Eye Care Services

Vision

Comprehensive eye exam - A comprehensive eye exam is the best way to detect eye disease and disorders early on to prevent serious complications such as loss of vision. Often times, systemic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension are first detected during an eye exam. The American Optometric Association recommends a yearly comprehensive eye exam as an important part of preventative eye care.

What procedures are done at a comprehensive eye exam?

The three areas evaluated in a routine exam are: Visual Acuity (the clarity of vision), binocularity (how the eyes work together), and eye health. The first critical step, however, is conversation about what symptoms you may experiencing, and what tasks your eyes do in your everyday life; there is no substitute for the doctor listening carefully to the patient. We measure your vision using eye charts, do tests to evaluate your lens prescription, eye pressure, visual field, eye muscle ability, eye teaming skills, and focusing ability. Further tests may also be done, such as pupil dilation, which helps us see the inner parts of the eye better. Special testing, such as photographing the retina, measuring corneal thickness, or automated visual field testing may also be done if we see things that warrant further evaluation.

What's the Difference Between a Standard Routine Examination and a Contact Lens Exam?

Contact lens fittings are simply an additional "layer" on a standard routine exam. Each brand of contact lenses has a unique set of fitting characteristics, and must fit on your cornea with adequate tear circulation underneath it or serious complications can happen (You should never wear another person’s contacts, even if they have similar prescription numbers to yours!). The materials and advanced designs available today have enabled millions of people to go back to contact lens wear who were driven away because of dryness, discomfort, or inconvenience. Today’s contacts are a joy for physicians to fit and for patients to wear! See our links page for some of the contact lens manufacturers whose products we fit.

Medical Exams

Cataracts - Cataracts are a common eye problem where the lens inside the eye becomes cloudy, like a foggy window, causing blurry or hazy vision. They often develop slowly over time and can make it difficult to see clearly, especially in bright light or at night. Cataracts can be removed through surgery, replacing the cloudy lens with a clear artificial one, which usually leads to improved vision and clearer eyesight.

Glaucoma - Glaucoma is an eye condition that happens when the pressure inside the eye builds up, damaging the optic nerve that sends signals from the eye to the brain. This damage can result in gradual vision loss, usually starting with the side or peripheral vision. Since glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms at first, regular eye exams are important for early detection and treatment to prevent further vision impairment.

Diabetic eye exam - A diabetic eye exam is a specialized check-up for individuals with diabetes to assess the health of their eyes. It involves a thorough examination of the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, using special tools and techniques. The purpose of this exam is to detect any early signs of diabetic eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, which can cause damage to blood vessels in the retina and potentially lead to vision loss. Timely diabetic eye exams are crucial in managing diabetes-related eye complications and ensuring appropriate steps are taken to preserve eye health.

Macular degeneration - Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye condition primarily affecting older adults, causing gradual deterioration of the macula – the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It leads to blurriness or distortion in the center of the visual field, making it difficult to read, recognize faces, or perform daily tasks that require clear central vision. There are two main types of AMD, "dry" and "wet," with the "wet" form involving abnormal blood vessel growth that can leak and damage the macula more quickly. Regular eye exams are vital for early detection and management of AMD, as there are treatments available for the "wet" type that can help slow down or prevent further vision loss.

Dry Eyes - Dry eye syndrome is a common eye condition where the eyes don't produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort, irritation, and a feeling of dryness. This can result in redness, a gritty sensation, and occasional blurry vision. Factors like aging, certain medications, and environmental conditions can contribute to dry eye syndrome. Artificial tears and lifestyle adjustments are often used to manage the symptoms and improve eye comfort.

LASIK and Surgery Co-management - Refractive eye surgery is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting vision problems by reshaping the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, to improve the way light enters the eye and focuses on the retina. This surgery is commonly used to treat conditions like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. There are different types of refractive surgeries, including LASIK, PRK, and SMILE, each with its own method of reshaping the cornea. The goal of refractive eye surgery is to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses, providing clearer and improved vision for individuals with refractive errors. It's important to consult with an eye doctor to determine if someone is a suitable candidate for this type of surgery and to understand the potential risks and benefits.

Conjunctivitis (pink eye) - Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the thin, transparent layer of tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It can be caused by infections (bacterial or viral), allergies, or irritants. Symptoms include redness, itchiness, a gritty feeling, excessive tearing, and sometimes a discharge that can cause the eyelids to stick together. Conjunctivitis is usually not serious, and treatments vary based on the underlying cause, ranging from eye drops and compresses for relief to medications for infections. It's important to avoid touching the eyes and to practice good hygiene to prevent its spread.

Eye Emergencies, Injuries, and Foreign Body Removal - An eye emergency may occur due to accidents, trauma, foreign objects, or other factors. Eye injuries can range from minor scratches or irritations on the surface of the eye to more severe injuries involving the cornea, lens, retina, or other structures. Symptoms can include pain, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and sometimes even vision loss. Immediate medical attention is essential in case of an eye injury to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment, which can include eye rinsing, antibiotics, bandage contact lenses, or even surgery depending on the severity of the injury.

Vision

  • A comprehensive eye and vision exam is the best way to detect eye disease and disorders early on to prevent serious complications such as loss of vision. Often times, systemic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension are first detected during an eye exam. The American Optometric Association recommends a yearly comprehensive eye exam as an important part of preventative eye care.

  • We provide prescriptions for all type of glasses suited for your needs. Distance glasses, Near reading glasses, computer glasses, lined BF, computer reading progressives, every day progressives etc.

    We also offer sunglasses, polarized or tinted lenses.

    Come in and discuss with us the best glasses to fit your needs!

  • Soft Contact Lenses: These are the most popular and comfortable option for most wearers. They are made of a soft, flexible plastic material that conforms to the shape of your eye. Soft lenses are available in various types, including daily disposables, monthly disposables, and extended wear.

    Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses: RGP lenses are rigid, but they allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. They provide sharp vision and are often used for conditions like astigmatism and presbyopia. While they may take some time to adapt to, they can be very durable.

    Toric Contact Lenses: These are designed to correct astigmatism, a condition where the cornea has an irregular shape. Toric lenses have different powers in different meridians of the lens to address this issue.

    Multifocal or Bifocal Contact Lenses: These lenses are designed for people with presbyopia, a condition that makes it difficult to focus on near objects. They have different zones for distance and close-up vision, similar to multifocal eyeglasses.

    Colored Contact Lenses: These lenses can change or enhance the color of your eyes for cosmetic purposes. They are available both with and without prescription.

    Daily Disposable Contact Lenses: These lenses are worn once and then discarded at the end of the day. They are a convenient option because they eliminate the need for cleaning and storage.

    Extended Wear Contact Lenses: These lenses are designed to be worn continuously, even while sleeping. They are typically replaced on a monthly or quarterly basis, depending on the type.

    Scleral Contact Lenses: These large, gas-permeable lenses rest on the white part of the eye (sclera) and can be used for various eye conditions, including irregular corneas and severe dry eye.

    Hybrid Contact Lenses: These lenses combine the benefits of both soft and rigid gas permeable lenses. They have a rigid center for clear vision and a soft outer rim for comfort.

    Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses: These special lenses are worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily, providing clear vision during the day. They are used to correct myopia (nearsightedness).

  • Myopia control refers to various strategies and treatments aimed at slowing down or limiting the progression of myopia, also known as nearsightedness. Myopia is a common refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while close-up objects are clear. High levels of myopia can increase the risk of eye health issues like retinal detachment, cataracts, and glaucoma, making it important to manage and control its progression, especially in children.

    Here are some methods used for myopia control:

    Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): This involves wearing specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea. During the day, vision is improved without the need for glasses or contact lenses. Ortho-K is primarily used in children to slow myopia progression.

    Multifocal Contact Lenses: These lenses have different prescription zones for near and distance vision. Some studies suggest that multifocal contact lenses may slow myopia progression in children.

    Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine eye drops are prescribed to dilate the pupil and relax the eye's focusing mechanism. This can help slow down myopia progression, but the exact mechanism is not fully understood.

    Increased Outdoor Time: Spending more time outdoors, particularly in natural daylight, has been associated with a reduced risk of myopia progression in children. The exact reason for this effect is still under investigation but may be related to exposure to natural light.

    Controlled Use of Digital Devices: Reducing screen time and taking regular breaks while using digital devices can help reduce the risk of myopia progression, especially in children.

    Myopia Management with Eyeglasses: Specialized eyeglasses or lenses may be prescribed for myopia management, such as bifocal or progressive glasses.

  • Pediatric eye exams are essential for monitoring the vision and eye health of children from infancy through adolescence. Early detection and treatment of eye conditions in children are crucial to ensure healthy vision and proper development. Here is a general overview of pediatric eye exams at different stages of childhood:

    Infancy (Birth to 12 Months):

    Newborn Eye Assessment: Pediatric eye doctors typically conduct a basic eye assessment shortly after birth to check for any immediate concerns. This assessment may include examining the baby's pupils, red reflex, and eye alignment. The best age for the baby’s first eye exam is 6-8months.

    Preschool Age (1-5 Years):

    First Comprehensive Eye Exam: Around the age of 3, children should have their first comprehensive eye exam by an eye care specialist. This exam evaluates visual acuity, eye movement, alignment, and general eye health. Eye drops may be used to dilate the pupils for a more thorough examination.

    School-Age (6-18 Years):

    Regular Eye Exams: Starting from age 6, children should have regular eye exams, ideally annually or as recommended by their eye care provider. These exams assess visual acuity, eye coordination, depth perception, color vision, and the presence of any eye conditions or vision problems.

    During pediatric eye exams, the eye care specialist may perform various tests and assessments, including:

    Visual Acuity Testing: This measures how well a child can see at different distances using an eye chart. It helps identify nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism.

    Eye Alignment and Movement Assessment: The doctor checks if the eyes are properly aligned and if both eyes work together smoothly.

    Pupil Response Testing: The doctor examines how the pupils react to light, which can help detect neurological issues.

    Color Vision Testing: This assesses the child's ability to perceive and differentiate colors accurately.

    Retinoscopy and Refraction: These tests determine the child's prescription for glasses or contact lenses if needed.

    Eye Health Examination: The eye care specialist will inspect the health of the eye structures, including the retina, optic nerve, and the front of the eye. This can identify conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, or retinal issues.

    Eye Pressure Measurement: High intraocular pressure can be a sign of glaucoma, so this measurement may be taken.

    It's important for parents to be proactive about scheduling pediatric eye exams and to watch for signs of vision problems or eye discomfort in their children. Early detection and intervention can prevent vision problems from affecting a child's academic performance and overall quality of life. If any issues are identified during a pediatric eye exam, the eye care provider can recommend appropriate treatments or interventions to address them.

  • Please visit https://www.covd.org for more information

    Vision therapy, also known as vision training or orthoptics, is a specialized form of therapy designed to improve and enhance a person's visual abilities and comfort by training and retraining the visual system. It is typically conducted under the guidance of optometrists or vision therapists and is tailored to address various vision-related issues, including eye movement problems, binocular vision problems, and certain visual processing disorders. Here are some key aspects of vision therapy:

    Targeted Visual Exercises: Vision therapy involves a series of structured and individualized visual exercises and activities that aim to strengthen specific visual skills. These exercises can include activities like tracking moving objects, focusing on near and far objects, and improving eye coordination.

    Customized Treatment Plans: Vision therapy programs are customized to address the unique needs of each individual. A thorough assessment by an eye care professional is essential to identify specific vision problems and design an appropriate therapy plan.

    Binocular Vision Improvement: Vision therapy is often used to improve binocular vision, which is the ability of both eyes to work together as a team. Conditions like strabismus (crossed or misaligned eyes) and convergence insufficiency (difficulty in maintaining focus when reading) can be treated with vision therapy.

    Eye-Tracking and Visual Processing: Vision therapy can also target issues related to eye movement control and visual processing skills. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who experience difficulties with reading, comprehension, and visual memory.

    Therapeutic Tools: Vision therapists may use various tools and equipment during therapy sessions, such as prisms, lenses, 3D images, and computer programs designed to challenge and improve specific visual skills.

    Progress Monitoring: Throughout the course of vision therapy, progress is continually monitored. Adjustments to the treatment plan are made as needed to ensure the best possible outcomes.

    Home Exercises: In some cases, individuals may be given exercises to perform at home as part of their vision therapy regimen. These exercises help reinforce skills learned during in-office sessions.

    Duration of Therapy: The length of vision therapy varies depending on the individual's needs and the complexity of the vision problems being addressed. It can range from several weeks to several months.

    Vision therapy is most commonly used to address issues in children and adults, especially those with conditions like lazy eye (amblyopia), strabismus, convergence insufficiency, and difficulties with reading and learning. It can be an effective non-surgical approach to improving visual comfort and function. However, its success depends on the individual's commitment to the therapy program and the expertise of the eye care professional overseeing the treatment. If you or your child is experiencing vision-related challenges, schedule an appointment with us to determine if vision therapy is an appropriate option.

    TBI related VT

    Vision therapy with prisms can be a valuable treatment option for individuals who have experienced traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and are dealing with associated visual problems. TBIs can disrupt the brain's ability to process visual information properly, leading to various visual symptoms and challenges. Vision therapy, often incorporating prisms, can help address these issues.

    Here's how vision therapy with prisms can be used in the context of TBI:

    Assessment: The first step is a thorough visual assessment by a trained optometrist or vision therapist. This assessment helps identify specific visual problems resulting from the TBI, such as double vision, eye tracking difficulties, light sensitivity, or visual field deficits.

    Prism Evaluation: Prisms are special optical devices that can alter the path of light entering the eyes. In cases of TBI-related visual issues, prisms can be used to manipulate and improve the alignment of the eyes or to help compensate for visual field deficits.

    Customized Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment findings, a customized vision therapy plan is developed. This plan may include exercises and activities designed to improve eye coordination, tracking, and visual processing skills. Prisms may be incorporated into the therapy plan to address specific visual problems.

    Prism Glasses: Some individuals with TBI-related visual issues may be prescribed glasses with prism lenses. These glasses are designed to help align the eyes correctly, reduce double vision, or expand the visual field, depending on the individual's needs.

    Progress Monitoring: As with other forms of vision therapy, progress is closely monitored throughout the treatment. Adjustments to prism prescriptions or therapy exercises may be made based on the individual's response and improvements.

    Home Exercises: In some cases, individuals may be given exercises or activities to practice at home to reinforce the progress made during in-office therapy sessions.

    Vision therapy with prisms can be particularly beneficial for individuals with TBI who experience symptoms such as diplopia (double vision), visual disturbances, balance problems, and difficulties with reading or maintaining focus. By addressing these visual issues, it can improve the overall quality of life and functional abilities for individuals recovering from TBIs.

    It's essential to work with a qualified optometrist who has experience in treating patients with TBI-related visual problems. We can provide a comprehensive assessment, create a tailored treatment plan, and guide individuals through vision therapy with prisms to maximize its effectiveness in improving visual function and comfort.

Medical Exams

  • A diabetic eye exam is a critical annual evaluation for individuals with diabetes. During the exam, a healthcare provider reviews the patient's medical history, assesses visual acuity, dilates the pupils for a thorough retinal examination, measures eye pressure, and performs tests like visual field testing and optical coherence tomography if necessary. The main objective is to detect and monitor diabetic retinopathy and other eye conditions caused by diabetes, allowing for early intervention to prevent vision loss. Regular diabetic eye exams are essential for maintaining eye health and should be coordinated with diabetes management to ensure comprehensive care for individuals with diabetes. Schedule your yearly Diabetes eye exam with us today.

  • A cataract is a common age-related eye condition where the eye's natural lens becomes clouded, causing blurry vision, glare, and reduced color perception. It can develop gradually, often as a result of aging, but can also be caused by factors such as genetics, injury, or certain medical conditions like diabetes. Cataracts can significantly impact a person's vision, making everyday tasks like reading and driving difficult. Fortunately, cataract surgery is a highly effective and routine procedure that involves replacing the cloudy lens with a clear artificial one, restoring clear vision and improving overall quality of life for those affected.

    Schedule with us today if you would like a consultation on your cataracts.

  • Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease primarily affecting older adults, characterized by damage to the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. AMD can result in central vision loss, making it challenging to read, recognize faces, or perform detailed tasks. There are two main forms of AMD, dry and wet, with wet AMD being more severe and involving the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. Although there is no cure for AMD, early detection through regular eye exams is crucial, as it allows for the timely management of the condition to slow its progression and preserve as much vision as possible.

    Schedule with us today if you have concerns of macular degeneration.

  • Glaucoma is a eye disease characterized by increased intraocular pressure that can lead to optic nerve damage and irreversible vision loss. Often referred to as the "silent thief of sight," glaucoma typically progresses slowly and asymptomatically until late stages when peripheral vision is affected, eventually leading to blindness if left untreated. There are various types of glaucoma, including open-angle and angle-closure, with open-angle being the most common. Early diagnosis through regular eye exams is vital, as treatment options such as eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery can effectively manage intraocular pressure and prevent further vision loss, emphasizing the importance of glaucoma screening for preserving eye health.

    Schedule with us today if you have concerns about glaucoma.

  • Dry eye, or dry eye syndrome, is a common ocular condition characterized by a lack of sufficient lubrication and moisture on the surface of the eye. This can result in symptoms such as stinging or burning sensations, redness, excessive tearing, blurred vision, and discomfort. Dry eye can occur for various reasons, including aging, environmental factors, certain medications, medical conditions, or issues with the quality and quantity of tears produced by the eye's tear glands. Management and treatment options for dry eye include artificial tears, prescription eye drops, punctal plugs, and addressing underlying causes etc.

    Schedule with us today to see what your options are to help your dry eye.

  • Eye Infections: Eye infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi and may affect various parts of the eye, including the conjunctiva (conjunctivitis or "pink eye"), the cornea (keratitis), or the interior of the eye (endophthalmitis). Symptoms often include redness, discharge, itching, pain, and vision changes. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection and may involve antibiotics, antiviral medications, or antifungal drugs, along with proper hygiene and precautions to prevent spreading the infection.

    Eye Injuries: Eye injuries can result from various causes, such as foreign objects entering the eye, blunt trauma, chemical exposure, or even sports-related accidents. Symptoms may include pain, redness, tearing, and vision changes. Depending on the nature and severity of the injury, treatment may involve removing foreign bodies, irrigating the eye, applying eye patches, or, in severe cases, surgical intervention. Eye protection, especially in high-risk situations, is crucial in preventing injuries.

    In both cases, seeking immediate medical attention from an eye care specialist is essential to assess the extent of the infection or injury and to receive appropriate treatment. Prompt care can help prevent complications, minimize damage to the eye, and promote optimal recovery. Additionally, practicing good eye hygiene and safety measures, such as wearing protective eyewear when necessary, can help reduce the risk of eye infections and injuries.

    We offer same day appointments for eye emergencies.

  • LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular refractive eye surgery used to correct vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Co-management between the patient's optometrist and the LASIK surgeon is crucial throughout the process. Optometrists play a significant role in evaluating a patient's suitability for LASIK, conducting pre-operative assessments, educating the patient, and providing post-operative care. They work in tandem with the LASIK surgeon to ensure a seamless transition and comprehensive care. This collaborative approach ensures that patients receive the best possible outcomes, as both professionals contribute their expertise to the successful planning, execution, and recovery stages of LASIK surgery, ultimately helping patients achieve improved vision and eye health.