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Dry eye is a common ocular condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to discomfort, redness, blurred vision, and even damage to the surface of the eyes. Understanding the causes and symptoms of dry eye is crucial provide early detection and effective treatment.
 

The Importance of Dry Eye Advanced Diagnostic Testing

Early detection of dry eye is crucial for preventing further progression of the condition and improving patient outcomes. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, dry eye can cause significant discomfort and affect daily activities. Additionally, chronic dry eye can lead to corneal ulcers, infections, and even vision loss. By accurately identifying and addressing dry eye in its early stages, optometrists can provide timely interventions and prevent complications.
 

TearLab

One of the advanced diagnostic tools available for dry eye is TearLab. TearLab is a non-invasive test that measures the osmolarity of tears, which is an indicator of tear film stability. This test provides valuable information about the quality and quantity of tears, allowing healthcare professionals to accurately diagnose and monitor dry eye. By analyzing the osmolarity of tears, TearLab helps identify the severity of dry eye and guides treatment decisions. It is a quick and painless procedure that can be performed in a clinical setting.
 

InflammaDry

Inflammation plays a significant role in dry eye, and identifying the presence of inflammation is crucial for effective treatment. InflammaDry is a diagnostic tool that detects elevated levels of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), an inflammatory marker, in tears. By measuring MMP-9, InflammaDry helps optometrists differentiate between inflammatory and non-inflammatory dry eye. This information is essential for tailoring treatment plans and determining the most appropriate therapies for each patient.

In the ever-evolving world of vision correction, multifocal contact lenses have emerged as a game-changer for individuals seeking a seamless solution to address their presbyopia. As you navigate through life's various stages, your eyes may undergo changes that can impact your ability to focus clearly on objects at different distances. Multifocal contact lenses offer a convenient and effective way to combat this challenge, providing you with a versatile and comfortable option for correcting your vision.
 

What Are Multifocal Contact Lenses?

Multifocal contact lenses are specialized lenses designed to correct presbyopia, a condition that typically occurs as you age, making it difficult to focus on near objects. Unlike traditional single-vision lenses that correct either near or distance vision, multifocal contact lenses incorporate multiple prescriptions into a single lens. This innovative design allows you to enjoy clear vision at various distances, eliminating the need for separate reading glasses or bifocals.
 

How Do Multifocal Contact Lenses Work?

Multifocal contact lenses employ advanced optical technologies to provide seamless vision correction. These lenses feature distinct zones or concentric rings that correspond to different prescriptions for near, intermediate, and distance vision. As your eyes move and focus on objects at varying distances, the appropriate zone of the lens comes into play, ensuring a clear and comfortable visual experience.

There are two main types of multifocal contact lens designs:

• Simultaneous Vision Design: In this design, the lens incorporates multiple prescriptions simultaneously, allowing your eyes to utilize the appropriate zone based on the viewing distance. This design can take some time to adjust to, as your brain learns to interpret the different visual inputs.

• Alternating Vision Design: Also known as "segmented" or "translating" lenses, these lenses have distinct zones for near and distance vision. As you move your eyes or shift your gaze, the appropriate zone is positioned in front of your pupil, providing the necessary correction.

Eye Conditions That Multifocal Contact Lenses Can Treat

Multifocal contact lenses are primarily designed to address the following vision-related conditions:
 

• Presbyopia: As you age, the natural lenses in your eyes lose flexibility, making it challenging to focus on nearby objects. Multifocal contact lenses can correct this age-related farsightedness, allowing you to see clearly at all distances.

• Myopia (Nearsightedness): If you struggle to see distant objects clearly, multifocal contact lenses can incorporate a prescription to correct myopia, while also providing near and intermediate vision correction.

• Hyperopia (Farsightedness): For individuals with farsightedness, multifocal contact lenses can offer a solution by incorporating a prescription to improve distance vision, along with near and intermediate vision correction.

• Astigmatism: Some multifocal contact lenses are designed to correct astigmatism, a condition caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, resulting in blurred or distorted vision.

Visual field testing is an important part of most standard comprehensive eye exams. Also sometimes known as perimetry testing, Visual field testing is a method to measure the entire scope of vision of an individual, including their peripheral/side vision.
 

The importance of visual field testing

Visual field testing is one of the most effective diagnostic treatments in the detection of glaucoma. This is because when patients are affected by glaucoma, it is usually the peripheral vision that is affected by their condition first. However, it can also be used to detect central or peripheral retinal diseases, eyelid conditions such as drooping, optic nerve damage and conditions that affect the visual pathways from the optic nerve to the area of the brain where this information is processed into vision.
 

Visual field testing is also an important part of monitoring for people who are considered to be at risk for vision loss from disease and other problems, including those who have been diagnosed with the following:

• Multiple sclerosis

• Hyperthyroidism

• Pituitary gland disorders

• Central nervous system problems (such as a tumor that may be pressing on the brain)

• Stroke

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure
   

What to expect from visual field testing

There are a variety of methods that can be used to perform visual field testing, including:
 

Static automated perimetry. This is where a machine is used to quantify how well the patient is able to detect flashing lights of varying size and brightness in different areas of their visual field, while they concentrate on a central point. The patient responds by pushing a button when they see the light.

Kinetic perimetry. This involves points of light that are fixed in size and intensity and are presented along the patient’s peripheral vision, before being gradually moved inwards to determine their field of vision. 

Visual field testing is non-invasive, painless and doesn’t require patients to have their eyes dilated. The results, which are usually presented in a series of charts, are digital and sent directly to your eye doctor for interpretation. Depending on the outcome of your results, you may be recommended for further diagnostic testing which could include blood tests. If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, you will probably be recommended to have several visual field tests each year, which will help your eye doctor to monitor the progression of your condition and recommend treatments to slow it.

If you would like more information about visual field testing, or if you have concerns about your peripheral vision, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our experienced and knowledgeable eyecare team today.

Myopia is a common vision problem affecting a large number of individuals worldwide. It occurs when the eye is unable to focus properly on distant objects, resulting in blurred vision. Myopia can develop during childhood and progress into adulthood if left unmanaged.
 

What Causes Myopia to Develop?

Myopia can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. If one or both parents have myopia, there is a higher chance that their children will develop the condition. Additionally, excessive screen time, lack of outdoor activities, and prolonged near-work activities such as reading or using electronic devices can contribute to the development of myopia. These lifestyle factors can lead to the elongation of the eyeball, resulting in the inability to focus on distant objects.
 

The Importance of Myopia Management

Managing myopia is crucial to prevent its progression and associated complications. High levels of myopia can increase the risk of developing eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal detachment.
 

Additionally, severe myopia can lead to vision loss and significantly impact the quality of life. Early intervention and proper management of myopia can help slow down its progression and reduce the risk of these complications.

We all want to look our best and in the last decade, we have seen a significant increase in the number of people seeking cosmetic services in order to enhance their appearance. With our eyes being our most distinguishing feature, we want to make the most of them. Thankfully there is now a range of cosmetic services that can help to rejuvenate our eyes and the area around them to keep them fresh, young and wrinkle-free. 

Let’s take a look at some of the services on offer.
 

Pigment removal

The brown pigment spots that appear on the face are often referred to as age spots and are a result of sun exposure. With age, the repeated exposure to UV rays causes melanin, a compound that is responsible for pigmentation and protecting the skin begins to clump together to form an area of hyperpigmentation. Whilst they aren’t any cause for concern, many people feel that they look unsightly. Luckily, there are a number of different treatments that you can get to remove them including topical creams, laser therapy, and chemical peels.

If you are suffering from darker pigmentation then we strongly recommend that you make an appointment with a qualified dermatologist who will recommend the best course of treatment for you, based on your specific needs.
 

If you are one of the thousands of people considering LASIK laser eye surgery, then you will probably be gathering as much information as possible about the treatment. By this point, you are probably aware of the benefits that LASIK offers, such as a reduced or eliminated need for glasses or contact lenses and greater convenience in your day to day life. However, for many patients, despite the advantages of LASIK, the thought of surgery on their eyes is still a cause of anxiety and fear. One of the best ways to alleviate this concern is to find out more about what the procedure entails.
 

Your consultation

Before you can be approved for any form of laser vision correction, including LASIK, you will need to attend a consultation appointment with your surgeon. During the consultation, he will perform an examination of your eyes and use your medical and ocular history to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. He will also speak to you about the expected outcome from your surgery, making you aware that while LASIK will dramatically improve your eyesight, there is no guarantee that you will not need to wear glasses in some situations, such as while driving in the dark. 
 

How LASIK Works

LASIK uses a cool, ultraviolet beam of light to reshape the patient’s cornea. Doing so will more accurately focus the light that enters the eye on to the retina, thus improving the patient’s vision. The way in which the cornea needs to be reshaped will depend on the visual needs of the patient. For example, a patient who is far-sighted will need their cornea reshaping to be steeper to experience better eyesight. Alternatively, a patient who is near-sighted will require their cornea to be flattened in order to improve their vision. LASIK can also smooth an irregular cornea into a more standard shape, meaning that the procedure can also be used to correct astigmatism.
 

The LASIK procedure

The LASIK procedure is very fast and straightforward. Although you will probably be in the surgical suite for around half an hour, the actual process only takes a couple of minutes per eye. The rest of the time will be spent preparing and ensuring that you are comfortable. Anesthetic eye drops are given to patients before their procedure so that the entire process is pain-free. If you are particularly anxious, it may also be possible for you to be slightly sedated – this should be discussed with your doctor at your consultation appointment.

Once you are in position, we will use a femtosecond laser to cut a thin, circular flap into the outer cornea. This can then be pulled back to reveal the underlying corneal tissue, known as the stroma so that it can be reshaped using the laser. The exact path that the laser needs to take, known as the topography, will have been pre-programmed ahead of the procedure and can be followed with complete precision and accuracy.

Once the reshaping is complete, the flap is replaced back over the eye and the surgery is complete. There is no need for sutures or bandages as the cornea will start to heal immediately and without any medical intervention.
 

LASIK co-management is an integral part of vision correction surgery that often goes unnoticed. It involves a partnership between your primary eye care professional and your LASIK surgeon. This cooperative approach ensures that you're provided with the best possible care before, during, and after your procedure.

LASIK co-management is the collaborative effort of your eye care team to ensure your vision correction procedure is safe and successful. It's a team approach where everyone plays a significant role in your eye health journey.

The Evaluation Process

The evaluation process in LASIK co-management is thorough and meticulous. It begins with a comprehensive eye examination by your primary care optometrist. This examination is meant to ascertain your eye health status and determine if you're an appropriate candidate for the LASIK procedure.

The evaluation process underscores the collaborative nature of LASIK co-management. Every step is carefully coordinated to ensure your eye health is prioritized and that you're receiving the best possible care.

The Importance of Consultation in LASIK Co-management

Consultation is a crucial aspect of LASIK co-management. It allows for patient education, addressing concerns and questions, and establishing a clear understanding of the expected outcomes.

During the consultation phase, your optometrist will explain the results of your eye examination and how it relates to your suitability for LASIK surgery. They will also discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure, giving you a balanced perspective to make an informed decision.

The consultation with your LASIK surgeon will delve into the specifics of the operation, including the technology used, the surgical process, and the anticipated recovery timeline. Having the opportunity to consult with both your optometrist and your surgeon ensures that all your concerns are addressed, allowing you to proceed with confidence.

The Role of Communication

Effective communication is the backbone of successful LASIK co-management. It facilitates a seamless transition from your optometrist to your surgeon, creating a cohesive care plan that's centered around your specific needs.

This communication is not just between healthcare providers but also involves the patient. Regular updates on your progress, detailed explanations about each stage of the process, and addressing any concerns or questions you may have are all essential parts of the communication process.

If you already rely on wearing glasses or contact lenses to be able to see clearly, you may be frustrated with the effect that they have on your life. Regular vision tests, finding glasses to suit your face shape, having to remember to take eyeglasses with you wherever you go, prescription sunglasses, fiddly contact lenses… the list of inconveniences associated with conventional ocular solutions is extensive. 

LASIK is a modern, minimally-invasive procedure that can substantially reduce or eliminate your need to use eyeglasses or contact lenses, allowing you to enjoy life without limitations or inconvenience. The popularity and success of LASIK laser eye surgery have helped to make it the number one elective surgery across the globe. 
 

Candidacy for LASIK

LASIK has an extremely high success rate. According to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, 96% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better. However, it’s high success rate doesn’t make LASIK automatically the right solution for everyone.

Candidacy for LASIK is assessed by our doctors on a case by case basis so that you be certain that whatever treatment is recommended for you, it will give you the very best opportunity to improve your vision. During your consultation, our doctors will perform a thorough examination of your eyes and vision, ask you about your general health and talk you through both the procedure and aftercare.

The general guidelines for LASIK candidacy state that patients must:

• be at least 18 years of age

• have had stable vision with no prescription changes for a minimum of 12 months

• have a current prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses that falls between specified parameters (Our doctors will be aware of what these parameters are)

• have no significant medical or eye-related problems such as glaucoma, macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy

• have no history of corneal disease

• not be pregnant or nursing at the time of the procedure

If you thought that just laser eye surgery was impressive, then be prepared to be astounded by the arrival of iDesign custom Lasik. iDesign is the most advanced wavefront-guided laser treatment available. The system creates a uniquely accurate measurement of the entire optical system that can be relied upon completely without any guesswork. This is then used to create a highly detailed topography or map of your eye, making it easier for your surgeon to pinpoint the areas that need addressing with pinpoint precision. 
 

How accurate is iDesign?

iDesign is extremely accurate due to its diagnostic equipment that is able to determine 1,257 different micro eye prescriptions. Each one of these will measure the eye prescription to 0.01 of a dioptre strength – 25 times more than what a regular prescription for glasses or contact lens prescription is measured to. 
 

Who is iDesign suitable for?

While iDesign Custom Lasik can benefit almost any patient with refractive problems, it is particularly beneficial for people who have unusual corneas or have had eye surgery in the past. 
 

Is it painful?

Laser eye surgery is generally considered a pain-free procedure by the majority of patients. Anesthetic eye-drops are used to numb the outer area of the eye during the course of the surgery. Once these have worn off, some patients do experience some mild discomfort during the days following the procedure, but over the counter pain relief is usually sufficient to relieve this.
 

Astigmatism is a relatively common eye disorder that causes the vision to be blurred or distorted. It occurs when the lens part of the eye, known as the cornea, isn’t perfectly curved and instead resembles a football rather than a soccer ball. This means that the light entering the eye comes through at a distorted angle, making the object appear blurry and out of focus. There are several ways in which it is possible to treat astigmatism, including laser eye surgery and corrective lenses. However, another possibility is a solution referred to as limbal relaxing incisions.
 

What are limbal relaxing incisions?

Limbal relaxing incisions are microscopic cuts to an area in the eye known as the limbus. This helps to relax the curve in the cornea and improve its ability to focus light correctly. It can significantly improve your astigmatism and the overall quality of your vision.
 

Am I a good candidate for limbal relaxing incisions?

If you have astigmatism, are over 18, in good general health and have no major eye conditions, then chances are you are a good candidate for limbal relaxing incisions. Make an appointment with your eye doctor to discuss your candidacy further.