CarlinVision: A Comprehensive Refractive Practice
Eliminating glasses by a refractive procedure is not a “one size fits all” process. For the best results, one should consult Dr. Richard Carlin who offers all procedures and can advise the best for each individual. Options include:
Lasik: Involves a partial thickness flap in the cornea (the clear crystal over the colored part of the eye) lifting it, reshaping the bed and replacing the flap. Performed in our special, climate-controlled laser suite, both eyes are done in a 15 minute procedure and vision is generally good the next day. It is best for moderate amounts of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.
PRK: This is the same as Lasik but done on the surface without a flap. The eye is sore for a couple of days, but vision starts to improve after several days. It takes a few weeks for vision to be restored, so there is a short down-time. This is best for those with dry eyes, thin corneas and minor corneal scars who are not Lasik candidates.
ICL: Placing a lens inside the eye, in front of the natural lens. Performed at our own dedicated eye surgery center, eyes are done separately in a 10 minute procedure and vision is generally good the next day. This is best for those too nearsighted for Lasik, those with dry eyes, thin corneas, minor corneal scars or irregularities. Advantage: The procedure is additive, so it is reversible.
RLE: Replacing the eye’s natural lens with an intraocular lens. Performed at our surgical center, eyes are done separately in a 10-15 minute procedure, and vision is generally good the next day. RLE is best for those too farsighted for Lasik or those who are wearing bifocals. Advantage: Will prevent future cataract formation.
If you are interested in eliminating your glasses or contact lenses, speak to Diana or Alex, our Vision Correction Facilitators, who can arrange for a free consultation with Dr. Carlin to discuss your particular situation and what the best option would be.
Congrats to Betty, Our Optical Manager, on her new 20/20 vision!
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Why Are My Eyelids Baggy?
Saggy, baggy, puffy eyelids are due to loosening of the skin and fluid retention and prolapse of orbital fat. The cushioning fat that surrounds the eye is kept back by a membrane, the orbital septum. As this weakens, the fat which normally surrounds the eye and fills the orbit herniates forward into the upper and lower eyelids contributing to the bag.
Of course the main culprit is aging; however, genetics play a role as does fluid retention, lack of sleep, allergies and lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumptions and a poor diet. Certain medical conditions such as thyroid, kidney, autoimmune disease and infection may contribute.
Home remedies such as cool compresses, decreased fluid intake, elevating the head of the bed, getting enough sleep, smoking, cessation, avoiding alcohol, treating allergies and concealing cosmetics may help.
However, surgical removal by one of the CarlinVision doctors is the ultimate treatment. Performed in our own dedicated surgical suite, the painless procedure generally takes 30-45 minutes. There is some swelling and bruising afterwards, but results are generally appreciated within a week or so.
If you would like more information about the procedure, speak to Daelyn, our Oculoplastic Counselor, who can set up a FREE evaluation with one of our doctors.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Tear Facts:
You produce 15-30 gallons of tears each year.
Tears are made up of three layers: the outer oil keeps tears from evaporating, the middle enzymes and water keep the eye moist and repel bacteria, and the inner mucus spreads the tear and keep it attached to the cornea.
Tears are produced in glands in the eyelids and on the eyeball. They wash across the eye and drain through the lacrimal puncta, small holes in the inner surface of the upper and lower eyelid, down through a system of ducts into the nose.
There are two types of tears, Basic and Reflex: the first are always present and lubricate, nourish and protect the eyes, while the second is produced when your eyes are irritated by smoke, fumes, or when you cry.
Too many tears can lead to annoyance and infection, while too few can cause irritation, discomfort and infection. If you are having a problem, we can help!
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Did You Know?
1/3 of Americans develop some form of vision –reducing eye disease by age 65.
2/3 of Americans are unaware that you don’t have to experience symptoms before losing vision from eye disease.
Glaucoma often has no warning signs. You may lose vision before you even realize that you are affected. Once gone, it cannot be restored.
People with diabetic retinopathy may not notice vision problems initially, but the disease can lead to blindness.
Sudden blurriness, trouble seeing colors or straight lines appearing crooked can be a sign of wet age-related macular degeneration. Symptoms may worsen rapidly. This needs to be treated ASAP.
Check Your Benefits
Most Eye Insurances, including Eyemed, VSP and Spectera will pay all or most of a pair of eyeglasses every one to two years. This may include readers or even plano sunglasses! Next time you are in the office for an eye exam, be sure to ask us to check your benefits. Why not take advantage of what you have already paid for?
Our Optical Boutique staff from left to right: James Fields LDO, Corinne Hendricks (optical concierge), Kimberly White (receptionist), Troy Young ABO, Betty Atallah (optical manager), Miranda Thomas LDO, Lisa Fargason LDO, Cynthia Hernandez (optician), Scott Baxter ABO
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
TikTok: Is It Trustworthy?
While TikTok may be fun and entertaining, remember that anyone can post and there is no guarantee that what you see is accurate or truthful. Some recent “proposed” eye treatments can actually damage your eyes:
Bright-eye Challenge: Using a bag of jelly, hand sanitizer, bleach and shaving cream to lighten eye col-or – Doesn’t work and may cause irritation and permanent cellular damage, especially if bag leaks.
Castor Oil: Rubbing on the eyes to decrease wrinkles and improve vision – Doesn’t work and can be irritating. Eye rubbing can lead to decreased vision.
Forcing Mucus From the Eye: Using a Q-tip or finger. This actually leads to more mucus production and irritation. You also risk infection.
Blow Drying Eyelashes: People try this for curling their eyelashes, but it can cause dryness and irritation.
Applying Burt’s Bees Lip Balm: Putting this on your eyelids to increase alertness does not work and it can cause infections.
These are just a few of the many false and potentially dangerous eye treatments proposed on TikTok. If you are not sure about what you read or watch, feel free to check with your CarlinVision doctor.
