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A tonometer refers to the equipment that is used in tonometry – a test that measures the pressure inside your eyes, also known as intraocular pressure or IOP for short. Tonometry is rarely performed at your average comprehensive eye exam unless you are at high risk of or have been already diagnosed with glaucoma. Fortunately, tonometry can be used to detect changes in eye pressure before they cause any symptoms, enabling prompt action to be taken before your vision is affected.
About Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a common eye condition that occurs when the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, becomes damaged. It’s normally caused by fluid building up in the front part of the eye, which causes the pressure inside the eyes to build. As the pressure increases, the optic nerve becomes increasingly damaged, and this prevents messages from being transmitted between your eyes and brain effectively. As a result, the patient’s vision becomes compromised. Without treatment, the level of vision loss will continue to increase. Unfortunately, any vision that has been lost as a result of glaucoma cannot be restored.
Most of the time, glaucoma develops very slowly which means that many people don’t realize that they are affected until some damage to their vision has already occurred. However, occasionally glaucoma can develop quickly, and symptoms do occur.
These can include:
Red eyes
Intense headaches
Tenderness around the eyes
Eye pain
Seeing rings/halos around lights
Blurred vision
Nausea and vomiting
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important that you make an appointment with your eye doctor right away so that you can be assessed. You are likely to have a tonometry test as part of this assessment.
What to expect from tonometry testing
There are various methods of tonometry testing, but many eye doctors use either Goldmann tonometry, which is the conventional technique to measure eye pressure, or electronic tonometry.
Goldmann tonometry testing is carried out using the Goldmann applanation tonometer, which is attached to a slit lamp microscope. This requires anesthetic eye drops to be used which numb your eyes, before a small probe is pressed gently against the eye, indenting the cornea. The pressure that the cornea pushes back onto the tonometer is what is measured to give your IOP reading. Electronic tonometry is where a handheld, mobile device is gently and quickly applied to the cornea to check the pressure, providing an accurate reading. Some eye doctors also offer non-contact tonometry which is where a puff of air is used to flatten the cornea, although this is reported to be less accurate than the Goldmann technique.
If you would like to find out more about Tonometry testing, please call our office to speak with our dedicated eyecare professionals.
Optical Coherence Tomography is a non-invasive imaging test that may be performed as a standard part of your regular, comprehensive exams, or you may be able to request this test as an addition to your usual exam.
Optical Coherence Tomography uses light waves to take cross-section images of your retina, which is the area of light-sensitive cells at the back of your eye that is responsible for receiving light and transmitting it into messages that are sent up to the brain. The technology behind OCT enables your eye doctor to see each of the different layers that make up the retina. By being able to see these and measure them, they can obtain a much clearer picture of the overall health and condition of your eyes.
Why are Optical Coherence Tomography scans important?
When you choose to have an OCT scan at fairly regular intervals, such as during your normal comprehensive eye exams, your eye doctor can compare newer results to previous ones. This helps them to build up a picture of the health of your eyes, and spot any changes which may be concerning, early, before they cause symptoms or have a permanent effect on your vision.
Anyone can have an OCT scan, but they are particularly recommended for patients over the age of 25 who are concerned about the health of their eyes, or who are at risk of or already have diabetes, glaucoma or a family history of eye disease. This is because they can be used to spot the early signs of a range of eye diseases, including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, disorders of the optic nerve and more – even before you realize that you are affected.
What happens during an Optical Coherence Tomography scan?
An OCT scan is a quick, painless experience. To prepare you, your eye doctor may require you to have eyedrops that will dilate your pupils and make it easier to see your retina. This means that the scanner will get clearer, more concise images. You’ll be asked to sit in front of the OCT machine where you will rest your head against a support to help you sit perfectly still. As you stare ahead, the equipment will perform the scan of your eyes. There is no contact with your eyes whatsoever, you will just need to sit still, with your eyes open as much as possible during the process, which usually takes less than 10 minutes. The images will be sent digitally to your eye doctor for them to assess immediately and stored digitally on your personal record.
There’s no downtime after an OCT scan, but if you have had your eyes dilated you may find that you are particularly sensitive to light for a few hours afterwards. This occurs because the pupils remain wider and therefore able to let more light in that usual.
If you would like to find out more about Optical Coherence Tomography, don’t hesitate to speak to our professional eyecare team.
Introducing OCuSOFT® Thermal 1-Touch – the revolutionary solution designed to provide soothing and effective thermal relief for your eyes. Engineered by OCuSOFT®, a trusted leader in eye care products, Thermal 1-Touch combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design to deliver unparalleled comfort for your eyes.
Innovative Thermal Technology: OCuSOFT® Thermal 1-Touch utilizes advanced thermal technology to generate gentle warmth, promoting the release of natural oils in the eyelids. This process helps to alleviate dry eyes, discomfort, and irritation, providing a soothing experience for users.
One-Touch Operation: With its user-friendly design, Thermal 1-Touch ensures hassle-free operation. A simple touch activates the device, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of thermal therapy with ease. The one-touch operation makes it convenient for daily use and fits seamlessly into your eye care routine.
Adjustable Temperature Settings: Tailor your thermal therapy experience with the adjustable temperature settings on OCuSOFT® Thermal 1-Touch. Choose the level of warmth that suits your preferences, allowing for a personalized and comfortable treatment session.
Compact and Portable: The compact design of Thermal 1-Touch makes it portable and travel-friendly. Whether you're at home, in the office, or on the go, you can easily incorporate this eye care device into your daily life, ensuring continuous relief wherever you are.
Gentle and Non-Invasive: OCuSOFT® Thermal 1-Touch provides a gentle and non-invasive solution for eye discomfort. The controlled warmth encourages the natural flow of oils, helping to maintain the health of your eyes without the need for invasive procedures.
Complements Your Eye Care Routine: Enhance your eye care routine with OCuSOFT® Thermal 1-Touch. Whether you suffer from dry eyes, Meibomian gland dysfunction, or simply want to promote overall eye health, this device seamlessly integrates into your existing routine to provide therapeutic benefits.
Experience the future of eye care with OCuSOFT® Thermal 1-Touch – where advanced technology meets user-friendly design to bring you unparalleled comfort and relief for your eyes. Say goodbye to eye discomfort and embrace the soothing warmth of OCuSOFT® Thermal 1-Touch today.
Thanks to the advancement of lens technology, glasses lenses are no longer a single, one size fits all solution. There are a variety of different lens types that can be used in glasses, giving patients greater flexibility and control over their vision than ever before.
Single Vision Lenses
Also known as monovision lenses, these lenses are designed to correct the wearer’s vision at just one distance, and have a single prescription covering the entire surface of the lens. They are most often recommended for people who are either nearsighted (myopia) or farsighted (hyperopia) and who need glasses for a specific activity, such as driving or reading.
Progressive Lenses
Progressive lenses are multifocal lenses that can correct a patient’s vision at different working distances, ranging from far distance to reading distance. However, rather than designating different areas on the lenses for different distances with visible lines separating them, progressive lenses have a gradual change so that the wearer can smoothly transition from one lens power to another.
Bifocal and Trifocal Lenses
As you may have guessed from the name, bifocal and trifocal lenses have either two or three lens powers depending on which type you choose. Bifocal lenses support distance vision in the top half of the lens, and near vision in the lower half. Trifocal lenses support distance vision in the top third of the lens, intermediate vision in the middle segment and near vision in the bottom third. Whichever variety you choose, you will see visible lines separating each segment.
Bifocal and trifocal lenses are recommended for patients who are near or farsighted, and those who develop presbyopia, which is the natural hardening of the eye lens, that occurs as we get older. Presbyopia makes it harder for the lens of the eye to adapt to focus at different distances.
Multifocal Lenses
Multifocal lenses are the alternative name given to bifocal, trifocal and progressive lenses.
Computer Lenses
Computer lenses are prescription lenses that are specifically designed to be worn when doing computer work. This is because they place the optimum lens power for viewing your computer screen exactly where you need it – which is closer than intermediate vision, but further away than reading material is usually held. Wearing computer lenses can significantly reduce the negative effects caused by the high visual demands of computer work, including blurred vision, redness, dry eyes, double vision and dizziness.
Transition Lenses
Also known as photochromic lenses, transition lenses are a special type of lens that darken when in the sunlight and lighten when in softer light or the dark. This versatility gives the wearer the convenience of being able to move between different environments without needing to change their glasses. This makes them extremely cost effective and prevent the wearer from needing to take multiple pairs of glasses out with them. Transition lenses also filter out many of the harmful UV rays that are emitted from the sun, helping to keep eyes healthy too. They are ideal for people who spend a lot of time going between inside and outside, or who work outside in varying weather conditions.
Blue Light Lenses
Blue light lenses are specially crafted lenses that contain filters that block out much of the artificial blue light that is produced by digital devices like computers, smartphones and tablets. Natural blue light is actually good for balancing our sleep-wake cycle, boosting our mood and enhancing our cognitive abilities so that we can function better day to day. However, too much blue light, especially from artificial sources, can have the opposite effect. Many people who fail to use blue light lenses can go on to develop digital eye strain, which produces symptoms like eye fatigue, dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches and more. Blue light lenses are recommended for anyone who spends a lot of time working on a digital device.
Polarized Lenses
Polarized lenses are used to reduce eyestrain and improve the quality of vision in patients on especially sunny days, making them ideal for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors. They can do this because they have a special filter that blocks some of the light from passing through the lens. Vertical light is allowed to pass through, while horizontal light, such as that which bounces off of water and can be blinding, is blocked. Polarized lenses are most often used in sunglasses since they are worn outdoors, and the wearer also needs to protect their eyes from UV damage.
Still have questions about which lens is right for you? Contact us to schedule an eye exam or an appointment to evaluate your individual needs.
Visual field testing is an important part of most standard comprehensive eye exams. Also sometimes known as perimetry testing, Visual field testing is a method to measure the entire scope of vision of an individual, including their peripheral/side vision.
The importance of visual field testing
Visual field testing is one of the most effective diagnostic treatments in the detection of glaucoma. This is because when patients are affected by glaucoma, it is usually the peripheral vision that is affected by their condition first. However, it can also be used to detect central or peripheral retinal diseases, eyelid conditions such as drooping, optic nerve damage and conditions that affect the visual pathways from the optic nerve to the area of the brain where this information is processed into vision.
Visual field testing is also an important part of monitoring for people who are considered to be at risk for vision loss from disease and other problems, including those who have been diagnosed with the following:
Multiple sclerosis
Hyperthyroidism
Pituitary gland disorders
Central nervous system problems (such as a tumor that may be pressing on the brain)
Stroke
Diabetes
High blood pressure
What to expect from visual field testing
There are a variety of methods that can be used to perform visual field testing, including:
Static automated perimetry. This is where a machine is used to quantify how well the patient is able to detect flashing lights of varying size and brightness in different areas of their visual field, while they concentrate on a central point. The patient responds by pushing a button when they see the light.
Kinetic perimetry. This involves points of light that are fixed in size and intensity and are presented along the patient’s peripheral vision, before being gradually moved inwards to determine their field of vision.
Visual field testing is non-invasive, painless and doesn’t require patients to have their eyes dilated. The results, which are usually presented in a series of charts, are digital and sent directly to your eye doctor for interpretation. Depending on the outcome of your results, you may be recommended for further diagnostic testing which could include blood tests. If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, you will probably be recommended to have several visual field tests each year, which will help your eye doctor to monitor the progression of your condition and recommend treatments to slow it.
If you would like more information about visual field testing, or if you have concerns about your peripheral vision, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our experienced and knowledgeable eyecare team today.
We all want to look our best and in the last decade, we have seen a significant increase in the number of people seeking cosmetic services in order to enhance their appearance. With our eyes being our most distinguishing feature, we want to make the most of them. Thankfully there is now a range of cosmetic services that can help to rejuvenate our eyes and the area around them to keep them fresh, young and wrinkle-free.
Let’s take a look at some of the services on offer.
Pigment removal
The brown pigment spots that appear on the face are often referred to as age spots and are a result of sun exposure. With age, the repeated exposure to UV rays causes melanin, a compound that is responsible for pigmentation and protecting the skin begins to clump together to form an area of hyperpigmentation. Whilst they aren’t any cause for concern, many people feel that they look unsightly. Luckily, there are a number of different treatments that you can get to remove them including topical creams, laser therapy, and chemical peels.
If you are suffering from darker pigmentation then we strongly recommend that you make an appointment with a qualified dermatologist who will recommend the best course of treatment for you, based on your specific needs.
LASIK co-management is an integral part of vision correction surgery that often goes unnoticed. It involves a partnership between your primary eye care professional and your LASIK surgeon. This cooperative approach ensures that you're provided with the best possible care before, during, and after your procedure.
LASIK co-management is the collaborative effort of your eye care team to ensure your vision correction procedure is safe and successful. It's a team approach where everyone plays a significant role in your eye health journey.
The Evaluation Process
The evaluation process in LASIK co-management is thorough and meticulous. It begins with a comprehensive eye examination by your primary care optometrist. This examination is meant to ascertain your eye health status and determine if you're an appropriate candidate for the LASIK procedure.
The evaluation process underscores the collaborative nature of LASIK co-management. Every step is carefully coordinated to ensure your eye health is prioritized and that you're receiving the best possible care.
The Importance of Consultation in LASIK Co-management
Consultation is a crucial aspect of LASIK co-management. It allows for patient education, addressing concerns and questions, and establishing a clear understanding of the expected outcomes.
During the consultation phase, your optometrist will explain the results of your eye examination and how it relates to your suitability for LASIK surgery. They will also discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure, giving you a balanced perspective to make an informed decision.
The consultation with your LASIK surgeon will delve into the specifics of the operation, including the technology used, the surgical process, and the anticipated recovery timeline. Having the opportunity to consult with both your optometrist and your surgeon ensures that all your concerns are addressed, allowing you to proceed with confidence.
The Role of Communication
Effective communication is the backbone of successful LASIK co-management. It facilitates a seamless transition from your optometrist to your surgeon, creating a cohesive care plan that's centered around your specific needs.
This communication is not just between healthcare providers but also involves the patient. Regular updates on your progress, detailed explanations about each stage of the process, and addressing any concerns or questions you may have are all essential parts of the communication process.
Post-care in LASIK Co-management
Effective post-care in LASIK co-management is crucial in ensuring a successful outcome and speedy recovery. Post-care involves monitoring your healing progress, managing any discomfort or side effects, and ensuring that your vision is improving as expected.
Your optometrist plays a key role in this post-care. They will schedule follow-up visits to check your eyes and ensure they are healing correctly. They will also provide guidance on activities you should avoid and actions you can take to promote healing.
Additionally, if there are any complications or concerns, your optometrist is your first point of contact. They will liaise with your surgeon to address these concerns, demonstrating once again the importance of the collaborative approach in LASIK co-management.
The Benefits of LASIK Co-management
There are many benefits of LASIK co-management. First, it provides a comprehensive approach to your eye care, combining the expertise of your optometrist and your surgeon. This ensures that you're receiving the most thorough care possible.
Second, LASIK co-management creates a seamless patient experience. Your care transitions smoothly from your optometrist to your surgeon and back again. This eliminates any confusion or stress that can often come with navigating healthcare systems.
Finally, LASIK co-management provides continuity of care. Your optometrist, who is already familiar with your eye health history, remains involved in your care throughout the LASIK process. This continuity not only enhances your comfort level but also contributes to a better overall outcome.
Begin Your Journey to Clear Vision with LASIK Co-management Today
LASIK co-management represents the gold standard in vision correction procedures. It leverages the combined expertise of your optometrist and your surgeon, creating a streamlined, cohesive, and patient-centered approach to your care.
From your initial evaluation to post-operative care, every step of the process is carefully coordinated to ensure your safety, comfort, and the success of your procedure. And with the myriad benefits of LASIK co-management, you can approach your vision correction journey with confidence and peace of mind.
If you're considering LASIK surgery, choose a provider that offers LASIK co-management. It's a proven approach that puts your needs at the center and prioritizes your eye health at every step.
If you are one of the thousands of people considering LASIK laser eye surgery, then you will probably be gathering as much information as possible about the treatment. By this point, you are probably aware of the benefits that LASIK offers, such as a reduced or eliminated need for glasses or contact lenses and greater convenience in your day to day life. However, for many patients, despite the advantages of LASIK, the thought of surgery on their eyes is still a cause of anxiety and fear. One of the best ways to alleviate this concern is to find out more about what the procedure entails.
Your consultation
Before you can be approved for any form of laser vision correction, including LASIK, you will need to attend a consultation appointment with your surgeon. During the consultation, he will perform an examination of your eyes and use your medical and ocular history to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. He will also speak to you about the expected outcome from your surgery, making you aware that while LASIK will dramatically improve your eyesight, there is no guarantee that you will not need to wear glasses in some situations, such as while driving in the dark.
How LASIK Works
LASIK uses a cool, ultraviolet beam of light to reshape the patient’s cornea. Doing so will more accurately focus the light that enters the eye on to the retina, thus improving the patient’s vision. The way in which the cornea needs to be reshaped will depend on the visual needs of the patient. For example, a patient who is far-sighted will need their cornea reshaping to be steeper to experience better eyesight. Alternatively, a patient who is near-sighted will require their cornea to be flattened in order to improve their vision. LASIK can also smooth an irregular cornea into a more standard shape, meaning that the procedure can also be used to correct astigmatism.
The LASIK procedure
The LASIK procedure is very fast and straightforward. Although you will probably be in the surgical suite for around half an hour, the actual process only takes a couple of minutes per eye. The rest of the time will be spent preparing and ensuring that you are comfortable. Anesthetic eye drops are given to patients before their procedure so that the entire process is pain-free. If you are particularly anxious, it may also be possible for you to be slightly sedated – this should be discussed with your doctor at your consultation appointment.
Once you are in position, we will use a femtosecond laser to cut a thin, circular flap into the outer cornea. This can then be pulled back to reveal the underlying corneal tissue, known as the stroma so that it can be reshaped using the laser. The exact path that the laser needs to take, known as the topography, will have been pre-programmed ahead of the procedure and can be followed with complete precision and accuracy.
Once the reshaping is complete, the flap is replaced back over the eye and the surgery is complete. There is no need for sutures or bandages as the cornea will start to heal immediately and without any medical intervention.
If you already rely on wearing glasses or contact lenses to be able to see clearly, you may be frustrated with the effect that they have on your life. Regular vision tests, finding glasses to suit your face shape, having to remember to take eyeglasses with you wherever you go, prescription sunglasses, fiddly contact lenses… the list of inconveniences associated with conventional ocular solutions is extensive.
LASIK is a modern, minimally-invasive procedure that can substantially reduce or eliminate your need to use eyeglasses or contact lenses, allowing you to enjoy life without limitations or inconvenience. The popularity and success of LASIK laser eye surgery have helped to make it the number one elective surgery across the globe.
Candidacy for LASIK
LASIK has an extremely high success rate. According to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, 96% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better. However, it’s high success rate doesn’t make LASIK automatically the right solution for everyone.
Candidacy for LASIK is assessed by our doctors on a case by case basis so that you be certain that whatever treatment is recommended for you, it will give you the very best opportunity to improve your vision. During your consultation, our doctors will perform a thorough examination of your eyes and vision, ask you about your general health and talk you through both the procedure and aftercare.
The general guidelines for LASIK candidacy state that patients must:
be at least 18 years of age
have had stable vision with no prescription changes for a minimum of 12 months
have a current prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses that falls between specified parameters (Our doctors will be aware of what these parameters are)
have no significant medical or eye-related problems such as glaucoma, macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy
have no history of corneal disease
not be pregnant or nursing at the time of the procedure
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