Are there specific tests the doctor will recommend for someone who is over forty years of age?
Certain conditions of the eye such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, dry eye, and presbyopia become more prevalent as we age past forty years. In addition, certain systemic conditions including high blood pressure, diabetes, and even cancer, which more frequently develop after forty, are risk factors for damage to the eyes and visual system. Special testing which can include visual fields, GDx optic nerve fiber analyzer, retinal photography, corneal thickness measurement (pachymetry), and tear film production tests, in addition to the standard comprehensive ocular examination, may be indicated.
At what age do you recommend children be fit with contact lenses?
Physically contact lenses can be fit for children almost any age. However, due to the care involved in wearing contacts, including the cleaning and disinfection of the lenses and the adherence of the appropriate wearing schedule and lens replacement regimen, the maturity and responsibility level of the child are critical factors as to whether or not contact lenses would be appropriate. The doctor will discuss with the parents whether contact lenses would be recommended in their child’s particular case.
What is the difference between bifocal and progressive spectacle lenses?
“Progressive” lenses are lenses in which the correcting prescription changes from distance to near smoothly and seamlessly, allowing vision and all distances without any lines or “jump” as you change from one viewing distance to another. Cosmetically the lens has no lines and looks identical to a normal single vision lens. Bifocal lenses have correction for only distance and reading vision (no middle vision correction), create a visual “jump” when looking from one distance to another, and show a visible line on the lens. The progressive lens, in addition to its cosmetic difference, is more versatile in its ability to correct vision at all distances, which is particularly important when using a computer which may be somewhat farther away then the normal reading distance.
How do I know whether Laser Vision Correction is right for me?
While Laser Vision Correction can create a dramatic improvement in ones vision and free them of the need for corrective lenses, the procedure is not for everyone. We, along with our affiliated surgical group TLC, perform extensive pre surgical testing and evaluation to determine whether any of the various refractive surgeries would be safe and effective for a particular individual. In addition to the physical and medical evaluation of the eyes, we also factor in life style needs and expectations, such as the possible need for reading glasses after the procedure if one is over 45 years old, which should be considered when deciding whether or not Laser Vision Correction is appropriate. With proper screening, careful pre-operative evaluation, skilled surgical acumen, and careful post operative follow up care Laser Vision Correction can be a safe and effective way to eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
