LASIK and Eye Surgery Blog - Clearview Eye and Laser Medical Center

The IntraLase laser for LASIK

2010-03-06T17:36:00.000-08:00

For many years patients with corneas that were too thin or too steep were not considered candidates for LASIK surgery. With the introduction of the Intralase method, many of these patients can now safely have LASIK.

The traditional LASIK procedure began when the corneal flap was created using a microkeratome, an oscillating surgical blade, by the surgeon. This technique produced a one-dimensional flap at a set thickness. Research showed that by customizing the corneal flap to match the patient’s exact needs contributed to a better surgical outcome, which lead to the development of the Intralase method.

Now a femtosecond laser is used to create the corneal flap. Using the 3-D map of the eye generated by the WaveScan system, Dr. Sandy T. Feldman is able to determine the exact thickness and diameter of the corneal flap for each patient. During the Intralase procedure, a rapid laser light pulse is used to create microscopic bubbles on the surface of the cornea at a preset depth in about 10-15 seconds. Dr. Feldman then carefully separates the corneal tissue to reveal the LASIK treatment area. Once this LASIK procedure is completed, the corneal flap is carefully folded back into place where it acts as a natural bandage and aids in healing. Click here to see a video featuring Dr. Feldman explaining the iLASIK and Intralase procedure.

To find out more about LASIK in Rancho Santa Fe and IntraLase, contact our San Diego office.

Why do I need a WaveScan before having LASIK?

2010-03-04T14:41:00.000-08:00

A La Jolla LASIK patient recently asked why the WaveScan was done before LASIK. The WaveScan wavefront system was developed to scan and map the unique topography of a patient’s eye to determine a personalized vision correction treatment plan.

Based on the technology used to develop high-powered telescopes, the WaveScan method is 25 times more accurate that the phoropter, a traditional optical device which has been used for more than 150 years to determine a patient’s prescription.

Dr. Sandy T. Feldman reviews each WaveScan map before transferring the information the to VISX excimer laser. The scan is then used as a guide to reshape the cornea so the patient will have excellent, precise vision. Click here to learn more about the WaveScan and iLASIK procedure.

For more information or questions on the WaveScan method or on laser vision correction, contact our ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center offices in San Diego.

San Diego's Corneal Expert, Dr. Sandy T. Feldman

2010-02-28T10:35:00.000-08:00

LASIK, also known as Laser Assisted in Situ Keratommileusis, is a popular procedure millions of people around the world have had done to eliminate or reduce their need for glasses or contact lenses. San Diego LASIK surgery patients trust their vision correction needs to corneal expert Dr. Sandy T. Feldman.

Dr. Feldman has treated many vision correction patients from Mission Valley, Del Mar and throughout San Diego at her Clearview Eye and Laser Medical Center office. The renowned eye surgeon is known as the doctor’s doctor because she has performed refractive surgery on more than 100 doctors and medical colleagues. She is the University of California, San Diego’s former director of refractive surgery and the past president of San Diego County’s Ophthalmological Society. Dr. Feldman specializes in LASIK, PRK, Cataract and Implantable Contact Lens procedures. Click here to see an interview with Dr. Feldman and hear from one of her many patients.

To schedule a complimentary vision correction consultation with Dr. Feldman, contact our office today.

LASIK, the Basics

2010-02-27T20:18:00.000-08:00

During LASIK, Dr. Sandy T. Feldman gently reshapes the cornea with an excimer laser to correct the patient's vision and to reduce or eliminate the need to wear contacts or glasses.

This simple vision correction procedure is an effective treatment for patients with myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism and presbyopia. Alternative vision correction surgeries for patients who are not candidates for LASIK include PRK, LASEK and Implantable Contact Lenses.

Prior to surgery, the patient will need to undergo a thorough consultation with the ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center team where a number of test and measurements are taken in order to determine the precise amount of laser correction needed. On surgery day, the patient's eyes are re-examined and any last minute measurements and testing is done before the eyes are anesthetized.

The LASIK procedure begins by creating the corneal flap using the IntraLase method. The corneal flap is folded back and the cornea is exposed so the excimer laser treatment can begin. The laser reshapes the cornea to precisely correct the patient's vision based on their individual prescription. The corneal flap is folded back into place, where it serves as a natural bandage as the eye heals. Click here to learn more about LASIK.

For more information about La Jolla LASIK or to schedule a complimentary vision correction consultation, contact our office.

Astigmatism Can be Treated with LASIK surgery

2010-02-26T21:41:00.000-08:00

Just the other day we had a patient from Poway asking if LASIK is an option for people with astigmatism.

Astigmatism is a common visual condition that creates blurry or fuzzy vision. Normally, the cornea of the eye is round. However, some patient’s corneas have more of an oval or “football” shape. This is caused when the two different curves, a steeper curve and flatter curve, affect the surface of the cornea and cause some light rays to focus correctly on the retina, while other rays do not.

During the laser vision correction procedure, Dr. Sandy T. Feldman, one of San Diego’s top LASIK surgeons, removes a small amount of corneal tissue to reshape the cornea so it is round and curved more like a basketball in order to improve the patient’s vision.

We treat numerous astigmatic patients each year with laser vision correction at our San Diego office. Contact the ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center team to schedule your complimentary vision correction consultation.

What is nearsightedness?

2010-02-25T22:18:00.000-08:00

Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, is a common visual conditional where patients can see things clearly up close, but objects are blurry at a distance. When you are nearsighted your cornea is steeper than normal causing light rays to bend too much and focus in front of the retina instead on the retina.

During a San Diego LASIK procedure, Dr. Sandy T. Feldman uses the Visx laser to remove a small amount of tissue near the center of the cornea to slightly flatten the area allowing light rays to focus on the retina for good vision. Click here to see how Dr. Feldman corrected one nearsighted patient's vision with LASIK.

To schedule a complimentary vision correction consultation or learn more about laser vision correction in San Diego, contact our office.

iLASIK for Advanced Laser Vision Correction in La Jolla

2010-02-18T21:58:00.000-08:00

The iLASIK procedure combines two lasers, the IntraLase and the Advanced CustomVue lasers, for one technically advanced, customizable vision correction treatment, which is now available for LASIK patients in La Jolla and all over San Diego.

This safe and precise treatment is fast becoming the LASIK treatment of choice. Research has shown that about 98% of iLASIK patients who low or moderately nearsighted achieve 20/20 vision. Military studies reported that about 90% of Naval pilot saw better for aircraft carrier landings. And, some 90% of military marksman shown improved skills after their vision correction procedure.

To find out if iLASIK is right for you, contact us for a complimentary vision correction consultation.

Can I have LASIK if I am farsighted?

2010-02-10T20:57:00.000-08:00

A patient is farsighted when they can see things at a distance well, but close up objects look fuzzy or blurry. This vision condition happens because the cornea of the eye is too flat and as rays of light enter the eye they do no bend like they should as they come into focus behind the retina.

Dr. Feldman has treated numerous patients for farsightedness with LASIK at her Mission Valley offices in San Diego. To correct farsightedness, small areas are removed at the edge of the cornea. This makes the cornea steeper and allows for light rays to bend more, giving the patient clear vision.

To schedule a complimentary vision consultation, contact us.

iLASIK, a Personalized Laser Vision Correction Procedure in San Diego

2010-02-08T09:19:00.000-08:00

Many of our patients who are interested in having vision correction in San Diego have questions about iLASIK procedure. iLASIK combines the best diagnostic and laser systems for a truly personal vision correction procedure.

Using the Wavescan wavefront system, a 3-D digital map is generated of the patient’s cornea. This unique map of the eye is like a fingerprint and is used to precisely guide the laser during the vision correction procedure. Before the lasik procedure begins, the IntraLase laser is used to create a corneal flap. Then the Advanced CustomVue procedure is done to gently reshape the cornea for clean crisp vision. Click here to preview an iLASIK procedure.

To find out more about iLASIK or to schedule a complimentary consultation, contact our office.

Are you a candidate for LASIK surgery?

2010-01-31T09:38:00.000-08:00

More than 17 million people worldwide have had LASIK surgery making it one of the most popular elective surgeries. But, how do you know if you are a good candidate for LASIK surgery? At the ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center in San Diego, our team starts by conducting a thorough examination including a comprehensive medical history. (Click here to see a video of the LASIK procedure.)

In addition, a good LASIK candidate will:
• Be 21 years old or older
• Have a stable vision prescription
• Be willing to stop wearing soft or hard contact lenses for the recommended period of time in order for their eyes to stabilize before surgery
• Not have any eye or systemic abnormalities that may affect healing

So if you are from Carmel Mountain Ranch, Black Mountain Summit Run or anywhere in the San Diego area and would like to find out more about LASIK surgery or to schedule a complimentary consultation, contact us today.

Understanding Cataract Surgery and Intraocular Lens Options in San Diego

2010-01-29T18:49:00.000-08:00

Cataracts are very common, in fact by age 80 more than half all Americans have had or have a cataract according to the National Eye Institute. At ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center, renown refractive surgeon Dr. Sandy T. Feldman specializes in treating cataract patients in Del Mar, Mission Valley and all over San Diego.

Dr. Feldman removes a cataract by making a very small incision in the eye and using an ultrasonic probe to dissolve and break up the cloudy natural lens. The pieces are carefully removed, leaving the membrane of the lens intact so the new intraocular lens can be placed in the eye.

The intraocular lens is a synthetic lens designed to mimic the natural function of the lens of the eye. A traditional intraocular lens gives patient good single vision, also known as monofocal vision. With a traditional intraocular lens, the patient has good distance vision, but may need glasses for reading or near vision. An advanced intraocular lens is designed to give patients good distance and near vision, allowing for less dependence on glasses. ClearView has several intraocular lenses available, which allows patients to choose the best lens for their lifestyle.

For questions on cataract surgery or intraocular lenses, contact the ClearView team at our offices in San Diego.

Defining the Different Type of Cataracts in San Diego

2010-01-23T17:05:00.000-08:00

Cataracts are a common vision condition with more than 1.5 million cataract surgeries performed in the US every year. As cataracts develop the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy and vision become obscured and blurry.

While cataracts are common, there are different types of cataracts and they include:

• Nuclear cataracts – A nuclear cataract forms in the center or nucleus of the lens of the eye. They can commonly develop as patients age.

• Cortical cataracts – cortical cataracts develop in the cortex, or outside of the eye’s lens as the cataract gets larger it extends inward. Cortical cataracts are common with diabetic patients.

• Subcapsular cataracts – a subcapsular cataract develops at the back of the lens and is common in patients who take steroid medications, have diabetes, farsightedness or retinitis pigmentosa.

For more information on cataracts and surgery treatment available in Carmel Valley and throughout San Diego, contact us.

Surgical and Non-Surgical Treatments for Cataracts

2010-01-21T15:05:00.000-08:00

Cataracts are a common visual issue, in fact, some 20.5 million Americans aged 40 and over have cataracts and by age 80 more than half all Americans have had a cataract, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. A cataract forms in the natural lens of the eye when the protein component of the eye clusters together forming a cloudy area, affecting the patient’s vision.

Today, there are many surgical and non-surgical options for treating cataracts. When cataracts are small or just developed and they do not seriously impact a patient’s vision, they can be treated with bifocals and prescription glasses.

As cataracts develop further, patients may need to consider cataract surgery where the natural, clouded lens is removed and an intraocular lens is implanted in the eye. Dr. Feldman offers several types of intraocular lenses to treat cataracts. For more information on the different cataract treatment available in San Diego, contact our office.

San Diego Residents ask: What are Cataracts and How do they Form?

2010-01-17T11:23:00.000-08:00

At ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center, we treat many cataract patients from Del Mar, Mission Valley and all over San Diego. A common question cataract patients ask is what are cataracts and how do they form.

We start by explaining how the eye works. The lens of the eye works much like a camera’s lens works. As light enters the eye, the lens focuses the light onto the retina so you are able to see objects clearly both close by and far away.

As we age, the protein component of the lens may begin to clump together and form what looks like a cloudy area. This cloudy area is called a cataract and as the area expands it becomes harder for you to see clearly.

It is not yet known why the natural lens of the eye changes as we age or why cataracts develop. However, research has found that certain cataract risk factors in recent years. Some factors include:

• Exposure to ultraviolet light, radiation and/or air pollution
• The use of steroid medications
• Diabetes
• Diets high in salt
• Smoking and/or heavy drinking

If you have questions on cataracts or cataract surgery, contact us at ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center or become a fan of ours on Facebook.

Treating Nearsightedness with Implantable Contact Lenses

2010-01-16T09:04:00.000-08:00

At the ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center, Dr. Sandy T. Feldman meets with patients from Solano Beach, Poway and all over San Diego who are looking to get rid of their glasses or contact lenses with laser vision correction. However, while not all patients are candidates for LASIK surgery, other options are available. For example, patients that are moderately to highly nearsighted may be good candidates for Implantable Contact Lenses.

A good Implantable Contact Lens candidate will:

• Suffer from moderate to severe nearsightedness
• Does not qualify for or want to have LASIK or another laser vision correction procedure like PRK [photorefractive keratectomy]
• Has a stable prescription and healthy eyes
• Is between the ages of 21 and 45
• Has not had previous ophthalmic surgery
• Does not have a history of eye disease such as iritis, glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy.

To learn more about the implantable contact lens procedure, click here to watch an informative video. For additional questions on the Implantable Contact Lens procedure or to schedule a complimentary vision correction consultation, contact us.

Understanding the Implantable Contact Lens Procedure in San Diego

2010-01-10T10:42:00.000-08:00

With the growling popularity of implantable contact lenses as a solution for nearsightedness, many patients have questions about the procedure itself.

Many patients have questions about the procedure itself. According to Dr. Sandy T. Feldman, the implantable lens procedure is quick, taking about 15-20 minutes to complete, and is painless. Anesthetic eye drops are used prior to surgery to numb the eye. During the procedure, a tiny incision is made in the eye and the lens carefully placed either behind or in front of the iris of the eye. Most patients do not feel the lens once it is placed.

For many patients, the implantable contact lens allows them to see without the need for glasses or contact lenses, click here to see a video about the procedure. The implantable contact lens procedure is a great option for patients who are highly nearsighted and may not be candidates for LASIK surgery. Some 95% of patients report seeing 20/40 or better with this procedure.

To see if vision correction surgery is right for you? Contact ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center to schedule a complimentary consultation today.

Implantable Contact Lenses, A Vision Correction Option for Nearsightedness in Carmel Valley

2010-01-07T12:01:00.000-08:00

An Implantable Contact Lens (ICL), also called a phakic intraocular lens implant, is a vision correction treatment option for patients that are nearsighted. The lens resembles a traditional contact lens, but it is surgically implanted in the eye during a quick, out-patient procedure. The intraocular lens is surgically placed either in front of or behind the iris of the eye, depending on the type of lens being used.

One of the benefits of having the implantable contact lens procedure is the convenience factor. Patients no longer have to worry about contact lens solutions and supplies or misplacing their glasses or prescription sunglasses. And, active patients can enjoy swimming, scuba diving and other sports without worrying about losing a contact lens. To see a video about the procedure, click here.

To find out more about the implantable contact lens procedure or other vision correction options, contact the ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center team for a complimentary consultation.

Resolving to have Great Vision in San Diego

2009-12-31T17:23:00.000-08:00

Resolve to have great vision in the new year. The ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center team can help you find the best vision correction solution for you, whether it is LASIK, PRK, Implantable Contact Lens or Cataract surgery.

Dr Sandy T. Feldman and the ClearView team are committed to delivering the best in patient care as they educate their patients on the different vision correction options available. During your consultation, you will tour the ClearView center, have a thorough eye evaluation and meet with Dr. Feldman, one of San Diegoís best LASIK and cataract surgeons.

To find out if vision correction is right for you, contact us for a complimentary consultation. The ClearView offices are conveniently located near Carmel Valley and La Jolla in San Diego and evening and Saturday appointments are available.

PRK or Advanced Surface Ablation, another Laser Vision Correction Option in San Diego

2009-12-29T13:48:00.000-08:00

Advanced Surface Ablation, also called PRK or photorefractive keratectomy, is another laser vision correction option at ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center. Like LASIK, ASA delivers clear, crisp vision especially when paired with custom procedures.

During the ASA procedure, a laser is used to carefully reshape the cornea directly on the surface of the eye. This differs from the LASIK procedure where a corneal flap is created prior to the laser treatment. ASA is often recommended for patients who have corneas that are too thin for LASIK.

For more information or to schedule a complimentary laser vision correction evaluation, contact us.

Give Your Eyes a Gift for the Holidays, a Healthy Diet

2009-12-23T16:53:00.000-08:00

Some ten million Americans are diagnosed with Age-Related Macular Degeneration annually. The eye disease continues to be one of the leading causes of vision loss for people 65 and older in the US. As researchers continue to search for the cure for macular degeneration, they have found that what we eat can help keep our eyes healthy, slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration or even reduce the risk of having this serious eye condition.

Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, such as Vitamins A, C, and E, and essential fatty acids, which can be found in fish, nuts and leafy greens, can protect help to protect our eyes from disease, according to Dr. Sandy T. Feldman. So this holiday, try a serving of sweet-potato and carrot soup or one of the other special, eye-healthy recipes found here.

To learn more about a healthy diet for your eyes click on Clearview Eye and Laser Medical Center’s Feast Your Eyes On This page. For questions on eye health, contact our office.

The perfect San Diego holiday gift - the Gift of Sight

2009-12-19T15:53:00.000-08:00

Searching for the perfect present for the glasses or contact lens wearer on your list, the ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center team has a very special gift idea – a gift certificate for vision correction surgery.

With so many vision correction options available for near-sighted, farsighted and even astigmatic patients, our team is highly trained to identify the right option for our patients. So this you consider giving the gift of great vision! Click here to see some vision correction videos from our Facebook page.

Interested finding out more about giving laser vision correction as a gift this holiday season, contact us for more information.

iLASIK Revolutionizes LASIK in La Jolla

2009-12-14T21:59:00.000-08:00

iLASIK, also known as the all laser method of LASIK vision correction, is a revolution in LASIK surgery. Representing a decade’s worth of technological advancements, the laser vision correction procedure is safer and more precise than ever before.

The iLASIK procedure begins with a thorough examination by the ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center team. Using the WaveScan wavefront system, a 3-D blueprint of the patient’s visual imperfections is made and transferred to the Excimer laser.

Two lasers are used to customize the patient’s treatment during the LASIK procedure. The IntraLase laser is used to create the corneal flap. The VISX Excimer laser is then used to gently reshape the cornea for precise vision.

With iLASIK, no two people get the same treatment and almost all patients achieve 20/20 vision, studies have shown that 98% have 20/20 vision or better in low to moderately nearsighted individuals with or without astigmatism.

LASIK in La Jolla and all over San Diego just got better. To find out more about iLASIK or to schedule a complimentary vision correction evaluation, contact us.

WaveFront-Guided LASIK for your Personalized Prescription in Mission Valley

2009-12-13T19:16:00.000-08:00

LASIK surgery is the one of the most common elective surgery performed today. The laser vision correction procedure allows many patients with myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism a way to eliminate their need to wear glasses or contact lenses.

Wavefront-Guided LASIK, also known as Custom LASIK, further enhances the laser vision correction procedure by combining the WaveScan wavefront system with the LASIK procedure.

During the WaveScan procedure, the patient’s eyes are measured and evaluated. A 3-D computer map of the eye is generated that outlines the individual characteristics of the patient’s eyes. The WaveScan information is transferred to the laser, allowing Dr. Sandy T. Feldman to precisely correct the patient’s vision based on his or her own unique prescription.

Dr. Feldman has treated thousands of patients in Carmel Valley, Del Mar, Mission Valley and throughout San Diego County. To find out if LASIK is right for you, contact the Clearview Eye and Laser Medical Center for a complimentary consultation.

Your Flex Plan Funds Can be Used for Vision Correction Surgery in San Diego

2009-12-11T17:31:00.000-08:00

With 2009 quickly coming to an end, it is important not to forget to spend your Flex Plan dollars. The ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center team can help determine if your flexible spending account can be used for LASIK, PRK or other vision correction procedures.

A Flexible Spending Account allows you to set aside a portion of your salary before taxes and use this account to pay for medical expenses not covered by insurance. When you pay for your medical expenses, your plan reimburses you. It is important to note that whatever funds are left in the account at the end of the year are forfeited.

So if you live or work in Mission Valley, Solana Beach, Del Mar or throughout San Diego County, contact ClearView to find out more about Flex Plan spending or to schedule a complimentary vision correction evaluation.

You Gotta See This Contest Ends Soon for San Diego Residents

2009-12-07T21:28:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that this is the last week to enter the iLASIK You Gotta See This contest.

Dr. Sandy T. Feldman, along with Abbott Medical Optics, is inviting you to enter your video in the contest for a chance to win up to $5,000 in cash. The video should explain how your less than good vision has affected your life or how the iLASIK laser vision correction procedure has improved your life. This contest is open to all patients from Poway to Solano Beach and all over San Diego county.

For more about the You Gotta See This contest, click here.