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.

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• 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!

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• EVO Visian ICL: The Latest in Refractive Surgery
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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!

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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.

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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.

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Choosing to have vision correction surgery is a huge decision, but choosing the right vision correction surgery for you can be even more crucial. Although ophthalmologists have been developing vision correction procedures for many years, it seems as though there have been few options to help people fix common vision problems long-term … until now. In March of 2022, the long-awaited procedure said to “free patients from their glasses or contacts” gained FDA approval.

Meet EVO Visian® ICL, the latest in vision correction surgery that is clinically proven to correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism using an FDA-approved implantable lens.

Eye Center of Texas is the first ophthalmologist practice to offer EVO Visian ICL in Houston, and our very own eye surgeons Dr. Edward Wade and Dr. Yasir Ahmed are some of the first doctors to provide the procedure to patients. We are here to help you to learn more about this groundbreaking procedure and see if it could be the right fit for your vision needs.

What makes EVO Visian ICL an innovative vision correction surgery?

1. The procedure does not remove corneal tissue

Unlike traditional vision correction surgeries including LASIK and PRK, EVO Visian ICL does not remove the eye’s corneal tissue. Instead, your eye doctor will create a small opening in your cornea that is used to insert and position the lens. This technique is safer and more accurate, and will not give you dry eye syndrome post-surgery. What more could you ask for?

1. The lens is made of natural materials

The EVO Visian ICL lens is made of biocompatible Collamer that contains a small amount of purified collagen, a protein responsible for skin elasticity that occurs naturally in the body. This implantable lens is completely natural and works in harmony with your natural eye shape and function. Collamer has unique characteristics that make it an ideal solution for correcting your vision, including:

• Compatible with your natural eye
• Soft and flexible feeling
• Not visible once placed
• Protective against harmful UV rays
• Provides better night vision

1. The lens is removable

Typically, vision correction surgery can be a big commitment due to its permanency. However, the EVO ICL lens can be removed by your doctor at any time, giving you flexibility should you choose to have cataract surgery later on. You can keep the lens in for clearer, sharper vision day and night, or have them removed. The choice is completely yours.

Is ICL surgery better than LASIK?

Now that EVO Visian ICL is available to patients, many are wondering “is ICL surgery better than LASIK?” If you’re choosing between ICL vs. LASIK, do note that there are pros and cons to both corrective surgeries. One is not innately better than the other.

However, there are some factors that make ICL more accessible to patients. For example, ICL is a better option for patients who have thin corneas, which can prevent someone from becoming a candidate for LASIK in Houston. The ICL lens is also removable, whereas LASIK surgery is permanent. On the other hand, LASIK can also correct farsightedness where EVO Visian ICL cannot.

When making big decisions related to your vision, you should always consult with your ophthalmologist, they will know which vision correction surgery is more suitable for you and your needs.

What is the success rate of ICL surgery?

According to many sources, the ICL procedure has a success rate of 99% with most patients experiencing almost immediate results, quick recovery time, and minimal downtime. The entire procedure takes 20-30 minutes and is virtually painless due to the numbing eye drops received before the surgery begins. This is all it takes for you to say goodbye to your glasses or contacts forever!

Eye Center of Texas is now offering the EVO Visian ICL vision correction surgery to patients

EVO Visian ICL is the latest in vision correction surgery. This groundbreaking and natural implantable lens can allow you to throw away your glasses or contacts and embrace a life of clearer, sharper vision in just 20-30 minutes. Eye Center of Texas is proud to be the first in Houston to offer this procedure to its patients. If you have any questions regarding EVO Visian ICL, our eye surgeons Dr. Wade and Dr. Ahmed will be happy to assist you. Call us at 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today to try this new lens-based vision solution for yourself.

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Eye Center of Texas is proud to offer our patients the EVO Visian ICL and Toric ICL procedures in Houston. Both are game-changing, breakthrough procedures that are designed to treat myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. But what are the differences between EVO Visian ICL and Toric ICL, and how do I know if I’m a candidate for these new vision correction surgeries?

The eye surgeons at Eye Center of Texas are here to explain the differences between these minimally invasive, cutting-edge procedures, and tell you if you might be eligible to break free from contact lenses and glasses with an ICL implant.

What is EVO Visian ICL?

EVO Visian ICL received FDA approval in 2022 as a safe and effective treatment for myopia with and without astigmatism. The procedure has been available overseas for years and is clinically proven to correct vision problems like nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism.

The half-hour, outpatient procedure is minimally invasive. The surgeon implants a biocompatible, flexible Collamer® lens into the eye between the natural lens and iris, allowing the implant to work in harmony with your natural eye, without the removal of any corneal tissue.

Crystal clear vision, excellent night vision, and UV protection are all available without the removal of tissue from the eye — and the procedure is completely reversible. Unlike other vision correction surgeries, the lens is completely removable. Because the procedure involves the addition of a lens, as opposed to the removal of your cornea, you can easily replace the lens should you ever have eye complications that require surgery.

Our very own Dr. Edward C. Wade is the first eye surgeon in Houston, and one of the first surgeons in the state, to offer the EVO Visian ICL procedure. Eye Center of Texas is proud to be at the forefront of innovation. We also have Dr. Yasir Ahmed, one of the first surgeons in Houston to offer the EVO Visian Toric ICL procedure.

What is Toric ICL?

EVO Visian Toric ICL is a version of the EVO Visian ICL procedure that provides eye surgeons with a new tool for treating more advanced cases of myopic astigmatism. Toric ICL treats myopia and astigmatism at the same time and eliminates the standard of correcting the two with separate procedures, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Toric lenses are soft, pliable lenses that have different strengths at different meridians, and allow the lens to rotate and reorient themselves on the cornea. Similar to EVO Visian ICL, the lens is completely replaceable, so should your vision change meaningfully, your eye surgeon can replace the Collamer® lens with minimal discomfort and downtime.

Dr. Yasir Ahmed is one of the first surgeons in the state to offer the Toric ICL procedure in Houston. If you have been searching for vision solutions and are not a good candidate for LASIK due to thin corneas or severe astigmatism, Toric ICL might be the procedure for you.

Benefits of EVO Visian ICL and Toric ICL

Both procedures are low risk, minimally invasive, and are long-term solutions for vision problems. The Visian ICL procedure is FDA-approved for myopia between -3.00 to -20.00 D. The Toric ICL procedure can correct astigmatism in the range of 1.00 to 4.00 D! There is no minimal corneal thickness requirement, making it an option for those with thin corneas, for whom laser-based procedures are not an option. Some other benefits of ICL procedures are:

• Toric lenses have the unique ability to treat myopia and astigmatism
• UV protection
• Excellent night vision
• Short recovery time
• Removable by your doctor
• Does not cause dry eyes
• Does not remove any corneal tissue

If you’re on the path to clear vision and need solutions, the first step is to call Eye Center of Texas, where treatments, check-ups, or vision correction surgery are performed by some of the best surgeons in Texas.

Am I a candidate for an ICL implant?

Some criteria for patients that qualify for ICL are:

• Moderate to severe myopia
• Aged 21-45: ICL is not often performed in patients with presbyopia, or farsightedness, which tends to set in with age
• Correct pupil size — which is not exceptionally large or small
• Six months to one year of static vision prescription: Your surgeon won’t want to perform the procedure if your vision is rapidly changing.
• Not allergic to anesthetic eye drops, as the outpatient procedure requires their use
• Not pregnant or breastfeeding
• Not on steroids or immunosuppressant drugs

You can still receive the procedure if you have dry eyes or thin corneas. Patients with thin corneas, who may not qualify for LASIK in Houston, are often still candidates for ICL implants. The only way to know for sure is to come into Eye Center of Texas for a consultation and to have a doctor tell you what is best for your journey to clear vision.

Interested in EVO Visian ICL or Toric ICL? Call Eye Center of Houston today!

EVO Visian ICL and Toric ICL are non-invasive, long-lasting procedures that can allow you to break away from glasses or contacts — even if you are disqualified from other vision correction surgeries due to thin corneas or severe astigmatism. Whichever procedure is best for you can be determined by our surgeons.

Eye Center of Texas is proud to have two surgeons at the forefront of this technology — Dr. Wade and Dr. Ahmed. Give Eye Center of Texas a call at 713-797-1010 today or request an appointment online to learn more about the exciting new frontier in vision solutions.

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If you have been experiencing significant eye pressure or changes in vision, you may be wondering how to find a glaucoma specialist in Houston. It is estimated that more than two million Americans have no idea that they have some form of glaucoma, the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. Those affected can remain asymptomatic for years, making it exceedingly difficult to catch before damage is done.

The Houston glaucoma specialists at Eye Center of Texas are here to tell you a little more about glaucoma’s variations, symptoms, and risk factors — and where to go for a wide variety of quality treatment options.

Symptoms of glaucoma

How do you know if you have glaucoma? Because glaucoma can be symptomless, it is important that those concerned about their eye health see a Houston glaucoma specialist and ask questions about their eye health. When glaucoma does present symptoms, they can look like this:

• Vision loss
• Blurred vision, narrowed vision
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Haloing
• Eye pressure

Regular eye exams are your first line of defense against glaucoma. Your eye doctor can identify risk factors that may increase your chances of developing glaucoma and conduct tests to detect the disease before it can cause too much damage to your vision.

Types of glaucoma

There are four types of glaucoma, with two being more prevalent than others:

• Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type of glaucoma. It is caused by improper drainage of the canals through which aqueous fluids drain. Eye pressure from lack of drainage will increase over time, eventually damaging the optic nerve.
• Angle-closure glaucoma is the more rare, acute version of open-angle glaucoma. Patients suffering from angle-closure glaucoma often suffer from nausea, headaches, and vision interruptions.
• Normal-tension glaucoma is a bit of a mystery. It functions similarly to open-angle glaucoma, but it develops under normal eye conditions, i.e., not under abnormal pressure.
• Secondary glaucoma is when glaucoma is brought about by a secondary condition, such as diabetes, cataracts, or tumors.

Can early signs of glaucoma be reversed? Although there are no miracle cures, glaucoma can be stopped from progressing if caught in the early stages. Home remedies for cataracts and glaucoma don’t really exist, although simple things like maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding smoking are considered preventative.

What kind of doctor treats a patient with glaucoma?

For medical treatment of glaucoma, usually with eye drops, a Therapeutic Optometrist or an Ophthalmologist can provide this treatment. Should a laser or surgical procedure be recommended, an Eye Center of Texas Ophthalmologist is trained to provide these surgical procedures. They can also diagnose wet or dry macular degeneration and a host of other common eye diseases.

Glaucoma treatments are focused on relieving pressure caused by liquid buildup in the eye. There is no cure for glaucoma, so treatment usually refers to prescription medication to control the glaucoma, or a surgical option can be discussed.

There are a few types of glaucoma surgery:

• Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a laser treatment for glaucoma in which a laser creates small holes to relieve intraocular pressure. This procedure is quick and painless, according to most patients.
• Filtration surgery (trabeculectomy) is similar to SLT but without the laser. Instead, the surgeon makes a small incision to relieve the pressure. This surgery has a very high success rate and has more long-lasting results than SLT.
• Shunts or implants, like the iStent medical implant, can be inserted manually that allow the eye to drain properly.

Glaucoma surgery recovery time is relatively short compared to other eye surgeries, usually lasting only 3-6 weeks, and is reportedly not highly painful or uncomfortable. Patients are encouraged to avoid strenuous activity and protect their eyes from harsh conditions during recovery. Patients can generally return back to normal activity only a day or two after the procedure.

See a glaucoma specialist in Houston at Eye Center of Texas

If you are looking for a glaucoma specialist in Houston, look no further than Eye Center of Texas, where many of the top eye surgeons in Houston can get to work on correcting your vision. The surgeons at Eye Center of Texas perform cataract surgery, LASIK surgery, and corneal surgery, in addition to the many options for glaucoma surgery.

Don’t let glaucoma go undetected, call us at 713-797-1010 or make an appointment online to see an ophthalmologist today.

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• What to Expect With Lasik Before and After Eye Surgery

For many, a life without contact and glasses sounds like a dream — but if you suffer from already dry eyes or a thin cornea, you may wonder whether there are good alternatives to LASIK. The good news? The road to better vision doesn’t stop at LASIK. There are several other options such as EVO Visian ICL or photorefractive keratectomy PRK surgery that can bring you the clear vision you’ve been hoping for.

At Eye Center of Texas, we offer a range of vision corrective surgery options including LASIK, EVO Visian ICL, and PRK. Depending on your unique vision and goals of the procedure, one of these procedures may be a great fit for you.

What can you do if you can’t get LASIK?

EVO Visian® ICL Lens

The EVO Visian ICL lens is an implantable Collamer lens that is an excellent alternative to LASIK for astigmatism as well as for patients who are not a good candidate for LASIK due to dry eyes, thin corneas, and high levels of nearsightedness.

When comparing the LASIK vs. ICL procedures, during EVO, a removable lens is placed behind the colored part of your eye (your iris) through a small hole rather than creating a flap and reshaping your cornea with a laser. Not only does this provide most patients with immediate vision improvements, but unlike LASIK which permanently changes the shape of your eye, it allows your eye surgeon to remove the lens at a later date if you require additional eye surgery. The entire procedure is very quick and virtually painless, taking only 20-30 minutes.

Other benefits of EVO Visian ICL include:

• Clear, sharp vision
• Short recovery time
• Offers UV protection
• Not visible once they are placed
• Can improve night vision
• Does not cause dry eyes

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK)

Patients that are looking for a safe alternative to LASIK due to dry eyes or thin corneas may want to consider PRK vision corrective surgery. PRK is a refractive surgery that removes the outer layer of your cornea to allow access to the cornea without creating an incision. It then uses a laser to help correct vision loss due to nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism similar to LASIK.

Because the outer layer of your cornea is being removed entirely, the recovery time for PRK is a bit longer than it is for LASIK but it is still a great option for patients who want to break free of their contacts and glasses but aren’t a good candidate for LASIK.

If you’ve already tried LASIK and are curious about additional eye treatments to further improve your vision, you are able to get PRK after LASIK although it is rarely needed.

Refractive lens exchange (RLE)

RLE is a vision corrective surgery that replaces your entire natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens. This is a great alternative to LASIK for patients who struggle with age-related vision changes or presbyopia, a condition that gradually affects the eye’s ability to focus on objects that are close-up.

The RLE procedure is very similar to cataract surgery except in RLE, you’re removing a clear lens rather than a cloudy one. Most patients can resume normal activities after a week of resting but may not experience completely clear vision for a couple of weeks.

What is the safest corrective eye surgery?

Each of the above-mentioned eye surgeries has had high success rates and is considered a safe procedure. That said, the safest corrective eye surgery for you will depend on your vision impairments, individual goals, the thickness of your cornea, and any other existing symptoms.

For example, if you’re looking for LASIK alternatives for dry eyes, you may be a good candidate for either PRK or EVO Visian ICL. But because EVO Visian ICL is only used to treat nearsightedness or nearsightedness with astigmatism, if you have dry eyes and are farsighted, the best alternative for you may be PRK.

Need an alternative to LASIK? Eye Center of Texas can help you choose the right vision corrective surgery for you.

There are many factors to consider when it comes to choosing the right alternative to LASIK for you. You’ll want to take into consideration aspects such as your prescription, other symptoms, your lifestyle, and the types of benefits you are seeking. Fortunately, the best LASIK surgeon in Houston, TX at Eye Center of Texas will be able to tell you whether or not you’re a good candidate for LASIK and inform you of other options to help you achieve your goal of a life without dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

If you’re looking for an eye doctor to help explain your vision corrective surgery options and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs, look no farther than Eye Center of Texas. Our skilled doctors have completed over 75,000 LASIK procedures and are one of the first ophthalmologist practices in Texas to offer the groundbreaking EVO Visian ICL procedure.

Request an appointment with us online or call Eye Center of Texas today at 713-797-1010.

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If you have been wondering when to see an ophthalmologist, chances are the answer might be sooner rather than later. If you are having issues with your eyes, whether they be vision or comfort-related, an ophthalmologist can ensure that your eye health is in good hands by providing both practical care on daily eye health and eye disease diagnosis.

Eye disease is often difficult to catch without check-ins with your ophthalmologist. Because the symptoms of serious diseases can present as minor inconveniences and irritations, people often wait until diseases are advanced to seek treatment. Things like redness and dry eye, should they persist for any meaningful amount of time, should be examined by a qualified ophthalmologist immediately, as they are the best chance you have at an early stage eye disease diagnosis.

When should I see an ophthalmologist?

Before you know when to see an ophthalmologist, you should know why you should see an ophthalmologist. Most patients don’t know the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist and are unsure which specialist they should even schedule an appointment with.

What’s the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist? Optometrists are licensed to perform eye exams and vision tests. They can prescribe corrective lenses and contact lenses, and write prescriptions for some medications. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who are also licensed to perform eye exams and prescribe lenses and medication. The difference is that ophthalmologists are licensed to perform eye surgery and specialize in specific eye diseases and surgical techniques.

You wouldn’t go to an ophthalmologist to schedule a routine checkup, but if you are concerned about your eye health, or have a history of vision problems, you should probably pay one a visit. If you’re looking for the best ophthalmologist in Houston, you’ll find many of them at Eye Center of Texas, whether you need a general practitioner, a specialist, or a surgeon.

Here are some common signs that you should see an ophthalmologist.

If you are undergoing changes in your vision

Vision problems can signify any number of things all the way from serious eye disease to the need for a simple prescription update. Sudden blurry vision can be a sign of cataracts, macular degeneration, or retinal diseases, and new floaters can be a sign of retinal detachment. Symptoms could mean that you need new eye drops, or that you need surgery. Only an ophthalmologist will be able to tell you for sure.

If you are experiencing excessive irritation

Both dryness and redness are common symptoms that can indicate uncommon problems. If your eyes are red, or you have dry eyes at night, and over-the-counter eye drops aren’t providing any relief, you should see an ophthalmologist. In extreme cases, excessive dryness can lead to corneal scratching and result in permanent damage to your vision.

If you are experiencing pain or pressure

Sustained pain is usually a bad sign for your eye health. Something as innocuous as pressure in the eyes, which is often ascribed to sinus pressure, can be a sign of advancing glaucoma. If you have been experiencing pain, headaches, or eye pressure, you should see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible.

Infections, diabetes, injuries

The list of reasons to see an ophthalmologist is long. These are some more common reasons that are not related to everyday symptoms.

• Diabetics should get their eyes checked by an ophthalmologist regularly to ensure that high blood sugar does not cause vision loss.
• Anyone that has or has had an eye infection should see an ophthalmologist to ensure that the infection does not result in serious complications.
• Anyone that has had a non-emergency eye injury should consult their ophthalmologist. Whether physical debris or chemical contamination, ophthalmologists can help treat damage resulting from injuries.

What conditions do ophthalmologists treat?

Ophthalmologists are a great first line of defense against common eye disease. What are common eye diseases that an ophthalmologist would be able to diagnose and treat?

• Glaucoma
• Keratoconus
• Cataracts and fast-growing cataracts
• Conjunctivitis
• Corneal diseases including keratitis, keratoconus, photokeratitis
• Age-related macular degeneration

How do you diagnose eye problems such as these? You go see an ophthalmologist! If eye disease diagnosis is not your concern, the ophthalmologists at Eye Center of Texas also perform corrective vision surgeries and give LASIK consultations.

Continue reading: Questions to ask at a LASIK consultation

Stay on top of your eye health. Know when to see an ophthalmologist from Eye Center of Texas.

Knowing when to see an ophthalmologist is an important part of both overall eye health and eye disease diagnosis. If you are at all concerned about the health of your eyes, have had recent changes in vision, or if it has just been a while, you should schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist at Eye Center of Texas today.

The specialists at Eye Center of Texas want to make sure that your eyes are disease-free and seeing crystal clear. Do right by your eyes, give us a call at 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today.

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