthalmologist when you do have a problem,” Dr. DeLuca advised.

If you are not under the care of a board-certified ophthalmologist, we can help you find an eye doctor in your area who is accepting new patients. You deserve the best eye care. Call today for an appointment.

This article is designed for educational purposes only. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health concern or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health concern, you should consult your healthcare provider.

Reeling in Clear Vision: An Angler’s Cataract Surgery Success

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Bruce Barkhorn fishing for striped bass off the coast of Keyport, New JerseyRetiree Bruce Barkhorn frequently fishes for striped bass off the coast of Keyport, New Jersey.

The 75-year-old angler spends hours each spring and fall navigating the waterway to reel in the perfect prize catch.

“Stripers, we call them,” he smiled. “It’s a good-eating fish. They’re big. It’s a lot of fun catching them. They’re really good sport fishing. It’s very popular here in New Jersey.”

Barkhorn’s passion for his maritime hobby faced a setback when cataracts began impairing his vision. Driving from his inland home to his boat on Raritan Bay became increasingly difficult, especially at night.

“[My vision] was out of focus a lot, and it got pretty bad the last year and a half,” he said. “My boat is about 30 miles away from where I live. I’d get on a parkway, and it was a little disconcerting driving. So, I knew I needed surgery sooner [rather] than later.”

What are Cataracts?

Cataracts are the leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide. They develop when proteins accumulate in the eye’s lens, making vision blurry, hazy or cloudy.

Dr. Shawn KleinWhen cataracts affected his night vision, Barkhorn made an appointment with ophthalmologist Shawn R. Klein, MD, to discuss his eye care.

“Everyone gets cataracts eventually,” Dr. Klein said. “Many times, they’ll start off as not being that visually significant. Over a couple of years, the vision will continue to degrade, and eventually, patients will come in complaining of blurred vision. And many times, there’s nighttime symptoms such as glare or halos, especially driving the car.”

Surgery is the only treatment option to medically remove a cataract. Vision impairment or blindness may result from untreated cataracts, so it is important not to delay surgery too long. In the U.S., surgeons perform nearly four million cataract surgeries every year.

“When we do cataract surgery, there’s always two parts of the surgery. The first part is taking out the lens of the eye that’s become cloudy. That’s called a cataract,” Dr. Klein said. “The second part is putting a new [intraocular] lens in the eye. If you don’t have a lens in your eye, you can’t focus the light that’s coming in. You can’t see.”

An intraocular lens (IOL) is made from materials like silicone or acrylic. IOLs often have a protective coating to block UV rays. Various IOLs are available to accommodate different vision needs and lifestyles. Some lenses may reduce your dependence on glasses.

After five decades wearing glasses, Barkhorn did not want to wear prescription eyewear post-procedure. He selected a multifocal lens designed to correct his astigmatism and give him distance and near vision.

Choose an ASC for Cataract Surgery

More than 50 percent of Americans aged 80 or older either have cataracts or have had surgery to remove them. Cataract surgery is a safe procedure to restore your vision and enhance your quality of life.

Bruce Barkhorn prepares for cataract surgeryBarkhorn underwent cataract surgery on his left eye at River Drive Surgery and Laser Center in Elmwood Park, New Jersey. The procedure took less than 20 minutes. He spent about two hours at the ASC.

“The truth is that the procedure, when we do it, takes about six or seven minutes,” Dr. Klein said. “There’s no pain. People are comfortable. It’s not a hardship to go through. The recovery is not hard to go through.”

Following surgery, Barkhorn wore a patch over his eye the first night and applied eye drops four times a day for a week. His full vision was restored within a few days.

Two weeks later, he returned to River Drive and the cataract was removed successfully from Barkhorn’s right eye. Based on his experiences, Barkhorn said he would recommend cataract surgery at an ASC.

“At my age, I’ve had a couple operations, and to me they [were] as professional as you’re going to get,” he said. “It’s almost like going to a major hospital in New York City. I was really shocked at how good it was!”

AMSURG-affiliated ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), like River Drive, are typically able to perform cataract procedures at the same high level and quality of care at a lower cost. ASCs offer additional advantages for patients:

  • They can focus on specific procedures, not emergencies or trauma, so your appointment is less likely to be affected.
  • They are easily navigable and usually have convenient parking because many ASCs are smaller than other healthcare facilities.
  • They offer more cost-effective procedures than other facilities.

Since his successful cataract surgery, Barkhorn now drives confidently to the New Jersey shore for striper fishing.

“I get up in the morning — I don’t have to reach for my glasses anymore. That’s all gone now,” he said. “One of the side benefits is I can choose any kind of sunglasses I want. Before, I was restricted to prescription [sunglasses]. Now, I can go to the store and buy them.”

Dr. Klein said patients benefit from having cataract surgery in an outpatient setting.

“Even though the surgery is delicate and can be complicated, our surgical teams are proficient with excellent results,” he said. “There’s a very high volume of surgeries to be done, and we can take care of them efficiently and in a comfortable manner for the patients.”

Find an Ophthalmologist Near You

A comprehensive eye exam is a key part of preventive care. Exams help detect common eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. A board-certified ophthalmologist can assess your vision health and recommend any necessary treatments or surgeries. Protect your eyesight. Find a nearby eye center and schedule an appointment today.

This article is designed for educational purposes only. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health concern or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health concern, you should consult your healthcare provider.

Accessorize with Sunglasses All Year to Protect Your Eyes

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UV radiation can cause eye disease and vision complications, so it is important to choose UVA-protective sunglasses to preserve your eyesight.

What Is Ultraviolet Radiation?

Are your sunglasses in a drawer waiting for the next beach trip? Millions of Americans are unaware they are exposing their eyes to harmful ultraviolet radiation, invisible rays of energy from the sun.

Two types of UV radiation contribute to skin and eye damage: UVA and UVB. Scientists measure UV radiation using the UV index, a scale from low radiation (1-2) to high (over 11). Experts recommend sun protection when the UV index is 3 or higher.

You cannot see or feel UV rays, and they can bounce or reflect off water, snow and sand. Therefore, sunglasses are just as important on cold, cloudy days.

What Happens When You Get Too Much UV Exposure?

Too much sunlight can have short- and long-term effects on your eyes. Similar to your skin, your eyes can also experience photokeratitis, a temporary sunburn. UV rays can burn the cornea and cause redness, soreness and light sensitivity. For most people, eyedrops and rest can treat photokeratitis.

Chronic sun exposure can cause more serious issues like skin cancer on the eyelid or eye. It can also cause pterygium or “surfer’s eye.” Pterygium is a fleshy growth that develops on the surface of the eye, and it sometimes requires surgery if it obstructs your vision.

Most people develop a cataract because of aging, but UV exposure can cause cataracts to develop more rapidly. UV radiation and other environmental factors make the lens cloudy, which can lead to the following problems:

  • Blurred vision
  • Double vision
  • Faded colors
  • Appearance of halos around light and headlights
  • Challenges with night vision

Too much exposure to UV light can also increase your risk for macular degeneration, a serious eye condition that deteriorates central vision. Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in Americans over age 60.

How to Choose a Pair of Quality Sunglasses

Function is more important than fashion when it comes to sunglasses. The FDA publishes guidance regarding the intended use, labeling and performance claims of non-prescription sunglasses.

You may prefer aviator, cat eye or wayfarer, but choose sunglasses that provide maximum protection from UV radiation and meet FDA guidelines. Here are tips for selecting a quality pair of sunglasses that will protect your vision and promote eye health:

  1. Select a pair of sunglasses that offer 100 percent UVA and UVB protection. Look for sunglasses that say “UV400,” meaning they block almost all ultraviolet radiation.
  2. Some sunglasses use the term EPF or “eye protection factor,” which evaluates how effectively the sunglasses block UV rays. Choose sunglasses that have an EPF of at least 9 or 10.
  3. Usually, light to medium tinted sunglasses are appropriate for driving and outdoor activities, while darker tints work well for the beach or skiing. Read the label carefully to determine the amount of protection the sunglasses offer.
  4. Sunglasses offer more protection if they wrap around your face and fit close to the eyes. A close fit and wraparound style create a physical barrier to keep out UV rays.
  5. Polarized lenses can help reduce glare from water and snow and can make golfing, boating and skiing more enjoyable. However, polarized lenses don’t naturally filter out UV rays. An additional coating must be added to the lenses to block UV light. Look for the EPF or UV label.
  6. The FDA mandates that sunglasses must have impact resistance; however, they are not shatterproof and should not be relied upon as protective eyewear.
  7. If you need protective eyewear for sports or industrial use, purchase safety glasses or goggles with plastic polycarbonate lenses. Polycarbonate lenses without coatings are prone to scratches, so opt for those with scratch-resistant features.

Other Ways to Protect Your Eyes from the Sun

Natural sunlight provides the best source of vitamin D, but getting too much sunshine can damage your skin and eyesight. The best way to get safe amounts of vitamin D is to spend a few minutes per day in the sun, whether in the mid-morning or mid-afternoon. During the winter and fall, you can spend some time outside in the afternoon when UV index is below a level 3.

Along with sunglasses, wear a wide-brimmed hat when you are outdoors. Hats will shade your face from the sun, but the brim must be sizable. A baseball cap won’t offer the same protection.

Sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is advisable, and remember to reapply sunscreen as needed. This is especially important if you will get wet during your activities. It is also important to limit your exposure to intense sunlight in the summer.

Visit an Ophthalmologist for a Comprehensive Eye Exam

You may think your vision is fine because you have never had any eye problems. However, 11 million Americans 12 and older have uncorrected vision issues.

Eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) do not have symptoms at the beginning stage of development. Comprehensive eye exams with dilation can detect eye diseases earlier when they are easier and less expensive to treat.

Talk to your doctor about how often you should schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Factors like age, ethnicity, family history and your personal medical history will help determine how often you should visit your ophthalmologist.

Some symptoms may indicate you need to see an eye doctor right away:

  • Eye pain
  • Double vision
  • Flashes of light
  • Floaters
  • Circles around lights
  • Eye redness or drainage

Find a Board-Certified Ophthalmologist Near You

Are you looking for a board-certified ophthalmologist in your area? We have eye care facilities across the country and welcome new patients. Your eyes deserve exceptional care, so call today to make an appointment.

Be Proactive with Diabetes to Prevent Permanent Eye Damage

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Severe or untreated diabetes can cause low vision or even blindness, so people who are diabetic must schedule annual comprehensive eye exams with dilation.

Diabetes Is Increasing in the United States

About 38 million people in the United States have diabetes, and 98 million are prediabetic. Poor diet, obesity and lack of exercise are major risk factors for type 2 diabetes, the type which affects 90 to 95 percent of Americans.

Diabetes can contribute to a variety of medical conditions, including retinal damage and vision loss. Over time, high blood sugar can weaken blood vessels in the eyes and affect the clarity of the lens.

Diabetes Can Cause Diabetic Retinopathy

Long-term diabetes can damage the retina, the part of the eye that receives images focused by the lens and transmits them to the brain. Nearly half of Americans with diabetes will develop diabetic retinopathy, a chronic condition that damages the blood vessels in the eyes.

In its early stage, diabetic retinopathy typically shows no signs, but it can later lead to blurred eyesight, floaters and vision loss. Other symptoms may include difficulty reading, eye pressure and difficulty with distinguishing colors.

Factors that can increase the likelihood of diabetic retinopathy include the following:

  • Unregulated blood sugar
  • Hypertension
  • Kidney disease
  • High cholesterol
  • Pregnancy
  • Being of African American, Native American or Hispanic descent

Not all people with diabetes will develop diabetic retinopathy or vision loss. For those who do develop the disease, patients have treatment options, including injections, lasers and surgical treatments.

“Losing sight from diabetes-related eye disease is not a foregone conclusion,” said J. Michael Jumper, MD, president of the American Society of Retina Specialists, in Medical Xpress. “There is hope, including advances in early detection and treatment spearheaded by retina specialists that can help people with diabetes enjoy healthy vision for a lifetime.”

Diabetic Retinopathy Affects the Eyes in Stages

Following are the two general stages of diabetic retinopathy:

  • Early stage (non-proliferative) — In this stage, blood vessels in the retina begin to bulge and form small pouches. If fluid begins to leak, it can cause swelling in an area of the retina called the macula. This condition, macular edema, affects about half of people with diabetic retinopathy and it is the most common cause of vision loss in those who have the disease.
  • Advanced stage (proliferative) — Over time, the retina may begin to grow abnormal, tiny blood vessels that can bleed easily. Minor bleeding may only cause small dark spots in your visual field, but excess bleeding can cause vision loss. The abnormal new vessels can cause traction on the retina, leading to retinal detachments.

Diabetes Increases the Likelihood of Cataracts and Glaucoma

Diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of vision loss and blindness in people with diabetes. However, diabetes can make people more prone to develop other eye conditions and vision problems.

Cataracts

Most people develop cataracts because of aging and environmental factors, but people with diabetes can develop cataracts more rapidly. High blood sugar can create deposits on the eye lenses and make them cloudy.

The good news is that surgery can safely and effectively treat cataracts. Cataract surgery is typically an outpatient operation conducted at an ambulatory surgical center. A doctor will extract the cataract and insert a transparent artificial lens, typically completing the entire operation in around 15 minutes or less.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma refers to a family of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve and potentially cause permanent vision loss. Many types of glaucoma do not have symptoms in the initial stages, which is why experts call it the “sneak thief of sight.”

Having diabetes doubles the risk for primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), the most common form of the disease. Open-angle glaucoma forms when drainage canals in the eyes become clogged. Excess fluid in the eye increases inner eye pressure, which damages the optic nerve.

Diabetes can also cause neovascular glaucoma, when abnormal blood vessels form on the iris and block fluid from draining from the eye. Diabetic retinopathy is usually responsible for this condition. Obstructed fluid from the damaged blood vessels can increase intraocular pressure and damage the optic nerve, leading to severe vision loss (CDC).

There is no cure for glaucoma, and you cannot prevent it. The best way to prevent vision loss is an annual comprehensive eye exam with an ophthalmologist.

February Is Low Vision Awareness Month

Besides diabetes, other long-term health conditions can contribute to other eye complications. Some of these include liver disease, autoimmune conditions, nutritional deficiencies, thyroid conditions and rheumatologic diseases.

February is Low Vision Awareness Month. Countless individuals in the United States face low vision, a type of eyesight issue uncorrectable by glasses, medication or surgery. Low vision makes daily activities like reading, cooking and housework challenging.

Here are some ways you can reduce your risk of low vision and vision loss:

  1. Visit your primary care physician regularly.
  2. Schedule annual comprehensive eye exams.
  3. Manage your blood sugar levels.
  4. Manage your high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
  5. Eat a balanced, nutritious diet.
  6. Quit smoking.

Comprehensive Eye Exams with Dilation Can Prevent Vision Loss

A diabetes diagnosis does not mean you will develop diabetic retinopathy, cataracts or glaucoma. With the help of a primary care physician and a board-certified ophthalmologist, you can protect your eyesight.

“Diabetes can silently damage a person’s most precious sense, their sight, before symptoms even appear. That’s why everyone with diabetes should focus on their eyesight and receive regular dilated eye exams,” said Dr. Jumper in Medical Xpress.

Regular visits to the eye doctor are important for everyone but especially those who have diabetes or chronic health conditions that can cause eye diseases. You cannot rely on symptoms to indicate whether you have a developing condition. Many eye diseases and vision conditions do not cause eye pain or warning signs, but they can still permanently affect your eyesight. Early detection and prompt treatment can prevent or delay eye disease.

A comprehensive eye exam with dilation is more than just an eye screening, because it allows your eye doctor to test your vision and evaluate your eye health. Using pupil dilation, your doctor can look at the back of the eye and see the retina and optic nerve. Annual exams help detect and diagnose problems early when they are most treatable.

Commit to Healthy Vision and Make Eye Appointments for Your Family

How long has it been since you and your family visited the eye doctor? You may be surprised to see how much time has passed since your last exam.

If you have diabetes or if diabetes runs in your family, you must be vigilant in staying current with your eye exams. Our board-certified ophthalmologists are accepting new patients and are equipped to meet your unique health needs. Find a location near you to schedule an appointment.

Five Important Facts about Glaucoma and Protecting Vision

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Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the United States, but you can take steps to preserve your eyesight by scheduling annual eye exams.

Glaucoma Is Caused by Increased Eye Pressure or Sensitivity to Pressure

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the eyes to the brain.

Your eye needs a steady circulation of fluid to keep it clean and lubricated. In a healthy eye, fluid can exit the eye through the drainage angle.

When the eye’s drainage system becomes blocked, it may raise the pressure within the eye, known as intraocular pressure. Elevated eye pressure or sensitivity to pressure can damage the fibers in the optic nerve and cause you to develop blind spots in your vision.

Glaucoma Can Develop with or without Symptoms

Did you know it is possible to have a degenerative eye condition without knowing it? Glaucoma is nicknamed the “sneak thief of sight” because it can cause irreversible eye damage without warning signs. Three million people have glaucoma, but half are unaware they have the disease.

Primary open-angle glaucoma, or POAG, is the most common type. It tends to develop gradually as pressure begins to build inside the eye. Usually, POAG is painless and does not cause noticeable changes in your vision during the early stages. Therefore, many people with POAG don’t know they have glaucoma.

Angle-closure glaucoma can develop when the iris is close to the area where the eye drains. This type can develop slowly or quickly, but eye pressure rises rapidly when a complete blockage occurs. During an acute angle-closure glaucoma attack, people may develop sudden symptoms like blurred vision, nausea, intense eye pain and headaches.

Sometimes people can have eye pressure that is within the normal range, but they still experience blind spots in their visual field and vision loss. This is called normal-tension glaucoma.

Some People Have a Higher Risk of Developing Glaucoma

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but some people are more at risk. Some glaucoma risk factors include the following:

  • Having a family history of glaucoma
  • Being of Asian, Hispanic or African heritage
  • Being older than 40
  • Being nearsighted or farsighted
  • Having a previous eye injury
  • Having health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, poor circulation or migraine headaches
  • Having corneas that are thin in the middle
  • Having a thin optic nerve
  • Using steroid medications for an extended period

Daily Choices Affect Your Glaucoma Risk

You can make lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of developing glaucoma. Creating healthy habits can lower your risk for eye disease as well as many other chronic health conditions.

Getting regular exercise and eating a nutritious diet high in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats is a great place to start. Controlling your weight and blood pressure will help your heart and circulation and lower your risk of diabetes.

Smoking can increase your risk of eye diseases as well, so quit smoking if you’re a smoker. If you’ve never smoked, make a commitment to not smoke or use tobacco products.

Early Detection Can Prevent Irreversible Vision Loss

There is no cure for glaucoma, but diagnosing it early can help you maintain your eyesight and prevent further vision loss.

Some people report weaker or dimmed vision due to glaucoma, but people usually don’t experience symptoms. Therefore, you cannot rely on warning signs.

A comprehensive eye exam with dilation can detect glaucoma early when it is easy to treat. Eye exams that only screen for elevated eye pressure are insufficient to accurately diagnose glaucoma.

A comprehensive eye exam will include a complete screening for glaucoma, which includes …

  • examining, measuring and taking an image of your optic nerve,
  • measuring intraocular pressure,
  • looking at the drainage angle of your eyes,
  • testing your peripheral vision and
  • measuring the thickness of your corneas.

If your ophthalmologist detects glaucoma, you have many treatment options available. Eyedrops can help reduce the amount of fluid your eye makes, or increase the flow of fluid in the eye.

There are also some surgical procedures called trabeculoplasty and iridotomy that can relieve pressure and increase fluid flow to the drainage angle.

Call Today to Make an Appointment with an Ophthalmologist

Yearly eye exams are an important part of preventive health care. Beginning at age 40, you should begin glaucoma screening and repeat the screening every two to four years, depending on your eye doctor’s recommendations.

Medicare will pay for one glaucoma exam per year for people who are at higher risk for the disease. However, everyone needs to take proper precautions and schedule a comprehensive eye exam.

Our eye care centers have board-certified ophthalmologists who are accepting new patients and look forward to providing you with exceptional vision care. Celebrate Glaucoma Awareness Month and start your year off by prioritizing your eye health. Call today to make eye appointments for your family.

Shop for Safe Toys to Brighten Your Child’s Holiday

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Holiday toys can bring laughter and cheer, but unsafe toys can cause vision loss, retinal damage or even blindness in children.

December Is Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month

This is the most wonderful time of the year for so many reasons. Holiday family gatherings often include festive meals and gift exchanges. Have you begun to peruse the Amazon catalogs or online sales for the hottest seasonal items?

During the season of joy and giving, toy safety is the top priority. December is Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month. It is an initiative to encourage people to assess whether a toy or gift is age-appropriate for the child receiving the present.

Every holiday, thousands of children require emergency treatment because they sustained an eye injury from an unsafe toy.

Follow These Safety Tips When Purchasing Gifts

Before buying holiday gifts for children, consider whether the kids have any allergies or sensory issues that might rule out certain toys. If you are purchasing outdoor equipment, make sure children have the space to enjoy it (NPHIC).

Keep these tips in mind when you are shopping for eye-safe toys:

  1. Avoid buying toys for young children that are sharp or that shoot.
  2. Purchase toys that suit your child’s ability and skills.
  3. Seek out a tag indicating that the toy has undergone a safety evaluation and received approval from the American Society for Testing and Materials.
  4. Purchase protective eyewear with polycarbonate lenses to accompany any sporting equipment.
  5. Don’t buy laser pointers for kids. High-powered laser pointers between 1,500 and 6,000 milliwatts can cause severe retinal damage.
  6. Avoid toys that include heating elements, cords or ropes.
  7. Ensure all paints, crayons, markers and art materials are marked as “non-toxic.”

Consider Purchasing Screen-Free Gifts

Too much screen time can cause eye strain for everyone, especially children. If you are buying electronics as a gift, talk to your children about taking frequent breaks and using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something at least 20 feet away.

Non-screen activities like books, easels, art supplies and sewing kits can inspire creativity and learning. Board games can teach skills like telling time, counting and memory recall. You can even buy games in other languages to help older kids learn to speak another language.

Studies show that playing outside can help prevent nearsightedness in children. Outdoor gifts like a bicycle, skateboard, camping equipment or a hammock will take outdoor fun to a new level (AAO).

Take Action If an Eye Injury Occurs

Even when using proper caution, accidents can happen. If your child sustains an injury from a toy, contact an eye specialist immediately. Instruct your child to avoid rubbing or putting pressure on the eye. If there is a foreign object in the eye, do not try to remove it, as you may make the situation worse.

Eye Exams Keep Vision Clear and Healthy

Is your child receiving regular vision screenings at school or at your local pediatrician’s office? Children’s eyes can change dramatically as they grow, and ophthalmologists can diagnose conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (misaligned eyes) and myopia (nearsightedness) when your child is young. Early treatment will protect your child’s vision for years to come.

If your child fails a vision screening, he or she may need a comprehensive eye exam. A visual acuity test will detect refractive errors, and dilation of the pupil can allow an ophthalmologist to detect abnormalities in the back of the eye.

A family background of medical issues or specific health conditions may raise the likelihood of developing eye disorders such as retinoblastoma, congenital cataracts or glaucoma. Consult your eye specialist regarding the frequency of preventative vision check-ups.

Although age is the greatest risk factor for cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration, anyone can develop chronic eye problems. People with diabetes are more susceptible to eye diseases, including cataracts and diabetic retinopathy. Therefore, it is imperative to manage diabetes with the help of your general practitioner. Detecting eye disease in the initial stages can protect you from long-term eye damage.

You should never wait for eye pain before calling an eye care professional. Eye diseases like glaucoma and macular degeneration can develop without warning signs while permanently reducing the field of vision.

Commit to Eye Health by Finding an Ophthalmologist

Are you seeking an eye doctor in your area? Our board-certified ophthalmologists are dedicated to protecting and restoring vision. Call today to make eye appointments for your whole family.

Clear vision is a precious gift, so care for your eyes this season. Your days will be merry and bright!