With a 95% success rate, the corneal cross-linking procedure should make patients with degenerative cornea conditions stand up and take notice. When it comes to treating eye illnesses such as corneal ectasia, post-LASIK ectasia, and keratoconus, this procedure can mean the difference between recovered sight and partial or total blindness. Knowing when to see an ophthalmologist is crucial as the sooner you can receive a consultation and treatment from an eye specialist, the more eyesight you will ultimately retain.

Wondering if corneal cross-linking is the right vision correction surgery for you? We’ll discuss the corneal cross-linking success rate along with the procedure’s side effects and recovery process to paint you a whole picture.

We all rub our eyes from time to time, but if you struggle with keratoconus symptoms, rubbing your eyes can actually increase the severity of those symptoms. Get more information in this article.

What is corneal cross-linking?

Corneal cross-linking is a minimally-invasive, safe, and painless surgical procedure often used as keratoconus treatment or for correcting corneal ectasia and post-LASIK ectasia. It involves linking together weakened collagen fibers in the cornea to slow, or even eliminate, corneal degeneration.

Before determining whether or not corneal crosslinking makes for the right solution for your condition, your surgeon will need to test the following:

• Your overall health
• Your overall eye health
• A corneal topography
• Corneal thickness

Once your tests reveal that you’re an ideal candidate for corneal crosslinking, you can schedule an appointment for your surgery.

What is involved in a corneal crosslinking procedure?

First, you’ll need a friend or family member to drive you to and from your appointment, as you will be unable to take yourself home immediately following the surgery. It takes about two to three hours to complete the procedure.

When it comes to progressive keratoconus, the general goal is to reduce the damage caused by corneal degeneration, sometimes even ending it entirely, via strengthening the bonds between the cornea’s collagen fibers.

There are two forms of corneal cross-linking, as follows:

• Epithelium-on: Also referred to as transepithelial corneal cross-linking, this surgical procedure leaves the epithelium — the thin outer layer of the cornea — intact which can delay corneal lubrication.
• Epithelium-off: Unlike the epithelium-on type of corneal cross-linking, this version of the surgery entirely removes the epithelium. Such a technique makes it easier for the cornea to lubricate and strengthen its collagen fibers.

Both of these approaches involve a combination of liquid riboflavin drops and the application of ultraviolet light. Localized anesthesia may also be provided.

Something important to note is that younger patients may have to undergo the corneal cross-linking procedure multiple times throughout their lives. Because the cornea regenerates itself every seven to eight years, this “self-renovation” can undo the surgery. This is normal, albeit understandably frustrating for many patients.

How effective is corneal cross-linking?

The corneal cross-linking success rate is 95%. For the 5% of patients who don’t respond to treatment, this is usually due to underlying health conditions disrupting the recovery process. However, the cause for why a corneal cross-linking surgery ultimately fails can only be deduced and diagnosed by an eye care professional.

What are the side effects of corneal cross-linking?

All surgeries will have some manner of side effects following the scheduled procedure. For corneal cross-linking, both epithelium-on and epithelium-off, the most common side effects include the following:

• Blurry vision
• Itchy and/or dry eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Eye pain
• The feeling that there’s something stuck in your eye

Many of these side effects are directly related to the healing process. If anything feels off or wrong, or you’re experiencing vision loss, scarring, or infection, please contact your surgeon immediately for additional instructions.

How long does blurred vision last after cross-linking?

It can take several weeks for blurry vision to clear up following a corneal cross-linking surgery. Speak with your surgeon if you have concerns about your recovery timeline and overall eye health.

How long does it take to recover from corneal cross-linking?

Every patient’s physiology is a little different, so no definitive cornea surgery recovery time exists. However, it typically takes between three and five days for the eye pain to subside. A full recovery usually takes a week in the majority of cases, though some patients with pre-existing health conditions may require more time.

Your surgeon will be able to provide more insight into what your own personal recovery journey will probably look like based on your unique circumstances. In addition, your surgeon may refer you back to your optometrist for contact lenses or glasses, to offset vision loss that the procedure couldn’t correct.

What is involved in corneal cross-linking aftercare?

It’s important to follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions closely to ensure you make the most efficient recovery possible. In the majority of cases, you’ll need to do the following:

• Refrain from driving, swimming, wearing eye makeup, and undertaking vigorous exercise until permitted by your surgeon
• Administer anti-inflammatory eye drops
• Apply a topical antibiotic

Depending on your personal medical circumstances and recovery timeline, additional steps may be required, such as oral antibiotics.

Interested in corneal cross-linking? Visit Eye Center of Texas for treatment options.

The 95% corneal cross-linking success rate makes it an appealing option to individuals suffering from keratoconus, corneal ectasia, and/or post-LASIK ectasia. At Eye Center of Texas, you can consult with a cornea specialist in Houston, such as our own Dr. Yasir Ahmed and Dr. Edward C. Wade, to see if the corneal cross-linking procedure is the best option for your ocular health.  To learn more about what we can do to help you enjoy better vision and quality of life, schedule an appointment with us today.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• Bifocal LASIK: Can LASIK Make You Bifocal-Free?
• How to Choose Between LASIK Surgery Options
• Can You Use Your FSA or HSA for LASIK?
• What is the Cost of Cataract Surgery in Texas?
• What Are The Early Symptoms of Glaucoma?

Can Bifocal LASIK really help you get rid of your bifocals for good? Many people must wear bifocals to help correct the inevitable deteriorating vision brought on by aging. Bifocals help correct a condition known as presbyopia (“old eye” in Greek), which causes blurred close-range vision, especially in low-light environments. With the onset of presbyopia, even those who have never before needed glasses may find themselves in need of bifocals — a frustrating occurrence for many patients.

While presbyopia can be improved with nothing more complex than reading glasses or bifocals, many people with the condition wish to return to a life with normal vision… and without corrective lenses. When it comes to a few minutes of undergoing LASIK vs. contacts for the rest of your life, many prefer undergoing surgery for a stress-free future.

Bifocal LASIK, better known as Monovision LASIK, is a popular surgical procedure for correcting age-related vision loss. For years, the prospects for surgical treatment of presbyopia weren’t exactly ideal. Luckily, things have changed. “Can you get LASIK if you wear bifocals?” is a valid question, and one increasingly becoming less and less of a concern as the surgery becomes more accessible to more patients.

​​What causes presbyopia?

The lens of the eye gets less flexible with age, making it harder for your eyes to adjust to lower levels of light and changes in distance, especially when said changes are made within close range. Since presbyopia occurs naturally as we get older, making an investment in prevention measures is difficult. In fact, presbyopia is so closely associated with aging, it has earned the discouraging nickname “Over 40 Vision.”

That’s the bad news.

The good news is that we have more information about LASIK eye surgery to correct presbyopia than ever before. We often get asked, “Can LASIK fix presbyopia?” Yes! Bifocal LASIK in particular is one of the many presbyopia treatment options available to patients.

What is Monovision LASIK?

Unfortunately, conventional LASIK eye surgery may not be used to treat presbyopia. However, there are other forms of bifocal-eliminating surgery available, such as Monovision LASIK.

Monovision LASIK is a unique take on your typical laser eye surgery. During the procedure, one eye (typically your dominant eye) is corrected. The other is made to be partially nearsighted. Such a change actually replicates the effects of bifocals, so the procedure is sometimes referred to as “blended vision LASIK” or “Bifocal LASIK.”

While Monovision LASIK is an effective surgical alternative to wearing bifocals, it does have its drawbacks. Although your eyes will now work together to see objects both near and far, you may still lose a small amount of clarity in your vision.

Monovision LASIK patient qualifications

Who is a candidate for LASIK? As technology grows more and more sophisticated every day, we’re seeing more and more people who were once unable to undergo the procedure now able to access vision-restoring care.

In order to qualify for LASIK, a patient must:

• Be 18+ years of age
• Not be nursing or pregnant
• Have good eye health
• Have good overall physical health
• Have the right thickness for creating a corneal flap (meaning those with thin corneas are not eligible)

If you don’t qualify for Monovision LASIK, don’t fret! There are still plenty of alternatives to LASIK available to you for stronger sight and peace of mind.

What are the side effects of Monovision LASIK?

As with other LASIK procedures, Monovision LASIK is a quick outpatient procedure taking around 15 to 20 minutes and requiring only localized anesthetic. Despite this simplicity, there are still side effects to know about before deciding to move forward with LASIK, including the following:

• Light sensitivity
• Decreased night vision
• Infection
• Dry eyes

Your surgeon will be able to give you a personalized overview of your healing process, including your risk of certain side effects, the aftercare process, and the length of your recovery period. All patients have to refrain from driving, strenuous exercise, swimming, and other activities following surgery, though the time frame will vary based on their physical circumstances.

Is Bifocal LASIK the solution for you? Find out with Eye Center of Texas!

Eye Center of Texas surgeons Dr. Edward C. Wade and Dr. Mark L. Mayo provide Bifocal LASIK and other vision correction procedures to help patients see the world in a whole new way…quite literally! We pride ourselves on offering safe, affordable care to all of our patients. To learn more about which procedures may be right for you, contact us today and schedule an appointment at any of our Houston-area locations.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• Can You Use Your FSA or HSA for LASIK?
• What is the Cost of Cataract Surgery in Texas?
• What Are The Early Symptoms of Glaucoma?
• Do You Get Dry Eyes After Refractive Surgery?
• Recovery Time After Eyesight Correction Surgery

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, better known as LASIK, is a surgical procedure meant to correct a patient’s vision so they never have to struggle with glasses or contact lenses again. Although it is a safe and effective vision correction procedure, not every patient is a good fit for LASIK.

Luckily, Eye Center of Texas offers more LASIK surgery options available to help improve eyesight in a wider number of people than ever before, making better vision accessible to even those previously unable to undergo the process.

What is LASIK surgery?

LASIK surgery uses a thin, precise laser to reshape the cornea and improve a patient’s overall vision. It’s a quick, painless outpatient procedure that takes around 15 minutes to complete. LASIK does not require full anesthesia. Rather, all it requires is a little localized anesthetic usually administered via eye drops.

Some of the conditions LASIK can treat include astigmatism, nearsightedness (myopia), and farsightedness (hyperopia).

There are a few different alternatives to LASIK, such as PRK and EVO Visian ICL, so patients seeking vision correction surgery still have options even if they don’t qualify for LASIK itself.

What are the different types of LASIK surgery?

There are three major LASIK surgery options, each one taking a different approach to restoring eyesight.

LASEK

Laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK) is very similar to traditional LASIK, however, it is better suited for people with thin corneas who may have had unpleasant side effects with LASIK. Rather than cutting open the flap in the cornea, the surgeon will use an alcohol solution to lift the tissue away from the eye, fold it back, and then reshape the cornea’s inner layers to correct any vision impairments. Although the healing process is a tad slower, patients will likely not experience dry eye as they would with LASIK.

PRK

What is PRK surgery? Photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, is similar to LASIK in that it involves reshaping the cornea but follows a different path. The surgeon removes the top layer of the cornea and uses a pulsing ultraviolet laser on the surface of the cornea to reshape it rather than underneath the corneal flap. The top layer cornea eventually grows back over the reshaped internal layers. PRK is better suited for those who have thin corneas or dry eyes as it reduces the risk of corneal flap-related complications.

EVO Visian ICL

EVO Visian ICL is a relatively new procedure often used in patients for whom LASIK or PRK are not the most ideal options. Unlike these similar surgeries, it involves the implantation of an EVO lens rather than a corneal reshaping and the lens can be removed at any time by your doctor. The process for EVO Visian ICL proceeds as follows:

1. The surgeon cuts a hole in the cornea.
2. The new biocompatible, flexible Collamer® lens is inserted into the hole.
3. The lens is positioned properly over the cornea’s internal layers.

While LASIK and PRK procedures take around 15 minutes or so, EVO Visian ICL usually wraps in about 20 to 30 minutes.

What makes an ideal LASIK candidate?

LASIK, PRK, and EVO Visian ICL are all extremely common procedures, but they can’t be performed on everyone requiring vision correction. The first stage of any consultation for these procedures is always an eye exam. From there, your doctor will make a 3D map of your eye to get a comprehensive understanding of its geography. These tests determine whether or not you would be a good candidate for LASIK.

The ideal LASIK candidate has the following qualities:

• Is 18+ years of age
• Is in good overall health
• Does not suffer from an eye disease such as glaucoma or cataracts
• Has had no significant changes to eyesight or condition for a year or more
• Has an eye shape conducive to undergoing the procedure in question

By contrast, LASIK may not be performed on the following patients:

• People under the age of 18
• People who are pregnant
• People with autoimmune diseases
• People with eye infections
• People with thin corneas
• People with thick or otherwise unusually large pupils

LASIK surgery risks

Although safe, quick, and painless, LASIK and related procedures are not without their risks. Before deciding to undergo the surgery and say goodbye to glasses or contact lenses, it’s important to know the following possible side effects:

• Dry eyes (not an issue with LASEK, PRK, or EVO Visian ICL)
• Light sensitivity
• Infection
• Decreased night vision

One of the most important questions to ask during LASIK consultation involves these risks. Don’t commit to the surgery without being fully informed about both the positives and the negatives associated with it.

How long does it take to recover from LASIK?

As outpatient procedures, LASIK, PRK, and EVO Visian ICL don’t require overnight hospitalization for monitoring and recovery. Every patient’s recovery time will be different owing to factors such as their age and overall health, so your doctor should give you a personalized timeline of what a normal healing time frame and process will look like for you specifically.

Most patients will start seeing the full results of their surgeries within a few days. However, the recovery time typically goes faster with EVO Visian ICL, and many patients report experiencing immediate results. You may be asked to refrain from certain activities such as swimming, wearing eye makeup, and exercising for a few weeks while your eyes recover regardless of which procedure you undergo.

Eye Center of Texas offers multiple LASIK surgery options in Greater Houston

Regardless of which procedure your doctor recommends, Eye Center of Texas offers multiple types of eye surgery to correct vision. We have the answers to common questions such as, “Can you use HSA for LASIK?” and anything else that may be on your mind regarding the commitment. For more information about LASIK surgery options and to schedule an appointment, feel free to contact us.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• What is the Cost of Cataract Surgery in Texas?
• What Are The Early Symptoms of Glaucoma?
• Do You Get Dry Eyes After Refractive Surgery?
• Recovery Time After Eyesight Correction Surgery
• What Are the Three Types of Cataracts?

Having poor vision can be a major obstacle in everyday life, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks like driving and reading. For many people, corrective eye surgery such as LASIK is the best solution for restoring their vision. But with the cost of LASIK ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 per eye, it can be a prohibitively expensive procedure.

Fortunately, there are ways to make this treatment more affordable by using pre-tax money from your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) for LASIK.

How much does LASIK cost?

LASIK eye surgery costs in Houston can vary significantly depending on the type of procedure you choose and the experience of your eye surgeon. Generally, traditional LASIK (using a blade to cut a flap in the cornea) costs between $1,000 and $2,500 per eye. Custom LASIK (using lasers to reshape the cornea) and alternative vision correction procedures such as EVO ICL vision correction may cost up to $4,000 per eye.

When compared to PRK surgery cost, LASIK is generally more expensive. However, the cost may be offset by the shorter recovery time associated with LASIK (most patients can see clearly within 24 hours), and the overall lack of hassle.

What is the difference between an HSA and FSA?

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) are both pre-tax accounts that you can use to pay for eligible medical expenses, including LASIK. HSAs are available only to those who have a high deductible health plan, whereas FSAs are available to anyone whose employer offers an FSA.

HSAs are more flexible than FSAs, as they allow you to contribute more money and can be used to pay for medical expenses in the future. Additionally, funds that remain in an HSA at the end of the year roll over and accumulate, which can help cover larger expenses like LASIK surgery down the line. However, HSAs are not available to everyone.

FSAs, on the other hand, allow you to set aside a certain amount of pre-tax money from each paycheck for medical expenses. The funds do not carry over at the end of the year, so it’s important to use all your FSA dollars before they expire.

Using your FSA or HSA for LASIK surgery

Before using your FSA or HSA for LASIK, it is important to check your specific plan. Some plans may not cover the procedure, and others may have certain restrictions or limits on what type of procedure they cover.

Here’s what you need to know about using your FSA or HSA for LASIK.

Can I pay for LASIK with my FSA?

Yes, you can use your FSA to pay for your LASIK procedure in Houston as it is currently recognized by the IRS as a qualified medical expense. However, it’s important to note that FSAs usually have a limited amount of money available and they expire at the end of the year. So if you plan on having LASIK soon, make sure to use your FSA funds before they expire or you may lose them.

Can you use HSA for LASIK?

Similarly, you can use your HSA to pay for your LASIK surgery. Since HSAs have a higher contribution limit and can accumulate over time, they may be a better option for those who need LASIK but can’t afford the full cost upfront.

You may also be able to use your FSA or HSA funds to cover additional costs associated with LASIK such as preoperative exams, corneal mapping, and post-operative follow-up visits. This means that you may be able to reduce the cost of your LASIK surgery even further since these services are often not covered by insurance.

Other options for paying for LASIK

While not all employers offer FSA or HSA plans, many do offer health insurance. But is LASIK covered by insurance? Not always. Medicare and other insurance plans rarely cover the cost of LASIK, while some employers offer vision plans which may help pay for part or all of the procedure.

If you don’t qualify for an FSA or HSA and don’t have health insurance but still want the clear vision that LASIK offers, there are still options available to help make LASIK more affordable. Many surgeons offer financing plans with low-interest rates, which can spread the cost of the procedure out over time. Some doctors may also be able to make special arrangements for patients who are unable to pay for the procedure upfront. Be sure to ask your doctor about any special payment options they may have available.

Eye Center of Texas makes LASIK accessible for all

Taking advantage of an FSA or HSA for LASIK is a great way to make laser vision correction more affordable, and by doing so you can save hundreds of dollars on the cost of your LASIK treatment.

At Eye Center of Texas, we are dedicated to making the LASIK procedure accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Whether you want to use your health insurance, FSA, or HSA to pay for your LASIK procedure, or you want to discuss utilizing our payment plan, our counselors can help you choose the right option for you.

To learn more about paying for your LASIK procedure, schedule an appointment with us today by calling 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• How Much Does it Cost for Cataract Surgery?
• What Are Glaucoma Eye Symptoms?
• The Best Laser Eye Surgery for Dry Eyes
• PRK Recovery Time
• What Are the Three Types of Cataract Surgery?

One of the first questions many of our Houston patients ask when considering eye surgery is, “What is the cost of cataract surgery in Texas?”

If you have cataracts, the cost of cataract surgery should not be a barrier to the care that you need to regain useful vision. In almost all instances, cataract surgery costs are considered reimbursable expenses under both Medicare and private health insurance plans. That said, the average cost of cataract surgery with private health insurance is approximately $3,000 — though this price can vary based on whether you choose laser cataract surgery vs traditional cataract surgery and other individual factors including where the patient lives.

In this article, Eye Center of Texas will outline what you can expect to pay if you have private health insurance or Medicare in Texas for cataract surgery.

Questions to ask about laser cataract surgery cost

If you are considering bladeless cataract surgery in Houston financial factors you should become familiar with include:

• How much will I need to pay out of pocket?
• What deductibles might apply?
• What co-pays might apply?
• What services might not be covered or require additional payment?

For the vast majority of people, their insurance by itself or in conjunction with Medicare is going to cover the bulk of the cost of cataract surgery.

Cost of cataract surgery with insurance

When considering the cost of cataract surgery in Texas, it is important to understand how your insurance plan will cover treatment. Depending on the type of health insurance plan you have, your coverage of cataract surgery costs could vary depending on the deductible that you may be required to pay, the co-pay you might be responsible for, and the percentage of each allowable expense that they might reimburse.

For patients that have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP), the average cost of cataract surgery can be slightly higher. These plans often cover a certain percentage (usually 80%) of the cost after meeting a large deductible up-front. The remaining balance is then the responsibility of the patient to pay.

In most instances, private insurances cover a portion, if not all, of the:

• Cataract surgeon’s fee
• Surgery facility fee
• Cost of a Monofocal Lens Implant
• Necessary follow-up care after your surgery (learn more about what to expect during cataract surgery recovery)

Please remember: the deductibles, the percentage coverage, and any co-pays are individual to your specific insurance plan.

Is cataract surgery fully covered by Medicare?

For patients 65 and older, you may be eligible for Medicare coverage. Cataract surgery is a covered benefit under Medicare, and the cost is largely dependent on where the patient lives and what the Medicare-approved rate is in that area.

However, cataract surgery is not typically 100% covered by Medicare. In most cases, the patient is responsible for a co-pay at the time of service and a small copayment for their cataract lenses.

Medicare will pay 80% of the “Medicare allowed” charges for your Cataract Surgery costs and it is likely that you will be responsible for the 20% difference remaining. If you have secondary insurance, this can be used to cover the 20% of the Medicare allowable charges remaining. In this case, you’ll want to be sure you bring this up with your doctor prior to your surgery.

Keep in mind that “Medicare” determines what is “allowed” and the cataract surgeon needs to agree to this determination although you can typically expect Medicare to cover a portion, if not all, of the:

• Cataract surgeon fee
• Surgery facility fee
• Cost of a Monofocal Lens Implant
• Necessary follow-up care after your surgery

If you plan on utilizing your Medicare coverage for cataract surgery, please ensure that you are working with eye doctors that take Medicare.

Does medicare pay for all cataract surgeries?

Medicare will cover the cost of a basic Monofocal Lens Implant but requires that you pay individually (aka out of pocket) for the cost of Astigmatism Correcting Toric Lens Implants, Multifocal Lens Implants, and for the use of the LenSx Laser technology. Any additional fees for the cataract procedure will be reviewed with you by the staff and convenient arrangements for payment will be made.

Please note: advanced technology lens implants will require additional testing that is not covered by Medicare or private insurance. The cost is $95.00 per eye and is strongly recommended by our cataract surgeons Dr. Mark L. Mayo and Dr. Edward C. Wade.

Transparent billing at the Eye Center of Texas

What is the cost of cataract surgery? While the number varies greatly, at Eye Center of Texas, we strive to make cataract surgery available and affordable to patients with or without health insurance. We are committed to working closely with our patients and their insurance provider to maximize the coverage available for cataract surgery.

Our team will help you understand the differences between your health insurance coverage options so that you can make an informed decision about your cataract surgery. Any additional fees will be reviewed with you by the staff and convenient arrangements for payment will be made.

Call us today at 713-797-1010 to schedule a consultation or request an appointment online and discover the cost of cataract surgery in Texas.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• What Are The Symptoms of Glaucoma
• What You Need To Know About Laser Eye Surgery Dry Eyes
• ICL Eye Surgery Recovery Time
• What Are The Three Types of Cataracts?
• How to Relieve Contact Lens Intolerance

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss and blindness. Because early detection and treatment can be the difference between preserving and losing your vision, it is essential to know the early symptoms of glaucoma.

The first signs of glaucoma that you should be aware of include eye pain or discomfort, headaches, nausea or vomiting, halos around lights, and sudden onset of visual field loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see an eye doctor as soon as possible for an evaluation.

What are the first signs that glaucoma is developing?

There are two main types of glaucoma — open angle and closed angle — and symptoms will depend on which type you have. How early can glaucoma start? Glaucoma can start at any age but is most common in adults over the age of 60. It is also more likely to develop if it runs in your family.

If you have symptoms of high eye pressure, but no other early symptoms of glaucoma, you may believe it is unnecessary to have it checked. However, if left untreated, high eye pressure can lead to glaucoma. This is why it’s important to have regular eye exams so that your doctor can check the pressure inside your eyes and look for early signs of glaucoma.

Please note that the doctors at Eye Center of Texas do not perform routine eye examinations. We encourage our patients to visit our partner Optometrists, available on our recommended optometrists page.

Symptoms of open-angle glaucoma

This is the most common type of glaucoma and typically has no early symptoms. As the disease progresses, you may start to experience visual field loss. This means you will gradually lose your peripheral vision to see objects to the side.

If this type of glaucoma is not detected early, it can lead to total blindness, making your annual eye exams even more important. During a comprehensive eye exam, your doctor will check for early signs of glaucoma and measure the pressure inside your eyes. This is done with a tool called a tonometer. If glaucoma is suspected, your doctor may perform additional tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Symptoms of closed-angle glaucoma

This type of glaucoma is less common but can be more severe because it can develop quickly and cause a sudden increase in eye pressure. Closed-angle glaucoma can cause symptoms such as:

• Eye pain or redness
• Severe headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sudden onset of visual field loss
• Blurred vision

Closed-angle glaucoma is classified as a medical emergency. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see an eye doctor immediately to ask about your glaucoma symptoms and treatment. Because there is some overlap in symptoms between cataracts vs. glaucoma, it’s important to get a diagnosis quickly since glaucoma can cause long-term damage to the optic nerve.

Symptoms of glaucoma in children

Pediatric glaucoma can develop in children and infants, but it is much less common. Glaucoma in children can be a result of chronic steroid use, trauma, an underlying medical condition, or a genetic factor such as family history. The early symptoms of glaucoma in children can be different from those in adults and may include:

• Eye pain or discomfort
• Headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Tears without crying
• Halos around lights
• Sensitivity to light
• Sudden onset of visual field loss
• Dull or cloudy eyes

If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, it’s important to see an eye doctor right away for an evaluation.

Is glaucoma hereditary?

Glaucoma can run in families, so if you have a family member with glaucoma, you may be at increased risk. Be sure to tell your eye doctor if you have a family history of glaucoma. Regular comprehensive eye exams are the best way to detect glaucoma early so that treatment can be started to help preserve your vision.

What causes glaucoma?

Although genetics play a large role in your likelihood of developing glaucoma, there are other factors to consider, including:

• Eye injuries or trauma
• Certain medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
• Use of steroids, either in the form of eye drops or systemic steroids
• Previous eye surgery
• Cigarette smoking
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes

Glaucoma treatment options

If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, there are several treatment options available to help slow the progression of the disease and preserve your vision. These include:

• Eyedrops: Several different types of eyedrops can be used to treat glaucoma. These help to lower the pressure inside your eye by either decreasing the amount of fluid produced or increasing the outflow of fluid from your eye.
• Oral medications: Your doctor may also prescribe oral medications to help lower the pressure inside your eye. These work by decreasing the amount of fluid produced or increasing the outflow of fluid from your eye.
• Laser surgery: The Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, or SLT laser procedure, is non-destructive and can be used to improve the outflow of fluid from your eye and help lower the pressure inside your eye.
• Filtration surgery: If glaucoma has caused damage to your optic nerve, surgery may be necessary to help preserve your vision.

If you have any questions about glaucoma symptoms and treatment, be sure to talk to your eye doctor. They will be able to help you develop a treatment plan that is right for you, as well as discuss what to expect after glaucoma surgery if that is the avenue you decide to take.

Concerned about potential early symptoms of glaucoma? Call Eye Center of Texas today!

If you have any concerns about your vision or are experiencing any early symptoms of glaucoma, don’t hesitate to contact us at Eye Center of Texas. Our team of specialized ophthalmologists, including our glaucoma specialists Mark L. Mayo, M.D. and Nicholas P. Bell, M.D., are experienced in diagnosing glaucoma symptoms and treatment. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you to help you preserve your vision for the years ahead.

Call us today at 713-797-1010 to schedule your visit or request an appointment online.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• What You Need To Know About Laser Eye Surgery Dry Eyes
• ICL Eye Surgery Recovery Time
• What Are The Three Types of Cataracts?
• How to Relieve Contact Lens Intolerance
• EVO Visian ICL: The Latest in Refractive Surgery

Patients who are interested in vision correction surgery may have seen warnings about dry eyes after refractive surgery while researching procedures. While surgeries like LASIK and PRK are generally safe and yield high patient satisfaction rates, they do have potential risks and side effects.

As a trusted partner for LASIK and alternative laser eye surgeries in Houston, the ophthalmologists at Eye Center of Texas are here to walk you through the risks of dry eyes after LASIK and PRK as well as offer an alternative option for those who want the freedom that vision correction surgery provides without the risk of dry eyes.

What causes dry eyes?

Dry eyes are caused when tears are unable to properly provide moisture. There can be many reasons someone would suffer from dry eyes including allergies, hormonal changes, aging, and autoimmune disease. Dry eyes are a common discomfort regardless of whether or not you’ve had eye surgery but, can eye surgery make this discomfort worse?

Does laser eye surgery make your eyes dry?

Not always, but it surely can! In fact, dry eye syndrome is one of the most commonly reported side effects of LASIK eye surgery. Why does LASIK cause dry eyes? Because some of the nerves in your cornea are cut during the procedure, the eye’s ability to sense when they need more moisture is reduced. They are therefore unable to tell the brain that you need to produce more tears, resulting in dry eyes.

How long do dry eyes last after surgery?

The length of time it takes for your eyes to return to a normal, moistened state will depend on each individual patient. However, studies have shown that most patients will recover from signs of dry eyes six months to one-year post-surgery. To improve symptoms of dry eyes, you can try over-the-counter lubricating eye drops or artificial tears and stay hydrated. Learn more about how to get rid of dry eyes here.

Dry eyes after LASIK

As mentioned above, dry eyes are one of the most common complaints during the LASIK recovery period. According to a study done by the FDA, 30% of LASIK patients who did not suffer from dry eyes prior to the procedure experienced temporary dry eyes in the first 6 to 12 months or until their corneal nerves heal.

That said, patients who already suffer from dry eye syndrome, women (due to hormonal changes) and patients with high prescriptions are most at risk for dry eyes during the LASIK recovery period.

Dry eyes after PRK

Similarly to LASIK, the photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) procedure involves surgically manipulating the cornea. During PRK your eye surgeon uses a laser to remove the top layer of your cornea in order to reshape refractive errors that cause blurred vision. During this process, corneal nerves may be cut causing an inability for the tear glands to get the message that your eyes are dry. Like LASIK, patients may experience dry eyes until their corneal nerves have fully healed.

Is there a better option for dry eyes than LASIK?

Although there is a risk of developing dry eyes after refractive surgery, most patients only experience it temporarily and are able to treat symptoms at home with lubricating drops or artificial tears. But if you already suffer from dry eyes and are concerned about aggravating your condition, there is an alternative to LASIK and PRK that doesn’t come with the risk.

That alternative is the breakthrough vision corrective procedure called EVO Visian ICL.

Rather than reshaping the cornea, EVO Visian ICL implants an artificial lens into your eye through a small hole to correct common refractive errors like nearsightedness (myopia) and nearsightedness with astigmatism. This lens is made of biocompatible Collamer that works with your eyes to provide almost immediate vision improvement the same day as your procedure.

Because the EVO Visian ICL procedure does not involve cutting a corneal flap or using a laser to remove the top layer of your cornea, no nerves are damaged and the procedure will not cause dry eyes — making it a great alternative option for anyone looking for visual freedom without the risk of dry, itchy eyes.

Eye Center of Texas is here to meet your vision needs!

Whether you’re looking for the best LASIK in Houston or are concerned about developing dry eyes after refractive surgery and want to learn more about the groundbreaking EVO Visian ICL procedure, the top rated eye surgeons at Eye Center of Texas can help you receive your best vision with the ideal refractive surgery for you.

Take the first step on your path to clear vision. Give us a call at (713) 797-1010 or schedule an appointment online today!

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• What Are The Three Types of Cataracts?
• How to Relieve Contact Lens Intolerance
• EVO Visian ICL: The Latest in Refractive Surgery
• The Difference Between EVO Visian ICL and Toric ICL
• How to Find A Glaucoma Specialist in Houston

Eyesight correction surgery is often pursued in hopes of simplifying one’s life, helping one save time, or enhancing an active lifestyle. So, it only makes sense that recovery time be taken into the equation when trying to decide between photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), EVO Visian ICL, and LASIK.

Although each of these three types of eye surgery to correct vision have the same goal in mind, there are some key differences — recovery time being one of them. In this article, our vision correction experts at Eye Center of Texas in Houston explain what you can expect during recovery from the three most popular refractive surgeries.

How long does it take to heal from corrective eye surgery?

Each and every patient that receives eyesight correction surgery is a little bit different, and your recovery experience will be too. That said, you can improve your recovery by following your surgeons directions for care post-surgery.

LASIK recovery time

LASIK recovery time is typically around 24-48 hours, but you may be able to return to light activity after resting for 2-4 hours post operation. Immediately after surgery you may experience blurry vision, discomfort, and mild pain.During those first few days, you should avoid rubbing or irritating your eyes, strenuous activity, showering or swimming, wearing makeup, and wearing contact lenses even if you’re experiencing blurred vision. Which leads us to another common LASIK recovery question, “how long will my vision be blurry after LASIK?”

For most patients, vision begins to return to normal in the day following surgery, but it can take up to 2-3 months for vision to completely heal.

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) recovery time

While LASIK uses a laser to create a flap in the cornea, PRK removes the top layer altogether in order to reshape the lower layers. As a result, recovery time for PRK surgery in Houston is a bit longer because you’ll need to give your cornea time to grow back. Patients will need to wear an eye bandage to protect the eye for at least 3-5 days and can expect to be fully recovered in 1-3 months.

EVO Visian ICL recovery time

Out of all of the types of eye surgery to correct vision, EVO Visian ICL has the shortest and easiest recovery. This is because a biocompatible lens is implanted in the eye through a small opening in the cornea versus completely removing a layer or creating a flap like in the LASIK procedure. Downtime for EVO Visian ICL is minimal and patients can generally return to normal activities within a couple of days.

Which eye corrective surgery is best?

Because PRK, EVO Visian ICL, and LASIK are all safe and effective ways to improve your vision, the best eye correction surgery for you will depend on factors such as your prescription, cornea health, whether you’re wanting a permanent solution, and the amount of time you’re able and willing to spend in recovery.

LASIK can help individuals with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism achieve clear vision without the need for contacts or glasses. Additionally, for patients who already have dry eyes or a thin cornea, are looking to treat nearsightedness or nearsightedness with astigmatism, or who are not a good candidate for LASIK, ECO Visian ICL is a great alternative option. However, if you’re looking for a LASIK alternative to treat farsightedness and have dry eyes, your eye surgeon may suggest PRK instead.

You see that it can get complicated. To find out more about which refractive surgery is right for you, schedule an appointment with a skilled eye surgeon from Eye Center of Texas. They will be able to look at your unique circumstances and make a recommendation for surgery that will help you achieve your best possible vision.

Find your visual freedom with eyesight correction surgery in Houston!

Although recovery time for eyesight correction surgery varies, LASIK and EVO Visian ICL tend to be quicker, with PRK recovery time taking a bit longer. LASIK and EVO Visian ICL patients tend to experience clear vision fairly quickly, but patients after PRK surgery, due to its more invasive nature, can take 3-5 days before getting back on their feet.

If you are looking for the visual freedom that eye correction surgery can help you achieve, it’s important to learn about your options so that you can choose the best eye correction surgery for you. At Eye Center of Texas, our surgeons can help you do just that.

We offer our patients a range of options including PRK, EVO Visian ICL, and LASIK in Houston. With over 75,000 successful LASIK procedures, you can trust that your vision is in skilled (and steady) hands.

Take the first step to learning more about your options by calling us at 713-797-1010 or requesting an appointment online today!

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• What Are The Three Types of Cataracts?
• How to Relieve Intolerance to Contact Lenses
• The Difference Between EVO Visian ICL and Toric ICL
• How to Find a Glaucoma Specialist in Houston
• The Best LASIK Alternatives For You

What are the three types of cataracts? Nuclear sclerotic cataracts, cortical cataracts, and  Posterior subcapsular cataracts can all develop as a natural part of the aging process. The good news is that cataract treatment has only become more quick, safe, and painless over the years. If you have been experiencing hazy, muted vision, and are worried about developing cataracts that will impact your quality of life, you’re not alone. Cataracts affect more than 24.4 million Americans aged 40 and above and will affect approximately half of all Americans by age 75.

The good news is that cataract treatment is more available than ever. Cataract surgery is one of the most common (and most successful) procedures performed in the U.S., and Eye Center of Texas has performed more than 80,000 successful cataract procedures. If you are searching for cataract treatment, an eye care specialist from Eye Center of Texas can tell you which of the three types of cataracts you may be dealing with. But first, let’s discuss the basics.

What is a cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the eye that prevents light from passing through the lens to the retina. Cataracts are caused by a buildup of protein (or old, dead cells) gathering on the lens and forming a cloudy area.

If you are unsure of whether you are developing cataracts you should visit an ophthalmologist. Common symptoms of cataracts include:

• Cloudy, dim vision
• Haloing around lights
• Poor night vision
• Sensitivity to bright light
• Your perception of colors is dull and washed out
• Double vision in one eye
• Prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses changes frequently and doesn’t help vision

People often wonder about eye pain as it relates to cataract growth. Do my eyes hurt because of a cataract? Can cataracts cause headaches? Not usually, although your body can attempt to compensate for poor vision and indirectly give you a headache. Eye pain can, however, be caused by glaucoma. Thankfully, glaucoma and cataracts are both treatable eye conditions, for which the top eye doctors at Eye Center of Texas have many convenient treatment options available.

The three types of cataracts

Treatment for all three types of cataracts remains essentially the same, but there are some differences in detectability and rate of growth among them.

Nuclear sclerotic cataracts

Nuclear sclerotic cataracts are formed at the center of the lens and are usually formed as a result of aging. If you were wondering “what type of cataract is most common?” your answer is the nuclear sclerotic cataract.

These common cataracts involve a process called “sclerosis,” or the gradual hardening and yellowing of the lens, that can cause difficulty in distinguishing between different colors and seeing in low light. Nuclear sclerotic cataracts usually develop slowly, and sometimes do not require surgery for a long time.

Cortical cataracts

Cortical cataracts develop on the outer layer of the lens, and are often noticeable in early stages due to white streaks forming on the lens cortex called “cortical spokes.” As they develop, these white streaks often grow and connect to one another, eventually clouding the center of the lens and blocking light from passing through. While cortical cataracts can be a minor inconvenience in the short term, surgery will ultimately be necessary to correct vision for those affected.

Posterior subcapsular cataracts

Posterior subcapsular cataracts are formed at the back of the lens, and are found most commonly in people who have had damage done to their eye via previous eye surgeries or injury, sustained high blood sugar levels, or have had their eye treated with steroids.

Posterior subcapsular cataracts are considered fast-growing cataracts. What is a fast-growing cataract? Fast-growing cataracts can progress to the point of vision loss in as little as weeks or even days, compared to the months or years that it would normally take a cataract to develop.

Although posterior subcapsular cataracts do not always progress rapidly, leaving them untreated can result in vision impairment to the point of blindness. If you have cataracts of any kind, you should speak to an ophthalmologist about treatment options today.

Types of cataract surgery

While home remedies for cataracts are a great tool for cataract prevention, there are no proven non-surgical means for cataract reversal or treatment at this point. If you have cataracts and you want to get rid of them, a procedure will be your best chance at obtaining clear, healthy vision.

The good news is that the procedures are surprisingly quick and painless, and Eye Center of Texas offers a number of options for cataract surgery:

• Laser cataract surgery: Using the LenSX Laser for unprecedented precision, accuracy, and success rates.
• The multifocal intraocular lens: For patients who rely on reading glasses or bifocals in their daily lives.
• The Toric lens implants: For those who need astigmatism corrected while simultaneously replacing a cataract clouded lens.

Eye Center of Texas has the cataract procedure for you, no matter what your vision, no matter what type of cataract.

Continue reading: How long does cataract surgery last?

Find relief from all three types of cataracts at Eye Center of Texas

For more information about how Eye Center of Texas can help you find relief for all types of cataracts, come visit one of our ophthalmologists today. We can tailor a vision plan to your vision and your cataracts so that you will walk away not only with relief from cataracts, but improved vision as well!

Call Eye Center of Texas today at (713) 797-1010 or schedule an appointment online to start seeing clearly.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• EVO Visian® ICL: The Latest in Vision Correction Surgery
• The Differences Between EVO Visian® ICL and Toric ICL
• How to Find a Glaucoma Specialist in Houston
• What Are The Best Alternatives to LASIK?
• When to See an Ophthalmologist for Eye Disease Diagnosis

Contact lens intolerance is a common condition that makes wearing contact lenses virtually impossible for many people. Contact lenses are an important tool for many people that need vision correction, but what do you do when contacts irritate your eyes, causing pain, and ironically, more vision problems?

The vision specialists at Eye Center of Texas are here to tell you about the causes of contact lens intolerance, and what you can do to relieve it.

Do I have contact lens intolerance?

Contact lens intolerance doesn’t just impact new contact lens wearers, in fact, it can appear in people who have been wearing contacts without discomfort for years.

Contact lens intolerance is an umbrella term used to describe any type of pain, irritation, or significant discomfort from using contact lenses. Some common contact lens intolerance symptoms include:

• Dry, itchy eyes
• Redness
• Irritation and inflammation
• Pain or discomfort when putting in contact lenses
• Corneal abrasions or ulcers

These symptoms can range from mild and irritating to severe and debilitating. If you are struggling with maintaining eye and vision health, an ophthalmologist in Houston from Eye Center of Texas can put you on the right path to comfortable, healthy eyes and clearer vision.

Why do my eyes keep rejecting my contacts?

There are many reasons that your eyes might reject your contacts. Your eyes can develop an intolerance to contact lens fluid, bacteria from unclean contacts, or even the material of the lenses themselves. Some common causes of contact lens intolerance include:

• Improper use, storage, or cleaning
• Reaction to storing or cleaning solution
• Allergies
• Dry eyes
• An improperly fitted lens

Improper use of contacts is a huge contributor to contact lens intolerance. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted a survey in which over 99% of contact wearers reported engaging in at least one risky contact lens-related behavior, such as keeping their contact lens cases for longer than recommended, sleeping in their contact lenses, or topping off solution in their case without emptying the old solution first.

This begs the question: if contacts are this difficult to use correctly, why use contact lenses at all if you don’t have to? Many imagine that getting corrective vision surgery is more of a hassle than wearing contacts, but the opposite is often true. The LASIK healing timeline is quite short, and the procedure can result in healthier eyes and clearer vision for years to come with little-to-no maintenance.

How do you relieve contact lens irritation?

For the majority of patients, contact lens irritation is a mild inconvenience that can be fixed with a little more attention to contact lens care, while for others it can be an insurmountable and frustrating obstacle. It might be as simple as putting in a few eye drops, while for others it might mean corrective vision surgery or just reverting back to glasses. If you are dealing with contact lens intolerance, you should start by asking yourself the following questions.

Q: How do you wear and care for your contacts?

As illustrated by the CDC’s report that effectively every contact lens wearer is not following recommendations, wear and care could be the solution. Before you take other steps to limit irritation, make sure that you are properly cleaning and disinfecting your contact lenses, and not wearing them for too long.

Q: Do you keep your eyes lubricated?

If your eyes are dry keep them lubricated using artificial tears or other preservative-free eye drops. Eye drops should not be a long-term solution, and are meant to only alleviate symptoms temporarily.

Q: Have you talked to your ophthalmologist about vision correction surgery?

The most effective way to eliminate pain and irritation from contact lens intolerance is to eliminate the need for contact lenses. Vision correction surgery, especially when working with some of the top eye surgeons in Houston, is often much more quick and safe than patients expect — and is much less hassle than having to wear and maintain contact lenses.

The surgeons at Eye Center of Texas offer a range of vision correction procedures, ranging from LASIK to PRK to Visian ICL. If you have questions about the distinction between all of these unique procedures, don’t worry, our ophthalmologists can tell you all about the differences between PRK vs ICL vs LASIK, and which procedure would be right for you.

LASIK has an over 95% success rate, so the overwhelming likelihood is that you will be able to say goodbye to your contacts after LASIK, and start living with better vision in a more comfortable manner.

Leave contact lens intolerance in the past with treatment solutions from Eye Center of Texas

If contact lens intolerance is causing you pain and discomfort, you can find solutions at Eye Center of Texas. Whether you need to be fitted for new contacts or need to explore vision correction procedures that will simplify your life, the trustworthy and experienced specialists at Eye Center of Texas are here to take care of you.

Call today at (713) 797-1010 or schedule an appointment online to start your journey to clearer, more comfortable vision.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• EVO Visian® ICL: The Latest in Vision Correction Surgery
• The Differences Between EVO Visian® ICL and Toric ICL
• How to Find a Glaucoma Specialist in Houston
• What Are The Best Alternatives to LASIK?
• When to See an Ophthalmologist for Eye Disease Diagnosis