Differences Between LASIK and PRK Eye Surgery

By Kristen Mozayeni           

 

1- Suitable Patients

Determining if a patient is a good candidate for any vision correction procedure is mission critical to its success. Like many things in life, laser vision correction surgery is not "one size fits all." When being evaluated by an experienced, qualified vision correction surgeon, he/she may recommend PRK LASIK over traditional LASIK. The main difference between PRK LASIK and traditional LASIK is the manipulation of a patient's corneal tissue. When a patient has been deemed fit for laser eye surgery, the ophthalmologist may determine PRK LASIK is more appropriate based on one to several factors. Examples of such factors include:

• Previous corneal damage and/or scarring via injury, infection or age that creates corneal fragility
• Increased risk for long-term dryness and/or issues with eye dryness before the procedure
• Employment that includes high risks for ocular injuries
• Corneal thickness that is inadequate for flap creation
• General corneal irregularities that may pose a problem with a traditional LASIK procedure

2- Flap Versus No-Flap

The overarching difference between PRK LASIK and LASIK surrounds the cornea and the way it is manipulated during the procedure. Traditional LASIK vision correction procedures create a small, thin flap close to the corneal surface and slightly reshape the eye's underlying tissue with a laser beam. Think of it like opening a book up in the middle, removing a few pages, and closing the book back up. While PRK LASIK utilizes the exact same laser technology vs. traditional LASIK, PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) does not create a corneal flap as a first step. Instead, a very small area of corneal skin is quickly and painlessly removed to allow for the same laser to then be used to correct the vision in the tissue underneath. Using the same book analogy, a small area of the cover of the book is taken away and then starting with page one, a few pages off the book are removed and then the cover regenerates itself in a few days. After PRK LASIK surgery, a contact lens is placed on the eye for a few days to allow new tissue to quickly grow back underneath it.


3- Recovery Time

This recovery time is accompanied with taking Vitamin C and using eye drops. The final end result of clearer vision when comparing PRK LASIK to traditional LASIK is usually the same when reputable vision correction surgeons perform the procedure. While PRK LASIK surgery does take a little longer for full vision perfection vs. traditional LASIK, most PRK patients are seeing generally well enough to drive and work in just a few days after the procedure.

It is important to keep in mind that neither surgery is necessarily a "better" procedure than the other. The key factor in assessing whether traditional LASIK or PRK LASIK is appropriate is based on the individual patient. Both LASIK vision correction procedures are viable options for patients who are fit candidates.

To find out if your eyes are suitable for traditional or PRK LASIK eye surgery, contact Providence Eye today for a complimentary consultation: http://providenceeye.com/contact-us.php.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kristen_Mozayeni

Choosing the Right Prescription Glasses

By Hermione Cruz

    
Ignore the jokes about having four eyes, many of us need glasses to get through our day! Having limited vision can be a massive problem, it can lead to you having a debilitating life and struggling to make things out is never safe. However, glasses are certainly becoming cooler!

If, like me, you hate the idea of wearing contact lenses, then fear no longer. The days of large milk bottle glasses are done! There are plenty of trendy prescription glasses on the internet. With more popular characters from fiction wearing glasses making them more socially acceptable -although in all honesty they always should have been - you are seeing more flat looking, less obvious glasses.

However, there are some specific things you should think about when you are buying prescription glasses. There are things other than style you need to think about when buying prescription glasses, so when you go to choose consider the following;

• Do they fit your style? You want something that fits your face well, but also goes with the type of clothing you tend to wear. If you can find something that does this, then you are on a winner.

• How often will you wear your glasses? If you only need them for reading or watching the TV, then you don't need to go quite so costly with the glasses - you will only use them intermittently, so keep that in mind.

• Do they fit your head properly? Put your glasses on and move your head up, down, left and right. Do the glasses tilt or fall? If so, then you should consider getting a different pair - your glasses should stay in place.

• What shape do you want? You want something that compliments your eye shape. Try on a pair of oval, rectangle, cat-eye and round styles to see what fits you best!

• If you will need your glasses regularly, then you should consider looking into a durable pair - you never know when you are going to drop them, and if you are dependent on your glasses, you want something that will struggle to break.

Consider all of the following when you go to get your glasses, otherwise you could wind up with a significant issue about your sight - you want to make sure that you get something that not only complements your looks but your style and your needs - there is no point getting extremely strong glasses if you don't really need them, and there's no point getting weaker but cool looking glasses if they are being purchased to make a significant difference to your life.

Finally, consider things like sunlight problems - many people suffer from eye issues when exposed to sunlight for too long, so make sure you look into this and get glasses that will help with your problems with the sun - the sun can do much damage to your eyes if you are not careful.

Overall, though, finding the best prescription glasses really does come down to how much you can take and how determined you are to get the coolest pair versus how much you actually need the glasses! Just remind yourself that functionality is more important than looking cool, despite what others may say.

For your prescription eye glasses needs, get in touch with Vertlite. They provide the best eyewear product while protecting the environment by reducing "eyewear waste" in our production.

The content is the author's own opinion and does not necessarily reflect the views of Vertlite.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hermione_Cruz

Cataract Surgery: Advantages and Disadvantages

By Neelam Goswami

Are you suffering from cataract in one or both eyes? Is the cloudiness of the eye's natural lens is robbing you of your vision and quality of life? You no longer need to live with the vision impairment due to cataracts, thanks to cataract surgery.

Anyone thinking about undergoing Cataract surgery should first understand what is cataract.
The simplest definition for cataract is that it is a clouding of the natural lens, also called crystalline lens, in the eye that affects your daily activities and your ability to drive or read, and eventually leads to vision loss.

The only permanent way to repair a cataract is to have a cataract surgery. People with blurred or misty vision decide to have cataract surgery when the cloudiness in the eye's natural lens gets bad enough where the vision cannot be improved with glasses or contact lens.

The surgical removal of cataract is also recommended to prevent other progressive eye disease s, such as diabetic retinopathy- a leading cause of blindness; and macular degeneration- deterioration of the center of the retina which leads to loss of central vision.

Cataract surgery, medically known as phacoemulsification, is performed with minimal sedation and typically takes around 20 minutes.

With the use of an operating microscope, the surgeon makes a very small incision about 3mm wide in the surface of the eye in or near the cornea. The clouded lens is then painlessly dissolved (phacoemulsify) using a fine needle that emits ultrasound waves. After the tiny fragmented pieces are sucked out, a folded artificial lens made from plastic or silicon is placed into the thin capsular bag. This artificial lens unfolds naturally in the eye.

Advantages
Cataract surgery is very simple and almost painless.
It is generally the safest and effective way to restore vision with no serious complications.
After having the surgery, you will be allowed to return home the same day.
One of the biggest advantages of having cataract surgery is undoubtedly the dramatic improvement in the quality of vision.
It helps you get rid of blurry vision and have a better and clearer vision.
The surgery has little or no risks. The percentage of risk associated with the surgical removal of the cataract film from the lens is less than 10%.
Following the surgery, your surgeon keeps you under observation for a couple of hours before marking you to be cleared for discharge.
The recovery time for a cataract surgery is very short. The tiny incision size allows the eye to recover faster.
With greater vision, you can walk, climb stairs, drive car and do household chores more actively.


Disadvantages
Like any other surgery, unexpected complications can occur during, or after, cataract surgery, albeit on rare occasions. The possible complications include:
Similar to any other major operation, the surgery may lead to blood loss
Abnormal reaction to the anaesthetic such as stickiness or itchiness of the eye is possible
Eye infection is also a possibility
Tearing of the lens capsule during surgery, causing reduced vision
Cataract fragments being left inside, requiring a second operation
Possibility of dislocation of the implant and damage to the retina
Inflammation, soreness, irritation, double sight can also occur after he surgery, albeit in very rare cases.
The biggest disadvantage of cataract surgery is that it is very pricey and that not all cataract patients may easily afford to get it done.

The significantly low cost of Cataract Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico lures a majority of US-based patients seeking quick and affordable solution for their blurred vision. Go to any Eye Surgery Center in Mexico, you'll get the eye treatment without spending a fortune.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Neelam_Goswami

5 Money Saving Tips To Lower The Cost Of LASIK Surgery

By Micah J Thompson   

 

    

Let me ask you something: when you go to buy a car, do you just accept the first price that comes out of the salesperson's mouth? Chances are, you said "no, of course not!". You haggle it down to what you think is a reasonable price, because you did your research. Well, the same ideas apply when choosing a LASIK surgeon as well. Here are 5 tips to lower the cost of laser eye surgery:

1.) Shop Around. There are multiple reasons to do this, but I think the main reason to not just go with the first eye center you come across is that you have nothing to compare it to. After you get a price quote from each place, play them off of each other. If they really want your business (and believe me, they do!), they will match the price or even go lower than a competitor you are looking at. Say something like this: "I really love your company and would love to do business with you, but the price is holding me back. I checked out so-and-so LASIK company and they are $800 cheaper, do you think you could match that?".

2.) Ask For A Discount. Yes, it really is that easy. Most surgery centers have promotions going on at some point in the year. It's best to be blunt with them - ask if they ever do big promotions, such as: Groupon, Mother's Day/Father's Day discount, etc. Find out when these promotions are and then plan your LASIK surgery around that.

3.) Ask The LASIK Center Gives Insurance Discounts. While it's true that insurance companies rarely cover laser eye surgeries, they will sometimes give a small discount. Usually, this amounts to 10-15% off the total amount. It's definitely worth asking about.

4.) Use a Flexible Spending Account. Using an FSA allows you to pay for your LASIK surgery with tax-free dollars. This little trick could end up saving you $100's.

5.) Pick A Reputable Surgeon. This may sound counter-intuitive, but it could actually end up saving you money. Just like you want to go to a good car mechanic, who will fix it right the first time, you also want to choose a great surgeon who has many years of experience. This could potentially save you $1000's in future costs - not to mention give you better vision.

If you give a few of these ideas a try, I'm positive you can cut your LASIK surgery cost by $100's or even $1000's. Good luck on your journey to 20/20 vision!

Micah J Thompson researches the cost of LASIK eye surgery, and posts the findings on his website. He has been a proponent of laser eye surgery for a long time, but suggests doing all your homework before committing to any one surgeon.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Micah_J_Thompson

Eye Care Career Options Comparison

By Elizabeth R Hahn

 

The vision industry is a unique healthcare specialty because it has both a medical and retail branch. Individuals who work in the industry have many options in terms of which career path they wish to pursue based on their personal employment preferences. Those who are considering a career in eye care and who are unfamiliar with the options available to them are encouraged to learn more about the role of the optometrist, ophthalmologist, optician, and optical assistant. Each of these professionals provides unique services to patients and must complete a different course of education and training. Understanding the differences between these specialists will allow individuals to make a more informed decision about which career path to pursue.

An optometrist and ophthalmologist both work primarily on the medical side of vision care, but may have some influence and business interests that stem from owning a retail optical dispensary. The ophthalmologist offers the most advanced medical services due to the fact that they are required to graduate from medical school and must complete a rigorous post-graduate training program. Most eye surgeries are performed by ophthalmologists and they can often be found working in hospitals as well as independent eye care clinics.

The optometrist specializes in prescription eye exams and basic management of eye diseases. Optometrists complete a less demanding graduate training program that requires eight years of college education and the option of a one year post-graduate fellowship. Most opticians begin working right out of graduate school and may choose to seek employment or open their own office. Both of these career options are excellent choices for individuals who want to provide medical services to patients and who are willing to subject themselves to many years of education, training, and financial hardship.

For those who are more interested in helping patients select and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, the optician career path is a more appropriate option. Opticians are trained to identify each patient's particular sense of style so that they can direct patients to eyeglasses that are complementary to that style. In addition, an optician has the knowledge and skills required to ensure that a particular pair of frames fits comfortably on the face. The road to becoming an optician is far less demanding than that of an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Currently, there are only about 25 states that have regulations requiring opticians to complete formal education and training. In these states, an optician is generally expected to complete a two-year degree program or an apprenticeship followed by successful completion of a national certifying exam.

Unregulated states typically allow optical employers to establish their own expectations for opticians. In these states, standards for practice vary a lot and are often reflective of the particular tasks that each employer wants an optician to perform. Individuals who plan to pursue the optician career path are well-advised to voluntarily complete the certification process regardless of state requirements and employer expectations. Studies have shown that certified opticians are able to command a higher salary, obtain better benefits, pursue more career opportunities, and transfer credentials between regulated and unregulated states in the event that they decide to move. While it does require some time and effort to perform well on the certification exams, most opticians discover that the investment is well worth it.

Individuals who plan to work in regulated states will often need to decide between completing a two-year degree program or an apprenticeship. There are very few optician degree programs available and many opticians find that an apprenticeship is more convenient and provides more value. An apprenticeship is essentially an extended period of supervised training during which individuals acquire the knowledge and skills required to provide competent and comprehensive care to patients. Some states require opticians to register with the state prior to beginning the training process. Individuals who plan to complete an apprenticeship should research regulations that affect them prior to setting up an apprenticeship through a local optical employer.

Readers who want to gain experience in the vision industry prior to selecting an advanced career path may want to consider an entry-level position as an optical assistant or technician. Individuals who are employed as an assistant or technician work very closely with all other eye care providers. In most cases, the assistant is hired to work in either the medical or retail side of the business, but some individuals choose to spend some time working in both areas of the industry so that they can make a more informed career choice. This is an excellent way to observe each of the vision specialists in real-world settings.

Those who feel that they may be interested in a career as an optician are encouraged to visit http://www.opticiantraining.org/optician-salary/ where they will find additional details about the influence of optician education, training, and certification on an individual's earning power. This site also provides information on state specific education and training requirements along with links to important government offices and forms.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elizabeth_R_Hahn

Vision Care Basics - Keep Your Eyes Healthy

By Mirabelle Potter   

 

Do not put off visiting a vision care specialist until you experience severe problems with your eyesight. You should see an eye doctor as soon as you begin having symptoms of vision defects. Early detection helps you avoid more serious problems that can arise from neglect.

A good number of children experience visual impairment during their early years. Prescription lenses can correct most childhood eyesight problems quickly. An ophthalmologist or an optometrist may prescribe corrective lenses your child will use for a given time frame. You will have different needs as you get older. Make sure you visit a specialist every now and then to check the health of your eyes.
What causes visual impairment?

Many factors can cause eyesight problems. Some conditions are hereditary and will manifest over time, while others may be a congenital defect. Myopia or nearsightedness is a very good example of a problem that may stem from genetics.

Other problems arise from neglect and bad habits. Your eyes need vitamin A and lutein. Vitamin A helps maintain your eyesight, while lutein keeps your eyes lubricated and protects it from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. Not having enough of these two hastens the deterioration of your vision.
Reading habits such as reading in poorly-lit places, reading for extended periods of time, and reading at an uncomfortable angle makes your hereditary condition worse.

Aging affects your eyesight dramatically. Your body's capacity to retain the nutrients needed for healthy eyesight decreases as you get older. This can lead to nearsightedness and farsightedness, astigmatism, and more serious conditions like glaucoma, retinal detachment, and cataracts.


What types of treatment are available?

Prescription lenses correct most eyesight problems. You either have to wear it for a limited time or wear it for the rest of your life. This will depend on what condition you have. Most people begin with corrective lenses as children, and move on to reading glasses once they start aging. You will need to see an optometrist or an ophthalmologist for proper diagnosis of more serious conditions. They will give you an eyeglass prescription and tell you whether or not your condition is still reversible.

Other disorders may require surgical procedures. Those with advanced myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism may qualify for LASIK eye surgery. It involves the use of laser to reshape and remodel your cornea. Conditions like cataracts and glaucoma require traditional surgical procedures. Retinal detachment, meanwhile, will need emergency surgery to stop the retina from detaching completely.


Tips on Caring for Your Eyes

Make sure you eat a healthy diet rich in vitamin A and lutein. Squash, broccoli and spinach are good examples of lutein-rich food, while red pepper and carrots are rich in vitamin A. You should also mind your reading habits. Read at a comfortable angle and ensure you have ample light. Rest your eyes every now and then when reading for an extended period of time. You can exercise your eyeballs by looking up, down and sideways. Finally, make sure you visit a vision care specialist every two years, and that you keep your prescription updated. Wearing the wrong prescription lenses does more damage than good.

Mirabelle Potter shares vision care tips and proper selection of prescription lenses in an online magazine.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mirabelle_Potter

7 Ways to Reduce Computer Eye Strain

By Nicholas Fraser

 

Computer eye strain was coined when it seemed the computer was omnipresent and would always be, I assume. It should really be called digital eye strain because the issue applies to our interaction with digital screens. The computer is now only one of these and a diminishing one.

Efforts to reduce computer eye strain are a bit of a misnomer as we are talking about strain from all digital devices. It will probably be updated when our ability to categorize catches up with our ability to innovate. We have an almost never-ending river of digital data flowing at us every day with new options coming along all the time. No wonder our eyes get tired!

Blurred vision, dry eyes, double vision, light sensitivity and headaches are all symptoms. The official name for computer eye strain is Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). CVS is a repetitive visual stress disorder, as described by the American Optometric Association. According to the Vision Council of America, nearly 90 percent of those who use a computer, (and we can replace this with digital device), at least 3 hours a day suffer vision problems associated with computer related eye strain.

So this is not a small problem and, with the continuing growth in digital capabilities, it is likely to be with us for a while yet. The good news is that there are numbers of simple and effective actions we can take to reduce or dispose of the symptoms.
 
7 Ways to Reduce Computer Eye Strain

1. Keep your screen clean giving it a daily dusting and cleaning any smudges or finger marks. A dirty computer screen forces you to strain to see what you are trying to read.

2. Position your monitor correctly; don't keep the computer at an odd angle that makes it difficult to see the screen. Best position is directly in front of you, 20 to 24 inches away, with the center of the screen four to nine inches below your straight-ahead gaze.

3. Sit up straight. Slouching or leaning forwards or backwards while sitting at a computer puts your eyes at a disadvantage, forcing them to strain to see the screen. Your arms should be parallel to the floor when you type and your feet should be flat on the floor (or on a footstool).

4. Take frequent breaks to look away to the distance and blink frequently. The unblinking focus engendered by digital screens drys out the eyes. The 20/20/20 rule is the most popular rendition of this suggestion - every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus on something 20 feet away.

5. Use eye drops regularly to lubricate the eyes and to keep the eyes moist.

6. Adjust lighting in your environment to provide the optimal combination of brightness and contrast.

7. Get some reputable digital eyewear.
Digital eyewear will eliminate the constant refocusing effort that the eyes go through when viewing the screen and address all the symptoms of CVS. Computer eyeglasses increase comfort during computer use, and recent studies have shown that they can increase computer worker productivity, with cost savings to employers who provide the eyewear.

From computer screens to hand helds, workstations to digital entertainment devices, the flow of information is only growing. What are all those hours staring at a screen doing to your eyes? Click http://digitaleyewearinfo.blogspot.com/ to find out. To prevent or remedy computer eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and neck/back pain get eye equipment that can protect you AND help you to be more productive - http://digitaleyewearinfo.blogspot.com.

- Nicholas Fraser

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nicholas_Fraser

How Much Does Lasik Eye Surgery Cost?

By Joseph A Stevenson

 

    

A big factor when choosing to do lasik surgery is the cost that it will bring on you. A lot of people will make their decision on whether or not to do lasik solely on how much it is going to cost them. Although lasik is pretty expensive, there are a lot of options out there to help you pay for it.

First of all lasik usually costs around 1,000 per eye in most cases. After everything is finished you can plan on paying around two thousand to twenty five hundred dollars for the whole procedure. This is pretty expensive but you have to remember that you will be able to see much better without the aid of glasses or contact lenses.

So if you have decided that you would like to have lasik done but you really just can't afford it, what are your options? Well first of all you can finance your lasik through one of the many health credit agencies. Most lasik offices will give you some options such as care credit to finance your surgery. The different health credit agencies will have standard interest rates and payment plans that won't kill you.

Another thing you should think about when you are going to get lasik done is how much money you will be saving in the long run. Lasik will last you your entire life so your cost savings can be much better getting lasik than not. Lets say you are thirty years old right now and need lasik or glasses. If you stick with glasses you will probably spend around $200 every other year on prescriptions and doctors visits if you are lucky. This means that in around ten years when you are forty you will not only have spent around the same as lasik on glasses but you will also have had to put up with wearing glasses or contacts for the last ten years.

Besides prices you should think about the price that convenience and quality of life is to you. If you like to golf or ski or do anything outside that is difficult with glasses then lasik will not only benefit you but it will also create a more enriching lifestyle that you deserve.

Whatever you choose to do to correct your vision as long as you factor in all of the pros and cons, costs and benefits you will be sure to have better vision if you just plan it out right.

Joseph Stevenson is a Las Vegas Lasik Doctor consultant and Las Vegas Eye Doctor Advocate.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_A_Stevenson

Three Steps to Slow Down Age-Related Macular Degeneration

By David Woodford

 

    

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness among individuals who are over the age of 65. It can cause a difficulty with vision that eventually progresses to the point where an individual may be blind in the center of their vision.

It affects the macula of the eye, which is a part of your retina that helps you to see sharp images in the center of your vision.

There is a lot that has to be learned about AMD and most doctors will admit they know very little about what causes the problem, other than the possibility that it is genetically tied. That doesn't mean that you are unable to prevent the problem from occurring or at the very least, to slow the degeneration that is being experienced.

1. One of the most important things for you to keep in mind if you are concerned about AMD is the effect that smoking can have on the condition. If you smoke, now is the time for you to stop. Of course, it would be better for you to avoid smoking from a very young age but it is never too late to stop and you may be able to slow the progression of AMD to a certain extent when you do so.


2. Eating a healthy diet and exercising are also an important part of reducing your risk of AMD and delaying its onset. You should include plenty of healthy nuts and fruits in your diet, as well as leafy green vegetables. Try to eat spinach, kale and other dark greens several times per week. As for your exercise, trying to do some type of physical activity for a half hour several times a week is going to help you to keep as healthy as possible. Keep in mind, if you are going to be exercising outdoors, make sure that you are wearing sunglasses to block the UV rays that could potentially damage your eyesight.


3. Finally, there may be some supplements that are available which will help to slow the degeneration that is taking place in the macula. Taking a multivitamin on a daily basis is always a good idea but make sure that it is as natural as possible. It is also considered to be beneficial if you take a fish oil supplement or try to get some fish in your diet regularly.

Although none of these tips are going to cure AMD, taking good care of your health and following these simple steps may help you to reduce the problem.

(The above suggestions are not meant to be authoritative and you should do your own due diligence before adopting any of them. In ALL cases of eye problems, seek the advice of a medical professional before adopting any procedures (including the above). We accept no responsibility if you do not follow this advice).

David Woodford suffers from AMD and has done much research on the subject. This series of articles summarizes some of the main conclusions he has found.

Visit David's website: http://www.UnderstandingAMD.com for more good ideas and recommendations.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Woodford

The LASIK Eye Surgery Basics

By Daniel Laurel

 

LASIK, also called laser in-situ keratomileusis, is a form of eye surgery renown for correcting refractive errors in the eye. Refractive errors happen when the eye doesn't focus the way it should. In normal vision, the image falls through the eye and focuses precisely on the retina, the membrane in the back of the eyeball. If a person is nearsighted, the image focuses in front of the retina. If the person is farsighted, the images focus on the back of the retina. In another problem called astigmatism the cornea, or the front surface of the eye, is somehow irregular.

Why LASIK?
LASIK has become popular because it works very well in correcting vision problems. The treatment is not terribly painful, though there's some discomfort a day or two after the operation. The procedure doesn't require stitches or bandaging. Best of all, patients report that their vision improves right away. Most people who have LASIK have such improved vision that they no longer need to wear contacts or glasses.

Considerations
However, LASIK still isn't a miracle cure. The surgery is complicated and mishaps can happen. A corneal flap needs to be cut very accurately in the eye. If this procedure is done incorrectly, it can impair a patient's vision. Other side effects can be patients experiencing glare or halos. They can lose some of their night vision and develop dry eyes. Indeed, a person who wants LASIK and already has dry eyes will probably be dissuaded from having the operation. Other conditions that might rule against a patient having LASIK surgery are autoimmune diseases like HIV or rheumatoid arthritis.

People with a condition called keratoconus might also not be good candidates for LASIK surgery. This is where the cornea is so irregular that it's actually cone shaped. People with very unstable vision should also not have LASIK. Women who are pregnant or nursing should wait until they've given birth or stopped nursing to have LASIK.

Before the eye surgery, a patient will meet with an ophthalmologist or a member of his or her staff to make sure they're a good candidate. The patient will have a medical history taken and be examined.

He or she will also have tests conducted on his or her eyes.

The Surgery and After Before the LASIK surgery the patient is given eyedrops to numb their eye. Some patients are also sedated. Then, a very precise laser called a femtosecond laser makes a flap in the cornea. It's then peeled back like a lid and another type of laser is used to sculpt the eye tissue to make sure that the light can focus properly on the retina. Then, the flap is replaced. The operation takes about ten minutes.

After the patient is taken home, he or she should rest for a few days. The ophthalmologist will prescribe eye drops, because the eyes will be dry afterwards. The patient will then have follow-up visits to the ophthalmologist. The first might be a day or two after the surgery. Other visits will follow over a span of six months or so.

Crystal Clear Vision 33 Hazelton Ave Toronto, ON M5R 2E3 (416) 928-0777 offering premium LASIK procedures, KAMRA Reading correction and many more. For more information on our services, visit. http://www.crystalclearvision.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daniel_Laurel

Preventing Workplace Eye Injuries: What You Might Be Missing

By Leslie J Anderson

 

Human beings are highly visual animals. Where other animals rely on smell or hearing, human beings are heavily reliant on our eyes to collect information about our world. An injury to the eye can change a person's life, from their ability to simply get around their house, to their future employability. An injury to one or both eyes can cause a business to lose a valued worker and can be devastating for the worker himself.

Because of this, most construction, craft, and repair businesses require the use of safety goggles in the work place. Still, not enough companies insist on safety gear. The U. S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that eye injuries in the work place occur at a rate of 1,000 per day. 90% of these could have been prevented with proper safety gear.

Managers and manufacturing blogs will often list three reasons for a worker abandoning his eye gear, discomfort, fogging or scratches lenses, and most common, appearance. This problem has been around since the early 1900s when, thanks to the production of Gas Masks for World War I, safety goggles were beginning to be used more widely.

A New York Times article from 1913 mentions the already rising number of eye injuries due to workers choosing not to wear the proper safety gear. The article complains, "Familiarity with danger so often breeds contempt, so that the glasses are laid aside at times when most needed." Luckily modern manufacturers have already begun to design safety gear that resembles fashionable designer glasses. There have been vast improvements in anti-fog and anti-scratch coating, and a greater focus on comfort. Hopefully these will convince more workers to keep them on.

Even with the proper safety gear there are dangers to the eye that are often overlooked. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the most common cause of eye injuries (just above flying debris, impact, and sparks) is rubbing or itching foreign material into the eye. In other words, even with proper gear, it is important to train workers in eye safety.

Another danger that is often overlooked is UV light. We are often told that UV light is dangerous, but the specifics are not always mentioned. UV light can cause photokeratitis and retinal burn. Long term UVexposure has long been associated with cataract formation. It's the equivalent of a sunburn on your cornea.

Macular Degeneration, on the other hand, is more likely related to long term exposure to the visible light spectrum. If you spend all day working in the sun, or send a team out to work all day in the sun, these are serious dangers that should be considered. This is a danger that is often overlooked. While sunscreen, hardhats, and safety glasses are all traditional around job sites, sunglasses may still be considered unnecessary.

The damage can be compounded by moving back and forth between indoor and outdoor work. Dilation may mean the light accepting pupil is larger as you go outside, possibly causing more damage and you squint and blink. Sunglasses are an excellent solution and many companies are coming up with wonderful sunglass/safety glass combos which protect against both debris and UV light. Some are even polarized to give extra protection. These are ideal for construction, roofing, or any dangerous work outside. These glasses provide both long term and short term protection from injury, and potentially save workers eyes.

Leslie J. Anderson
E-Commerce Facilitator
http://www.carbideprocessors.com

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How to Protect Your Children's Eye Health and Preserve Natural Vision: A Story of Myopic Monkeys

By Chang Oh

 

If you have suffered from bad eyesight all of your life and had to rely on eyeglasses or contact lenses for a long time, wouldn't you want your children to have a different life? To do that, you need to first notice that you have bad eyesight for a reason. Your children might be modeling your bad habits without even knowing while at the same time being exposed to an environment not friendly to good eyesight. That is, in order for you to protect your children's eye health, you must know what causes bad eyesight. This article shows how you can do just that.

In 1993, a couple of Taiwanese researchers conducted an interesting experiment. They made two 3-month-old monkeys watch TV for 12 hours a day, just 3 feet away from it. After one year of this, the two monkeys were raised the same as other "normal" monkeys. When the researchers had eye tests for these two monkeys after one year of normal raising, they showed little difference in eyesight from other monkeys - only -0.25 diopter. However, the difference became dramatic afterwards; -4.0 after two years, and a whopping -8.0 after three years. The catch is that they didn't watch TV for a minute after that one year of "treatment!"

What can be inferred from this experiment is that early age is more critical to eyesight development than any other age. Even if you keep your children away from TV, it can only be a little help if you had left them exposed when they were infants. This is all the more reason why you should pay extra attention to your environment and your habits, which can be harming your children's eyesight without you even knowing it.

One such condition is how your children's room is lit. Sure, how bright or how dark it is lit is important, yet how long is also very important. Before the advent of electric light bulbs, our eyes were accustomed to a certain cycle of daylight and darkness. This cycle allowed the eyes to relax and recuperate in order for it to work another day. Today our rooms are kept brightly lit well after sunset. Think about what infants have to go through during their birth. They were used to the cozy darkness of their mothers' womb; then in an instant they are abruptly exposed to the bright hospital lights.

How do you think this affects the children? The iris, the part that controls the amount of light coming into your eye, has to sustain a constant strain. This surely decreases the iris' capability, just like the case where a constant strain on your muscle without time to relax won't allow your muscle to work properly. Conversely, if you ensure that a proper amount of time is allotted for relaxation, you can protect your children's natural vision.

Almost every good habit for the eyes circles around relaxation and removing strain. In addition to the points mentioned above, you can tell your children to blink more often when watching TV or reading a book, to move their eyes away from TV or the book and look at a distant object once in a while, and to sit up straight when using computer. These are all good habits for removing excess strain on your children's eyes.

If you want to find out more about useful hot tips, techniques, information, exercises, etc. on how to improve your eyesight naturally, visit [http://www.howtoimprovevisionnaturally.com]

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6 Common Vision Problems in Children

By Suzy Buglewicz 

 

The American Academy of Ophthalmology estimates that nearly 25% of school-aged children have vision problems, and since kids often don't complain about subtle problems with their eyes, it's important for parents to be aware of symptoms that might signal an eye disease or injury.

August is Children's Eye Health and Safety Month and with the start of a new school year right around the corner, it's also the perfect time to be on the lookout for these six common eye problems that often go unnoticed. The majority of vision problems that are detected early can be treated effectively.

How often should children have their vision checked?
Good vision is essential for physical and social development, success in school, and overall well being. Since vision changes can occur without anyone noticing them, regular screenings can determine if children need glasses or contacts. Infants, toddlers and school-aged children should have their vision tested during regular pediatric appointments and whenever any of the following symptoms are present:

• Rubbing eyes often
• Squinting or turning head often while trying to focus on an object
• Mentions that things are blurry or hard to see
• Disinterest in reading or viewing faraway objects
• There is a family history of vision problems
• Wandering or crossed eyes
6 Common Vision Problems in Children

Refractive Errors
Myopia, also referred to as nearsightedness, is the most common refractive vision error among school-aged children and occurs when the eyeball is too long for focusing power, causing distant images to appear blurred. Hyperopia, or farsightedness, occurs when the eyeball is too short for normal focusing. Astigmatism occurs when the front surface of the cornea is irregular. Symptoms indicating a refractive error can include headaches, blurred vision, eye strain or fatigue. Refractive errors can usually be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.

Amblyopia
Also known as "lazy eye", this condition affects about three out of every 100 people and occurs when one eye has not developed normal sight, while the other one has. With early detection, the lazy eye can usually be restored through glasses, surgery on the eye muscles, and patching the stronger eye after treatment to help strengthen the lazy eye.

Strabismus
When the eyes are not properly aligned, this condition also known as cross-eyed occurs, resulting in the child using only the better eye to see to avoid double vision. Symptoms can include one eye focusing straight ahead, while the other eye turns in, out, up or down. Strabismus cannot be outgrown, however glasses can improve focusing.

Color Blindness
Also known as color vision deficiency, this often hereditary condition is the inability to distinguish between colors or shades of colors. Depending on the severity, treatment for color blindness usually includes tinted glasses or contact lenses.

Conjunctivitis
Commonly referred to as pink-eye, symptoms include red or pink eyes and can include discharge, a burning or itching sensation and crusting around the lashes. Although conjunctivitis is highly contagious among pre-school and elementary-aged school children, the condition is easily treatable with prescribed antibiotic drops or ointment.

Corneal Abrasion (Eye Injury)
Nearly 50% of eye injuries occur during sports and recreational activities, and more often in children and teens than any other age group. Eye injuries can damage a child's sight and even cause blindness. Avoid eye injuries by:

• Keeping common household items like cleaning supplies, scissors, forks, rubber bands and even pencils out of the reach of small children. Make sure kids play with age appropriate toys and avoid any with sharp or protruding parts.

• Have your child wear protective eyewear when playing sports, especially those with high velocity ball action like lacrosse, soccer, tennis, basketball and hockey.

To learn more about the symptoms and causes of eye diseases or injuries, or to find a provider near you, download the free mobile healthcare app iTriage from your preferred mobile device or visit http://www.iTriageHealth.com.

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All You Need To Know About Laser Eye Surgery

By Owen Zoey

 

People suffering from diminished eyesight should not give up hope as laser eye surgery is now available to correct your eye related flaws and provide clear vision in a quickest possible time. Since the success rate of this surgery is very high, it has now become the most sought after eyesight correction procedure all across the globe.

In case you are contemplating undergoing laser eye surgery, here is a rundown on the basic facts that you need to know before deciding to have one.

Select the right surgeon
When you are planning to undergo laser eye surgery, make sure you have selected the right surgeon. A well-qualified and experienced surgeon has the capability to handle even the most intricate case with utmost care. So, perform a thorough research and then select a skilled doctor for your treatment.

You can also ask him about the costs and other medical procedures during the consulting period.

Before laser surgery
Before proceeding to surgery, your doctor will first perform a complete eye test to ensure whether you are eligible for the treatment or not. He will evaluate everything, from the shape and thickness of the cornea to pupil size, refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism, and other faults in your eye. Apart from these issues, the moist of your eyes are also checked. Depending on the level of your dry eyes, you might also recommend some precautionary treatments.

When it comes to general health history, he will prescribe medicines, in case there are any complications.

During the surgery
Your surgeon will use a mechanical tool known as microkeratome or femtosecond laser to create a small, circular and thin flap on the cornea. By folding this flap, he will get access to the cornea. With the aid of excimer laser, he will remove the corneal tissue. The next step is to reshape the cornea.

This happens when your advanced laser tool uses cool ultraviolet beam. This will eliminate the microscopic amounts of tissue from the cornea.

For people suffering from nearsightedness, you need to flatten the cornea, whereas when it comes to the people suffering from farsightedness, a steeper cornea is needed. Once the surgeon is able to reshape the cornea, the flap is laid back in place where it gets healed naturally.

The good news for this procedure is that you are free from any stitches and bandages. Few drops of anaesthesia are enough to complete the procedure successfully.

After the lasik surgery
Your doctor will recommend you to rest a bit. Though you might feel itchy or burning sensations but this will definitely fade away with time. Immediately after the surgery, you might also be recommended to go home.

There are times when people come across issues such as blurred vision and haziness, but generally, the clarity returns the very next day. In case there is persisting serious issue with your eye, do not neglect it. Contact your surgeon and get it solved without giving it a second thought.

Melbourne laser eye surgery is one of the most fantastic procedures that corrects eye related flaws and provides clear vision to the people in a quickest possible time. Click on this link to know more about the surgery!

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Why Laser Eye Surgery Is Safer Than Contact Lenses

By Jennifer Daily 

 

There has been a lot of research done on people who have undergone laser eye surgery as well those who wear contact lenses. The main of this research was to find out which is safer between the two. This research concluded that Lasik eye surgery is a safer option as compared to contact lenses in the long run.

There are some risks involved with laser eye surgery as is normal with any other surgery. However, this research calculated the risk associated with the Lasik eye surgery is very low. It was found that the risk of significant loss of vision after laser surgery is about one in every ten thousand patients which is about 0.01%, this is significantly low. This means that the rate of success is 99.9%. This was compared to the risk of getting some contact lens related eye infection in those who wear contacts.

 

The risk was found to be approximately one in every hundred people who use contact lenses after about thirty years of use. With contact lenses there is also a significant risk of vision loss as a result of these contact lens related infections. This has lead to the conclusion that laser eye surgery is safer as compared to contact lenses due to the significant risk of eye loss when using contact lenses.

Another risk that comes with contact lenses is hygiene. It is difficult to clean them and most people do not adhere to a strict contact lens cleaning regime to protect them from accumulating dirt. Again even though the user actually cleans the lenses it is important to know whether the cleaning solution used on the contact lenses is actually safe for the eye to avoid causing adverse effects to the patients' eyes. This again makes laser eye surgery a better choice and a safer one since you do not have to worry about contact lens hygiene and how to clean them. You also do not risk any infections from dirty lenses.

It was also discovered that with contact lenses there is the risk of unsafe practices such as wearing lenses over night. This is a very dangerous habit which could affect the eye negatively in the long run if repeated frequently. This therefore poses a bigger risk for the user even when they are unaware of it. In such situations laser eye surgery is a better option if the patient qualifies for Lasik surgery. With laser surgery you do not risk forgetting to remove your contact lenses and falling asleep with your lenses on this is a very dangerous habit. With Lasik laser surgery there is also little risk of sharing contact lenses which may lead to cross contamination and transfer of bacteria or other germs that may lead to infections.

Therefore, it is recommended for people who wear contact lenses to go and consult at laser eye clinics. They conduct an assessment to see if you qualify for Lasik eye surgery. If you qualify then you can think about it and decide if it is what you want.

 

About the Author

Eye surgery guruJennifer Daily is the author of this article on laser eye surgery. Find more information, about lasik here

How Do You Choose the Right Prescription Glasses?

By Jackson Barry

 

When choosing prescription glasses, it is important that you consider the best frames and best lenses for you. The lenses are of course the most important thing. You need to be sure that you can see things clearly when wearing them. You may also benefit from anti-glare lenses or those that darken whenever you are out in the sunlight. That way, you do not need to buy a pair of sunglasses. As for the frames, there are a lot of options and styles available.

Choosing Lenses
You need to consult your eye doctor to determine the lenses that will fit best for your prescription glasses. For example, lenses that darkens when outside is ideal for individuals who spend most of their times outdoors. Using this kind of glasses prevents them from switching from one eyeglass to another. Anti-reflective or anti-glare lenses on the other hand are beneficial for people who always drive at night.

Choosing Frames
The frames are essential for one's look. You need to choose the right frames as these can make a great impact on your appearance. You may choose stylish thick frames that are available in various designs and colors. The most popular colors are brown, black and tortoiseshell. Some thick frames are even associated with eye-catching accessories. Rimless frames are light and can blend easily on the face.

They are not that noticeable as compared with wire rimmed or plastic frames.

If you are fond of wearing jewelries, gold and silver for example, you may want to consider them as well when choosing your glasses. You may want to have gold or silver frames to accentuate and enhance your looks.

In choosing frames, it is vital that you consider the shape of your face. Generally, frames that are the opposite of your facial features tend to look best. If, for example, you have a round face, square frames would look nice. On the other hand, oval, cat's eye or round frames would look great on a square face.

It is always advisable to try on various samples and from that, choose the pair that suits you best.

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Be Aware! Things to Know Before Going Through LASIK Surgery

By Sarina Scotti

 

The eyes are one of the most important features of the body, which means they need to be well taken care of. But there will come a time that people will be experiencing different eye problems.

 

Especially as the person grows older, eye problems such as astigmatism and cataract can be experienced. For many decades, eye doctors have been providing the best medication for these problems. And luckily, as time goes by, the technology also has advanced. This means that there are already new and effective ways to treat eye problems, LASIK, for example.

LASIK is a surgical procedure that is used to treat eye problems such as astigmatism, farsightedness, nearsightedness, and the likes. It takes only about thirty minutes or less. The ophthalmologist makes use of the laser to change the shape of the cornea in order to improve the ability of the eyes to focus light rays into the retina, which is located at the back of the eye.

But every patient must know the pertinent information involved with the surgery. He should be aware of what to expect before, during, and after the surgery. Especially for the first timers, deciding to undergo the surgery means letting the doctor evaluate the patient's case to determine if he is a perfect candidate. So, what should a patient really expect before the surgery? Here are some of the points that one must know.

1. Contact Lenses. For those wearing contact lenses, it is recommended to stop wearing them before the initial evaluation. One should wear his or her eyeglasses full time. This is because contact lenses are there to change the shape of the cornea. Not taking these lenses off long enough for the cornea to go back to its original shape before the surgery can provide negative consequences such as poor surgical plan, inaccurate measurements, or even poor vision after the surgery. If one is wearing soft contact lenses, he should stop at least two weeks before the initial evaluation. If they are rigid gas permeable lenses, one should stop wearing them for about three weeks before the evaluation and at least four weeks if one is wearing hard lenses.

2. What to tell the doctor. The patient should always lay out his medical history to the doctor. One should tell the doctor about his past and present eye and medical conditions. Aside from that, he should be open about all the medications he is taking and especially those that he is allergic to.

3. One should have an eye exam. Doctors should conduct and eye exam to the patients and discuss the results with them. The doctor should also be able to discuss the risks, benefits and recovery process after the surgery. The patients should also take note of the responsibilities they have after the surgery.

Just like any other surgery, there would be risks involved so it is just right for the patients to be aware of all the things necessary in order to prepare themselves not only for the procedure but also for their life after the surgery.

If you want to know more about LASIK Surgery please contact:

http://www.laserforeyes.com/ilasik.htm

One should tell the doctor about his past and present eye and medical conditions. Aside from that, he should be open about all the medications he is taking and especially those that he is allergic to.

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Anatomy of the Human Eye - How the Human Eye Works

By Tenay Brown

 

The human eye is commonly referred to as the human body's most complex organ. It contains many different parts and depends on all parts to work efficiently in order to have the best vision possible. Of all five senses, vision is the most valued and the quality of this vision is directly related to the way the eye's parts work with each other.

Basic Eye Anatomy
The eye consists of 11 basic parts, all of which have a vital role in the vision process. The basic anatomy of the eye includes the iris, cornea, pupil, lens, sclera, ciliary body, choroid, optic nerve, macula, retina and vitreous. Light enters through the cornea, which is the region of the sclera that is transparent. It provides the eye with the power to focus and is also the part of the eye where contact lenses are placed. The color of your eye, or the colored iris, is located behind the cornea and is visible only because the cornea is transparent.

In the center of the iris is the pupil, which is the dark and round opening in the center. It has control over how much light enters into the eye by dilating the size of the pupil in conditions of dim light and constricting in conditions of bright light. The lens also provides some focusing power within the eye and is located directly behind the pupil. The shape of the lens changes to bring objects into focus-such as when you are reading-and muscles contract that are located in the ciliary body. After a while, the muscles lose the ability to change shape and the lens becomes rigid which leads to a need for glasses.

Light images are converted into electric pulses by photosynthesis cells that make up the retina. These electric pulses then travel to the brain through the optic nerve. Fine detailing is accomplished by the macula, which is a specialized area that is located in the center of the retina. The clarity of vision is determined by a combination of factors: the length of the eye and the focusing power of both the lens and the cornea. Vision is clear if these three factors match perfectly together; when they do not, this creates vision problems.

Sclera
The sclera, also known as the white part of the eye, is the protector of more sensitive parts of the inner eye, such as the choroid and the retina. Most of the depth of the sclera is 0.03-inch thick, but it is no more than 0.01-inch thick where the straight eye muscles connect. There are six muscles in each eye that control the movements, but four are referred to as the straight eye muscles. The sclera is nourished with nutrients and oxygen through blood vessels located in the episclera, which is located on top of the sclera.

Choroid
The choroid provides the retina with a nourishment of nutrients and oxygen through a network of blood vessels. It is located within the sclera and is responsible for providing the anterior part of the optic nerve as well as the macula with the blood supply they depend on. When there is an abnormal growth of blood vessels, an eye condition called macular degeneration occurs, beginning in the choroid and going to the retina through the Bruchs Membrane. Because of a weaker structure, this causes edemas due to the bleeding or rupturing of the weakened vessels.

Retina
The retina is in the back of the eyeball and is the light-sensitive tissue that contains two types of light receptors: cones and rods. The cones generally absorb the stronger light and are color-sensitive, located in the retina's center. The rods absorb black and white in soft light and are next to the fovea.

Retinal detachment, or amotio retinae, is a serious eye condition that produces symptoms such as light flashes or vision loss that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.

Iris
The iris has control over how much light enters into the eye; the muscles of the iris sphincter with contract with strong light and will dilate with dim light. The diameter of the iris expands when focusing on an object far away and narrows when focusing on near objects-this is called the accommodation reflex. The eye color is a direct relation to the type and amount of pigments in a person's iris. Green is the least common color while brown is the most common.

Cornea
The cornea covers the anterior chamber, the pupil and the iris. It is transparent and contains two-thirds or 40 of the 60 diopters in the eye. It is supplied with nutrients and oxygen through tear fluid instead of blood vessels, which explains why it is so clear. Blood vessels can appear in the cornea though if there is an oxygen deficiency which can happen from overusing contact lenses. This can cause partial vision loss if the vessels grow too close to the center. Surgical procedures can be performed to correct eye conditions of the cornea such as astigmatism, hyperopia and myopia.

Pupil
The pupil is the hole in the center of the eye that absorbs major parts of light, which is the reason it is black. When they appear red in pictures, it is due to the reflection of the retina.

Vitreous Body
This part of the eye is located behind the lens and fills the eye with a clear and gel-like substance. The vitreous body shrinks as you gets older and can detach from the retina as the body decreases in size. Vitreous body detachment is generally not a dangerous condition, but can become dangerous if it drags along the retina.

Lens
One-third of the eye's diopters obtain their power in the lens while the remainder is in the cornea. The lens is the part of the eye that allows you to change focus depending on the distance of an object whether it is across the room or directly in front of your face. It is attached to zonula threads which are attached to the ciliary body. When focusing on a near object, the ciliary body contracts, which allows the zonula threads to loosen and the lens to increase its acuity by thickening in diameter while contracting. Cataracts is an eye condition that is age-related and results in blurry vision as the most common symptom. The treatment for cataracts is generally surgically removing and replacing the lens.

Ciliary Body
The ciliary body contains the ciliary muscle, which is responsible for controlling the vision accommodation reflex. The body is also an attachment point for the zonula threads and produces aqueous fluid.

Optic Nerve
The optic nerve is responsible for sending signals to different areas of the brain from the eye in order to create images. It consists of about one million nerve threads and the nerves from both eyes are connected behind them so that the left field of vision is sent to the right hemisphere of the brain and vice verse.

Macula
The macula consists of visual cells that are closely packed resulting in high visual acuity, or high image resolution. These cells are not as closely packed around the macula as they are inside of the actual macula, but they control how well the peripheral vision works and is good enough for it to work properly. Macular degeneration is a common eye disease that occurs among the elderly and is separated into two categories: wet and dry. Wet is more serious than dry, but is also treatable with FDA-approved drugs while dry is not treatable and is the most common.

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The Risks of "Low Cost" LASIK

By Meagan L Hollman

 

Today, there are deals and bargains for basically anything. While most deals save time and money, there are some deals that people would be better off not touching. Finding cheap deals on elective procedures, such as LASIK eye surgery, may seem like a great shortcut, but business that offer cheap LASIK are quite risky.

Although LASIK eye surgery has only been around for 20 years, the public generally accepts it as a safe and gratifying procedure. With a 99 percent satisfaction rate, there really is no reason for accepted candidates not to get it.

People should be aware that a quality LASIK procedure done by a certified surgeon will cost money. The average beginning price for the procedure is $1,500 per eye, and the worse one's vision is, the higher the price will climb. Luckily, when one visits a legitimate eye surgeon, there are no hidden costs. The cost given will include surgery, checkups and if needed, a warranty for touch up surgery.

When just the main laser to perform LASIK eye surgery can cost anywhere from $500,000 to $700,000, a $3,000 surgery doesn't sound so bad. Additionally, annual upkeep of an eye surgeon's equipment is another $25,000.

Advertisements that offer "low cost" or "free" LASIK eye surgery should not be trusted. For starters, no organization can afford to do the procedure for free.
Low cost LASIK eye surgery translates to inexperienced doctors, careless check ups and old equipment.

Experienced surgeons don't advertise for "low cost" or "free" LASIK. These surgeons will also screen patients before signing off on surgery and will honestly tell patients if the are good candidates for LASIK eye surgery. Surgeons who advertise cheap LASIK don't care if a patient may not be the best candidate; they put money over the safety of patients.

Before choosing a LASIK eye surgeon, check his or her qualifications. Certificates that say "best surgeon" or rank eye doctors are often fakes. Qualified surgeons often have other areas of eye specialties that they feel comfortable talking about.

Clinics may be able to offer low cost LASIK eye surgery because they use old equipment. Older equipment won't improve vision as well as the newest, FDA approved equipment. It also may be less safe because it hasn't been maintained or cleaned as frequently.

Talk to a trusted ophthalmologist before choosing where to go for LASIK. Saving money on surgery is not worth it if leads to infection and complication. The most important aspect of any surgery is being able to trust your doctor.

Meagan Hollman writes for and supports Utah's Mount Ogden Eye Care because they provide efficient and friendly service to those who need eye care.
http://www.mountogdeneye.com/index.html

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Cataract Eye Surgery

By Halbert Tajo

 

Cataract eye surgery is a procedure that is designed to remove cloudy patches that can form on the lens of the eye. These patches are known as cataracts and they can become bigger which can impair your everyday vision. The surgery to remove cataracts will usually last around 45 minutes and is a relatively simple procedure, usually enabling patients to return to their normal routine after just 24 hours. If surgery is required in both eyes then these are usually completed separately and over a space of time to allow the first eye time to heal.

The eye is a complex and delicate part of the body. Even minor irritations and problems can lead to visual impairment. A cataract is a cloudy patch that forms on the lens of the eye and while it may sound innocuous it can lead to blurred vision and can further impact on your sight over time. Having a cataract removed is a surprisingly simple procedure and is one of the most common surgical procedures undertaken.

A cataract will usually develop over time and will gradually worsen. While most cataracts are caught relatively early, especially with regular eye tests, if left untreated they can lead to a complete loss of ability to make out details. The sooner cataract eye surgery is carried out, the better for the patient, although even severe cataracts can be removed with the assistance of a good surgeon. The process is simple and quick, and the recovery time is also short.

Currently, the only option known for counteracting the ill effects of a cataract is to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear one. While it is unusual, it is possible for cataracts to appear and form in both eyes. In these cases it is usual for the surgeon to opt to carry out the surgery on each eye separately. This gives the first eye time to heal and enables the patient to become accustomed to having their sight restored to normal in one eye before completing the final surgery. You will usually need to wait around 2 months between procedures.

The operation itself is normally conducted under local anaesthetic and as a day case. This means that you will be conscious for the procedure but anaesthetic will be applied to the area. It also means that you can have cataract eye surgery and be back home on the same day as the procedure is completed.
You should be back at work and undertaking your usual daily routine within another 24 hours too.

The operation itself will last around 20 minutes. A tiny cut is made on the surface of the eye before fluid is added to the eye and ultrasound used to break up the cloudy lens. The surgeon will remove the broken lens and place a folded, artificial lens through the cut. Once inside your eye, the lens will unfold and the cut is usually left to heal naturally over time although, in some cases, a single stitch may be used to heal the cut. Your cataract eye surgery will then be complete and you will be left for a period to recuperate and ensure that you are well.

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Laser Eye Surgery : Improve your Vision

Losing eyesight can be the worst nightmare. Even a minute problems related to eyesight can get you worried. Nowadays many people are suffering from problems related to eyesight. Long working hours in front of a computer, watching TV and playing play station for long time affect the eye sight of people. Eye care is of prime importance. You should take proper care of your eyes to avoid any problem in future. If you are facing any problem with regard to your eyesight there is no fret as laser eye surgery can correct your incorrect vision.

                 

Advancement of technology has made many changes in the medical field. Laser eye correction plays an imperative role in the medical science. It is the best way to get rid of eyesight problem. It will correct your vision in no time. This process makes use of laser to rectify the eye errors. With the help of this process you can also get rid of your glasses. Many people are opting for this laser eye surgery as it works effectively on the eyesight. It gives permanent cure for eye related problems. It is one of the best ways to deal with cataract.

Many people are clueless about how the laser eye surgery works. Eye vision depends on cornea tissue. This tissue helps you to see. It decides how far or close a person can see. Laser rays burn the tissue around your eye's cornea. When this tissue is removed, the laser then reshapes the cornea. Now the light rays can be refracted properly and fall on the retina of the eyes. This improves your vision. There are two types of laser eye correction, Advanced PRK or Photo Refractive Keratectomy and LASIK or Laser Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis. Each of these procedures uses different technique.

Though many people are opting for laser eye surgery, it is advisable for some to avoid it. Pregnant women, people with diabetes or with binocular vision problem, dry eyes, thin corneas, or very large pupils should avoid this surgery. It is imperative to discuss with your doctor first and only then opt for surgery. Eyesight problem can also be a result of ageing. After a certain age the person has to go through cataract surgery. This again is the process of cleaning your cornea with the help of laser surgery. It gives you a better vision and keeps your eyes healthy.

Laser eye surgery can change your eyesight to a very large extent. It is an effective treatment to deal with eye problems. It is a safe process and has no side effects. To undergo this treatment, it is important to consult an experienced professional and then take the decision. As every individual is different from another, this surgery must be performed by following an expert's advice. Some research is important before opting for the surgery. Eyes need a lot of care, you can afford thing precious gift for granted. To know more about laser eye surgery, you can explore web for reliable sites.

 

About the Author

 

Jteller.Jimmy Teller is the author of this article on Cataract Surgery. Find more information on Lasik Eye Surgery here.

Guidelines For Children's Eye Care

By Ruth Cracknell

 

The prevention of eye defects is a very important subject, particularly for parents. As many eye problems develop in childhood, children's eye care is of ultimate importance .

At what age should you begin to watch out for eye troubles in your children and to prevent them? Faulty vision grows out of faulty habits. The moment to begin, therefore, is the moment at which the baby first begins to see objects around him.

It is the bright-colored objects hung in a baby's crib above the level of his eyes as a pacifier which lay the foundation for much of the muscular imbalance which later on causes refractive errors and eyestrain.

The baby stares at the motionless object and acquires the habit of staring while the little muscles on the eyeball become fixed instead of flexible. And the parents congratulate themselves that the baby is so "good," and that it will lie quietly in its crib without creating a disturbance.

In babyhood, too, the imitative child is surrounded by well-meaning adults who, in order to amuse him. make exaggerated faces with their eyes wide and staring, an attitude which he unconsciously adopts.

Children's eye care must certainly include dealing with cross eyes. Cross-eyes frequently make their first appearance in babyhood-the condition often exists soon after birth -and the distracted parents either (a) neglect the condition, hoping that it will clear up as time goes on; (b) have the eyes operated upon, which results in a constant pull and nerve tension; (c) or put glasses on the young child.

Glasses are a trial to anyone. How often you hear someone complain, "I haven't got used to my glasses yet." For a child glasses are infinitely more regrettable, for psychological reasons as well as for visual reasons. To see a small child, with round spectacles on its tiny nose, is nothing short of a tragedy. It is grotesque.

Cross-eyes in a baby can be cured by the simple process of fastening a patch over the good eye so that the weak one is forced to carry its share of the work. Otherwise the vision in the weak eye becomes fainter while it gets stronger in the good eye, until the condition is fixed.
It must be stressed that the earlier you become aware of the signs of defective vision, the easier it will be to correct it.

Another point that must be made about children's eye care is that countless children every year are being fitted with glasses when there is nothing whatever the matter with their eyes. In some cases the complaint of visual difficulties- even of blindness-is a deliberate form of malingering, or an attempt at self-dramatization or the psychic symptom of some underlying emotional disturbance.

In other cases, children who complain of headaches or faulty vision-and every eye shows temporary signs of abnormal vision-are rushed by their anxious parents to an ophthalmologist and so the helpless child is shackled with glasses. And yet the headache may be the result of any one of innumerable causes and the faulty vision may be due to faulty habits into which the child has slipped without his parents observing the fact.

The eyes are the first to show results of bad health and rundown condition. If you wish to maintain normal vision in your child, therefore, make sure that his physical condition is up to par. Bad teeth, tonsils, adenoids, glands that are malfunctioning-any poison in the system-all of these immediately affect the eyes.

Proper diet is important for eye health. We are, to a far greater extent than we realize, a product of what we eat. A lack of any essential food has its effect in the long run upon weight, energy, our capacity to throw off or guard against disease.

Every parent who wants to guard and protect his child's health is alert to see that the proper vitamins and calories, the right amount of milk, greens, vegetables and fruits appear in the child's daily food.
It is worth pointing out, however, that while all these things are essential for the growth and building of a healthy body, Vitamin A is particularly important to the health of the eyes.

Prevention is better than cure when it comes to your child's eyes. Attention to children's eye care can never start too early.

Learn how to regain your eyesight Using these FREE eye exercises
Visit: http://www.eyeexercises.net/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ruth_Cracknell

Lasik Recovery Time - What You Need to Know

By Al Falaq Arsendatama

 

Irrespective of what many people say, including the doctors who perform the LASIK procedure, LASIK recovery time is not a 20 minutes phenomenon, but you take up to six months to completely recover. Patience is required by people who undergo LASIK surgery, as clarity of vision after surgery will depend on the procedure adopted, your refractive error, and post-operative complications, if any. It is often claimed that clarity of vision is attained immediately after the surgery, but it may not be true in most of the cases.

It is normal that post surgery, you face complications, such as ghosts, halos, starbursts, regular or irregular astigmatism, and reduction in clarity for a short period of time. Over a period of time, from as little as a few weeks to as much as six months, these complications may dissipate, and in certain cases, you may need further surgery before recovering fully. If these complications continue beyond six months, you may assume that these are permanent.

Step-By-Step Recovery after LASIK Eye Surgery

Let us look at the LASIK recovery time in stages:


* First Day After Surgery - Most people can return to their normal routines a day after the surgery. You will need to regularly use antibiotics, steroids, and other medications for your dry eye syndrome.

Do not rub your eyes for the first 7 days and, while showering, do not let the water strike you on the face directly. Soap and shampoo in the eyes should be avoided strictly. Computer work, watching TV, and reading are acceptable, provided you lubricate your eyes regularly, and blink frequently.

Light exercises are OK, but keep the sweat out of your eyes.


* One Week After Surgery - Avoid touching your eyes, as well as keep sweat out of your eyes.

Exercises are fine, but avoid swimming, whirlpools and hot tubs. Keep your eyes well lubricated, and use lotions, creams and eye makeup with care, unless advised to the contrary by your doctor.


* Three Weeks After Surgery - Strenuous sports, including swimming, can be started, but with eye protection. You can start outdoor activities, but ensure that your eyes are well protected.


* 3 to 6 Months After Surgery - It will take, at least this much time for your vision to stabilize. Fluctuating vision is part of the healing process and will take time to recover.

You may need re-surgery to correct certain anomalies. It is imperative that you follow your doctor's instructions after the surgery. LASIK recovery time depends on the care you take with your eyes.

Find more information on LASIK eye surgery [http://www.lasereyeplus.com/lasik.html] here. Check out what you need to know about laser eye surgery procedures [http://www.lasereyeplus.com/laser-eye-treatment.html] and how much laser eye surgery may cost you [http://www.lasereyeplus.com/laser-eye-surgery-cost.html].

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Al_Falaq_Arsendatama