How To Know if You Need Pterygium Removal Surgery

November 27, 2021/in Pterygium /by Carolina Clavijo

A pterygium (tuh-RIJ-ee-uhm) is an abnormal tissue growth filled with blood vessels on the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane covering the eye. It’s also known as surfer’s eye because factors such as UV exposure, getting sand in your eyes, and living in tropical or dusty environments increase the risk of developing this condition. Pterygium may look a little strange, but rest assured that it’s not cancer.

If you have been diagnosed with pterygium, it’s essential to begin treatment immediately. In mild cases, your eye doctor may recommend conservative treatments to manage pterygium without surgery. However, the only way to remove the growth entirely on your conjunctiva is to get pterygium surgery. Here are the factors that play into your decision to have your pterygium surgically removed.

Discomfort

Minor pterygium growth is usually treatable with artificial tears that improve lubrication and reduce redness and inflammation. However, itchiness, irritation, burning, grittiness, dry eyes, and the sensation that something is “in your eye” may persist in severe cases. If you experience constant discomfort despite taking over-the-counter medicine, you have a viable reason to consider pterygium surgery.

Corneal Distortion

Pterygium growth usually begins in the corner of the eye and slowly spreads toward the cornea, the clear surface on the front of the eye. If the pterygium extends onto the cornea, it may distort the shape of your eye and cause a condition called astigmatism. This imperfection of the corneal curve causes blurry vision and may prevent you from wearing your contact lenses. If your pterygium is starting to affect the shape of your cornea, surgical treatment should solve the problem.

Poor Vision

Mild pterygium doesn’t usually cause vision problems. Typically, the wedge-shaped growth only covers the white of the eye, or it may partially obscure the iris. With conservative treatment, pterygium often stops progressing at this point. However, if the pterygium grows, it may eventually cover the pupil. In addition to potentially distorting the cornea and causing astigmatism, this may lead to obstructed or double vision. If you begin experiencing visual disturbances because of pterygium, it’s time to consider surgery.

Cosmetic Reasons

Your eyes are one of the first things people notice about you. If you have a wedge-shaped growth covering the whites of your eyes and part of your irises, you might start feeling self-conscious about the way your eyes look. People may even make remarks or ask questions about your condition, making you even more insecure. Rest assured that pterygium surgery entirely removes the growth in your eyes, leaving you with an excellent cosmetic outcome.

What is the Recovery Time for Pterygium Surgery

The recovery time for pterygium surgery, especially with the ASAP™ method, is generally short. This is a minimally invasive surgery, which helps reduce both discomfort and healing time. Patients typically can return to their normal activities soon after the procedure. The surgical area quickly regains a normal appearance as the tissue glue used dissolves within about a week, allowing the eye to heal efficiently and minimizing disruption to daily life.

What Are The Chances of Pterygium Recurrence

The chance of pterygium recurrence after surgery is influenced by the surgical approach and post-operative care. Dr. Martinez has performed over 12,000 pterygium surgeries with superior patient outcomes and an incredibly low recurrence rate of less than 0.01%. These factors place Dr. Martinez among the top pterygium surgeons in the world.

To further minimize the risk of recurrent pterygium, it is crucial for patients to adopt preventive measures. Wearing sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat to shield the eyes from UV exposure is recommended. Such precautions are essential, especially considering UV exposure is a significant factor in the development of primary pterygium. By adhering to these guidelines, patients can significantly reduce the likelihood of recurrence, ensuring the long-term success of the surgery.

Schedule Pterygium Removal Surgery at Visionary Eye Doctors

Our experienced ophthalmologist, Dr. J. Alberto Martinez, treats pterygium with Advanced Sutureless Amniotic Membrane Pterygiectomy (ASAP™). The ASAP™ procedure uses an advanced autograft technique and tissue “glue” to deliver no-stitch pterygium surgery. It’s possible to place the tissue adhesive in mere seconds rather than taking minutes to apply stitches. An amniotic membrane is also placed in the eye to aid the healing process and decrease inflammation. The tissue adhesive dissolves in about a week, leaving no residue and allowing the eye to heal comfortably.

For more information about pterygium removal and other surgical procedure options, please contact Visionary Eye Doctors online or call us at (301) 591-1763. We have three offices in the DC area to better serve you.

Woman holding glasses in front of Rockville, MD Eye Doctor office.

PRK vs. LASIK Process & Recovery

October 30, 2021/in Refractive Surgery /by Carolina Clavijo

If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for LASIK, you’re not entirely out of laser eye surgery options. Those who aren’t a good fit for LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) will most likely qualify for an alternative vision correction surgery such as PRK (photorefractive keratectomy).

PRK is similar surgical procedure to a LASIK, but it corrects different parts of the cornea. It’s not only an alternative for patients with thinner corneas but also for those with dry eyes or diseases of the corneal surface. Keep reading to learn more about this process and what it can offer you compared to LASIK.

What is LASIK?

LASIK procedures begins with the creation of a thin corneal flap in the cornea using either a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser. This flap is gently folded back to allow the surgeon to access the underlying corneal tissue. Then, an excimer laser reshapes the cornea in a pre-specified pattern, customized for each patient’s vision correction needs. After the corneal reshaping, the flap is repositioned back over the treated area, where it adheres naturally without the need for sutures.

What Is PRK?

PRK is a refractive surgery that reshapes the cornea with a laser, so the light entering the eye is focused on the retina to produce clear images. This is slightly different compared to LASIK. Both procedures use a laser to clear the outer layer of your eye; LASIK creates a thin flap in the cornea, while PRK removes a cornea layer that grows back over time. This is what makes it a better option for those with thin corneas.

What Does LASIK Surgery Entail?

steps of LASIK diagram

LASIK surgery, a highly advanced and precise procedure for correcting vision, involves several meticulous steps. The process begins with the patient’s eyes being numbed using special eye drops, ensuring comfort throughout the surgery. A device known as a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser is then employed to create a thin, hinged flap on the surface of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped front part of the eye. This flap is carefully lifted, providing the surgeon access to the underlying corneal tissue. An excimer laser, known for its ultra-precision, is used next to reshape the cornea based on the patient’s unique vision requirements. This reshaping is crucial as it allows light to be more accurately focused onto the retina, resulting in improved vision. Once the cornea is reshaped, the surgeon meticulously repositions the flap back into place, where it naturally adheres without the need for sutures.

The entire procedure is characterized by its speed and efficiency, typically taking only about 20 to 30 minutes for both eyes. With minimal discomfort and a rapid recovery time, LASIK has become a popular choice for individuals seeking to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

What Does PRK Surgery Entail?

The Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) procedure, while similar to LASIK in its goal to correct vision, involves a distinctly different process, particularly in how it treats the cornea. The procedure commences with the application of numbing eye drops, ensuring the patient’s comfort and eliminating any sensation of pain during the surgery. To prevent any involuntary blinking, a specialized device, known as an eyelid speculum, is gently placed to hold the eyelids open, ensuring a stable and unobstructed surgical field.

Once the eye is prepared, the key differentiator of PRK comes into play. Unlike LASIK, where a thin flap is created on the corneal surface, PRK involves the complete removal of the cornea’s outermost layer, known as the epithelium. This removal is a delicate process, often performed using a precise surgical instrument, alcohol solution, or a specialized brush. The goal is to carefully clear the epithelium to expose the underlying stromal tissue, which is the part of the cornea that will be reshaped.

With the stromal layer exposed, the surgeon then uses an excimer laser to meticulously reshape the cornea. This laser, renowned for its accuracy, emits a cool ultraviolet light beam to remove microscopic amounts of tissue from the cornea. The reshaping is customized for each patient, based on detailed pre-surgery measurements and calculations, to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. By reshaping the cornea, PRK changes the way light rays enter the eye, focusing them properly onto the retina, which results in clearer vision.

After the laser treatment, a bandage contact lens is often placed on the cornea to protect the eye and enhance comfort during the initial stages of healing. The epithelial layer naturally regenerates over the course of several days, gradually healing and covering the treated area.

The entire PRK procedure is relatively quick, generally completed within 15 to 30 minutes for both eyes. It is a preferred method for patients with certain corneal conditions, such as a thinner cornea, where creating a flap, as in LASIK, might not be advisable. While the recovery period for PRK is typically longer than LASIK, with some discomfort as the epithelium heals, the final outcomes in terms of vision correction are comparable, making PRK a valuable and effective option for laser eye surgery.

LASIK Recovery

The recovery from LASIK is relatively quick. Most patients notice improved vision almost immediately after the procedure, although complete stabilization of vision may take a few days to a few weeks. Discomfort is usually minimal and can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Patients are typically able to return to normal activities, including work, within a day or two, although they should avoid strenuous activities and contact sports for a period to prevent any injury to the eyes. Follow-up visits are necessary to monitor the healing process and to ensure the best possible outcome.

How Long Is PRK Recovery?

Recovery time can vary for PRK patients from several days to several weeks, generally longer than a LASIK recovery (which some recover from within a few hours). Eyes may feel sore or scratchy, and halos or glare around lights at night may be an issue for a few days. To help protect your eyes and promote the healing process, your doctor will place a bandage contact lens in your eye.

With both procedures, it’s essential to minimize activity and sun exposure for at least the first week to avoid vision problems. And don’t rub your eyes, which can damage your cornea. Your doctor will review all of these outpatient procedures with you to make sure you’re clear and comfortable.

Why Choose Visionary Eye Doctors for PRK?

Visionary Eye Doctors is proud to offer expert PRK procedures. As a member of the trials that culminated in the FDA approval of PRK, our own Dr. J. Alberto Martinez continues to be an eye surgeon at the forefront of this leading-edge technology.

The first step in determining your candidacy for any procedure is to schedule a consultation and comprehensive eye exam with one of our experienced surgeons. We will establish if PRK is the best path for your long-term visual acuity by utilizing advanced diagnostic technology.

Ready to find out if you’re a candidate? Call our office today at 301-867-7920 to schedule a consultation with our expert surgeons. You can also schedule an appointment online.

Debunking Contact Lens Myths

October 29, 2021/in General Optometry /by Carolina Clavijo

Imagine a life without glasses: no foggy lenses, no stopping to take them off before a workout, and no anxiety about losing or breaking them. If you wear glasses, you probably agree that those benefits sound pretty good! However, some common myths about contact lenses might be keeping you from making the switch to a simpler form of vision correction. Let’s delve into these misleading myths and learn why contact lenses just might be the change you need.

Myth 1: I’m too old for contact lenses

The only age restriction for contact lenses is whether you’re old enough. In the past, older adults were told not to wear them due to their higher likelihood of suffering from dry eyes or presbyopia (also called aging eye condition). The materials that contact lenses were made from in the past could make these conditions worse. Contact lenses are now made from a variety of materials, and your eye doctor can help you choose the best option for any eye condition you may have. These days, there are contacts specifically made for people who suffer from dry eyes. Some of them even contain added fluid to help moisturize your eyes, which helps to relieve the symptoms of dry eye.

Myth 2: Contact lenses can get stuck behind your eye

This is a scary one! Fortunately, it is not physically possible for a contact lens to get behind your eye. Our eyes are covered by a membrane that connects to the back of our eyelids to prevent anything from going behind the eye. If you can’t find your contact lens, it is most likely hiding under your upper eyelid. A contact lens can get “stuck” in your eye, but it is usually a soft lens and it cannot possibly migrate behind your eyeball. Adhering to proper guidelines for wearing your contact lenses will prevent them from getting stuck.

Myth 3: Contact lenses are too expensive

There are many options when purchasing contact lenses, and you should be able to work with your eye care provider to find one that fits your budget. If you have vision insurance, your policy may cover some or all of the cost of contacts, so be sure to call your insurance company for information. It’s also important to note that glasses require a large upfront investment, while contact lenses are generally a small monthly expense. While the annual cost of contact lenses might be slightly higher than that of glasses, many patients are willing to pay the difference for the freedom that contact lenses offer.

Myth 4: Contact lenses are a lot of trouble to take care of

Modern contact lenses require far less care than their predecessors. For minimal care requirements, you can choose daily disposable contact lenses, which require zero care. Even if you choose reusable contact lenses, most types can be cleaned, disinfected, and stored with one bottle of multiuse contact lens solution. Your eye care provider should instruct you on how to care for the type of contact lenses you choose. Eye infections can be easily prevented by following all instructions for the correct cleaning and storage of contact lenses.

Myth 5: Contact lenses are uncomfortable

While many contacts made 40 to 50 years ago were uncomfortable, modern contact lenses are thin, flexible, and soft. In fact, after a brief adjustment period, most people get so comfortable that they don’t even remember that they are wearing them! If you still experience discomfort after the adjustment period, there are several remedies that can help once your eye care doctor pinpoints the exact cause.

Contact Lens Services in Rockville With Visionary Eye Doctors

If you’re interested in trying contact lenses, we invite you to make an appointment with Visionary Eye Doctors. Our friendly team will help you decide if contact lenses are right for you. If you feel that you’re ready, we’ll work with you to find the best option for your eyes and lifestyle. If you’re nervous about making the change, our patient-centered team will help you test the waters with care and compassion. Nothing is more important to us than your eye health and overall well-being — and that may include beneficial lifestyle changes such as switching to contact lenses.

Call Visionary Eye Doctors at (301) 591-1763 or contact us online today to schedule an eye exam in the Washington, DC, area. We’d love to talk about switching to contact lenses!

Glasses held close to the camera with a man's blurry face behind them

LASIK Recovery Guide

August 15, 2021/in Refractive Surgery /by Carolina Clavijo

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) eye surgery is one of the most common elective surgical procedures in the United States. The procedure usually takes about 10 minutes, and you should see dramatically improved vision in just 12 to 24 hours! Still, your eyes may need up to six months to make a full recovery. Use this LASIK recovery guide so you know what to expect during each phase of the healing process.

What Happens During LASIK Eye Surgery

LASIK is a type of laser vision correction surgery that involves the use of a femtosecond laser to create a precise, thin flap in the cornea, the front part of the eye. This crucial step prepares the eye for the next phase of the procedure, where another laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue. This reshaping corrects the eye’s focus by improving how light rays are directed onto the retina, enhancing your visual acuity. After the cornea is reshaped, the flap is replaced, healing naturally without stitches. This process significantly improves vision, offering a swift and effective solution for correcting refractive errors.

Immediately After LASIK

The recovery process from laser eye surgery begins right away. Slight swelling may occur, so you may notice foggy or blurry vision or halos around lights, especially at night. These side effects should improve as the swelling goes down within 24 hours, though minor haloing may linger for up to a month.

Other typical, temporary side effects may include:

Mild stinging and redness
Eye-watering or dry eye
Gritty feeling in the eye
Light sensitivity

In the first few hours after LASIK, use the anesthetic eyedrops your surgeon gives you to combat mild discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help.

Then, even if you feel perfectly normal, follow these post-operative instructions:

Get a ride home on LASIK treatment day.
Refrain from rubbing your eyes, or you could displace the corneal flap and cause complications.
Go to bed early on the day of your surgery to help your corneas begin healing.
Wear the protective eye shields your surgeon gives you while you sleep.

The First Few Weeks After LASIK

Your first post-operative follow-up appointment will take place 24 hours after your laser eye surgery. A clinician will check the condition of your corneas and ensure everything looks right. You may have another appointment for a one-week post-op. However, contact your eye doctor immediately before your next checkup if you experience any pain, redness, discharge, or degraded vision.

Your vision should settle two to three months after LASIK. In the meantime, follow your doctor’s instructions about using antibiotic eye drops to guard against infection and steroid eye drops to reduce inflammation. You can also combat dryness with artificial tears.

Then, follow these precautions to further avoid injury and infection:

Wear sunglasses always until your eyes no longer feel light-sensitive.
Continue wearing your eye shields while you sleep.
Continue to avoid rubbing your eyes.
Avoid dusty environments and gardening for one week.
Don’t wear eye makeup for a week.
Avoid sports and exercise for the first week, and don’t play contact sports for at least a month.
Keep water out of your eyes for a week and avoid swimming or hot tubs for at least a month.

One to Six Months After LASIK

You can resume all normal activities after a month, with the exception of some contact sports. Continue keeping your eyes lubricated with artificial tears, especially when working at a computer for long hours.

If you have a high prescription, your vision may take up to six months to settle. At your six-month appointment, your clinician will determine if your vision has reduced at all. While this is rare, re-treatment is easily performed if necessary.

One Year After LASIK

You’ve gotten used to the freedom of not wearing glasses and contact lenses by now, but you need one final follow-up at the one-year mark. At this point, you can expect to be discharged to the care of your local optometrist. Continue to schedule routine eye exams every one to two years to monitor your eye health and ensure clear vision for the foreseeable future!

How Does LASIK Recovery Time Compare to Other Vision Correction Surgeries

LASIK recovery time is generally shorter and more comfortable compared to other vision correction surgeries, such as photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). While LASIK patients often experience significant improvement in vision within 24 hours and can resume most regular activities within a day or two, PRK recovery is a bit more prolonged. In PRK, the outer layer of the cornea is completely removed to reshape the cornea beneath, requiring several days to a few weeks for this layer to heal and vision to stabilize. Consequently, PRK patients might face a longer period before they can return to their regular activities and experience full visual acuity. This makes LASIK a preferred option for many seeking a quicker return to normalcy post-surgery.

Schedule LASIK With Visionary Eye Doctors

Are you ready to achieve crystal-clear vision with LASIK? The first step is to schedule a consultation with an experienced eye surgeon at Visionary Eye Doctors. We can determine if you’re a candidate for LASIK and assess the overall health of your eyes to establish a long-term vision plan for you.

Meet Our Expert LASIK Surgeon

Dr. Daniel Sarezky, our Rockville office’s cornea expert and LASIK surgeon, brings an invaluable perspective to laser vision correction with his specialized focus on the cornea. His deep understanding of corneal health is crucial in providing exceptional postoperative care for LASIK patients. This expertise ensures that any potential issues are swiftly identified and managed, promoting a smoother recovery and optimal visual outcomes. Dr. Sarezky’s commitment to the latest in corneal treatment techniques offers patients not just advanced surgical options but also the reassurance of comprehensive care following their procedure.

To get started, please contact us online or call us at (301) 591-1763. We have offices in Rockville, MD; Damascus, MD; and Washington, DC, to better serve you.

What Does LASIK Feel Like? A Comprehensive Guide to Laser Eye Surgery

June 15, 2021/in Refractive Surgery /by Carolina Clavijo

LASIK surgery is a revolutionary procedure that has helped millions of people around the world achieve clear vision and reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Understanding what a LASIK procedure feels like is crucial for anyone considering this life-changing procedure. We will delve into the basics of LASIK eye surgery, including its purpose, procedure, and expected outcomes.

LASIK, which stands for “Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis,” is a refractive surgery that aims to correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. During the procedure, a skilled surgeon uses a laser to reshape the cornea and improve its ability to focus light onto the retina, resulting in clear vision.

Understanding LASIK Surgery

The surgery itself typically takes about 15 minutes per eye, and the actual laser time is usually less than a minute. However, the entire process, from pre-operative preparations to post-operative care, requires thorough attention and care. At Visionary Eye Doctors, we believe in providing a comprehensive approach to LASIK surgery, prioritizing safety, precision, and patient satisfaction.

There are different types of laser vision correction surgeries available, each with its own advantages. LASIK is the most popular procedure, and it involves creating a thin corneal flap to access the underlying tissue. Another widely used technique is known as PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), where the surgeon removes the outer layer of the cornea and reshapes it without creating a flap.

The cornea acts as the eye’s front window and refracts light onto the lens and retina, allowing us to see. During LASIK surgery, the surgeon uses specialized equipment, including a femtosecond laser and an excimer laser, to create a precise corneal flap and reshape the underlying tissue.

The Preparation Process

Before undergoing LASIK surgery, thorough preparation is necessary to ensure optimal results and minimize any potential risks.

The journey to clearer vision begins with an initial consultation with one of our experienced eye doctors at Visionary Eye Doctors. During this LASIK consultation, our dedicated team will evaluate your overall eye health, review your medical history, and perform a series of tests to determine your candidacy for LASIK. These tests may include measuring your corneal thickness, assessing your refractive error, and mapping the curvature of your cornea.

Once you have been deemed a suitable candidate for LASIK, we will guide you through the necessary preparations leading up to the surgery. One important step is to discontinue the use of contact lenses for a specific period before the procedure. A contact lens can alter the shape of the cornea, and its removal allows the cornea to return to its natural shape, ensuring accurate measurements for the surgery.

On the day of your LASIK surgery, we will administer numbing eye drops to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. These drops effectively minimize any potential discomfort or pain during the surgery. Some patients may experience a slight stinging sensation when the drops are initially applied, but this usually subsides quickly.

It is important to note that LASIK surgery itself is painless due to the use of anesthetic drops. Patients typically describe the sensation during the surgery as a slight pressure or minor discomfort.

During the surgery, you may notice some unusual sounds or smells; this is a normal part of the procedure and is not indicative of any complications. Additionally, it’s important to remain calm and relaxed throughout the surgery, as this will help ensure optimal results.

LASIK Surgery Experience

The LASIK surgery experience can vary slightly from person to person, but there are some common elements that most patients can expect.

When you arrive for your LASIK surgery at Visionary Eye Doctors, you’ll be greeted by our friendly staff who will make sure you feel comfortable and well-informed about the process. Our laser suite is designed to provide a calming and professional atmosphere, with state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the highest level of precision and safety.

During the procedure, you will be positioned on a reclining chair, and a small device may be placed to keep your eyelids open. This is done to prevent blinking and ensure that your eye remains steady throughout the process. Rest assured that you won’t feel any pain during the surgery, thanks to the numbing drops administered earlier.

At Visionary Eye Doctors, our skilled LASIK surgeons utilize advanced laser technologies to create a small flap on the cornea and reshape the underlying tissue. The first step of the surgery involves the creation of a thin corneal flap, which is accomplished using a femtosecond laser. This laser creates precise, microscopic incisions, enabling the surgeon to lift the flap and access the cornea.

Once the corneal flap is lifted, the underlying tissue is reshaped using an excimer laser. This laser emits cool ultraviolet light pulses that gently remove microscopic amounts of tissue, precisely reshaping the cornea to correct your refractive error. The excimer laser is highly accurate and allows for customization based on your specific prescription.

During the surgery, you may experience slight pressure or discomfort as the surgeon works on your eye. Some patients describe a sensation of something touching their eye, but it is important to note that this is not painful. Remember to remain still and follow the instructions provided, as this will assist the surgeon in achieving the best possible results.

Furthermore, it is important to clarify that the light you are asked to focus on during the surgery is not the excimer laser itself. This light serves as a reference point to help you keep your eye still and aligned properly. The actual laser is focused by the surgeon and is controlled remotely.

Recovery and Post-Operative Care

After undergoing LASIK surgery, proper recovery, and post-operative care are crucial for achieving the best possible results. Immediately after your LASIK surgery, your eyes may experience watery eyes and mild discomfort. This is normal and should subside within a few hours. At Visionary Eye Doctors, we will provide you with specialized eye drops to help promote healing and minimize any potential dryness or irritation.

It is essential to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon diligently. These instructions may include using prescribed medicated eye drops, wearing protective eye shields at night, and avoiding activities that could potentially put a strain on your eyes. Your surgeon will also guide you when it is safe to resume daily activities, including working, driving, wearing eye makeup, and playing contact sports.

In the days following your surgery, you may experience some temporary side effects, such as blurry vision or light sensitivity. Don’t be alarmed; these are typically normal and will improve gradually as your eyes heal. It is important to rest your eyes and avoid rubbing or touching them during this time.

Dryness is a common side effect after LASIK surgery, but it is usually temporary. To alleviate the slight discomfort caused by dry eyes, you can use artificial tears as directed by your surgeon. It is advisable to have these drops on hand to keep your eyes lubricated throughout the day. Additionally, it may be beneficial to avoid environments with dry air, such as heated or air-conditioned spaces, as they can exacerbate dryness.

While most patients experience significant improvements in their vision immediately after LASIK surgery, everyone’s healing process is unique, and it may take a few days or even weeks for your vision to stabilize fully. Be patient and follow up with your surgeon as scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure a successful outcome.

It is important to note that LASIK surgery does not guarantee perfect vision for a lifetime. As we age, natural changes in the eye can occur, leading to the need for reading glasses or further vision correction. However, LASIK can still provide a significant improvement in your overall visual acuity, reducing your dependence on glasses or contact lenses in most cases.

Remember, the healing process is a crucial part of your LASIK journey. By following your surgeon’s recommendations and attending all scheduled follow-up visits, you are giving yourself the best chance for a successful outcome and long-term visual satisfaction.

Visionary Eye Doctors’ Services

In conclusion, undergoing LASIK surgery is a life-changing experience for many individuals looking to improve their up-close and distance vision and reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

At Visionary Eye Doctors, we are committed to providing safe, precise, and personalized LASIK surgery. With our team of experienced eye doctors and advanced laser technologies, we strive to deliver exceptional results and the highest level of patient satisfaction. Contact us at 301-896-0968 today to learn more about LASIK or any of your eye health needs.

Computer screen light reflect from glasses. Close up of eyes. Business man, coder or programmer working late at night with laptop. Thoughtful focused guy in dark. Reflection of monitor.

Does Computer Screen Use Cause Myopia?

March 25, 2021/in General Optometry /by Carolina Clavijo

Myopia (nearsightedness) affects 40% of North Americans with a staggering growth rate over the past two decades that has qualified the condition as a global epidemic. Myopia is projected to affect 58% of the population by 2050. The recent spike in myopia cases has spurred research into the effects of computer screens, and the blue light they emit, on our eye. Learn more about what myopia is, how computer exposure is connected to the condition, and how you can prevent it to protect one of your essential senses.

Contact Visionary Eye Doctors, to learn how to safeguard your eyesight with responsible myopia management. Call us today at (301) 591-1763.

What Is Myopia?

Myopia is not an eye disease but an eye-focusing disorder. It is caused by the inability of the eye to refract or bend light as it should. Instead, light from a distant object forms an image before it reaches the retina. This refractive error causes blurry vision of distant objects while keeping near objects clear. Myopia occurs when either the eye is too long or the cornea is too steep. Untreated myopia can lead to headaches, eye discomfort, and a further decline in vision. Myopia’s growing prevalence has made it a real public health issue for the world to confront.

Computer Screen Exposure Puts You at Risk for Developing Myopia

According to a recent study from the American Optometric Association, those who clock considerable hours working/reading from a computer screen, or engaging in other close visual activities, have been shown to be more likely to develop vision problems like myopia. This is especially true in children who engage in excessive screen time before the age of 10 when the eye is still developing. The quantity of time spent in front of digital devices at close range, coupled with the blue light of digital devices and LED screens, is what can ultimately cause permanent damage to eye health.

While the eye can block many damaging UV light rays, blue light is able to pass straight through the lens and cornea to the retina and light-sensitive nerves, degrading the macular pigment in the eye. This damage leads to macular degeneration and ultimately blindness.

While macular degeneration is commonly seen in American adults 40 years and older, health professionals predict that many more of the younger generation will develop macular degeneration at an accelerated rate due to electronic devices. Glaucoma, dry eyes, and other degenerative diseases can also stem from too much exposure.

Do Blue Light Blocking Glasses Help Prevent Digital Eyestrain?

72% of our population is unaware of the dangers of blue light despite its newfound prevalence. Specialized blue light-blocking lenses and eyeglasses can offer you protection from dangerous blue light exposure, but they shouldn’t be used as a stand-alone approach.

To mitigate the risks associated with prolonged exposure to blue light, consider incorporating the 20-20-20 rule into your daily routine. This rule advises that for every 20 minutes spent looking at a screen, you should look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice helps to reduce eye fatigue by giving your eyes a chance to rest. It is especially crucial during consecutive hours of screen use, which can occur during long periods of work or gaming. Taking frequent breaks not only lessens the strain on your eyes but also contributes to overall eye health.

Additionally consider reducing screen time, dimming your screen brightness, or installing a matte screen filter. Practicing these healthy habits along with check-ins with a trained optometrist skilled in myopia progression and prevention can offer you the best strategies for success. If schoolwork, a job, or hobbies like social media and video games are exposing you to blue light, consult with your eye doctor on how to protect your eye health.

Myopia Treatment and Prevention in Rockville with Visionary Eye Doctors

Myopia control, treatment, and prevention strategies can help slow the progression of myopia and in certain situations prevent it from occurring. A combination of health-conscious measures, including lifestyle changes, dual-focus contact lenses, Ortho-K corneal reshaping, and low-dose atropine drops, yield the best results.

Decrease your household’s risk of worsening myopia by engaging the help of our board-certified optometrists at Visionary Eye Doctors in Rockville, MD. Our doctors are skilled at myopia treatment and prevention and possesses a chairside manner that is welcoming to both youth and adults alike.

Call Visionary Eye Doctors in Rockville, MD, at (301) 591-1763 to schedule a myopia evaluation and consultation for improved myopia management.

November Continuing Education Event

November 12, 2020/in Newsletters /by Carolina Clavijo

Updates in COVID-19 and the Eyes, Cataract, Pterygium, Cornea and Glaucoma

Thank you to all of our partner physicians that attended our event. Please find the recording and presentations below:

Dr. Martinez, Updates in Pterygium Surgery

Dr. Allen, Updates in Glaucoma

Dr. Cremers, Updates in COVID and the Eyes

Dr. Sarezky, Updates in Keratoconus

Make Getting an Eye Exam Your New Year’s Resolution

December 31, 2019/in General Optometry /by Carolina Clavijo

Woman in hoodie wearing glasses and playing with sparkler.

When New Year’s rolls around, most people make resolutions to focus on their health. This is a good idea, but you may be making the wrong resolution. If you’re focusing on losing weight or exercising more in the New Year, you may be overlooking a very important part of your health, and that is your vision. This year, in addition to the normal resolutions to get a little trimmer, consider making a resolution to protect your vision by scheduling a routine eye exam.

Screen for Diseases & Prevent Vision Loss

Why should you schedule a routine eye exam in the new year? An eye exam does much more than check your glasses prescription. It helps screen against disease and disorders that could put your vision and your overall health at risk.

One of these is glaucoma. Glaucoma has few symptoms in its early stages, but once it causes vision loss, the results are permanent. This is the second leading causing of blindness around the globe, and the best way to prevent it is to have your routine screening. If caught early, glaucoma’s effects can be reduced, helping to preserve your vision.

Though glaucoma is the most common problem that leads to vision loss, it is just one in a long list of potential diseases that could rob you of your vision. Many of these have few symptoms early on, and some can be treated if detected early. If you want to protect your vision, you need to start with your eye exam.

Protect Overall Health With Vision

Not only does your vision screening test for diseases that could cause you to lose your vision, but it also screens for vision problems that can be connected to other health problems, like hypertension and diabetes. Sometimes, the eye doctor is the first one to notice these problems, giving you the chance to get help from your medical doctor for these serious health concerns. By keeping your eye exam this year, you may get insight into things you can do to protect your overall health.

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

If you want to schedule your eye exam for the new year, Visionary Eye Doctors is here to help. We offer eye exams to patients throughout Maryland and Washington, DC, DC. Our eye doctors are passionate about helping you protect your health, and this starts with routine eye exams.

Visit our Maryland or DC offices to have your eye exam. Schedule it now by calling (301) 591-1763. You can also contact us online for more information about our vision services. With the help of Visionary Eye Doctors, you can take the next step in protecting your vision, and your health, with routine eye examinations.

Preventing Dry Eyes in Winter

December 20, 2019/in Dry Eyes /by Carolina Clavijo

Portrait of cheerful mom with siblings. Noel morning gathering. Grey-haired cheerful grandparents, grandchildren, sister, brother, son, daughter, relatives at house feast, vacation

When you think of winter, what comes to mind? Snow? Holidays? If you’re one of the millions of Americans suffering from dry eye syndrome, then chances are you think of that itchy, scratchy, uncomfortable feeling that comes along with the dryness of winter. While dry eye syndrome can be a complex issue requiring a mixture of treatment options, there are still a few things you can do to combat dry and uncomfortable eyes this winter season.

Tips to Relieve Dry Eyes

Eye Drops

There are a number of over-the-counter eye drops you can utilize to keep your eyes from drying out this winter. From your run-of-the-mill artificial tears to overnight eye gel, the options are nearly endless. While it might take a little trial and error to find the eye drops that work for you, one kind we do suggest avoiding is redness eliminating. These eye drops work by temporarily constricting blood vessels, thus making your eyes appear whiter. These types of eye drops can just cause further irritation in your eyes.

Warm Compresses

This technique not only helps with dry eyes, but can also prove to be a good winding down activity at the end of a busy day! Simply dampen a washcloth with warm – not hot – water and rest it on your eyes before bed.

Humidifiers

If your eyes are already prone to dryness, having dry air in your home is only going to make this worse. Turn to your trusty humidifier to keep the air in your bedroom full of moisture during the night. Having moisture in the air will help prevent your eyes from drying out during the night and make opening your eyes in the morning a little easier.

Sunglasses

Besides the sun, sunglasses can help protect your eyes from other elements as well. Keep harsh temperatures and strong winds out of your eyes by wearing sunglasses outside during the winter. Keep a few pairs in various locations so that you’re always prepared.

Prescription Treatments

If all else fails, turn to your trusted eye care professional for prescription treatments that can help relieve your dry eye symptoms. Visionary Eye Doctors’ EyeDry Center of Excellence is specifically focused on helping patients find relief. We create multifaceted treatment plans that include both prescription treatments and at-home remedies.

This winter, don’t just suffer through dry eyes. Test out a few or all of the suggestions above to seek relief from dry, scratchy eyes. And, if you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our dry eye experts, give us a call at (301) 591-1763.

Happy 4th of July and what you need to know to keep you and your eyes safe!

July 2, 2019/in General Optometry /by Carolina Clavijo

Keep an eye out, firework-related eye injuries in the U.S. have doubled!

It’s almost the 4^th of July and time to fire up the barbie, enjoy some cold drinks, and make sure your eyes are protected from the UV rays of the sun during the day and the fireworks that are sure to be part of your celebration that night.

While most of us love the fireworks with the bright lights, colorful sparks and huge sounds that go BOOM, please keep in mind that fireworks are still explosives. The statistics surrounding fireworks-related eye injuries are alarming. In 2017 alone, emergency rooms across the country treated an estimated 12,900 injuries from fireworks, and nearly 2000 of those were eye injuries. Over a third of these injuries were sustained by children under the age of 15, often because of sparklers or bottle rockets.

To help prevent these injuries, here are four myths about consumer fireworks risk:

Small doesn’t equal safe. A common perpetrator of fireworks injuries is one that is often handed to small children — the popular sparkler. Many people mistakenly believe sparklers are harmless due to their size. However, they can reach temperatures of up to 2,000 degrees — hot enough to melt gold. Yes, melt gold!
Even though it looks like a dud, it may not act like one. Injury and serious eye trauma can occur when people mistakenly think that a firework is no longer active or hot. Never touch unexploded fireworks and you may want to call your local fire or police department to properly handle it.
Just because you’re not lighting or throwing it doesn’t mean you’re out of the firing line. An international study of fireworks-related eye injuries showed that nearly half of the people injured by fireworks are bystanders. The research also found that one in six of these injuries caused severe vision loss.
The holiday can be complete without using consumer fireworks. While legal in many states, they can be extremely dangerous and can cause significant injury, one of the more common injuries is to your eyes. Best to leave the lighting of fireworks to the professionals.

Please see the below safety tips for a safe and happy 4th:

Never let children play with any type of firework, including sparklers. They are the number one cause of fireworks injuries.

People who handle fireworks and all bystanders should wear protective eyewear that meets the parameters set by the American National Standards Institute. Avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket. The friction could actually set them off, and that wouldn’t be pleasant.
Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
Keep a bucket of water nearby, just in case if lighting fireworks.
Keep an eye on your pets. If your pooch isn’t cowering indoors, make sure he’s not in the line of fire either.
When viewing a professional firework display, view fireworks from at least 500 feet away and respect all safety barriers.

If you or a friend or family member experience a fireworks-related eye injury:

Seek medical attention immediately.
Avoid rubbing or rinsing the eyes or applying pressure.
Do not remove any object from the eye, apply ointments or take any pain medication before seeking medical help.

We wish you a wonderful and safe 4^th of July holiday! VED is closed on the 4^th and will open again on July 5^th with regular hours. We hope this information was helpful to you and If you need some fashionable sunglasses or safety glasses – you know where to find us. Happy 4th!