LASIK for Astigmatism-Is It Possible?

“LASIK for Astigmatism is not only possible-but we use it all the time as an excellent way to correct vision”, said Corneal Specialist and LASIK Surgeon Leslie Doctor, M.D. of Doctor & Associates. “Astigmatism is something that is often confusing to patients. Also, in addition to being confused by what astigmatism is, a lot of people are under the incorrect impression that having astigmatism means you can’t have Laser Eye Surgery such as LASIK to correct your vision”, commented Dr. Doctor.

Here is what you need to know about LASIK and astigmatism. First, astigmatism is one of the common types of refractive problems that cause blurry vision. Common refractive-or eye focus problems-include nearsightedness or myopia, farsightedness or hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia.

Astigmatism usually results from an unequal curvature of the cornea-the outermost clear dome in the front of the eye-that causes the eye to have two different curvatures and thus two different focal points. This can make images look more blurry at a specific orientation so that things horizontally are blurred or things vertically are blurred, depending on the direction of the astigmatism. Astigmatism can be very annoying visually and can even cause headaches and many visual symptoms apart from the blurriness itself. The visual distortions caused by astigmatism in healthy eyes are correctable with eyeglasses, contact lenses and Laser Vision Correction such as LASIK. During the early years after the initial FDA approval of Laser Vision Correction, the treatment of astigmatism was not yet approved and released in the United States. Shortly thereafter all of the FDA approved lasers were able to be programmed for astigmatism correction and received FDA approval to do so. Astigmatism has been correctable with Laser Eye Surgery for more than 15 years in the United States. “Today, as LASIK surgeons, we are able to accurately measure and treat all types of astigmatism with high degrees of precision and predictability”, said Dr. Doctor.

If you or someone you know has astigmatism and would like to be less dependent or possibly even free from the hassle of glasses and contact lenses for seeing at distance, please call Doctor & Associates for a Free Evaluation for Laser Eye Surgery for the Laser Vision Correction of astigmatism at 203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut

Fairfield County LASIK Surgeon: Avoid LASIK Dry Eyes

Fairfield County LASIK Surgeon Leslie Doctor, M.D. commented, “Even though the most common side effect of LASIK is dry eyes, with careful evaluation and planning we can help avoid dry eye symptoms for many patients.” In fact, it is pretty much expected and pretty normal for all LASIK patients to have temporary dry eye symptoms after their treatment. The critical thing to know is that the dry eye symptoms should be temporary.

Here is what you should know about LASIK and dry eyes. LASIK is corneal surgery. ANY time we do corneal surgery we typically sever some corneal nerves and we often temporarily disturb the delicate cells on the surface of the eye.  “During cataract surgery and any other eye surgery procedures that involve the cornea we do the exact same things,” she explained. These corneal nerves connect to the Lacrimal Gland which is responsible for producing tears. When the nerves are temporarily interrupted there is a decrease in the amount of tears that are produced-making your eyes feel dry and gritty. To make you more comfortable during the time it takes for the corneal nerves to heal and regenerate we may do one of more of the following for you:

• Prescribe Artificial Tear Eye Drops
• Insert Tiny Tear Duct Plugs
• Prescribe Restasis® Eye Drops
• Prescribe Dietary Supplements with Omega-3 Oils 
  

Each of the above acts to either retain the tears that you have, supplement the tears that are lacking or help you produce more of your own tears so that you will be most comfortable and heal properly. Each person will regenerate the fine corneal nerves at a DIFFERENT RATE and thus will need to use one or more of the above tear helpers for different amounts of time. A very important consideration is how healthy your tear film was BEFORE your surgery. A critical part of your LASIK consultation will be a careful examination of your tear film. Sometimes, in order to make you the most comfortable and make the healing and visual recovery process as quick and easy as possible for you, we may actually prescribe one or more of the above BEFORE your surgery.

If you or someone you know has questions about LASIK and Dry Eyes or would like to schedule a Free LASIK Evaluation please call and schedule an appointment at Doctor & Associates at 203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Longer Fuller Eyelashes & LATISSE™

Connecticut eye specialist Leslie Doctor, M.D. commented, “LATISSE™ is an FDA approved treatment that can help you grow fuller, longer lashes.” Most people who are interested in their appearance know the value of having big, bright, beautiful eyes. While eye makeup alone may be able to help you achieve a fuller and longer look for your eyelashes, LATISSE™ can actually help you grow fuller, longer eyelashes on your own! Your lashes are a big part of making your eyes more visible and adding that bright beautiful look to your appearance.

Lash enhancers have been used since ancient times to brighten the look of eyes. Today there are numerous eyelash cosmetics and treatments available to help you look your best. An option for those who want to fully benefit from these treatments is to make the most of their own natural lashes by enhancing their growth so that they are actually longer, fuller and darker.

LATISSE™ is a solution intended for use on the upper eyelid margins or the base of the eyelashes. It is a solution we can prescribe after an initial examination and consultation so that it can be determined if LATISSE™ is a good choice for you. It is important to follow your eye physician's instructions for LATISSE™ use. You should make your physician aware of any side effects that may occur in a small number of patients so that they can be addressed. These can include itching and redness of the eye itself, eye irritation, darkening of the skin around the eye, dryness or redness of the skin around the eye. Make sure that you keep the appointments for follow-up visits with your eye physician so that they can be sure you are getting the results you desire and not experiencing any of the side effects mentioned.

LATISSE™ is available from many physicians. As a Board Certified Ophthalmologist Leslie Doctor, M.D. is an eye physician and surgeons who is a specialist in understanding your eyes and the delicate tissue around your eyes including your lashes, eyelid margins and eyelids. She is specifically trained and experienced in the examination and treatment of these of these areas for your eye health and cosmetic appearance-and we are here to help you look your best! If you have any questions or concerns about growing longer, fuller eyelashes with  LATISSE™ please call Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Fairfield County LASIK Costs-Affordable?

The cost of LASIK with Leslie Doctor, M.D., a Corneal Specialist & LASIK Surgeon in Fairfield County at Doctor & Associates, is really quite affordable for our patients. With the economy being a challenge, it can be unnerving to think about spending money on anything-no less something that seems a bit frivolous. For folks who consider their eyes and vision correction frivolous-LASIK is not for them. For people who can imagine doing the kinds of things they do each day-or would like to do each day-without the hassle of having to wear glasses or contacts-LASIK can be something to be had at any cost.

Many people who decide to have LASIK think they should shop for the best price. We’re not sure what would possess folks to think about price shopping for surgery. Oh, maybe because they forgot that LASIK is surgery? Maybe it’s because they see a bunch of deceptive advertisements and hype. It’s tough to believe that folks would shop around for LASIK like they shop for a brake job for their car-but it happens every single day. It’s also tough to believe that folks would shop price for LASIK RATHER than shop for the best LASIK Surgeons to whom they are entrusting their eye health and vision.

LASIK is about three things…..First, LASIK is about safety and results. Second, LASIK is about safety and results. Third, LASIK is about safety and results. Safety and results depend on the skill, experience and judgment of surgeon and the staff.

Almost ALL practices today have ways of making LASIK affordable. This can be through the use of monthly payment plans, the use of employer Flex Plans and special offers that can help you use your tax refund or bonus. Shop surgeon quality-NOT price……find the best LASIK surgeon with whom you can develop TRUST. One who gets to know you and one who you can get to know. You may already know them based on their reputation in the community or by the fact that they have taken care of a family member, co-worker or friend. There is no way of setting a best price on empathy, trust, comfort, safety and results.

If you or someone you know is thinking about LASIK please call Doctor & Associates for a Free LASIK Evaluation at 203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates. Let us tell you if you are a good candidate for Laser Eye Surgery for Laser Vision Correction. Then let us help make LASIK affordable.

If you have any questions or concerns about your eyes or would like to learn more about eye melanoma or eye cancers condition please call Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Connecticut Veterans’ Eye Health & Vision Problems

Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County, Connecticut respectfully recognizes and thanks our nation’s Veterans for their role and contribution to the well being and safety of America. We also wish to raise awareness of some potential eye health and vision problems that impact Veterans in somewhat different ways. Military Veterans of the Iraq or Afghanistan wars are more likely than those who served in earlier wars to have vision loss as a result of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Higher rates of TBI in these recent wars can be attributed to two factors: explosive devices have been a major cause of injury, and improved body armor has enabled soldiers to survive more serious injuries. Veterans of the Vietnam, Korean, or early wars are in or entering life stages when eye disorders like cataracts, glaucoma, age related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy are more likely to occur. Also, like everyone in mid-life and beyond, Veterans may find their near vision decreasing due to Presbyopia or “aging eyes”.

We pledge to work to help our nation’s guardians and protectors in maintaining their eye health and vision in order to take the fullest advantage of the freedom they have provided for all of us. Learn more about eye health and vision at Doctor & Associates by calling 203-227-4113, visiting Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield, Connecticut.

Cataract Lens Implants vs. Eyeglasses

“Lens implants offer cataract patients a real possibility of reducing or eliminating the need for eyeglasses after cataract surgery,” explained Cataract Surgeon Leslie Doctor, M.D. with Fairfield County offices in Norwalk, Westport and Wilton, Connecticut. “As a greater number of “baby boomers” enter the age of cataracts we hear many more questions about cataract Surgery, lens implants and the need-or not-for eyeglasses,” she said.

In the past, the goal of cataract surgery was to remove the cloudy crystalline lens and replace it with an intraocular lens implant (IOL) of equivalent optical power so as to achieve “emmetropia” thus allowing patients to have good distance vision. The goal of refractive surgery is to help patients decrease or possibly even eliminate their dependence on eyeglasses or contact lenses. Today, a rapidly growing cataract patient population wants to achieve both the benefits of cataract surgery and refractive surgery in one combined procedure.

In order to meet patient expectations of being “glasses free” and help patients achieve their personal vision correction and lifestyle goals, it is necessary for us to first carefully select the type and design of lens implant as well as to accurately calculate the IOL power. The types and designs of lens implants that we work with include the following:

Monofocal Lens Implants

Monofocal lens implants are the most basic type of Lens Implant used to correct vision after removal of the crystalline lens. A Monofocal Lens Implant can provide very good vision after cataract surgery-but only at one set distance-usually for seeing things at a distance such as for driving or going to the movies. A Monofocal Lens Implant does not correct intermediate or arm’s length vision for doing things like playing cards and seeing the golf ball on the tee, or even seeing computer screens clearly. Monofocal lens implants do not correct near vision for doing things up close like seeing medicine bottles, reading, or keeping your golf score, as these tasks require the correction of presbyopia.

Toric Lens Implants

Toric lens implants correct astigmatism. For patients who have significant amounts of astigmatism prior to cataract surgery, and who do not wish to wear eyeglasses to see clearly at a distance, choosing a toric lens implant can help them be independent of glasses for tasks such as driving that require clear distance vision. Toric Lens Implants do not correct presbyopia, so that most patients still require reading glasses or bifocals to be able to comfortably perform near vision tasks such as reading and intermediate vision tasks such as computer work.

Near Vision Presbyopia Correcting Lens Implants

Near vision presbyopia correcting lens implants provide vision correction at the full range of distances-far or distance vision, arm’s length or intermediate vision and up close near vision. Depending on the specific vision requirements of the patient, there are several types of presbyopia correcting multifocal and accommodating lens implants that can be used including the Crystalens® Accommodating Lens Implant, the AcrySof®ReSTOR® Multifocal Lens Implant and Tecnis™ Multifocal Lens Implant. Each of these works in a different way to help the patient achieve their vision correction goals of being able to see at a variety of distances without being dependent on eyeglasses or reading glasses. Patients choosing to have a presbyopia correcting lens implant will likely find that they can drive, watch television, play golf and keep score, read a menu, play cards or do crafts-without the need for glasses. Patients choosing a multifocal or accommodating lens implant typically experience a greater overall freedom from glasses, allowing them to participate in most everyday activities without the dependence on, or hassle of glasses.

“As a corneal specialist who is a cataract and refractive surgeon, I work to realistically shape patient expectations and then provide the medical, surgical and optical care necessary help patients meet or exceed them,” commented Leslie Doctor, M.D. “When patients ask me, “Do I have to wear glasses after my cataract surgery?”, I  make sure to help them understand that we can offer them the possibility of a lifestyle that minimizes or possibly eliminates their need for glasses through careful lens implant counseling,” said  Dr. Doctor.

If you or someone you know has questions about cataracts, cataract surgery or lens implants (IOL) please free to call and schedule an appointment at Doctor & Associates by calling 203-227-4113, or visiting Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center.

Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Diabetes Eye Problems & Retinopathy

"The negative effects of diabetes on your eyes can be very damaging,” commented Fairfield County Ophthalmologist Leslie Doctor, M.D. “Diabetes is a disease that impairs your ability to properly metabolize and process glucose. Too much blood glucose can cause microangiopathy-or damage to the small blood vessels throughout the body-including the heart, kidneys and eyes, particularly the blood vessels in the retina,” she said.
Diabetic retinopathy results when the blood vessels in the retina close off, balloon, leak, or close off completely or if abnormal new blood vessels grow on the surface of the retina. Those at the greatest risk of diabetic retinopathy include people with poor blood sugar control, women who are pregnant, and people with high blood pressure, high blood lipids or both. Also, people who are from certain ethnic groups, such as African-Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans, are more likely to develop Diabetic Retinopathy.
Diabetes can cause vision in your eyes to change even if you do not have retinopathy. If your blood sugar levels change quickly, it can affect the shape of your eye’s crystalline lens, causing blurry vision, which goes back to normal after your blood sugar stabilizes. Maintaining good control of your blood sugar helps reduce episodes of blurry vision.
If you or someone you know has diabetes or even high blood sugar, especially if there is a family history of diabetes-you should have regular eye exams to help protect your eye health and vision. Please feel free to call Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates to schedule an appointment.
Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center.
Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Connecticut Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month

Connecticut eye specialist, Leslie Doctor, M.D. emphasized the need for patients with diabetes to follow the recommended guidelines for diabetic eye exams in order to avoid diabetic vision loss and prevent the potentially blinding complications of diabetic retinopathy. “It is concerning and troublesome that a recent study found that more than one third of those diagnosed with diabetes do not adhere to vision care guidelines recommending a dilated eye exam every year. The vision loss from diabetic retinopathy can be prevented if it's caught and treated in time, yet there are a growing number-some 8,000 or more new cases of diabetic blindness each year,” stressed Dr. Leslie Doctor, a Fairfield County Ophthalmologist with offices in Norwalk, Westport & Wilton, CT.

The longer a person has diabetes, the greater his or her risk for developing diabetic retinopathy. However, diabetic retinopathy does not only affect people who have had diabetes for many years, it can also appear within the first year or two after the onset of the disease.

Patients can help to reduce the risk of developing diabetic eye disease  by not smoking, controlling their cholesterol and lipid profile and blood pressure, as well as working to eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fish, fruit and green leafy vegetables and exercising. 

The key to successful treatment of diabetic retinopathy is early detection and intervention. If you or someone you know suffers from Diabetes please make sure that they are getting regular eye exams to help preserve their eye health and vision. Feel free to call Doctor & Associates at 203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates for an appointment

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Cataract Surgery Results with Macular Degeneration



“Because there is a common risk factor for both cataracts and age related macular degeneration patients wonder about their cataract surgery results if they have macular degeneration,” noted Fairfield County Cataract Surgeon & Corneal Specialist Leslie Doctor, M.D. “The development of a cataract and the need for cataract surgery as well as the frequency and incidence of macular degeneration increase with age. So-it’s pretty common to have one, the other or both as we head through our 50’s, 60’s and 70’s,” she further explained. “The real question that challenges patients is whether to have cataract surgery-what their results might be-if they have macular degeneration.”

The general consensus among cataract surgeons is that with proper preoperative diagnostic testing, examination and consultation patients who have age related macular degeneration and who develop a cataract should be able to have cataract surgery after being counseled on what to expect with regard to overall vision improvements and lifestyle benefits. While macular degeneration is not a reason to completely avoid cataract surgery, realistic expectations must be established by and between you and your cataract surgeon. Further, the most current and widely accepted studies on AMD progression after cataract surgery found that there was no difference in the frequency of the disease among patients who had Cataract Surgery as compared to those who did not.

If you have any questions or concerns about cataracts, cataract surgery and macular degeneration please call Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates to schedule an appointment.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center.

Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Connecticut Cornea Specialist on Halloween Contact Lenses

Connecticut Cornea Specialist Leslie Doctor, M.D. urged some eye health caution when considering adding decorative contact lenses to your Halloween costume. “Decorative contact lenses can seem like a pretty cool part of your Halloween costume-but your eyes and non prescription decorative contacts may not be a great combination,” said Dr. Leslie Doctor of Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County. “Without a proper contact lens fitting, changing your eye color from blue or green to some far out appearance or ghoulish look by using over-the-counter, decorative contact lenses can lead to serious vision-threatening problems.”

According to the Food and Drug Administration, all contact lenses are regulated medical devices that require a prescription and proper fitting by an eye-care professional. “Even someone with perfect vision would still require an eye exam and a prescription in order to wear any kind of contacts, including cosmetic lenses,” she further explained.

Some websites advertise decorative contacts as if they were fashion accessories or toys with fanciful, playful packaging in order to attract teens and young adults, especially girls. The problem is not that people use decorative, noncorrosive lenses-sometimes called Plano-or zero-powered lenses, but that they buy the devices without a prescription through unlicensed vendors on the Internet or at flea markets and specialty shops.

The buyer of these over-the-counter contact lenses faces a huge risk including scratched corneas, pink eye and more serious types of blinding infection as a result of a corneal ulcer.

In 2005, a federal law was passed that classified all contact lenses as medical devices and restricted their distribution to licensed eye-care professionals. Illegal sale of contacts can result in civil penalties of up to $11,000 per violation.
 

The safe and effective use of contact lenses-whether decorative or not-requires proper fitting and education about their care to prevent the potential for serious eye  problems from becoming a reality. If you or a friend would like to learn more about contact lenses of any type including decorative contacts please call Doctor & Associates at 203-227-4113.

If you have any questions or concerns about your eyes or would like to learn more about eye melanoma or eye cancers condition please call Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Halloween Contact Lenses in Connecticut

“As a an ophthalmologist who is also a corneal specialist, I am a bit cautious when it comes to using unprescribed decorative contact lenses as part of a Halloween costume,” stated Fairfield County Connecticut Ophthalmologist Leslie Doctor, M.D. “It can be a real fun time when people turn their eyes from blue to some far out appearance or ghoulish look by using over-the-counter, decorative contact lenses that may enhance holiday fun, but this can also lead to serious vision-threatening problems,” Dr. Doctor remarked. According to the Food and Drug Administration, all contact lenses are regulated medical devices that require a prescription and proper fitting by an eye-care professional. “Even someone with perfect vision would still require an eye exam and a prescription in order to wear any kind of contacts, including cosmetic lenses.”

Some websites advertise decorative contacts as if they were fashion accessories or toys with fanciful, playful packaging in order to attract teens and young adults, especially girls. The problem is not that people use decorative, noncorrosive lenses-sometimes called Plano-or zero-powered lenses, but that they buy the devices without a prescription through unlicensed vendors on the Internet or at flea markets and specialty shops.

The buyer of these over-the-counter contact lenses faces a huge risk including scratched corneas, pink eye and more serious types of blinding infection as a result of a corneal ulcer.

In 2005, a federal law was passed that classified all contact lenses as medical devices and restricted their distribution to licensed eye-care professionals. Illegal sale of contacts can result in civil penalties of up to $11,000 per violation.
 

The safe and effective use of contact lenses-whether decorative or not-requires proper fitting and education about their care to prevent the potential for serious eye  problems from becoming a reality. If you or a friend would like to learn more about contact lenses of any type including decorative contacts please schedule an appointment at Doctor & Associates by calling 203-227-4113, visiting Doctor & Associates or facebook.com/doctorandassociates.

Norwalk Eye Doctor on Glaucoma Risk & Metabolic Syndrome

Norwalk Ophthalmologist Leslie Doctor, M.D. shared information about the risk of glaucoma when patients suffer from metabolic syndrome. “I am particularly diligent about watching for glaucoma in patients with diabetes, high blood pressure, hyperlipidemia or high cholesterol and triglycerides and obesity as the current research suggests that they have elevated risks of developing open angle glaucoma,” remarked Dr. Leslie Doctor of Doctor & Associates with Fairfield County offices in Norwalk, Westport and Wilton, Connecticut.

Reporting in the publication Ophthalmology, the official journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, researchers suggested that the risk of developing open angle glaucoma (OAG) may be increased if you suffer from Metabolic Syndrome. “This is of particular concern as some one-fifth of the U.S. population has metabolic syndrome and both metabolic syndrome and open angle glaucoma increase in prevalence with age so that as the U.S. population ages, the disease burden of OAG may increase in the coming years," shared Dr. Doctor. The authors performed statistical analysis to determine patients' risk of developing OAG in conjunction with individual and combined types of metabolic syndrome. Data were adjusted for social and demographic factors, systemic medical conditions and other ocular diseases. The adjusted data showed that subjects with diabetes alone had a 35% increased risk of developing OAG, and those with hypertension alone had a 17% increased risk. Those with diabetes and hypertension combined had a 48% risk. Those with hyperlipidemia alone had a 5% decreased risk. Obese subjects had a 14% increased risk. Patients with diabetes, hyperlipidemia and hypertension combined had a 26% increased risk and the risk of developing OAG were higher in African Americans, Latinos and Asian Americans than in Caucasians, the authors reported.

If you have any questions or concerns about glaucoma or suffer from metabolic syndrome including diabetes mellitus, systemic arterial hypertension or high blood pressure, hyperlipidemia or high cholesterol and triglycerides or obesity please schedule an appointment at Doctor & Associates by calling 203-227-4113, visiting Doctor & Associates or facebook.com/doctorandassociates.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Norwalk Doctor on Eye Injury Prevention

“Understanding the potential for eye injury from common household activities would be beneficial for so many Norwalk area patients we see in the emergency room as well as in my practice,” commented Norwalk Ophthalmologist Leslie Doctor, M.D. ”Prevention of eye injuries and vision loss really begins with thinking about how to protect your eyes when you head out to mow the lawn, do that garage cleanup project or jump start the care on a cold day-think about wearing protective eyewear,” she advised.

As October has been designated Eye Injury Prevention Month by the American Academy of Ophthalmology here are some things to consider. Many household chemicals, such as cleaning fluids, detergents and ammonia, are extremely hazardous and can burn the eye's delicate tissues. When using chemicals, always read instructions and labels carefully, work in a well-ventilated area and make sure spray nozzles point away from you and others before spraying. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after use.

Before using a lawnmower, power trimmer or edger, check for debris. Stones, twigs and other items can become dangerous projectiles shooting from the blades of a lawnmower, potentially injuring your eyes or those of innocent bystanders. Prevention is the first and most important step in avoiding serious eye injuries, so be sure to protect your eyes with appropriate protective eyewear.

If you have any questions or concerns or suffer an eye injury please feel free to call Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates for an appointment.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Nearsighted Risk in Connecticut Children

Norwalk, Connecticut Ophthalmologist Leslie Doctor, M.D. shared information about the risk of nearsightedness or myopia in children and how to possibly decrease the risk. “In our practice we see many families where the parents suffer from varying degrees of nearsightedness. Pretty often they ask about or express concern about the potential for their children to also become nearsighted,” stated Dr. Leslie Doctor. She further explained, “According to researchers who reported at the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology last year the risk of nearsightedness or myopia in children was reduced with increased time spent in natural light and viewing distant objects during childhood activities.”

A review of data of 10,400 participants showed that for each additional hour outdoors per week, the chance of developing myopia dropped by about 2%, according to a presentation at the annual meeting of the 2011. It was reported that myopic or nearsighted children included in the study tended to spend about 3.7 fewer hours per week outdoors than children with normal vision or hyperopia. Furthermore, increasing outdoor time might reduce the chances of myopia worsening, according to the study.

If you or someone you know have questions about children’s eye health and vision, their risk of nearsightedness or myopia or wish to schedule an eye examination for children of any age please feel free to contact Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Find a Top Connecticut LASIK Surgeon

“Working to find a top Connecticut LASIK surgeon is well worth the effort-as it is the key to getting the best LASIK results”, commented Connecticut Corneal Specialist and LASIK Surgeon Leslie Doctor, M.D. of Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County, CT.  But what makes a top LASIK surgeon? For sure, top LASIK surgeons have the skill, expertise and experience to perform LASIK surgery in a safe, effective and predictable manner. But they also have some other characteristics that set them apart from the rest.

Top LASIK Surgeons are easy to trust because they are empathic-they hear and appreciate what you say and they connect with you and your personal goals.

Top LASIK Surgeons take care and time to consider every aspect of your eye health and vision during your evaluation and consultation.

Top LASIK Surgeons say NO! if you are not a good candidate.

Top LASIK Surgeons insist that you return for proper follow-up care even if YOU think you are doing just fine.

Top LASIK Surgeons want to hear your questions-and are happy to answer them in simple understandable language.

Top LASIK Surgeons fully discuss the risks, benefits, possible complications and side effects in a balanced manner.

Top LASIK Surgeons can be counted on to effectively manage your eye surgery when things are going perfectly as well and when things a bit off track.

Choosing a LASIK surgeon is the single most important decision you will make. Do the research, meet the surgeon and determine your comfort level. If it feels right, move ahead. If not, schedule another consultation. At Doctor & Associates, our patients regularly tell us that Leslie Doctor, M.D. is a “Top LASIK Surgeon”. You can find out for yourself by calling Doctor & Associates at 203-227-4113, visiting Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates and scheduling a Free LASIK Evaluation!

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

CT Corneal Specialist on Eyelid Inflammation

Fairfield County Connecticut Corneal Specialist Leslie Doctor, M.D. commented on eyelid inflammation and infection such as blepharitis. “Blepharitis is a pretty common and often chronic eye condition where the eyelids become inflamed and swollen, typically with oily particles and bacteria coating the eyelid margin near the base of the eyelashes. Unfortunately this causes irritation, itchiness, redness, and stinging or burning of the eyes,” explained Dr. Leslie Doctor of Doctor & Associates with offices in Norwalk, Westport and Wilton, CT. “We don’t completely understand all of the causes but in general it seems to be associated with a bacterial eye infection, symptoms of dry eyes or certain types of skin conditions such as acne rosacea,” she further explained. “For the vast majority of patients, blepharitis is often a chronic, or ongoing, condition, but it can be controlled with one of more types of treatment that may include warm compresses, eyelid scrubs, antibiotic ointment, nutritional therapy and good overall eyebrow, scalp and hair hygiene.”

If you or someone you know suffers from eyelid inflammation, infection and blepharitis please feel free to call Doctor & Associates at 203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates to schedule an appointment so that we can help.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

CT Doctor on Children’s Eye Exams & Problems

Connecticut Ophthalmologist Leslie Doctor, M.D. explained that that school eye exams are an important part of what we do for children this month. “Parents need to help children gearing up for the new school year by scheduling a thorough eye health and vision exam,” commented Dr. Leslie Doctor. “Often after having enjoyed the summer months, kids aren’t really attuned to changes in their vision until they have been back in the classroom for a while. By that time parents and teachers are wondering why their students are not off to a stronger start to the academic year.”

In addition, Doctor & Associates wishes to announce that Prevent Blindness America has designated September as Children’s Eye Health & Safety Awareness Month. Eye and vision problems affect one in twenty preschoolers and one in four school aged children. Parents should be aware that it is possible for their children to have a serious vision problem without even being aware of it. Infants should be screened for common eye problems during their regular pediatric appointments and vision testing should be conducted for all children starting at around three years of age. If there is a family history of eye problems or if an eye problem is apparent, it is important to bring it to the attention of and eye doctor so that they can advise the parents about when and how often their child’s eyes should be examined. Among the conditions an eye doctor will look for are amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid), color deficiency (color blindness) and refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism). "Aside from vision threatening conditions, eye screenings for children are important because vision changes can occur without you or your child noticing them," said Connecticut Ophthalmologist Leslie Doctor, M.D. of Doctor & Associates. “If your child is having trouble seeing the blackboard or the words in a book, learning, as well as participating in recreational activities can be impacted. While vision problems can interfere with school performance, it's important to distinguish them from learning disorders”, commented Dr. Leslie Doctor.

“You also have to protect your child’s eyes from the danger of eye injuries. Be sure that the toys your child plays with are appropriate for his or her age and maturity level. Avoid toys with sharp, protruding or projectile parts. Participation in any type of sport also could endanger your child’s eyes, so make sure he or she wears appropriate protective eyewear,” said Dr. Doctor.

If you have any questions or concerns about children’s eye problems, health & safety and would like to schedule an eye exam please call Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Corneal Eye Infections from Shingles

Connecticut Corneal Specialist Leslie Doctor, M.D. commented on shingles eye infections from Herpes Zoster virus. “We know that Herpes Zoster virus or “Shingles” infection increases in incidence with increasing age. More important for patients to know is that somewhere between 10-25% of patients who get a systemic shingles infection also develop eye problems from shingles,” relayed Dr. Leslie Doctor of Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County CT. “It is entirely possible to get a cornel infection or keratitis from the this virus which is the same virus that causes chicken pox, called Varicella-Zoster virus. It is entirely possible that after having chicken pox as a child, the Varicella-Zoster virus remains in the nerve cells of your body in an inactive state and then reactivates later in life and travels through the nerves in your body causing a painful blistering rash. If the virus then travels to your head or neck it can affect the eye and thus cause a corneal infection or keratitis,” she further explained. 

“I want to impress upon patients that it is really critical to have a Herpes Zoster keratitis diagnosed and treated quickly as it can result in significant scarring, vision loss and even loss of corneal sensation which is not a good thing. We need to be pretty aggressive in treatment, often prescribing both oral medication as well as eye drops in order to avoid serious damage from occurring,” Dr. Doctor emphasized. 

If you or someone you know has had shingles or Chicken Pox and is experiencing any type of eye problem please call Corneal Specialist Leslie Doctor, M.D. at 203-227-4113 and request an immediate appointment, or visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Monovision Eye Surgery for Cataracts

“For patients who develop cataracts and have already been wearing monovision contact lenses successfully or who have had monovision LASIK and are pleased with the vision, taking the next step into monovision cataract eye surgery is a natural way to extend their range of near vision,” commented Connecticut Cataract Surgeon & Corneal Specialist Leslie Doctor, M.D. of Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County, CT. “However, it is important for other patients having cataract surgery to also consider the possible benefits offered by near vision presbyopia correcting multifocal lens implants as some 30% of monovision patients fail to adapt adequately to the “blended” vision.” 

The monovision technique is simply adjusting the optical correction in each eye so that the dominant eye is corrected for clear distance vision and the non-dominant eye is corrected for improving near or intermediate range vision. Researchers reporting in the May 2011 Journal of Refractive Surgery studied the optimal monovision prescription that should be used in order to get the highest levels of patient acceptance and overall visual acuity and depth perception. They concluded that the prescription range of 1.00 D-2.00 D of monovision correction was the maximum range and that the optimal prescription for monovision Cataract Surgery was 1.5 D. While this is useful information, patients should understand that a 1.5 D near correction may very well be insufficient for them to perform their daily tasks comfortably without needing readers or bifocals. 

The best way for you or someone you know with a cataract to find out if you are candidates for monovision cataract Surgery or near vision presbyopia correcting lens implants after cataract surgery is to schedule a Cataract and Lens Implant evaluation at Doctor & Associates by calling 

203-227-4113, visiting Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

Connecticut Corneal Specialist on Eye Health & Contact Lenses

Connecticut Corneal Specialist Leslie Doctor, M.D. reminded us to be sensitive to how swimming with contact lenses can affect your eyes, eye health and vision. “It is important to have some knowledge about how swimming with contact lenses can affect your eyes, eye health and vision,” commented Dr. Leslie Doctor of Doctor & Associates with Fairfield County offices in Westport, Norwalk and Wilton, CT. “Summer typically means lots of water, pool and beach activities for all of us”, she said. 

In general, unless you are wearing goggles it is best not to swim with your eyes open under water and, when possible, to avoid splashes of water into your eyes. Pool chemicals that keep the water clean and free of contamination may actually be irritating and even damaging to the surface of the eye. Maintaining the proper pH levels in swimming pools takes considerable monitoring and effort and as the pH varies so does the possibility of eye irritation. Your natural tears have a pH of 7.0, if the pH of the pool water is below or above that level that level, it will certainly cause your eyes to burn or sting. The proper pH level for swimming pools is in the range of 7.2 to 7.8. If the pH is maintained within this range, burning eyes shouldn't be a problem for swimmers. 

“We really recommend that if you plan on spending any lengthy period of time in the water you should protect your eyes by wearing goggles. Swimming with contact lenses is not a good idea and is very risky,” she further explained. 

The eye health risk of swimming with contacts depends on the body of water you are in. “Swimming in lakes and rivers while wearing contact lenses poses a significant risk of the microorganism Acanthamoeba to adhering to your contacts. As a corneal specialist I can tell you that Acanthamoeba Keratitis is a severe and potentially blinding infection and inflammation of the cornea-and one that is difficult to treat,” stated Dr. Leslie Doctor. This same risk is present when wearing contacts in hot tubs or spas. While the risk of sight threatening infection is lesser in properly chlorinated swimming pools and the ocean, other problems may be encountered. In the pool--eye irritation is possible when chlorine sticks on the surface of your lens and in the ocean--your contact lenses can be dislodged when you encounter large waves. You need to carefully consider whether to wear contact lenses while swimming. Keeping your head out of the water and wearing goggles will help to greatly reduce risk. 

If you are concerned or inconvenienced by not being able to see clearly without glasses or contacts and want to see clearly while in the pool or ocean, you may wish to consider LASIK as a vision correction method so as not to be dependent on eyeglasses or contacts for swimming. 

If you or someone you know has questions about swimming, swimming pools, eye health, vision and contact lenses please feel free to call Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates. 

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut. M

Connecticut LASIK Discount for Military, Police & Firefighters

At Doctor & Associates we offer a LASIK discount for military personnel, police and firefighters because our LASIK Surgeons recognize the benefits of LASIK for these first responders and patriots. Military personnel are often involved in activities that are simply unsuitable for wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses. The compatibility of eyewear with night vision goggles, gas masks, aiming devices and other systems is a constant source of concern in terms of safety as well as performance of duties. Consider a police officer involved in a pursuit, investigation or search or even a physical altercation and the hassle eyeglasses and contact lenses can potentially expose a police or law enforcement to. With firefighters one can only imagine trying to wear eyeglasses with SCUBA breathing devices or wearing contact lenses in the heat and dusty environment of a fire. 

We are hopeful that by providing the opportunity to have LASIK at a discount, military personnel, police and firefighters will perform better and feel safer if they don't have to worry about breaking eyeglasses, losing contact lenses or glasses, or thinking about lenses fogging up or being uncomfortable at crucial moments. 

Doctor & Associates offers a Free LASIK Consultation as well as the military, police and firefighter LASIK discount by calling 203-227-4113. Our $250 per eye LASIK discount allows first responders and active and retired military personnel to have LASIK with Corneal Specialist Leslie Doctor, M.D. regularly $2250 per eye for $2000 per eye. 

If you or someone you know has a question about LASIK or wish to schedule a Free LASIK consultation please feel free to call Doctor & Associates at 203-227-4113 or visit facebook.com/doctorandassociates. 

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.

CT Doctor on Cataracts & Lens Implants

Connecticut Cataract Surgeon Leslie Doctor, M.D. of Doctor & Associates shared some information on cataracts, cataract surgery, lens implants and vision correction. “Advances in lens implants for cataracts provide patients with some real benefits for their vision correction after cataract surgery that translate into a more hassle free and positive lifestyle,” remarked Dr. Leslie Doctor, M.D. of Doctor & Associates with offices located throughout Fairfield County in Westport, Norwalk and Wilton. 

While most people have a pretty solid awareness of what a cataract is, many do not realize the very widespread incidence of cataracts across the world nor do they realize the options and beneficial lifestyle that can be achieved with lens implants for vision correction after cataract surgery. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide. About 20.5 million Americans age 40 and older have cataracts and more than half of all Americans develop cataracts by age 80. A cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye preventing light rays from passing through it easily resulting in a clouding and blurring of vision. For many patients cataracts start out slowly and have little effect on vision at first. But, as the cataract becomes denser, so does the impact on vision. The most common symptoms that bother patients with cataracts include blurry or cloudy vision, sensitivity to light and glare, double vision in one eye, poor night vision, sometimes with haloes around lights, fading or yellowing of colors and often a need for frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescriptions. 

“When the time comes that a cataract begins to alter your ability to live your desired lifestyle by limiting your daily activities-especially your ability to move around safely and comfortably-then it is time to have cataract surgery and lens implants. To correct vision after cataract surgery we use advanced technology permanent lens implants (IOL) to provide sharper vision in dim lighting conditions, toric lens implants to correct astigmatism and even lens implants that correct near vision, arm’s length vision as well as distance vision without requiring bifocals or reading glasses for the vast majority of patients”, said Dr. Leslie Doctor. 

If you or someone you know is bothered by the symptoms of cataracts or has questions or concerns about having a cataract, cataract surgery or a lens implant please call Doctor & Associates at 203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates. 

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice providing eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, diagnosis and management of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses and optical services. For those patients in need of eye surgery, as a founding member of the Wilton Surgery Center, Doctor & Associates eye surgeons are able to provide eye surgery in a convenient, close to home and cost effective ambulatory surgery center. Whatever your eye care, eye health or vision correction needs might be-Doctor & Associates can serve as a Connecticut ophthalmic consultant and will be conveniently located for patients from Fairfield County and southern Connecticut including Danbury, Stamford, Greenwich, Westport, Weston, Wilton, New Canaan, Norwalk, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Cannondale, Aspetuck, Redding, Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, Darien, Glenbrook and Ridgefield Connecticut.