Lasik: Are you a candidate? 

After Lasik procedures, our patients continually tell us “it has changed my life,” “it’s the best thing I have ever done” and “I wish I had done it sooner.” While our results at CarlinVision are indeed amazing, we carefully screen our patients to be sure only the best candidates have the procedure done. Here are some of our requirements:

  • You should be over 18 years old with an eye prescription that has not significantly changed in the past year.
  • You should not have extreme levels of nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism.
  • You should not have severe dry eyes.
  • Your cornea should not be too thin or have scars or disease.
  • Your cornea should not be too steep or too flat.
  • You should not have keratoconus.
  • You should not have advanced glaucoma or cataracts.
  • You should not have a history of certain eye infections.
  • You should not have systemic collagen vascular disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, etc.
  • You should not be pregnant or breastfeeding.

This is why we offer a FREE evaluation where we examine your eyes, discuss the procedure, risks, and benefits and answer all of your questions. Interested? Call our Vision Correction Facilitators, Diana or Alex, to schedule your evaluation today.

Advantages of Laser Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery, in which we replace the cloudy lens of the eye with a clear one, can be performed using a blade or a femtosecond laser. In most cases, we prefer the laser for the following reasons:

1.) Safer capsulotomy: In removing the cataract, we open the front of the thin membrane that surrounds the lens. Ideally, the opening is circular and 5 millimeters in diameter. If the opening is not just right, it makes removing the cataract more difficult which can lead to complications and less accuracy in the lens implant power. While obviously we are proficient in manually opening the capsule, no surgeon can match the accuracy and reproducibility of the laser, which makes the opening perfectly circular and can be set to exactly 5.0, 5.1, 5.2 or whatever the desired opening is.

2.) Uses less energy: Ultrasonic energy is used to break up the clouded lens into small pieces which are then removed. By using the laser, the lens can be pre-softened so less energy is required. This is less traumatic, leading to clearer corneas and quicker visual recovery.

3.) More precise incisions: Using a metal blade creates more variability in both the location and architecture of the incision. The laser creates the exact length, width and architecture of the incision in the exact location specified.

4.) Astigmatism correction: Using a diamond knife, incisions are made in the peripheral cornea to correct astigmatism. The laser makes these incisions in exactly the location and depth required, which is much more accurate and leads to better results.

The Cost of Glasses

When it comes to eye glasses, you get what you pay for. You can buy cheap and sacrifice quality and style or you can go luxury and have everything, occasionally at an inflated price. What you put on your face and show the world is your decision.

At The Optical Boutique, as part of an Ophthalmology and Optometry practice, we feel that the best course is to provide glasses that are the best value. We will not sell frames that fall apart in 6 months or lenses that will scratch easily and distort your vision. But, we are also cognizant about your pocketbook! While we do offer luxury designer frames, the bulk of our selection is geared towards our demographic. We constantly search for frames that provide the best value and offer discounts whenever possible. So, when in the market for new glasses, ask our Opticians who will be happy to guide you to high quality frames that fit your style and your budget.

Glaucoma and Eye Pressure

Glaucoma is a disease in which the optic nerve deteriorates causing a loss of side vision progressing to blindness. Lowering the eye’s pressure with medication, laser, or surgery will stop or at least slow down the deterioration; however, it’s complicated!

What is the normal pressure?

In most people it is under 21, but pressures up to 26 can still be considered normal in some individuals. Of course, the risk of glaucoma increases with higher pressures, but some people can have glaucoma with pressures in the normal range.

How do we diagnose glaucoma? 

Damage to the optic nerve and loss of peripheral vision are the hallmarks.

How low should the pressure be?

It depends! It should be low enough to prevent further damage.

Does the pressure stay constant?

No. It goes up and down, which is why one reading may mean real improvement or just fluctuation. It is the trend that is important which makes constant monitoring so essential.

Computers and Eye Strain 

While using a computer, tablet or phone will not damage your eyes, they may cause eyestrain, headaches and discomfort. Here are some suggestions to help:

1.) Blink: Normally we blink about 16 times a minute. When focusing on a computer, this is reduced to 5-7 times. Conscious blinking may be the answer.

2.) Artificial Tears: Decreased blinking makes the eyes dry out quicker so supplement with tears.

3.) Follow 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes look at an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

4.) Computer glasses: Prescription glasses focused specifically at computer screen distance.

5.) Adjust brightness and contrast: Decrease screen brightness to match the level of light in the room.

6.) Reduce glare: Glare screens reduce increased glare from today’s computers.

7.) Position computer: Place screen at arms length and adjust screen so that your eyes gaze slightly downward.

Dry Eyes: What you can do to help

Lifestyle changes can help relieve dry eye symptoms:

  • Use a high quality air filter at home.
  • Use a humidifier to increase moisture in the air.
  • Avoid sleeping under a fan.
  • In windy areas wear wraparound sunglasses.
  • Avoid cigarette smoke and polluted, dusty areas.
  • Consciously blink, especially when using a phone, tablet or computer.
  • Use warm compresses several times a day.
  • Follow your doctor’s recommendations.

Say goodbye to blurry vision this summer with $1,000 OFF LASIK!

  • Free evaluation
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Financing options available

Offer ends July 31st, 2023. Call Alex or Diana at 770.979.2020 x2.

Cannot be combined with insurance or previous procedure. 

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Eye creams and serums won’t remove your eyebags, but eyelid rejuvenation will. Take up to $800 off eyelid rejuvenation through July!

  • Free evaluation
  • Financing options available
  • Up to $800 OFF

Offer ends July 31st, 2023.Call Allie to schedule  770.979.2020 x224.

Cannot be combined with insurance or previous procedure. 

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Take 40% OFF prescription sunglasses!

This offer is valid through August 31st, 2023.

Offer excludes Costa, Maui Jim, and Oakley brands.

Ask an optician for more details!