How do I know if I need bifocals?
The most common use of bifocals is for the treatment of presbyopia in individual's aged 40 and over. Whether or not a person has needed vision correction when younger, by the early to mid-forties, the ability to accommodate or focus the eyes has diminished. Bifocals allow the wearer to see clearly both at distance and near despite the reduced focusing ability. Bifocals may also be used to help align the eyes if a person tends to over-cross his or her eyes at near. If you are over 40 or have any difficulty performing tasks at near, ask contact us on whether bifocals, or no-line progressive addition lenses, could be right for you.
My eyeglasses are always so thick. Can the lenses be made thinner?
Absolutely! Newer, thinner lens materials are being developed all the time, and we pride ourselves in constantly being up-to-date with the latest developments and materials in the optical community. This, along with the proper grinding and appropriate frame selection could make your new fashion eyeglasses distinctly thinner. Ask one of our doctors or staff about the newest innovations in lenses today
Do my glasses protect my eyes from the sun?
That depends. Many people have plastic lenses, which do not protect your eyes; you need to have UV coating for protection. Polycarbonate lenses have built-in UV protection. Glass lenses protect your eyes from harmful UVB rays, but not from UVA; some experts think UVA rays might have long-term, damaging effects on your eyes and skin.
What's the secret to getting glasses that look great on me?
With all modesty aside, we are. We are fortunate to be staffed with fashion experts. They not only will assist you in your desire to get the "look" that is most flattering to your features and taste, but they will ensure that your new fashionable eyewear will function nicely with your needs and lifestyle as well. This is easier said than done. That is why we have a very knowledgeable staff  dedicated specifically with you in mind.
How often should I get a new pair of glasses?
This is a personal concern that can address many issues. You should change your eyeglasses when you feel that your existing eyeglasses no longer are supporting your needs, lifestyle, or taste. In any case a visit to your doctor should not be only considered when you feel it is time for new glasses. You should visit your eye doctor at least once every year, or every two years, until the age of forty, then once a year after that, unless otherwise instructed by your eyecare provider.
Do sunglasses really help to keep my eyes healthy?
We cannot stress this enough...YES! You know how the sun's UV rays can harm your skin-wrinkles; premature aging and skin cancer are some of the dangers of unprotected sun exposure. The same rays that age and damage your skin can and will hurt your eyes as well. Strong sunlight, and artificial light from sources like welding arcs or tanning lamps can burn the surface of the eye, much like sunburn on the skin. Reflected sunlight (from the water, for example) is particularly dangerous. There is also evidence that exposure to UV light can contribute to the development of eye diseases that commonly occur as we age, such as cataract and macular degeneration. Visible Light Visible light is the part of the sun's energy that you can see. It is made up of a spectrum of colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet. The eye is not equally sensitive to all of these colors. It is most sensitive to yellows and greens which it can see the best. The eye is less sensitive to reds and blues.Different Ultraviolet Rays Ultraviolet rays have shorter wavelengths and more energy than visible light rays. They can have a harmful effect on the eyes immediately or cumulatively from regular exposure over a number of years. The industry has set standards for how much UV may be transmitted (passed) by types of sunglasses. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are strongest at high altitudes, low latitudes, and in open or reflective environments (like sand, snow, or water). They are also strongest at midday. Scientists divide UV rays into three bands according to wavelength: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA-short wave UVA rays have been shown to penetrate the under layers of the skin, causing damage and contributing to the skin's aging and cataracts. Therefore, it is certainly wise to require protection from them in sunglasses. UVB-long wave UVB rays, the sunburn rays, are the ones that cause the most concern. They can cause keratitis, which is similar to sunburn on the eye, and also have been linked to the development of cataracts. UVC UVC rays are the shortest, the most energetic, and may be the most harmful. Fortunately, they are blocked in the upper atmosphere and never reach the earth. If sunglasses protect against UVB, we can assume they protect against any possible exposure to UVC.
What Are the Symptoms of a Cataract?
A few of the signs of a cataract are: Glared, Cloudy, fuzzy, foggy, or filmy vision. Changes in the way you see colors. Problems driving at night as headlights seem too bright or glared. Problems with glare from lamps or the sun. Frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription. Double vision. Better near vision for a while only in farsighted people. These symptoms also can be signs of other eye problems.
Is Cataract Surgery Right for Me?
Most people who have a cataract recover from surgery with no problems and improved vision. This type of surgery has a success rate of 98 percent in patients with otherwise healthy eyes. If you have a cataract in both eyes, we beleive it is best to wait until your first eye heals before having surgery on the second eye. If the eye that has a cataract is your only working eye, we will weigh very carefully the benefits and risks of cataract surgery. You will be able to make the right decision for yourself if you know the facts. We are more than happy to explain anything you do not understand. There is no such thing as a "dumb" question when it comes to your health.
How Do I Decide Whether To Have Surgery?
Fortunately, cataracts are not life threatening, so most people have plenty of time to decide about cataract surgery. However, we cannot make your decision for you, but talking with us can help in your decision. Together, we can ascertain how your cataract affects your vision and your life. If any of the below applies to you, then please contact us for a consultation. I need to drive, but I see too much glare from the sun or headlights. I do not see well enough to do my best at work. I do not see well enough to do the things I need to do at home. I do not see well enough to do things I like to do (for example, read, watch TV, sew, hike, play cards, go out with friends. I am afraid I will bump into something or fall. Because of my cataract, I am not as independent as I desire. My glasses do not help me see well enough. My eyesight interferes with many of my daily functions. You may also have other specific problems that you want to discuss with us.
What Should I Know About Surgery?
We will discuss in the greatest detail, your options before choosing the best technique for your surgery. We will also explain how to prepare for surgery and how to take care of yourself after it is over. Cataract surgery is outpatient. You do not need to stay overnight in a hospital. However, you will need a friend or family member to take you home. You may need someone to stay with you for a day to help you follow your doctor's instructions. With modern cataract surgery, most patients have fast visual recovery. Some patients are even able to drive themselves to see doctor for follow-up the day after surgery. Remember that the follow-up is very important. We will thoroughly check your progress and make sure you have the care you need until your eye recovers fully.