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The Eye Center 1st in South Carolina to Offer TECNIS Symfony IOL

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News

Cataract patients have a new lens replacement option available to them that can help them see more clearly up close and far away. The Eye Center’s Dr. R. Brian Huff became the first doctor in South Carolina to implant the new TECNIS Symfony IOL. This advanced intraocular lens (IOL) offers an extended range of vision when compared with other IOLs.

The TECNIS Symfony IOL is a relatively new development in lens replacement technology. It is designed to provide outstanding distance vision while also offering a continuous range of quality vision up close. The new lenses also present no increase in nighttime halos when compared with standard IOLs.

“The most exciting aspect of this new technology is we are now able to provide the high quality distance and near vision that the TECNIS Multifocal family of lenses achieves to patients with astigmatism,” says Dr. Huff. “This opens up a whole new frontier in our ability to give patients the best vision possible.”

Lens replacement using IOLs goes hand-in-hand with modern cataract removal procedures. When an eye’s damaged lens is removed to clear the field of vision after cataract development, a synthetic replacement must be used to protect the eye. While IOLs have long been available to correct vision concerns after cataract surgery, many patients found they still required prescriptive lenses for reading and other up close tasks.

“Thanks to this advancement, cataract patients have an option that can help them avoid the need for glasses after surgery,” says Dr. Huff. “Being able to help patients enjoy the best vision possible after cataract surgery is a goal this new technology is making attainable.”

To find out more about cataract removal and the new TECNIS Symfony IOL, consult with the doctors at The Eye Center or visit the practice online at TheEyeCenterSC.com.

About The Eye Center

The Eye Center is the leading refractive practice in South Carolina, providing full service eye care and specializing in Refractive Surgery – Lasik, AST, PRK, PRELEX, as well as Corneal Transplant and Cataract Surgery.

Get In Touch With Us
Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Diabetic Eye Care: What Patients Need to Know

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News

Columbia, S.C. – Diabetes is a condition that is on the rise across the United States, spiking right along with obesity levels. Those newly diagnosed will find there are many steps they can take to help improve or maintain health. One of them involves adhering to a strict eye care program.

“Vision loss is one of the many potential complications diabetics may face in their lifetimes,” explain the doctors at The Eye Center. “When proper care for the condition couples with a strict routine of eye care, however, it is possible to help preserve sight.”

Diabetics will find that one of the biggest eye-related concern they face is a condition called retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when blood sugar levels run too high for too long, causing tiny blood vessels in the retina to burst. As time passes, the breakage may lead to vision loss and eventual blindness. In addition, diabetics may find themselves at higher risk for glaucoma, cataracts and other serious eye conditions.

It is typically recommended that diabetics undergo eye exams each year. If vision problems have presented or other concerns exist, doctors may recommend more frequent visits. These appointments will likely include routine vision screening tests along with the use of digital retinal photography to enable ophthalmologists to check for signs of retinopathy.

“Diabetes is strongly linked to blindness,” say the doctors at The Eye Center. “Keeping tight control over blood sugar levels, exercising, eating right, quitting smoking and following through on routine eye checkups can make a difference.”
People who have been diagnosed with diabetes are urged to make an appointment with their vision care providers. Getting started with a strict routine of care may prevent serious complications from arising.

To find out more about diabetic eye care or to schedule an appointment, reach out to the doctors at The Eye Center or visit the practice online at TheEyeCenterSC.com.
 
About The Eye Center
The Eye Center is the leading refractive practice in South Carolina, providing full service eye care and specializing in Refractive Surgery – Lasik, AST, PRK, PRELEX, as well as Corneal Transplant and Cataract Surgery.

Get In Touch With Us
Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Cataracts Symptoms: When to Seek Care

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News

Columbia, S.C. — Vision changes are not at all uncommon with age, but that doesn’t mean all complaints must be accepted as a given. In fact, chalking up some concerns, such as cataracts, as par for the course or inevitable can result in unnecessary brushes with blindness.

“Cataracts are a very common concern for people as they age, but they may also be associated with eye trauma in younger people and some babies may even be born with the condition,” say the doctors at The Eye Center. “Fortunately, this is a condition that can be overcome quite easily in most cases. A simple outpatient procedure that involves removal of the damaged lens and replacement with a synthetic lens can restore sight while preventing permanent vision damage.”

When cataracts begin to develop, people may often brush off the symptoms. As the disease progresses, however, it is likely to present with a few telltale signs that indicate the need for medical intervention. This condition is characterized by a gradual yellowing or clouding over of the eye that often produces vision that is hazy or blurry. People may also notice double vision, sensitivity to light, changes to color vision and halos around sources of light, among other complaints.

“The best bet to safeguard vision is to seek out a regular eye examination on an annual basis,” stress the doctors at The Eye Center. “If any vision changes are noted in between exams, they should be checked out sooner rather than later. While cataracts may not require immediate intervention, getting the condition diagnosed and assessed is important.”

To find out more about cataracts screening or schedule an appointment for a consultation, reach out to the doctors at The Eye Center or visit the practice online at TheEyeCenterSC.com.
 
About The Eye Center
The Eye Center is the leading refractive practice in South Carolina, providing full service eye care and specializing in Refractive Surgery – Lasik, AST, PRK, PRELEX, as well as Corneal Transplant and Cataract Surgery.

Get In Touch With Us
Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

LipiFlow Delivers Help For Dry Eye Sufferers

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News

Columbia, S.C. — People who suffer from Meibomian gland dysfunction, or MGD for short, have a new option to consider for longer lasting relief of dry eye. Called LipiFlow, this breakthrough technology was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use on patients in November 2015. Offering a reliable way to ease the symptoms associated with dry eye, this treatment is now available to patients at The Eye Center.

“LipiFlow is the only electronic treatment device approved for use in helping patients who suffer from MGD,” say the doctors at The Eye Center. “By delivering precise heat treatments directly to the inner eyelids and a directed gentle massage, this treatment effectively unblocks Meibomian glands to provide patients the relief from dry eye they’re after.”

Dry eye is characterized by stinging, irritated and scratchy eyes. Some people may feel like they have grit in their eyes and may also experience redness and blurry vision. Interestingly enough, this condition may also cause excessive tearing. Dry eye essentially results from problems with the eye’s tear production. In the case of MGD, it results in blockage in the Meibomian glands.

LipiFlow produced very pleasing results in studies leading up to its FDA approval, The Eye Center’s doctors say. On average, patients enjoy a three-fold improvement in gland function, which can reduce the symptoms associated with dry eye by as much as half. Prior to LipiFlow’s approval, treatment options included the use of prescription medications, punctal plugs, eye scrubs, eye drops and warm and hot compresses, among others.

“By providing a way to restore the natural oil flow to the eye’s tear film, LipiFlow promotes a longer lasting solution,” the doctors say. “We are very pleased to be able to offer this new treatment to our patients at The Eye Center.”

To find out more about dry eye and treatments, including LipiFlow, consult with the doctors at The Eye Center or visit the practice online at TheEyeCenterSC.com.

About The Eye Center

The Eye Center is the leading refractive practice in South Carolina, providing full service eye care and specializing in Refractive Surgery – Epi-Lasik, AST, PRK, PRELEX, as well as Corneal Transplant and Cataract Surgery.

Get In Touch With Us
Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Explore the Options for Treating Dry Eye

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News

Columbia, S.C. — The National Eye Institute estimates more than 5 million Americans suffer from the burning, itching and gritty feelings associated with dry eye. Although sometimes a temporary concern that rights itself, some people will find their symptoms persist. For those in the latter category, help is available.

Dry eye arises when the eyes are unable to produce sufficient tears for proper hydration or when the tears produced are of the wrong consistency. When this occurs, itching, burning, gritty sensations and other symptoms may arise. Inflammation on the eye’s surface may also result that can lead to pain, corneal ulcers and scarring. Loss of vision is also possible, but is only rarely permanent.

“Dry eye is a highly common concern that can be treated very effectively,” say the doctors at The Eye Center. “The key lies in determining the underlying cause and proceeding with the best possible treatment from there. For some people, for example, dry eye is associated with the use of certain medications that when stopped alleviate symptoms. Others, however, may have chronic conditions that require a management approach to reduce redness, itching and burning.”

While the best course of treatment will depend on the cause of dry eye, people who suffer from the condition will find there are many options available to help. They include:
 

  • Artificial tears – Drops that help hydrate and lubricate are often very helpful for alleviating the symptoms of dry eye. People who suffer from this condition due to contact lens use or computer-related work, for example, may find the right level of relief.
  • Medications – In some cases, prescription medications or eye drops may be required to provide proper hydration for the eyes.
  • LipiFlow – This cutting-edge treatment is designed to remove blockage from the Meibomian glands by combining heat and light massage. In doing so, this treatment can help the eyes more effectively hydrate themselves.
  • Surgery – In some cases, surgical procedures may be needed to promote healthier tear production.

“There is no reason to suffer through the discomfort of dry eye,” the doctors say. “There is help available to effectively treat this common concern.”

To find out more about treating dry eye or schedule an appointment for a consultation, reach out to the doctors at The Eye Center or visit the practice online at TheEyeCenterSC.com.
 
About The Eye Center
The Eye Center is the leading refractive practice in South Carolina, providing full service eye care and specializing in Refractive Surgery – Lasik, AST, PRK, PRELEX, as well as Corneal Transplant and Cataract Surgery.

Get In Touch With Us
Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Is Cataract Surgery Lifechanging?

News

Columbia, S.C. — For the thousands of Americans suffering with vision-related problems associated with cataracts, surgery is the only surefire option to address symptoms and prevent permanent blindness. The prospect, however, can be a bit intimidating, leaving some to wonder if an outpatient laser surgery procedure can really change their lives.

“Cataracts are a progressive visual disruption that is very much like a ticking time bomb,” say the doctors at The Eye Center. “While symptoms at first may only cause minor disruptions, people who allow the disease to progress will find enjoyment of everyday, routine activities diminishes right along with their sight. As reading, watching television, performing simple tasks and driving all become impossible due to sight-related concerns, cataracts very much becomes a quality of life issue.”

Cataracts arise when the eye’s natural lens clouds over due to an accumulation of proteins. Although largely associated with aging, children may be born with this condition. It is also possible for eye trauma to trigger this condition earlier in life.

Outpatient laser eye surgery can eliminate cataract-related concerns quickly and effectively. This procedure calls for removing the diseased lens entirely using a laser that provides pinpoint precision. The damaged lens is then replaced with a synthetic one that may include a prescription to correct other vision concerns, such as near- or far-sightedness. Once the damaged lens is removed, issues related to cloudy, blurry and double vision are removed along with it.

“The rapid restoration of sight can help people reclaim their independence,” say the doctors at The Eye Center. “For those who have lost their ability to cook, drive or even enjoy a television program, the surgery can indeed be lifechanging.”
To find out more about cataract surgery or to schedule a consultation, reach out to the doctors at The Eye Center or visit the practice online at TheEyeCenterSC.com.
 
About The Eye Center
The Eye Center is the leading refractive practice in South Carolina, providing full service eye care and specializing in Refractive Surgery – Lasik, AST, PRK, PRELEX, as well as Corneal Transplant and Cataract Surgery.

Get In Touch With Us
Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Put Your Digital Devices to Bed Early: Optometrists Caution Overexposure to Blue Light May Cause Hea

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Columbia, S.C. — The American Optometric Association’s (AOA) 2016 American Eye-Q® survey revealed that 88 percent of Americans know that digital devices can negatively affect their vision, but the average American still spends seven or more hours per day looking at their screens. This overexposure to blue light – high-energy visible light emitted from digital devices – can lead to digital eye strain, sleep problems, blurred vision, headaches and neck and shoulder pain, among other things. The AOA survey also indicates that the average millennial spends nine hours per day on devices such as smartphones, tablets, LED monitors and flat-screen TVs which also emit blue light.

The AOA understands that digital devices are an important part of everyday life, and encourages patients to learn about blue light and its impact on vision and health during Save Your Vision Month 2017 in March. The following tips explore ways people can protect their eyes and monitor digital screen usage while at home or work: 

  • Power down before you turn in: Turn your digital devices off at least one hour before bed.
  • Unplug with the AOA 20-20-20 rule: When you are using any device or computer, make a conscious effort every day to take a 20-second break and look away from the screen, every 20 minutes and view something 20 feet away.
  • Step back: Maintain a comfortable working distance from your digital device by using the zoom feature to see small print and details, rather than bringing the device closer to your eyes.
  • Adjust your device to fit your needs: The AOA recommends reducing the glare by adjusting device settings or using a glare filter to decrease the amount of blue light reflected from the screen.
  • Schedule an appointment: Visit a doctor of optometry by visiting AOA.org to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam to detect and address vision problems.

“This year, we’re challenging you to prioritize not only your eye health, but your overall health and well-being, and limit your exposure to blue light,” say the doctors at The Eye Center. “It’s as easy as looking away from your screen every 20 minutes and powering down an hour before bed.”

Blue light symptoms, according to News Medical, 2016:

  • digital eye strain
  • dry eyes
  • eye irritation (burning and stinging)
  • blurred vision
  • sleep problems
  • headaches
  • neck and shoulder pain

If you think you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed on the side due to prolonged exposure to blue light, schedule an appointment with [Doctor name and contact information]. For additional information on eye health in the workplace, please visit www.aoa.org.

About the American Eye-Q® survey:
The AOA 2016 American Eye-Q® survey was created and commissioned in conjunction with Edelman Intelligence. From September 22-28, Edelman Intelligence conducted 1,000 online interviews among Americans 18 years and older who embodied a nationally representative sample of the U.S. general population. The margin of error for this sample is +/- 3.1% at the 95 percent confidence level.

About the American Optometric Association (AOA):
The American Optometric Association, founded in 1898, is the leading authority on quality care and an advocate for our nation’s health, representing more than 44,000 doctors of optometry (O.D.), optometric professionals and optometry students. Doctors of optometry take a leading role in patient care with respect to eye and vision care, as well as general health and well-being. As primary health care providers, doctors of optometry have extensive, ongoing training to examine, diagnose, treat and manage ocular disorders, diseases and injuries and systemic diseases that manifest in the eye. Doctors of optometry provide more than two-thirds of primary eye care in the U.S. For more information on eye health and vision topics, and to find a doctor of optometry near you, visit aoa.org.

Get In Touch With Us
Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Is Cataract Surgery Lifechanging?

News

Columbia, S.C. — For the thousands of Americans suffering with vision-related problems associated with cataracts, surgery is the only surefire option to address symptoms and prevent permanent blindness. The prospect, however, can be a bit intimidating, leaving some to wonder if an outpatient laser surgery procedure can really change their lives.

“Cataracts are a progressive visual disruption that is very much like a ticking time bomb,” say the doctors at The Eye Center. “While symptoms at first may only cause minor disruptions, people who allow the disease to progress will find enjoyment of everyday, routine activities diminishes right along with their sight. As reading, watching television, performing simple tasks and driving all become impossible due to sight-related concerns, cataracts very much becomes a quality of life issue.”

Cataracts arise when the eye’s natural lens clouds over due to an accumulation of proteins. Although largely associated with aging, children may be born with this condition. It is also possible for eye trauma to trigger this condition earlier in life.

Outpatient laser eye surgery can eliminate cataract-related concerns quickly and effectively. This procedure calls for removing the diseased lens entirely using a laser that provides pinpoint precision. The damaged lens is then replaced with a synthetic one that may include a prescription to correct other vision concerns, such as near- or far-sightedness. Once the damaged lens is removed, issues related to cloudy, blurry and double vision are removed along with it.

“The rapid restoration of sight can help people reclaim their independence,” say the doctors at The Eye Center. “For those who have lost their ability to cook, drive or even enjoy a television program, the surgery can indeed be lifechanging.”
To find out more about cataract surgery or to schedule a consultation, reach out to the doctors at The Eye Center or visit the practice online at TheEyeCenterSC.com.
 
About The Eye Center
The Eye Center is the leading refractive practice in South Carolina, providing full service eye care and specializing in Refractive Surgery – Lasik, AST, PRK, PRELEX, as well as Corneal Transplant and Cataract Surgery.

Get In Touch With Us
Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Why Lasik is the Right Choice for Many

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News

Columbia, S.C. — Lasik surgery is a popular choice for people who want to improve their sight while enjoying the possibility of leaving glasses or contacts behind. Performed on thousands of patients over the past few decades, this procedure has only become more refined and precise through the years. Technological advances have made this procedure one that has a tremendous track record of success for patients who are deemed good candidates for refractive corrections.

People who are considering this option will find there are only a few barriers that stand in their way. Lasik is generally reserved for correcting certain vision concerns, such as near- and farsightedness, in people roughly age 21 and up. Overall good general health is also typically required. Some patients may find that the thickness of their corneas might not make this route the right one for them, as well.

“Generally speaking, Lasik is a sound option for the vast majority of patients seeking a way to more permanently address vision concerns,” says the doctors at The Eye Center. “While certain factors, such as corneal fitness may not make it the best choice for a particular patient, other options exist that can produce similar results. The best bet for those considering refractive surgery is to set a consultation with a qualified eye surgeon to explore all their options.”

People who find that Lasik is suitable for them are also likely to quickly learn why the procedure is popular for very good reasons. Although results cannot be guaranteed, Lasik enables about 99 percent of patients to attain 20/40 vision at least with more than 90 percent reporting 20/20 results. Serious complications associated with this procedure are also extremely rare, occurring in only about 0.2 percent of all surgeries performed.

“Lasik simply is the best choice in refractive surgery for most patients because of the minimal risks it poses while producing very strong results in an overwhelming percentage of cases,” the doctors say. “Although not a guarantee that glasses can be left behind for good, most patients are very pleased with the results.”

To find out more about Lasik or to schedule a consultation, reach out to the doctors at The Eye Center or visit the practice online at TheEyeCenterSC.com.

About The Eye Center
The Eye Center is the leading refractive practice in South Carolina, providing full service eye care and specializing in Refractive Surgery – Lasik, AST, PRK, PRELEX, as well as Corneal Transplant and Cataract Surgery.

Get In Touch With Us
Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Put Your Digital Devices to Bed Early: Optometrists Caution Overexposure to Blue Light May Cause Hea

News

News

Columbia, S.C. — The American Optometric Association’s (AOA) 2016 American Eye-Q® survey revealed that 88 percent of Americans know that digital devices can negatively affect their vision, but the average American still spends seven or more hours per day looking at their screens. This overexposure to blue light – high-energy visible light emitted from digital devices – can lead to digital eye strain, sleep problems, blurred vision, headaches and neck and shoulder pain, among other things. The AOA survey also indicates that the average millennial spends nine hours per day on devices such as smartphones, tablets, LED monitors and flat-screen TVs which also emit blue light.

The AOA understands that digital devices are an important part of everyday life, and encourages patients to learn about blue light and its impact on vision and health during Save Your Vision Month 2017 in March. The following tips explore ways people can protect their eyes and monitor digital screen usage while at home or work: 

  • Power down before you turn in: Turn your digital devices off at least one hour before bed.
  • Unplug with the AOA 20-20-20 rule: When you are using any device or computer, make a conscious effort every day to take a 20-second break and look away from the screen, every 20 minutes and view something 20 feet away.
  • Step back: Maintain a comfortable working distance from your digital device by using the zoom feature to see small print and details, rather than bringing the device closer to your eyes.
  • Adjust your device to fit your needs: The AOA recommends reducing the glare by adjusting device settings or using a glare filter to decrease the amount of blue light reflected from the screen.
  • Schedule an appointment: Visit a doctor of optometry by visiting AOA.org to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam to detect and address vision problems.

“This year, we’re challenging you to prioritize not only your eye health, but your overall health and well-being, and limit your exposure to blue light,” say the doctors at The Eye Center. “It’s as easy as looking away from your screen every 20 minutes and powering down an hour before bed.”

Blue light symptoms, according to News Medical, 2016:

  • digital eye strain
  • dry eyes
  • eye irritation (burning and stinging)
  • blurred vision
  • sleep problems
  • headaches
  • neck and shoulder pain

If you think you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed on the side due to prolonged exposure to blue light, schedule an appointment with [Doctor name and contact information]. For additional information on eye health in the workplace, please visit www.aoa.org.

About the American Eye-Q® survey:
The AOA 2016 American Eye-Q® survey was created and commissioned in conjunction with Edelman Intelligence. From September 22-28, Edelman Intelligence conducted 1,000 online interviews among Americans 18 years and older who embodied a nationally representative sample of the U.S. general population. The margin of error for this sample is +/- 3.1% at the 95 percent confidence level.

About the American Optometric Association (AOA):
The American Optometric Association, founded in 1898, is the leading authority on quality care and an advocate for our nation’s health, representing more than 44,000 doctors of optometry (O.D.), optometric professionals and optometry students. Doctors of optometry take a leading role in patient care with respect to eye and vision care, as well as general health and well-being. As primary health care providers, doctors of optometry have extensive, ongoing training to examine, diagnose, treat and manage ocular disorders, diseases and injuries and systemic diseases that manifest in the eye. Doctors of optometry provide more than two-thirds of primary eye care in the U.S. For more information on eye health and vision topics, and to find a doctor of optometry near you, visit aoa.org.

Get In Touch With Us
Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.