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Lasik Eye Surgery: Is it a Permanent Fix?

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Many people who have poor vision choose to correct it with Lasik eye surgery. Lasik is a relatively painless, laser-assisted surgical procedure that permanently reshapes the tissue in your eye, correcting conditions such as:

  • Nearsightedness
  • Farsightedness
  • Astigmatism
  • Presbyopia

People who wish to reduce, or even eliminate, their dependency on prescription lenses may want to visit a Lasik clinic in South Carolina to consult with an eye surgeon.

How Long Does Lasik Last?

The ultimate goal of laser-assisted surgery at a Lasik eye center in Columbia is to permanently improve your vision. However, most people’s vision gets progressively worse as they age, and Lasik in Columbia cannot prevent this from happening.

How long your vision stays clear after undergoing Lasik in Columbia depends on factors including your age at the time of your surgery and any progressive eye conditions you have. Every patient at a Lasik clinic in South Carolina is different, but you can generally expect to have around ten years of clear vision before noticing any changes.

What if My Vision Becomes Blurry Again?

If your vision becomes blurry again years after having Lasik eye surgery, you might want to consider Lasik enhancement surgery. This is a second procedure some people choose to undergo at a Lasik eye center in Columbia to correct any changes that occur over time.

Although this is always an option, most people who experience minor changes don’t feel the need to undergo a second operation. Often, they’ll just choose to wear glasses for activities such as reading or driving at night.

Lasik Surgery: A Great Option to Correct Your Vision

Lasik surgery is an excellent way for people with poor vision or progressive eye conditions to achieve clear vision. Keep in mind that the ultimate goal of Lasik surgery is to reduce your overall dependence on prescription lenses.

There are several different options when it comes to Lasik in Columbia. Each patient is different, and all options should be discussed with a surgeon at a Lasik clinic in South Carolina before deciding what to do.

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How LASIK eye surgery can sharpen your eyesight

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Eyesight abnormality is a widespread problem due to high screen exposure, and thus the world is striving to find the best ways to treat them and again achieve crystal clear vision. One of the most recommended treatments globally and even in Columbia, S.C. is the LASIK procedure or surgery. LASIK surgery is popular for perfect outcomes and services.

Eyesight Issues

Typically, you can see an object when the light reflected from it, touches your eye, and is refracted to reach the optical nerve. When eyesight abnormality occurs, the light is not effectively refracted towards the optical nerve. Therefore, whatever image is produced is vague.

LASIK

LASIK is a laser procedure done to change the shape of the dome on the eye’s outer side to make the refraction effective so that your vision is corrected, and you can see more clearly eliminating the need for glasses or contact lens most of the time.

Affectivity of LASIK

People suffering from shortsightedness, farsightedness, and even astigmatism can consider getting a LASIK procedure done to improve their vision. This is because LASIK has proven to be effective in the eradication of all these three vision problems.

Risks and Complications

LASIK is considered a very safe treatment for eyesight problems because an exact cut is made with the help of a laser. However, minor side effects may be experienced temporarily after the surgical procedure is done, such as dry eyes or a vision glare. They are not very bothersome for most people and subside after a few weeks or months. In most cases, some eye drops are prescribed for overcoming dry eyes.

Conclusion

LASIK is safe and is effective with the most prevalent eyesight abnormalities.  The side effects that you may experience after LASIK are usually temporary. You can get LASIK surgery from The Eye Center, P.A. in Columbia, S.C.

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See How Easy It Is To Treat Dry Eyes with LipiFlow!

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Do your eyes feel dry? Do they itch, sting, or water excessively? You may be experiencing dry eye disease, a common syndrome of eye irritation ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain. This disease can also cause blurred vision or redness in the eyes. The Eye Center – a Columbia, SC, eye clinic – now offers a solution called LipiFlow for moderate to severe dry eyes.

Why do I have dry eye disease?

  • Your tear production may be insufficient.
  • Your tears may not be the right mixture of water, oil, and mucus.
  • Your medications may be interfering with tear production.
  • Fluctuations in the environment (humidity, temperature, or pollution) may be drying your eyes out.

Thankfully, diagnosing dry eye disease is simple and can be done in your Columbia, SC Ophthalmology office. There are many solutions for dry eye disease, but only LipiFlow addresses the cause. If you are experiencing moderate to severe dry eye disease, seek to treat the cause rather than merely soothe the symptoms.

How Does LipiFlow Work?

First, your doctor will have to assess whether you are a suitable candidate for LipiFlow treatment. Once approved, your treatment will be done through a quick and easy procedure in-office.

  • Your doctor applies a thermal pulsator to your eyelids.
  • The pulsator heats your inner eyelids and stimulates them.
  • Your eyelids release vital lipids (oils) from your Meibomian glands.
  • Now unblocked, those glands can resume proper tear production.
  • You no longer have dry eyes!

Conclusion

You don’t have to tolerate dry, itchy eyes. Don’t let your vision blur or your eyes redden when a quick and easy solution is available. Find proper dry eye treatment in Columbia, SC, and say goodbye to eye discomfort!

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What Happens to My Vision After Cataract Surgery?

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Have you ever wondered what happens to your vision after cataract surgery? Here is what to expect. After having cataract surgery at a Columbia, SC eye clinic, your vision will improve. Most patients will still need glasses part-time, but your overall dependence on them should decrease.

Reasons Why you May Need Glasses After Cataract Surgery

Some factors that influence your need for glasses after cataract surgery in Columbia, SC include:

  • Astigmatism
  • Your daily lifestyle
  • Your current prescription
  • The overall health of your eyes

The type of artificial lens implanted will also affect your need for glasses after cataract surgery at our Columbia eye center. For example, monofocal lenses set your vision to a single focal point, so people who have surgery to improve their long-distance vision may still need glasses for short distances. Astigmatism correcting lenses also decrease your dependence on glasses, but as these are still typically monofocal, you may need glasses in some instances.

Do not expect your vision to improve immediately following cataract surgery in Columbia, SC. Your eyes need time to heal and adjust, and it can take a few days for your vision to improve. You may notice that light and colors will appear brighter. This is not due to increased sensitivity, simply better vision! Color contrast improves and seeing at night is much more comfortable.

What to Expect During the Healing Process

The entire healing process can take up to eight weeks, so do not be discouraged if you do not see improvement right away. Some patients report cloudy or hazy vision after cataract removal. If this happens, make an appointment to see a doctor at our Columbia, SC eye clinic. This may be a sign of capsular haze.

Capsular haze occurs when epithelial cells in the eyes grow over the capsule holding your implant. Thankfully, it’s easily treatable in a short, painless procedure that requires no additional recovery time.

When you undergo cataract surgery at our Columbia eye center, you can expect your vision to improve significantly. While you will probably still need glasses for some things, you’ll be much less dependent on them.

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Standard vs. Advanced Intraocular Lens Implants: Which Option is Best for You?

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When you’re undergoing cataract surgery, you have some options. These are the differences and benefits of standard vs. advanced intraocular lens implants. Intraocular lens implants, or IOLs, are a standard part of cataract surgery in Columbia, SC. These artificial lenses replace the damaged lens removed during the surgery, restoring your vision to what it once was.

What are the Differences

Until recently, cataract surgery at our Columbia, SC eye clinic, could correct only your long-distance vision. However, through new developments in technology, you can now correct your short-distance vision and even astigmatism! When you receive cataract treatment in Columbia, SC, the doctor will ask if you prefer a standard or advanced IOL. Here are the differences:

  • Standard IOLs – These used to be the only option for those undergoing cataract surgery in Columbia, SC. These implants are typically covered by private insurance companies and Medicare, and offer improved long-distance vision for patients not affected by astigmatism. Patients will typically still need glasses to see up close, and those who have astigmatism may still need them for both short and long-distance vision.
  • Advanced IOLs – Advanced implants can correct long and short distance vision, eliminating the need for glasses. Under most circumstances, the visit for cataract treatment in Columbia, SC, will be covered by insurance. The implant itself, however, will not be. At our Columbia, SC eye clinic, we offer a few different options for advanced IOLs. Some of these include:
  • Tecnis Multifocal Lenses – correct vision using proportioned visual zones.
  • Toric Lenses – correct both vision and astigmatism.

If you’re seeking cataract treatment in Columbia, SC, one of the most important steps to take is deciding which type of implant to choose. No matter your choice, you’re sure to love your new life with improved vision!

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Advanced Surface Treatment Revolutionizes Vision Options

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Are you tired of wearing glasses or contacts? Have you been told you’re not a good candidate for lasik? Do you wish for better vision, but have reservations about potential lasik risks?
 
If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, then an Advanced Surface Treatment (AST) vision procedure might be right for you. Read on to determine if you should consult your local Columbia eye center about AST.
 
What Is Advanced Surface Treatment?
AST is an innovative new type of laser eye surgery. Columbia, SC has joined cities across the world where this cutting-edge treatment is now available. During AST, an advanced laser removes and reshapes the epithelia, tiny cells on the outermost surface of the cornea. This reshaping corrects refractive issues, making AST an effective treatment for common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
 
AST Or Lasik?
The main difference between LASIK and AST involves something called the corneal flap. The corneal flap is crucial to lasik procedures; during lasik surgery, the surgeon creates a small flap on the surface of the eye that can be peeled back to allow the lasers access to the cornea. AST, however, eliminates the need for a flap by working on the outermost surface of the cornea.
 
Lasik is an incredibly safe and effective process for most people. However, some are unusually likely to face complications from a lasik procedure because of the flap.
 
If you have a thin cornea, it might be risky or impossible to create a flap, disqualifying you from lasik. You likewise may not be a good candidate for lasik if you do certain highly physical jobs or hobbies, as there is a chance that the corneal flap could be damaged by physical contact. A Columbia eye center ophthalmologist can determine if lasik is right for you, and if not, that’s where AST may be able to help.
 
Advanced Surface Treatment procedures are revolutionizing Columbia, SC ophthalmology. If you are sick of glasses and contacts, but do not qualify for lasik, ask your Columbia eye center specialist if AST is a choice for you.

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Protect Yourself From Vision Loss With Regular Glaucoma Testing

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More than 3 million Americans live with glaucoma, making it one of the most dangerous eye diseases currently facing our country. Left unchecked, its results can be devastating, often leading to permanent blindness. However, receiving a glaucoma diagnosis does not have to mean a permanent loss of vision. To catch glaucoma before it leads to permanent damage, it is important to visit a Columbia eye center for regular eye checks.  Today, we will discuss who needs glaucoma checks and why.
 
What Is Glaucoma and Glaucoma Testing?
Glaucoma occurs when fluid accumulates in the front of your eye, creating pressure which, if left untreated, will damage the optic nerve. This impedes the eye’s ability to send signals to your brain, resulting in vision loss or blindness.
 
To check for glaucoma, your Columbia eye center will run a variety of tests. Your ophthalmologist will numb your eyes then check for things like increased eye pressure, angle of the cornea, loss of peripheral vision, and visible damage to the optic nerve. These tests are quick, non-invasive, and highly effective at spotting glaucoma warning signs. Contact an ophthalmologist in Columbia, SC, to schedule routine eye tests.
 
Who Needs Glaucoma Testing?
Some people are at a much higher risk for glaucoma than others, so it is especially vital that you receive regular glaucoma checkups with a Columbia eye center if you belong to any of the following high-risk categories:
 

  • If you have a family history of glaucoma
  • If you are 60 years of age or older
  • If you are over 60 and of Hispanic, African American, or Asian descent.

 
Why Is Glaucoma Testing Important?
Many symptoms of glaucoma do not manifest until after irreversible damage has already been done to the optic nerve. But with regular checks, your ophthalmologist can spot early glaucoma before you notice symptoms.
 
If you do receive an early glaucoma diagnosis, this condition is very treatable. Columbia glaucoma treatment services may range from pills and eyedrops to surgical procedures and drainage implants. With proper care and routine checkups, you can protect yourself from losing your vision to glaucoma.

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The iStent – Tiny Technology for Brighter Eyes

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The Latest in Eye Care
The Eye Center in Columbia, South Carolina, is continually seeking innovative new ways to help our patients. A common issue that we tend to see is glaucoma, which causes impaired vision to clients as they age. To combat the more severe problems with glaucoma, we offer the iStent implant.
 
Who is at Risk?
Although glaucoma is common, there are certain groups of people who run a higher risk of developing the disease. High-risk groups include:
 

  • People over 40
  • Individuals with a history of eye injury
  • People of African American or Hispanic descent
  • Those who suffer from frequent bouts of eye pressure

Consider making an appointment for an eye exam if you fall into any of these categories and are experiencing problems. While you shouldn’t assume those issues are related to glaucoma, an ophthalmologist can give you a precise diagnosis. If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, a popular option for treatment is the iStent. Patients in the Columbia, SC area who require ophthalmology services should contact us to set an appointment today!
 
What is the iStent?
The iStent is currently the smallest medical apparatus in existence. Though small, it performs the difficult task of helping to decrease compression within the eyes through the reduction of moisture. The doctors in our clinic are trained professionals who perform several iStent implants each year. They guide all patients through the recovery process and will take great care of you.
 
Call Now For Glaucoma Relief
Glaucoma affects the eyesight of millions of people all around the world. Though there is currently no cure, the iStent works to slow the disease and ultimately improve and prolong vision. If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma or suspect you may have it, visit us at The Eye Center in Columbia, SC. Our specialists lead the city of Columbia in ophthalmology and are the best of the best.

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Diabetic Eye Disorders – How does diabetes affect the eyes?

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Diabetes is a disease that occurs when the blood glucose, or blood sugar, is too high in an individual. The effects of diabetes can vary from an increased risk of heart disease to visionary impairment. According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), there are two major types of diabetic eye disorders: diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema (DME). Due to the increased likelihood of eye disorders and a potential lack of symptoms, the NEI recommends that a comprehensive eye exam should be completed at least once every year for those with diabetes.
 
Effects of Diabetes on the Eyes
The effects of diabetes on the eyes can vary, aside from the two major diabetic eye disorders. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adults ranging from 20-74 years old. The side effects can be as simple as blurry vision, vision loss, and eye aches or pain. More severe consequences can lead to cataracts, glaucoma, or the aforementioned diabetic eye disorders.
 
Diabetic retinopathy is the most common eye disorder caused by diabetes. It can result in severe visual impairment and may even lead to blindness. Transformations in the blood vessels of the retina lead to diabetic retinopathy. A healthy retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, is crucial to healthy vision. With this disorder, blood vessels in the eye, stemming from the retina, may swell and lead to fluid leaks. In other cases, irregular new blood vessels may emerge on the outer layer of the retina. Symptoms may include spotty or blurred vision. If left untreated, this diabetic disorder can gradually get worse.
 
Diabetic macular edema, or DME, like diabetic retinopathy, is one of the leading causes of blindness for those who have diabetes. DME develops when tiny blood vessels in the eye begin to leak. The leaked fluid can lead to swelling of the central portion of the retina or the macula, which results in blurred vision. Image distortion, color or contrast changes, and scotomas, or blind spots in one’s eyesight, all can derive from DME. These symptoms gradually get worse if left untreated and should be carefully examined by an eye doctor.
 
Importance of Eye Exams
An annual eye exam can recognize and treat an irregularity in the early stages before it gets too late. Consistently visiting The Eye Center can be the reason you save yourself from an ongoing eye disorder or the need for extensive surgery. In essence, eye exams at every stage in your life are crucial to keeping your vision healthy and robust, so be sure to keep up with them.

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Diabetic and Concerned About Your Vision? Here’s What You Should Know

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If you have diabetes and have been developing problems with your vision, you may have something scientists refer to as “Diabetic Retinopathy.” The disease is caused by high blood sugar levels and affects the area in the back of your eye (called your “retina”). Consistently high levels may cause damage to the blood vessels located there, causing them to swell, leak, close, or even promote the growth of new, weaker vessels. While it may be asymptomatic in its early stages, symptoms indicated worsening conditions might include:

  • Seeing black ‘floaters’
  • Blurriness
  • Deteriorating night vision
  • Imperceptible areas of your vision

Make sure to visit The Eye Center in Columbia if you feel you may be experiencing these symptoms. Diabetic Retinopathy is characterized by two distinct stages.

Non-Proliferative Retinopathy
With Non-Proliferative Retinopathy (aka NPDR), retinal blood vessels may swell and leak, which is called “macular edema.” Vessels may also close off completely, which is called “macular ischemia.” In either of these cases, your vision will be blurry but not completely gone. Left untreated, however, NPDR may advance into a more detrimental stage called Proliferative Retinopathy. Contact your local Ophthalmologist at your Columbia, S.C. Eye Center if you fear you may already have, or be developing, NPDR.

Proliferative Retinopathy
In this more advanced form, your retina actually begins to grow a new set of blood vessels, called “neovascularization.” These new, weaker vessels have a high chance of bleeding and depending on the amount of blood expelled, and your vision may be seriously restricted. Complete blindness may also occur in more severe cases. Do not wait to seek treatment if you think you have PDR.

Prevention
There are multiple preventative measures you can take depending on how far advanced your Diabetic Retinopathy is. Some avenues to consider:

  • Diet and Nutrition: Lowering sugar levels may reverse damages
  • Medicine
  • Laser Surgery: Laser surgery may be used to stop blood vessel leakage
  • Vitrectomy: In advanced cases, some optic surgery may be required to remove blood or scar tissue

Contact The Eye Center in Columbia, S.C., to find out if laser eye surgery or other treatments are right for you.

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Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.