For patients who need cataract surgery done in both eyes, most doctors prefer to wait a few days between operating on the first eye and the second eye. But with the increasing popularity of procedures such as LASIK, during which many patients can have both eyes operated on in the same day, more and more people are asking, “Can you get cataract surgery for both eyes at once?”

The answer to this question isn’t straightforward for all practices. Learn why many doctors state that you shouldn’t get cataract surgery for both eyes at once, but others (including those at Eye Center of Texas) think you can and should. 

What if I want to get cataract surgery in both eyes at once…?

Patients who live far away from their doctor or who find that visiting doctors to be an intensely stressful experience have good reason to want cataract surgery performed on both eyes at once. In fact, the desire for same-day cataract surgeries on both eyes has gotten so popular that it has its own acronym: SBCS (simultaneous [or sequential] bilateral cataract surgery), also referred to as SB. 

Risk is the deterring factor for most doctors who are hesitant to perform SBCS. While cataract surgery is safe and complications from cataract surgery are rare, many doctors are wary that SBCS makes patients more vulnerable to eye infections, some of them potentially blinding. 

Another reason some doctors prefer to wait between surgeries is that doing so gives them the opportunity to make adjustments to the procedure on the second eye, which is based on the eye’s reaction to the first eye. Out of concern for the health of your eyes, ECOT still prefers to wait a bit between the two surgeries to ensure their success. 

How long do you have to wait between eyes for cataract surgery? 

The cataract surgery recovery time varies from patient to patient, but most people are able to adjust to their cataract-less vision in about two weeks. Your doctor will likely want sight from your first eye to recover before performing surgery on the second eye. Following best practices for post-operative cataract surgery care will minimize your recovery time. 

(For an example of best practices for post-operative cataract surgery, check out our article that answers the question, “When can I go swimming after cataract surgery?”) 

Can cataract surgery be repeated?

Because it requires the removal of your cloudy lens, cataract surgery cannot be reversed or repeated. That said, cataract surgery is one of the safest and most common types of surgery in the nation. However, if a patient discovers they have issues with their replacement lens, they can have their IOL adjusted or changed. For more information on IOLs, read our posts on cataract surgery and multifocal lens pros and cons, monofocal lens implants, and astigmatism-correcting lenses. 

What will happen if my cataract is left untreated? 

While the question, “Can you get cataract surgery for both eyes at once?” is still up for debate, most doctors will agree that you shouldn’t leave your cataracts untreated; untreated cataracts can lead to total blindness.

That said, not all types of cataract surgery are the same. Eye Center of Texas was one of the first centers to offer bladeless cataract surgery (which is the safest and most precise means of removing cataracts), and the center continues to be a pioneer in cataract surgery treatments. 

Considering cataract surgery in Houston? Have questions about cataract surgery costs? Over 300 Houston-area doctors choose to refer their patients to Eye Center of Texas for their vision needs. Call us today at 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today. 

Related Resources: 

• Protect Your Eyes in Summer
• What are Computer Glasses? (And Do You Need Them?)
• Cataract Stages – With Pictures
• Cataract Surgery Side Effects 
• Houston Eye Specialist 

Patients preparing for LASIK surgery often ask us, “How many times can you have LASIK?” While it’s natural to want all the information you can have when it comes to your vision, only 5% of patients consider getting additional laser surgery post-LASIK. 

LASIK is an incredibly safe and common procedure with permanent results. What follows is a brief overview of what circumstances might lead to the need for additional LASIK or LASIK enhancement surgery. 

Can LASIK eye surgery be repeated? 

Yes, most patients can undergo LASIK surgery multiple times. However, the answer to “How many times can you have LASIK?” changes from patient to patient, depending on the health and thickness of their corneas. 

Since most doctors opt to perform LASIK on patients who are over 18 and whose prescription has stabilized, most LASIK candidates don’t need additional LASIK treatment. This is because their eyesight won’t undergo many changes post-surgery. This fact is especially true of patients over the age of 40.

For the small percentage of clients whose vision does change after LASIK, enhancement procedures such as PRK after LASIK are available. 

In addition, doctors should warn patients with high prescriptions that they have a greater likelihood of needing additional treatment long before the surgery takes place. (Check out our post “Is my vision too bad for LASIK?” if you’re concerned that you might fit into this latter category.) 

Can LASIK be repeated years later? 

LASIK can be repeated from the end of the normal LASIK recovery timeline to many years after the surgery. Again, exactly how many times you can have LASIK will depend on the health and thickness of your cornea. 

Whether you anticipate needing additional LASIK or a LASIK enhancement, making sure that you follow through with all of the best practices while preparing for LASIK and during LASIK surgery post-operative care improves the likelihood of a successful first and second surgery.   

Is LASIK safe long-term? Can your vision get worse after LASIK?

The effects of LASIK surgery are permanent. Your LASIK can’t “wear off.” However, the health of your eye can change, which in turn can make your LASIK less effective. The vast majority of these eye health changes occur independently of your LASIK procedure — meaning they would likely have happened whether you chose to have LASIK or not.

For example, many people experience presbyopia (the hardening of your eye’s lens) as their eyes age and as they begin to wear reading glasses to make up for presbyopia-related vision loss. (Good news! Presbyopia, also known as near vision, can be treated.)  

Concerned about the safety of LASIK? Talk with the doctors at Eye Center of Texas. 

Around 95% of LASIK patients experience life-changing improvement in their vision after their first (and only) procedure. One way to ensure the success of your LASIK procedure is to go to a reputable LASIK surgeon. 

If you want the benefits of LASIK but are worried about the procedure, request an appointment at Eye Center of Texas, which is home to some of the best LASIK surgeons in Houston, Texas. Our team of professionals will walk you through the process step-by-step and take the time to answer any questions you may have. 

Don’t settle for the hassle of glasses and less-than-perfect vision. Call 713-395-1515 or request an appointment online to schedule a LASIK consultation today.

Related Resources: 

• Protect Your Eyes in Summer
• What are Computer Glasses? (And Do You Need Them?)
• Cataract Stages – With Pictures
• Cataract Surgery Side Effects 
• Houston Eye Specialist 

If someone close to you is going to have LASIK eye surgery on one or both of their eyes, it’s natural to want to help. Yet while there are plenty of resources out there that outline pre-op best practices and post-op LASIK recovery timelines, it’s harder to find a primer for someone who wants to help look after a recent LASIK patient.  

There’s actually a lot you can do to help care for someone who is about to have/has just had LASIK surgery, even when LASIK patients are able to return to (most) activities 24 hours after the surgery.  

Here are some of our favorite recommendations for ways to make the LASIK experience (even) easier. Of course, these tips are also helpful if it’s you who is having LASIK done and you’re looking for some ways to make the experience as smooth as possible.

1. Research LASIK surgeons in your area and familiarize yourself with the LASIK process

If your friend/partner has just begun their LASIK journey, you would not be remiss in helping them research their LASIK options. Research the best LASIK surgeons in Houston by reading the reviews, checking their years of experience, and making note of their accreditations, awards, etc.

After your loved one has their consultation, learn whether or not their vision is too bad for LASIK, and schedules a surgery date. Learn the answers to the following questions: What are the precautions to take after LASIK eye surgery? What can you NOT do after LASIK? What eye drops can you use after LASIK?

By taking the time to know a little bit (or a lot) about LASIK best practices, you may be able to put your loved one’s mind at ease on the day of the surgery, especially if they’re feeling nervous. The following materials will help you beef up on your LASIK knowledge:

• LASIK FAQs
• LASIK Surgery Prep
• Can I swim after LASIK?
• Things to avoid after LASIK

2. Pre-purchase extra eye drops

A doctor will prescribe medicinal eye drops for before and after LASIK surgery, but almost all patients experience some level of dry eye after they no longer need to take those medicinal eye drops. Having a box of preservative-free eyedrops on-hand for when that time comes can save your loved one an inconvenient, dry-eyed trip to the convenience store.

3. Pre-purchase Tylenol PM or an equivalent medicine

LASIK patients are recommended to sleep as much as possible the day of their LASIK procedure. While the Valium that most doctors give their patients pre-op will likely knock them out for a few hours after the operation, many patients have noted needing a little extra help getting to sleep later in the day.

4.  Pre-purchase and prepare meals

Since patients are told to keep their eyes closed as much as possible the day of the surgery, it’s wise to have meals pre-purchased and, if possible, prepared. (The latter is especially true if the patients will be spending some of the recovery time alone.) If the patient has young kids, taking this additional step will be extra helpful when you’re short a pair of helping hands at mealtimes.

One final pro tip for your post-LASIK kitchen life: Now is the time to use all of those paper plates you’ve had lying around since last Halloween and all the pre-wrapped plasticware from takeout that you have shoved in the back of your utensil drawer.

5. Pre-purchase/rent entertainment that doesn’t require visuals

Noticing a theme? Many post-LASIK care tips involve a little bit of prep, and this is especially true of entertainment for the day of the surgery. LASIK surgery often takes place in the morning, it’s recommended that patients keep their eyes closed for the first 24 hours after surgery. That means they’ll be spending the entire day with their eyes closed — and if they can’t sleep, sitting in the dark can get really boring really quickly.

We recommend getting pre-purchasing entertainment that doesn’t involve the heavy use of screens. Popular options include podcasts, audiobooks, and music. If you want to go analog, you could also just read out loud to the person who just had LASIK.

Slightly more eccentric suggestions include “listening” to a movie you’ve seen a million times so that you can visualize it OR “listening” to a movie you’ve seen a million times… but in a language that you’re trying to learn!

6. Make plans for phone use

Patients should avoid looking at screens for the first 24 hours after LASIK, including phone screens. If they are comfortable with it, you can read their texts for them or, if they have an iPhone, they can have Siri read their messages to them.

The next day, using your phone after LASIK is permitted (although we do advise continued avoidance of screens). If your friend/partner need to use their phone, they may find some relief by making their phone’s text size bigger and by turning down the screen’s brightness.  

7. Provide support the morning of the surgery

Even the most stoic of patients may feel a little nervous the morning of their procedure. For some patients, just having a friendly face nearby may help relieve stress and make the difference between a frazzled pre-op experience and a smooth one.

Other patients may want to have someone who will remind them to bring everything they need, eat, take a shower (to avoid getting water in their eyes later on), and wear comfortable clothes (so that they can go to sleep right after the surgery).

8. Provide transportation

Your friend/partner will, at the very least, need a ride home from the clinic after their surgery; they won’t be able to open their eyes to drive, and Eye Center of Texas will not release a patient to a taxi driver (including Lyft and Uber). That said, most patients prefer to bring someone who will be there throughout the whole procedure. Since the surgery takes only 5 minutes per eye, you won’t be in the waiting room for long!

9. Help keep track of their eye drop schedule

An eye surgeon should prescribe at least one (probably two) types of eye drops that must be taken at various times on the day of the surgery, as well as in the following days. Since the LASIK surgery participant will be sleeping often on the day of the procedure, patients have found it helpful to have someone nearby to make sure that they wake up at the appropriate times and use the appropriate drops. Helping them pre-set alarms can also be helpful.

10. Help with the pets and/or kids  

Does the LASIK patient’s dog need to be taken outside? Does their cat need its litter box cleaned? Do their children need to be picked up from school? Are either the children or the pets mischievous enough to get into or chew up eye drop bottles? Has everyone been fed? Time to chip in!

11. Help with the dishes

If you didn’t want to use the paper plates and plastic utensils mentioned in tip #4, doing your loved one’s dishes can be a huge help. Not only will it help them keep water from getting into their eyes, but it will allow them to continue to rest as well.

12. Encourage rest, rest, and more rest!

At Eye Center of Texas, we are frequently asked, “How can I heal faster after LASIK?” The recovery time for LASIK is extremely short, but for the best healing results, we recommend lots of rest, preferably with your eyes closed. It can be tempting for some LASIK patients to spend a “quick 5 minutes” on their phone the day after the procedure, only to then realize that they’ve been on it for an hour.

So if you’re looking for one big way to help your friend/partner recover from LASIK, perhaps the best thing you can do is to encourage them to relax and enable them to rest until at least 24 hours has passed.

13. Make note of follow-up appointments

This one is more for the spouses and partners of LASIK patients, but it’s still worth mentioning. Your doctor should schedule a one day, one week, and one-month follow-up for your LASIK procedure. These follow-ups allow the surgeon to monitor the progression of the LASIK patient’s recovery and the overall health of their eyes.

14. Celebrate the little things!

Each LASIK patient will begin to see better at their own pace. Some patients can see more clearly immediately after the surgery, and others notice a difference after they wake up the next morning.

And when excitement about the “big change” wears off, know that you and your loved one will continue to celebrate the little things now that they are glasses and contacts free. Walking in the rain? No problem! Taking the lid off of a pot that will steam? Sure! Wearing non-prescription sunglasses to the beach? Finally!

Eye Center of Texas provides top-quality care for our LASIK patients

Electing to have LASIK surgery is a big step in someone’s life. Now, when someone starts asking themselves, “Am I candidate for LASIK?” you’ll know exactly what to do if the answer is yes. And you’ll also know exactly who to call for your LASIK needs. The professionals at Eye Center of Texas are here to answer any questions.

To get started on your journey towards better vision, give us a call at 713-395-1515 or request an appointment online today!

Most doctors recommend using preservative-free eye drops after LASIK eye surgery. That’s because dealing with dry eyes is a pretty standard part of post-operative care for LASIK eye surgery. But why exactly should you use preservative-free eye drops after LASIK surgery, as opposed to other types of eye drops?

Discover the ins and outs of using eye drops after LASIK surgery and why preservative-free eye drops are your best choice.

Why should you use preservative free eye drops after LASIK?

You don’t technically have to use preservative-free eye drops, but preservative-free eye drops are definitely the best artificial tears to use after LASIK in terms of what’s best for your eye health.

Some companies use preservatives in their eyedrops to prevent a deterioration of the artificial tear and to keep your eyes free from contamination. While that may sound good on the outset, those same preservatives are toxic to your eye and cause irritation and inflammation.

Recently, some companies have begun selling drops that claim to be “preservative free on contact.” These companies argue that the toxins in the preservative disappear quickly enough to not affect the eye. In reality, the dissipation of the toxins in these drops relies on several factors (ambient light, for example), and if any of these factors is missing, the toxins remain in your eye.

In short, the toxins in eye drops with preservatives can undo the healing and relief you’re trying to achieve. Since your eyes are especially sensitive post-op, truly preservative-free eye drops are the best artificial tears after LASIK.

How often should I use artificial tears after LASIK?

Let’s say you’ve read our post on how to prepare for LASIK and have diligently gone out and gotten the preservative-free eye drops after LASIK. Now what?

Every eye patient is different, but most patients will receive prescription eye drops to take directly before and after their LASIK surgery. After the first day, you can use preservative-free eye drops after LASIK as much as you would like. The standard recommended usage is 4 times a day.

How long after LASIK can I stop using eye drops?

We are often asked how long to use preservative-free eye drops after LASIK. Our typical answer? It depends. Every LASIK patient experiences different levels of dryness and can use preservative-free eye drops after LASIK until the dryness abates. However, if you experience extreme and persistent dryness, do bring it to the attention of your doctor.  

If you plan on wearing contacts after LASIK, note that there are also types of contacts that can help reduce dryness!

Depend on Eye Center of Texas for all your LASIK questions & needs

Using preservative-free eye drops after LASIK surgery is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to best practices for pre- and post-op LASIK eye surgery care. Here at Eye Center of Texas, you will receive not only some of the best LASIK in Houston, but some of the best tips and advice, too.

With over 75,000 successful LASIK procedures to our name, you can rest assured that your vision is in good hands at Eye Center of Texas. Call us at 713-395-1515 or request an appointment online today for a LASIK consultation.

Over the years, we’ve noticed that one question, in particular, seems to come up often during our LASIK consultations: Does the corneal flap heal after LASIK?

While the informed answer to that question has some nuances (which we’ll cover here), the essential answer is: Yes. In fact, the LASIK flap dislocation percentage is less than one half of 1%.

If you’re a LASIK candidate and follow through with the standard post-operative care for LASIK eye surgery, chances are that the only thing you’ll have to worry about is after LASIK is what type of fancy non-prescription sunglasses you’re going to buy.

Now let’s get to why that’s true.

Why is there confusion about the corneal flap healing after LASIK?

Many people are afraid of putting contacts in their eyes, let alone electing to have LASIK eye surgery. Every few years, someone plays off of those fears and raises suspicion about the integrity of the LASIK procedure.

One of the more recent scares concerned whether or not the corneal flap actually heals. As this rumor was perpetuated, the subtleties of the corneal flaps healing process (which we’ll get into in a moment) were only partially or incorrectly explained.

The surgeons at Eye Center of Texas have performed over 75,000 successful LASIK surgeries. They can and do attest to the fact that the surgery is perhaps the safest and most researched elective surgeries available.

But you don’t have to take our word for it. After conducting many studies (including this one) the U.S. military decided that LASIK was so beneficial to a soldiers’ performance that they’ve had the procedure performed on hundreds of thousands of U.S. military personnel.

How do your eyes heal after LASIK?

Alright, so how does the corneal flap heal after LASIK? The corneal flap heals in different ways at different parts of the flap. We’ve broken it down for you here:

• Epithelial layer: Your epithelium is the very, very thin layer found on the surface of the cornea. It begins healing almost immediately after the flap has been replaced and is the reason that you don’t feel a “line” between the flap and the rest of your eye.
• Stroma: Your stroma is what makes up most of your cornea’s mass. Stromal healing takes place along thickest parts of the flap’s edges.
• Bottom layer: Here is where the recent round of, “Does the corneal flap heal after LASIK” originates. During the corneal flap’s healing process, the bottom layer of the flap does not “join” with the surface underneath it… which is actually a very good thing. If it did, you’d be stuck with an opaque layer of collagen that would do the exact opposite of what LASIK is supposed to do: improve your sight.  

If you’re thinking, “That’s all well and good, but how long does it take the flap to heal after LASIK?” rest assured. Your corneal flap begins healing immediately after the surgery. It will be mostly healed after 24 hours after your procedure. For more information about healing times, check out our post on the LASIK recovery timeline.

How do I know if my corneal flap moved?

Let’s get down to the direct questions. Can the flap be moved after LASIK? And if so, how can you tell if it’s moved? Like any surgery, LASIK surgery does come with risks. After the first day of healing your flap can move, but only under extreme circumstances. Check out a timeline to learn more about LASIK recovery.

What do we mean by extreme circumstances? Let’s say a LASIK patient is involved in a high-impact accident on or around their eyes. In this case, there is a small but real chance that the flap can move.

Now let’s say you accidentally rubbed your eyes a few days after LASIK, and you’re concerned that you’ve moved the flap. In this case, it’s extraordinarily unlikely that your flap will move.

Here’s a general rule to live by with regard to corneal flap dislocation: If you’re not sure whether or not your corneal flap has moved, then your corneal flap has not moved. In the very unlikely event of corneal flap dislocation, patients will feel immediate pain and should seek emergency treatment.

Why would I need reading glasses after LASIK?

LASIK surgery addresses refractive errors in your vision: nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Standard LASIK procedure does not address presbyopia, which is the hardening of the eye that’s a natural part of your eye’s aging process. That’s why some LASIK patients will eventually need to wear glasses to read as they get older.

Patients concerned about presbyopia (also known as near vision) can find more helpful information in our posts on LASIK eye surgery for presbyopia and resource page for additional presbyopia solutions.

See clearly again at Eye Center of Texas

Have other questions like, “Does the corneal flap heal after LASIK?” We’re here to help. Eye Center of Texas is known for providing some of the best LASIK in Houston. As we mentioned earlier, our surgeons have successfully restored the vision of over 75,000 patients (and counting!) with LASIK.

Come see why over 300 eye doctors refer their patients to Eye Center of Texas. Call us at 713-395-1515 or request an appointment online today for a LASIK consultation.

Cataracts come with a slew of frustrating symptoms, but can cataracts cause headaches?

While it’s very unlikely that your headache stems from cataracts, cataracts can indirectly cause headaches. In these cases, having your cataracts treated by a Houston cataracts specialist may provide some relief from your headaches.

Explore how cataracts can cause headaches, learn more about early signs of cataracts, and discover which eye conditions are the likely culprits behind headaches.

How can cataracts cause headaches?

OK, so how can cataracts cause headaches, even indirectly? Your body often tries to compensate for vision loss due to cataracts. In some cases, it can do so in ways that can create headaches. Specifically, you may squint to improve your focus or, conversely, raise your brows to let in more light. Both of these reactions can create headaches.

Additionally, when your cataracts are bad enough to negatively affect your vision, they may change the efficacy of your glasses, leading to a headache as your eye works harder to see.

Can cataracts cause ocular migraines?

No, cataracts do not cause ocular migraines. Ocular migraines are caused by a reduction in blood flow in the blood vessels of the eye. While ocular migraines may result in blurred vision that’s not entirely dissimilar to the blurred vision caused by cataracts, the blurred vision caused by ocular migraines should subside along with the migraine.

What are the typical cataract symptoms?

Are you concerned that you may have cataracts? If so, you may be wondering, “What is the first sign of cataracts?” Cataract symptoms vary from person-to-person, but you’re more likely to experience any of the following symptoms long before you experience a cataract-induced headache:

• Blurred, cloudy, or double vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Fading or yellowing of colors
• Frequent prescription changes  
• Halos
• Light sensitivity

Exhibit none of these symptoms? Good! Maintain your good eye health and brush up on how to avoid cataracts.

What eye conditions do cause headaches?

While it’s unlikely that your headaches are caused by cataracts, there are other eye problems that are more likely to induce headaches:

• Angle-closure glaucoma
• Eye strain
• Ocular migraines
• Presbyopia (near vision)  

Expert Cataract treatment in Houston

Can cataracts cause headaches? While the answer may be “rarely,” that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. The best way to find out if your headaches are caused by cataracts is to visit a professional (especially if you notice that you’re struggling with other cataract symptoms).

The surgeons at Eye Center of Texas provide some of the best cataract treatment in Houston, including treatment for fast-growing cataracts. With over 800,000 successful laser eye surgery procedures for cataracts, there’s no doubt that you’re putting your vision and eye health in capable hands.

Ready to see clearly again? Call Eye Center of Texas 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today!                                                                                     

Related Resources:

• How to Protect Your Eyes in Summer
• What are Computer Glasses?
• Cataract Stages (Pictures)
• Cataract Surgery Side Effects
• Houston Cataract Treatment: Cataract Specialists Near You

Knowing how to protect your eyes during summer probably doesn’t top your list of summer plans; however, learning how to protect your eyes now means you’ll have good eye health for many summers to come. The following are simple, easy steps you can take to make sure your eyes remain in good condition.

1. Shield them from the sun

If you’re wondering how to protect your eyes during summer, the BEST thing you can do is to wear eye protection in all its various forms. This tip may seem like a no-brainer, but it never hurts to get a nudge from your friendly eye surgeon to wear eye protection. UV light eye damage increases your likelihood of cataracts and other vision problems.

• Wear sunglasses: Sunglasses should block at least 98% of UV rays. If you already wear glasses, consider prescription eyewear with sun protection.
• Wear a hat: The sides of sunglasses let in UV rays. A hat provides the extra protection.  Baseball caps, sombreros, fedoras… you name it, any hat with a brim that covers the front of your face protects not only your eyes but your whole face from the sun.
  

Remember that it’s never too early to start protecting your eyes. When in your life did you spend the most time outdoors? For most people, it was their childhood. Buy your kids some fun sunglasses or a wacky hat and encourage them to wear these items as much as you can.

2. Protect them from chemicals and contaminants

Make sure to protect your eyes from chemicals and contaminants. It might seem like another no-brainer suggestion on our list of tips on how to protect your eyes during summer, but it is still an important one. If anything, at least keep these specific instances in mind over the summer months:

• Wear goggles or sunglasses while at the beach: Sand, sun, and water are definitely the perfect summer combination … unless you happen to be an eyeball. Wearing sunglasses and goggles at the beach will make sure that sand stays far from your eyeballs.
• Wear goggles while swimming: We would never try to stop a Texan from taking a much-deserved dip in the pool, but we would encourage you to put on goggles before jumping off the high dive. Goggles will protect your eyes from chlorine and other contaminants floating around in pool water (especially public pool water).
• Wear protective goggles while completing summer projects: Plan on spending some time outside? Maybe fixing the roof, sanding the deck, or puttering around in the garden? Your eyes will thank you for wearing goggles and protecting them from irritants during your summer DIY plans — be they indoor or outdoor projects.

3. Stay hydrated & use eye drops when applicable

During the hottest season of the year, some of the most common questions we receive are: “How can I prevent dry eyes in the summer?” and “Why do my eyes burn in the summer?” If the patient is wearing protective eyewear during all of the above scenarios, we suspect the following things may be contributing to the lack of proper lubrication in your eyes:

• Dehydration: Like any other organ in your body, your eyes need water to function properly. While the liquid that keeps your eyes “wet” isn’t water alone, it still requires H20. This being said, if you’re dehydrated, you may experience dry eye symptoms.
• A/C: Air conditioning was invented in Houston. Surprised? Neither were we. What is surprising, though, is how many patients we see who struggle with dry eyes because they keep their A/C blasting 24/7. If this is you or if your desk is located near an air vent at work, consider investing in eye drops to keep your eyes properly lubricated. 

4. Be extra careful after eye surgeries

It’s always wise to be cautious with your eyes after eye surgery, but summer comes with its own set of temptations for sidestepping post-op best practices. Take a moment to read the following resources to learn how to best protect your eyes after surgery during the summer.  

• Swimming after cataract surgery and LASIK
• What causes cataracts to grow?

5. Visit your eye doctor regularly

Prevention of eye problems isn’t always a no-brainer. That’s why it’s important to visit your eye doctor regularly, no matter the season (Pssst – If you need an optometrist, click here to find one near you).

Whether you’re curious about eye strain from phone use, the best ways to prepare for LASIK eye surgery in Houston, or anything in between, the experts at Eye Center of Texas are here to help. With over 80,000 successful cataract surgeries and 75,000 successful LASIK surgeries, we are one of Houston’s top resources for eye health and vision improvement. For more information about our services, call us at 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today!

Related Resources:

• LASIK Recovery Timeline
• Cataracts: Laser Surgery vs. Traditional Surgery
• The First Early Signs of Cataracts
• What to Expect after Cataract Surgery: Side Effects and Timing
• Houston Cataract Treatment

How to reduce eye strain when working with computers

Screens are an everyday part of our lives. But unfortunately, this has made computer vision syndrome (CVS) more commonplace. Luckily, however, computer glasses can help people struggling with CVS symptoms to use their devices without eye strain.

However, there’s a lot of confusion and misinformation surrounding eye strain, and consumers are purchasing “computer glasses” that don’t actually provide the relief they’re looking for.

If you’re considering getting glasses to protect your eyes from your computer screen, take a moment to read the below article and to make sure you know the true answer to the question, “What are computer glasses?”

What causes eye strain when using a computer?

When our patients ask us, “What are computer glasses?” we’ve noticed a hidden assumption behind this question. More specifically, they believe computer glasses are designed for blocking blue light. While this idea isn’t exactly untrue, it’s not right on the money, either.

What is blue light?

Blue light (light rays with short wavelengths) is a natural part of our environment. In fact, blue light has been shown to help regulate our sleep cycle. When the sun rises and emits blue light, it sends a signal to our eyes that it’s time to get up. Once the sun goes down and the amount of blue light diminishes, our body knows to secrete melatonin (a hormone that helps us sleep).

So, is blue light bad for our eyes? Does it cause issues like UV light eye damage? More to the point: Does looking at a screen damage your eyes?  

Computer screens emit blue light, and overexposure to blue light around bedtime can inhibit your ability to fall asleep and contribute to eye strain. However, there is still some debate as to whether or not blue light increases your likelihood of cataracts or glaucoma.

Eye strain causes

Blue light is one of many eye strain causes. Your eyes can also get tired from the glare of bright lights, especially if your screen doesn’t contrast with the lighting in your room. However, a significant amount of patients deal with eye strain because of focusing issues.

In particular, people tend not to blink enough when they’re focusing on their computers, which can lead to dry eyes. Individuals who already wear glasses likely struggle with an additional issue: their glasses may not be designed to focus on intermediate distances.

Typically, a computer screen stands 20 – 25 inches away from a person’s eyes, which is farther away than most people hold books or other reading material. Patients who wear glasses (bifocals especially) that weren’t made for computer work often have to tilt their head to see the computer screen well. Tilting your head this way can cause eye strain, as well as neck, shoulder, back, and arm pain.

Individuals over the age of 40 may also struggle with computer-related eye strain due to presbyopia (also called “near vision”), a condition caused by a loss of elasticity in your eye’s lenses. Near vision treatment is available for this, and it can help alleviate some of these symptoms.   

What are computer glasses? (And do computer glasses work?)

Now that we know what causes computer vision syndrome/eye strain, it’s time to really answer the question, “What are computer glasses?” Computer glasses are prescription glasses made specifically for computer work. They are, in other words, activity-specific glasses.

Since everyone’s work station is set up differently, a pair of computer glasses that work perfectly for one person may not work well for another. Computer glasses work best if they are created with a person’s specific needs in mind.

Computer eye strain symptoms & ways you can alleviate them

Your computer glasses needs can often be identified by an evaluation of your workspace and your eye strain symptoms. In some cases, you may be able to alleviate some of your symptoms by making adjustments to your workspace. Here are some helpful suggestions:

Neck, shoulder, back, and arm pain: If you have pain from tilting your head to see your screen, you might find relief if you adjust the ergonomics of your desk and chair. Posture correctors may also help.

Blurred vision, aching or dry eyes: If you have blurred vision, keep in mind that it may be caused by a problem with your prescription. If not, chances are that you’re not blinking enough while at your computer, causing your eyes to get tired and dry. Take breaks from looking at your computer at least every 20 minutes. If you have trouble remembering to look away, there are apps which can remind you to do so. Eye drops may also provide relief.

Headache: Headaches may be caused by ergonomics and posture, or you may be working on a monitor with poor resolution. Moving your computer to a more ideal distance from your face, buying an anti-glare screen, and increasing the light contrast between your computer’s screen and the light in a room can also alleviate symptoms of eye strain.

How do I know if I need computer glasses?

And there you have it! No more wondering, “What are computer glasses?” But now you’re likely asking, “How do I know if I even need computer glasses?”

The best way to answer that question is to schedule a visit with your optometrist. Eye Center of Texas works with several trusted optometrist partners in Houston who can help you determine the cause(s) behind your eye strain and if necessary, help you find computer glasses that are built to alleviate computer-related discomfort.

If it turns out that your eye strain is caused not by your computer, but by another change in prescription, it may be worth your while to consider LASIK or near vision treatment. The professionals at Eye Center of Texas provide some of the best LASIK in Houston and are here to answer any questions you may have about the procedure.

To get started on your journey towards better, less strained vision, see if you qualify for LASIK by reading our article, Is my vision too bad for LASIK?, and give us a call at 713-395-1515 or request an appointment online today!

Related Resources:

• LASIK Recovery Timeline
• Cataracts: Laser Surgery vs. Traditional Surgery
• The First Early Signs of Cataracts
• What to Expect after Cataract Surgery: Side Effects and Timing
• Houston Cataract Treatment

Just because cataracts can be a natural part of the aging process doesn’t mean you shouldn’t remain on the lookout for the early signs of cataracts. Discover the top three early signs of cataracts, including what those signs may look like (cataract pictures provided) and how to address those signs.

For more information on the early signs of cataracts (including fast-growing cataracts), take a look at our previous articles.

What are the first signs of cataracts?

1. General changes in vision quality

The early sign of cataracts that brings in the most patients are general concerns about changes in vision quality: the inability to see distant objects clearly, sensitivity to light, double vision, and halos around lights at nighttime. These changes are rarely drastic, and many patients assume that they simply need a change in prescription.

2. Blurred / cloudy vision

The first sign of cataracts will vary from person to person, but the next sign is usually blurriness. Blurred vision from cataracts occurs due to the buildup and clumping of proteins in your eye’s lens, which will block light from reaching your retina.

At first, only part of your vision may be blurred, but this area will likely grow over time if your cataract(s) remain untreated.

3. Eye discoloration

Eye discoloration is easily the most visible early sign of cataracts. The buildup of proteins may cause your lens to begin to yellow or brown. Unlike the other early signs of cataracts, however, your family and friends may be able to spot lens discoloration. It’s not uncommon for us to meet patients who have come to visit us due to the urging of individuals close to them.

This image shows what a cataract looks like in an advanced stage.

Catching and treating cataracts

Not all eye doctors are advocates for early cataract surgery. Depending on the types of cataract a patient is facing and the severity of vision loss they’re contending with, your doctor may opt to wait for a later date.

At the same time, many patients feel that the earlier you treat cataracts, the fewer sights you’ll miss out on. Ultimately, whether or not to pursue cataract surgery is a decision that should be made between you and your doctor.

In the meantime, we highly recommend learning how to avoid cataracts naturally and reading up on cataracts and sun exposure.

Laser eye surgery for cataracts and Eye Center of Texas

Eye Center of Texas provides the latest in blade-free cataract treatment: laser eye surgery for cataracts. Our nationally-recognized surgeons have performed over 80,000 successful laser cataract surgeries and are recommended by over 300 referring doctors.

Miss less of life’s special moments. Call us at 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today to get started on your journey to better vision.

Related Resources

• Cataracts: Laser Surgery vs. Traditional Surgery
• LASIK Recovery Timeline
• Do Floaters Go Away On Their Own?
• The Four Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
• Is My Vision Too Bad for LASIK?

Houstonians will be pleased to discover that the Houston cataract surgeons at Eye Center of Texas are some of the best in the country. Not only do over 300 Houston-area doctors refer their patients to Eye Center of Texas for their vision needs, but our surgeons play active roles in pioneering the latest in vision correction technology.

Learn all about our Houston cataract treatment options and more, and start your cataract surgery journey off on the right foot.

What are cataracts?

Cataracts are a natural part of your eye’s aging process. In fact, over 50% of individuals at or above the age of 60 will develop a cataract in one or both eyes. Blurred vision, which is due to a clouding of your eye’s natural lens, is the main symptom of cataracts.

While most cataracts develop slowly over many years, individuals with certain conditions may be susceptible to fast-growing cataracts. Luckily, the fact that cataracts are common means that cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed eye surgeries in the world.

Laser cataract surgery in Houston

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive here at Eye Center of Texas is, “Is cataract surgery safe?” We are happy to report that, when performed by professionals, both traditional and laser cataract surgery are very safe procedures.

When comparing laser cataract surgery vs. traditional cataract surgery, however, many surgeons would argue that laser cataract surgery is a more accurate procedure. That’s because laser cataract surgery is blade-free. The Eye Center of Texas surgeons use the state-of-the-art LenSx femtosecond laser to customize your cataract surgery to the specific needs of your eye.

Lens replacement surgery in Houston

During cataract surgery, your doctor will remove your eye’s cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The standard replacement lens is the monofocal IOL. However, some patients may prefer a multifocal IOL or need a Toric IOL lens for astigmatism. Talk with your doctor about which IOL will best fit the needs of your eyes.

Finding experienced cataract surgeons in Houston

When researching cataract surgery and cataract surgery cost, we highly recommend researching your area’s cataract surgeon ratings. Not all cataract surgeons are the same, and you will want to make sure that you’re leaving your vision in qualified hands.

The Houston cataract surgeons at Eye Center of Texas have collectively performed over 80,000 successful cataract surgeries, and they frequently top the local “Best Cataract Surgeons Near Me” lists.

We are proud to have returned clear vision to the lives of so many Houstonians, and we are pleased to be able to do so without adding stress to a household’s budget. Expenses that aren’t covered by Medicare or health insurance are made manageable with Eye Center of Texas’s monthly payment plans via Care Credit.

Houston Cataracts don’t stand a chance at Eye Center of Texas  

It’s time to see life’s priceless moments with clear vision again. For more information about Houston cataract surgery at Eye Center of Texas, call 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today!

Related Resources

• Recovery: A LASIK Timeline
• Floaters in Your Eyes
• 4 Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
• Is My Vision Too Bad for LASIK?
• Houston’s Common Vision Problems