There are many questions that we encounter in our practice. What is yours? We will give you a personalized response!
| What is a cataract? A cataract is an opacification that develops within the lens of the eye. Just as a smudge on a camera lens blurs an image, vision becomes blurrier as the cataract worsens. If I have a cataract, do I have to have surgery? Surgery to remove a visually significant cataract is the only effective treatment available. Surgical removal is considered only when the cataract begins to interfere with a person’s daily activities-driving, reading, watching TV and recognizing faces. How is cataract surgery performed? Cataract surgery is a quick (less than 10 minutes) outpatient surgical procedure. An ultrasound device is inserted through a very small opening in the eye to break the cataract into small pieces, which are removed from the eye. An artificial intraocular lens is then inserted. This lens is permanent and allows the vision to be restored. What can I expect after cataract surgery? Our results with toric intraocular lenses have been outstanding. This type of lens is inserted at the time of cataract surgery and, in addition to correcting the cataract, can reduce any pre-existing astigmatism that the patient may have. This treatment option allows for the highest-quality vision and the best chance of functioning without glasses. Following the surgery, many patients say that they can see better than they have ever seen before. Can I wear contact lenses if I have dry eyes? Generally, except in the most severe cases, patients with dry eyes can wear contact lenses. A variety of new lens materials and eyedrops—both prescription and over-the-counter—are available, allowing most patients to wear contacts. Can something be done about the redness in my eyes? Red eyes can be due to many treatable causes, including dry eyes, allergies and blepharitis (a problem originating in the oil-producing glands of the eyelids). In addition to oral anti-allergy medications, eyedrops are helpful in reducing the symptoms of allergy. Lumify is a new medication that is over the counter and safe and effective. Although blepharitis tends to be a long-term problem, there are many treatments available that can help with the symptoms it causes, including over-the-counter eyelid cleansers as well as topical and oral medicine. If I have glaucoma, does that mean I am going to go blind? Periodic examination, early detection and timely treatment can help prevent blindness due to glaucoma, a condition most often caused by increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve. Many treatments (e.g., eyedrops, laser and surgical procedures, and others) are available for glaucoma that are very effective in controlling the disease. I see floaters sometimes. Is this a sign of a serious problem? Usually, floaters are not a sign of a serious problem and don’t require treatment. Floaters are actually cellular debris that people can sometimes see as specks that drift in front of their eyes. However, they also can be seen by patients who are developing a retinal tear or retinal detachment. It is very important for patients with new or worsening floaters, as well as new flashing lights- sudden bursts of light in one or both eyes-to have a thorough examination of the retina. That is the only way to distinguish “ordinary” floaters from a more serious problem. Is there any treatment for macular degeneration? Until recently, there were no good treatments available for this serious eye condition. However, there are now treatments available for both the “dry” and “wet” forms of age-related macular degeneration-damage to the retina that causes loss of vision in the center of the visual field. In the dry form, a specific combination of vitamins has been shown to be effective in preventing conversion to a more severe disease. In the wet form, medications can be injected to stop the growth of the abnormal blood vessels in the retina. Is it true that some medications can affect my optic nerve? Yes. A thorough eye examination, including evaluation by a neuroophthalmologist, can help detect these problems. With many diseases affecting the eyes, it is important to have regular eye exams to detect and treat changes early- especially for people with diabetes. How much does LASIK Cost? Although you may see ads for $495 or less, these are generally “bait and switch” ads and very few if any patients pay as little as $495. A realistic price is $1500-2500/eye. Financing is generally available and can be as little as $1/day/eye! Is LASIK Safe? LASIK is safe and effective in well trained and experienced hands. PRK is slightly safer as there are no flap related complications as there is no flap with PRK. Both procedures are excellent options to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. Are you a provider on my insurance? We accept most insurance plans but it is best to check with your plan first or with our office. Even if we are not contracted with your plan, you can often see us and submit the bill to your plan or pay directly for the services. Do you provide services for patients that are uninsured or underinsured? Yes, our goal is to never turn away a patient. From a practical perspective, we have a business to run and need to be reimbursed for our services. My eyes are so dry and irritated, can you help? Yes, we have multiple treatments for dry eyes and are experts at the management of keratitis sicca (dry eyes). Just call 702-362-3900 for an appointment. I have droopy eye lids, what can you do to help? It all depends on the cause. Often our new drop.. Upneeq can help. If this does not or if the problem is from a slipped muscle or redundant tissue, surgery or a laser may help. |