Author: Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons

Lasting Dry Eye Relief is a Reality with Intense Pulsed Light Therapy

Posted on by Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons
Dry Eye Relief in Brookline

Dry, uncomfortable eyes can significantly impact your quality of life. If you are in search of lasting relief from your dry eye, consider intense pulsed light therapy. At Boston Eye & Physicians, IPL therapy is used to treat the cause of dry eye in patients. Explore the benefits of this procedure below.

The Cause of Dry Eye

The tears are responsible for nourishing the eyes and keeping them healthy and comfortable. The tears are composed of three parts: the water layer, the oil layer, and the mucus layer. Each one plays a key role in the quality of the tears. In the same vein, issues that arise within any of the three layers can lead to eye issues.

The oil layer is related to the meibomian glands, which are located near the lash line on the eyelids. They secrete a substance known as meibum which prevents rapid tear evaporation. Meibomian gland dysfunction occurs when there is a blockage preventing the glands from secreting the meibum, which changes the composition of the tear film. In return, the tears evaporate much too quickly to properly moisturize the eye, leaving patients with eye dryness, redness, and discomfort.

How Does Intense Pulsed Light Therapy Work?

Intense pulsed light, or IPL, therapy works by helping the meibomian glands secrete more oil. During treatment, a device is held over the eyelids, delivering short pulses of light energy that effectively melt the blockages in the oil glands. The meibomian glands can then freely produce and secrete eye-nourishing oils, improving dry eye symptoms in the process.

IPL vs Other Dry Eye Treatments

Many patients can enjoy improved dry eye symptoms after only one or two IPL treatments with lasting results. This is often the more appealing option when compared to other dry eye treatments, such as eye drops. While they may provide temporary relief, eye drops and eye ointments do not address the cause of dry eye symptoms and must be used regularly for eye comfort at all times. In the event that a person forgets to bring their eyedrops with them before leaving the house, they may experience a day of eye dryness. In addition, some individuals find that their eye drops are no longer as effective at providing dry eye relief, and struggle with finding a brand that consistently works for them.

Book Your IPL Consultation

IPL can provide the long-sought-after relief from dry eye symptoms that you desire. Learn more about this treatment by scheduling an eye exam at Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons in Brookline, Massachusetts, today, by visiting www.BEPSeye.com and clicking “Book Online” or calling (617) 232-9600.  

March Forward Towards Healthy Eyes During Save Your Vision Month: Highlighting the Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Posted on by Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons
Eye Exams in Brookline

Save Your Vision Month is recognized every March to boost awareness of the importance of eye care. This wellness observance is intended to encourage individuals to schedule routine eye examinations. The Boston Eye & Physicians team wants all patients to understand the role that regular eye examinations have in prolonging your eye health and vision. Continue ahead to learn more.

The Purpose of Regular Eye Examinations

Regular exams are a key component of preventative eye care. There are several eye conditions that do not have any warning signs until your eye health has been negatively impacted, such as glaucoma. Eye exams, when performed on a regular basis, can help detect issues with your eyes and are the first step to early treatment, which can help prevent vision loss.

What Can I Expect During an Exam?

During your eye examination, a series of tests can be performed based on your medical history, any symptoms you are experiencing, and the judgment of our highly skilled optometrists. The examination may include:

Visual acuity test: A visual acuity test is used to check your vision. During the test, patients are asked to stand in from of a Snellen chart, which is a chart containing rows of letters, where each row is smaller than the one above it. Patients will need to read from the smallest possible row they can, first, with both eyes, then covering one eye at a time.

Corneal Topography: Tests may be performed to measure the curvature of the cornea, which is the transparent front surface of the eye. These measurements are used to determine the best fit for contact lenses.

Refraction: A refraction test determines the best prescription each eye needs. Patients look at a chart through a device containing a variety of lens strengths that can be quickly moved into the patient’s line of vision. Our technicians and doctors will work with the patient to choose the lens that offers the best clarity.

Additional testing: Additional testing is performed in some cases to confirm previous eye test results, rule out certain conditions, and further evaluate the eyes.

Protect Your Vision at All Times

To keep your eyes healthy, consider the following tips:

Reduce digital eye strain: Limiting your screen time may not always be a possibility, but you can still protect your eye health by blinking often, keeping screens at a distance, and decreasing the glare of the screen.

Prevent sun damage: When spending time outdoors, ensure that you are wearing UV-blocking sunglasses.

Use protective eyewear: Even simple tasks like performing chores around the house can result in eye damage if you’re not careful. Consider wearing the right eyewear when using harsh chemicals, doing yard work, or working in dusty areas to keep your eyes safe and comfortable.

Contact Us Now to Schedule Your Eye Exam

Prioritize the health of your eyes with periodic eye examinations. Schedule your next eye exam at Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons in Brookline, Massachusetts, today, by visiting www.BEPSeye.com and clicking “Book Online” or calling (617) 232-9600.  

The ICL Advantage: Discover the Game-Changing Benefits of This Convenient Eye Procedure

Posted on by Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons
ICL in Brookline

Relying on glasses and contact lenses to see clearly does not work for everyone or every situation, especially high prescription thick glasses. Some individuals would prefer the convenience of great vision without the hassle that accompanies eyewear, such as replacements and keeping up with contact lens accessories. EVO ICL is an Implantable Collamer™ Lens, also known as Implantable Contact Lens, that is an excellent option for correcting this common vision problem. The experts at Boston Eye & Physicians want patients to discover the range of benefits that await after ICL.

Convenient Procedure

ICL patients are often delighted to learn that this vision-correcting procedure can easily fit into their busy lives. In a matter of 20 to 30 minutes, the ICL procedure can be safely completed for both eyes in one sitting. After the eyes are numbed to ensure your comfort, the ICL is carefully placed between the iris and the eye’s natural lens. Recovery from the ICL procedure is quick, and most notice a dramatic improvement in their vision as they sit up from the procedure bed. In addition, patients can resume their normal activities the day after the procedure.

No Corneal Tissue Removed

The ICL procedure does not require the removal of any corneal tissue. This is especially beneficial to patients who may have thinner corneas or with corneal disease.

Lasting Results

Patients can expect long-lasting results after their ICL procedure. If you experience natural, age-related changes within the eye, such as cataracts or presbyopia, your ICL can be exchanged or removed so that your clear vision remains.

Pack Lighter During Vacation

Prescription eyewear can take up precious real estate in your luggage when you account for extra space needed to ensure your eyeglasses do not get damaged by other items. As well, packing contact lens solution, cases, and eyedrops can become burdensome. ICL gives individuals the freedom to enjoy traveling with clear vision at any time.

Stay Safe During Sports

Athletes understand that sharp vision and safety are key parts of optimal sports performance. However, athletic individuals who wear eyeglasses run the risk of having their glasses slide off of their faces or fog up during critical moments when clear vision is most important. Likewise, contact lenses can become blurry when coming into contact with sweat, leaving your eyes uncomfortable. Without the need for eyeglasses and contact lenses, you can swim, hike, sweat, and fully participate in your sports activities with great vision.

Schedule Your Consultation

Dr. Daniel Schwartz at Boston Eye & Physicians is ready to help you experience the clear vision you desire. Schedule a refractive eye exam at Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons in Brookline, Massachusetts, today, by visiting www.BEPSeye.com and clicking “Book Online” or calling (617) 232-9600 and asking for Dr. Daniel Schwartz.  

Summer Weather and Sun Exposure Worsen These Eye Diseases and Conditions

Posted on by Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons
Cataracts Brookline

Summertime means long hours in the sun on the beach, by the pool, or enjoying outdoor activities. While we often remember sunscreen, protecting your eyes may be forgotten in the rush to have fun. Babies, kids, and adults must shield their eyes from UV (ultraviolet) exposure year-round. July is UV Safety Awareness Month, and our eye doctors at Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons want you to understand the risks associated with sun exposure and eye health. 

UV radiation from natural sunlight or artificial lights indoors can damage the surface tissues of your eyes, and many people are unaware of how sunlight can increase the risk of eye diseases and conditions or worsen existing eye concerns. The best way to lower your risk of potentially blinding eye diseases and tumors is to wear wrap-around, UV-blocking sunglasses whenever you’re outdoors. 

Cataracts

While cataracts are “curable” with cataract surgery, they can cause significant vision impairment and blindness when left untreated. Cataracts can form earlier due to excessive sun exposure throughout your life, which is why even babies and children should wear UV-protective sunglasses and hats. 

Macular Degeneration

Cataracts and macular degeneration are the most common eye diseases linked to sun exposure. Macular degeneration affects the macula (located in the center of the retina, at the back of the eye) and causes central vision loss. There is no cure for macular degeneration; treatments may only slow the progression. Once vision is lost with this eye disease, there’s no getting it back. 

Skin Cancer of the Eyelids

The thin skin tissue around the eye is susceptible to skin cancer, which may show up as bumps that bleed, discoloration on the eyelids, chronic inflammation, and loss of eyelashes. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that may develop on the eyelids and cause blurry vision.

Pinguecula and Pterygium

People who spend most of their time in the midday sun around reflective surfaces, such as snow, water, sand, or ice, can develop growths on their eyes. The sun reflects off these surfaces and amplifies UV rays. Pinguecula is a type of growth that forms inside the eyelid on the conjunctiva (the clear coating over the white section of the eye) and causes dry eyes, redness, and inflammation. Pterygium is a raised bump on the conjunctiva that may extend onto and cover the cornea, affecting vision. It is nicknamed surfer’s eye because it tends to affect surfers, but it also commonly affects farmers and other people whose professions involve excessive sun exposure. 

Snow Blindness

Snow blindness is a type of photokeratitis that is like a sunburn on the eye. It develops quickly after UV light is reflected off a surface and often sends people to the emergency room. Snow blindness may cause severe eye pain, blurred vision, headache, a feeling of something in the eye, and temporary loss of sight. Photokeratitis typically resolves itself and doesn’t cause permanent blindness. 

Our eye doctors hope you enjoy summer and remember to protect your vision with sunglasses all year long. Schedule an eye exam at Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons in Brookline, Massachusetts, today at (617) 232-9600 or by clicking Book Online. 

How Does LASIK Surgery Affect Seasonal Eye Allergies?

Posted on by Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons
LASIK Brookline

Eye allergies, or allergic conjunctivitis, spring up this time of year. These symptoms can be especially bothersome for contact lens wearers because pollen, pet dander, and other allergen particles can stick to the lenses and cause more irritation. Many patients with refractive errors and eye allergies are interested in LASIK. LASIK eye surgery can reduce your dependence on contact lenses and may improve your quality of life with eye allergies. Our ophthalmologists at Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons can determine if LASIK is right for you with an eye exam and consultation.

What Are Eye Allergies?

Also called ocular allergies, eye allergies happen when something that is ordinarily harmless irritates the eyes. Mast cells, which secrete histamine in the connective tissues to fight off the allergen, affect the eyelids and conjunctiva (the transparent coating over the white portion of the eye). The eyes become itchy, swollen, and red, and you may have tearing and a burning sensation. Ocular allergies are sometimes confused with dry eye disease and may come with light sensitivity. 

The most common ocular allergens include pet dander, dust, pollen, mold, smoke, and perfumes. Some foods may also cause a reaction. You’re more likely to develop eye allergies if you have a parent with them. Most people with eye allergies also experience nasal symptoms, such as sneezing and an itchy or stuffy nose. Eye allergies can be seasonal or chronic. 

Can I Have LASIK If I Have Eye Allergies?

Patients with seasonal eye allergies can still qualify for LASIK, but chronic reactions are typically not suitable for laser vision correction. Our ophthalmologists may recommend LASIK for patients struggling with seasonal eye allergies and contact lenses. However, scheduling the procedure outside your allergy “season” is best so your eyes aren’t prone to inflammation and irritation during LASIK recovery. You must also meet the other criteria for LASIK candidacy, including a stable prescription for one to two years, sufficient corneal thickness, good eye health outside of allergies, and refractive errors within the laser’s parameters. 

One of the most common side effects of LASIK is dry eye, which is usually temporary, but patients with chronic dry eyes caused by allergies may have a higher incidence of dry eye after LASIK. Patients with eye allergies may need additional pre-op and post-op management for LASIK.

Most patients with seasonal eye allergies can benefit from LASIK. The only way to know if LASIK is right for you is to schedule a consultation at our Brookline, Massachusetts, office. 

Contact Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons at (617) 232-9600 or by clicking Book Online to schedule your appointment today.

Save Your Vision Month: Understanding the Top Eye Diseases That Cause Blindness

Posted on by Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons

March is Save Your Vision Month. Organized by the American Optometric Association, this annual campaign focuses on public education regarding vision loss and the importance of regular eye examinations. The AOA started Save Your Vision Month back in 1927, and over the past century millions of people — and their eyesight — have benefited. Our eye doctors at Boston Eye Physicians & Surgeons discuss the symptoms of top eye diseases causing blindness and why early detection is so crucial.  

Top Eye Diseases Causing Vision Loss

As per the CDC, the top eye diseases causing vision loss in the United States are primarily age-related. These include:

1. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) – This disease affects the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central detailed vision processing. There are two forms of ARMD: dry and wet. The first is far more common, accounting for as many as 90 percent of ARMD cases. Dry ARMD progresses slowly, gradually causing the loss of central vision. Wet ARMD occurs when irregular blood vessels behind the retina grow beneath the macula, leading to bleeding and leaking fluid. With wet ARMD, the loss of central vision happens quickly.

2. Cataracts – Worldwide, cataracts are the leading cause of blindness. While older people are more affected, cataracts, a clouding of the lens, can develop at any age. The good news is that cataract surgery to remove the lens and replace it with an artificial lens is one of the most common surgeries performed, with an extremely high success rate. While untreated cataract can gradually cause blindness, cataract surgery is the most successful surgery in the US to treat cataracts.

3. Diabetic retinopathy – Diabetes harms blood vessels in all parts of the body, and the eyes are among the most vulnerable areas. In the U.S., diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes, is the leading cause of blindness in adults between the ages of 20 and 74. Diabetic retinopathy damages the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eyeball. Diabetic patients who do not receive regular eye exams are most at risk, as early diagnosis can reduce vision loss. Regular eye exam can detect diabetes before the symptoms occur.

4. Glaucoma – This group of diseases causes damage to the optic nerve from elevated pressure within the eye. There are two major types of glaucoma. The most common, open-angle, progresses slowly. The patient may not notice their loss of vision until glaucoma has progressed significantly. Closed-angle glaucoma comes on suddenly, accompanied by pain and vision loss requiring immediate laser surgery.

Eye Disease Symptoms

Serious eye diseases have specific symptoms. Contact your eye doctor immediately if experiencing any of the following:

  • Blurred vision
  • Dark spot in the visual center field
  • Double vision
  • Eye pain
  • Floaters or flashes of light
  • Halos or glare
  • Light sensitivity
  • Peripheral vision loss
  • Straight lines appear wavy

Schedule Your Consultation in Boston

If you are experiencing any eye disease symptoms, or if you are due for an eye examination, schedule a consultation at Boston Eye Physicians & Surgeons today by calling (617) 232-9600 or filling out our online form.

What Glaucoma Patients Want Others To Understand About the Disease

Posted on by Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons

Worldwide, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness, as per the CDC. A glaucoma diagnosis is often devastating, changing the way patients live their daily lives. Our eye doctors at Boston Eye Physicians & Surgeons offer insight into what glaucoma patients want others to understand about their disease.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve. Open-angle glaucoma, the most common type, occurs when eye fluid does not drain properly from the eye through a structure called the drainage angle. This fluid build-up results in higher intraocular pressure pressing on the optic nerve over time causing damage.

Closed-angle glaucoma generally happens in those whose iris is close to their eye’s drainage angle. When a blockage occurs, eye pressure ratchets up fast. Closed-angle glaucoma comes on quickly and constitutes a true eyen emergency. Without prompt treatment, the patient might go blind.

Keep in mind that 50 percent of people with glaucoma are unaware they have it. Glaucoma usually has no early symptoms. Pay attention to what friends and family with glaucoma are going through, as you could join their ranks someday. If you are African American, have a family history of glaucoma or are diabetic, your glaucoma risk is elevated.

Dealing With Fears

Glaucoma patients deal with fears that those with good vision do not think about. While going blind is the greatest fear, that is not the only challenge facing those with glaucoma. They may also worry about whether vision loss means they can no longer continue working in their current field. Some patients may worry that they cannot pay for the drugs prescribed to treat glaucoma.

Every person with glaucoma has individual fears regarding how their diagnosis will affect their life. Other people must understand that these are legitimate concerns. Fortunately, prompt treatment and regular follow-up help patients keep their condition under control and preserves vision as much as possible.  

Glaucoma Treatment 

Once they’ve gotten over the initial shock of their diagnosis, glaucoma patients learn from their eye doctor that glaucoma is controllable. The key is lowering intraocular pressure, and treatments include:

  • Prescription eye drops
  • Oral medications
  • Laser therapy
  • Surgery

Schedule Your Consultation in Boston

If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, or are experiencing symptoms of the disease, schedule a consultation at Boston Eye Physicians & Surgeons today by calling (617) 232-9600 or filling out our online form.

Why Choose an Ophthalmologist for Blepharoplasty To Improve Eyelid Appearance and Function?

Posted on by Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is among the most popular cosmetic surgery options. The procedure takes years off the appearance of the face, making the patient look more youthful and rejuvenated. However, it makes more sense to choose an ophthalmic plastic surgeon — rather than a general plastic surgeon — to perform blepharoplasty, as nothing is more precious than your vision. You don’t want to take any risks, however slight, when it comes to eye surgery. In this post, our eye doctors at Boston Eye Physicians & Surgeons explain why ophthalmic plastic surgeons are the best choice for eyelid surgery.

Blepharoplasty

With aging comes drooping and sagging all over the body. The eyes are just as vulnerable as any other area. Loose skin and excess fat make people look older. Saggy eyelids can also make people look angry or sad, even though they aren’t feeling those emotions. Because the eyelid skin is thinner than skin elsewhere on the body, it tends to stretch significantly over time. Saggy lids also decrease our peripheral visual fields and limit our visual functions.

Some adult patients may suffer from ptosis, a condition in which the upper eyelid’s levator muscle, responsible for eyelid elevation and retraction, separates itself from the eyelid. Blepharoplasty also corrects ptosis. 

By removing excess skin and fat on the upper eyelids, as well as eliminating bags under the lower lids, the patient’s appearance is greatly enhanced. They no longer look angry or sad. Instead, they look the way they did before the sagging set in.

Blepharoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis, with local anesthesia without intravenous sedation. Some patients may opt oral sedation.

Blepharoplasty and Visual Impairment

Blepharoplasty is usually thought of as a cosmetic procedure, but it can also correct visual impairment resulting from excess skin and fat. For patients whose peripheral vision is affected by sagging eyelids, upper eyelid surgery can improve their field of vision.

When performed as a purely cosmetic procedure, blepharoplasty is not covered by insurance. However, when it is medically necessary to improve the field of vision, , health insurance may cover part or all of the procedure.  

Oculoplastic Surgery

Many eye surgeons undergo additional oculoplastic surgery training to be an ophthalmic plastic surgeon. They specialize in medical and cosmetic procedures for the eyes and the facial areas surrounding the eyes.

Unlike a general plastic surgeon, who may perform procedures on body parts ranging from the forehead to the feet, ophthalmic plastic surgeons deal only with the eyes and surrounding anatomy. They are highly specialty trained on eye cosmetic surgeries.

Schedule Your Consultation in Boston

If you would like more information about blepharoplasty performed by a skilled ophthalmic plastic surgeon, schedule a consultation at Boston Eye Physicians & Surgeons today by calling (617) 232-9600 or filling out our online form.

Why Your Dry Eye Symptoms May Get Worse with Seasonal Changes

Posted on by Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons
Seasonal Dry Eye Treatment Boston

Fall is upon us in Boston, with autumn colors dancing across our trees. Soon the leaves will fall, and people with dry eye syndrome may experience changing symptoms with the seasons. At Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons, we offer various dry eye treatments to reduce symptoms, including intense pulsed light therapy. 

Continue reading “Why Your Dry Eye Symptoms May Get Worse with Seasonal Changes” →

Light Adjustable Lens: The First and Only Implant That Can Be Customized AFTER Cataract Surgery

Posted on by Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons
Light Adjustable Lens Boston

Cataracts are part of the natural aging process that affects the clear natural lens inside the eye. Proteins weaken and clump together, forming a cloudy appearance and vision changes. Most Americans will develop cataracts in their later years, and this eye problem can take many years to cause significant vision loss. In extreme cases, cataracts can cause blindness. 

Continue reading “Light Adjustable Lens: The First and Only Implant That Can Be Customized AFTER Cataract Surgery” →