- GlaucomaGlaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the United States. It is a disease characterized by damage to the optic nerve (the cable which connects the eye to the brain). This results in vision loss. While high eye pressure is a factor which increases the risk and progression of glaucoma, the pressure goal is highly individualized. The biggest barrier to treating glaucoma is awareness that one has it or is at risk for it. This is because glaucoma can progress for many years without obvious symptoms. Unfortunately, damage caused by glaucoma is permanent, so early identification and intervention is essential. There are multiple risk factors for glaucoma including age, ethnicity, family history, and diabetes.
- OphthalmologyWe take pride in the fact that all of the surgeon’s in our practice are affiliated with Wills Eye, and are active members of the academic and teaching staff. Wills Eye Hospital was established in 1832 as the nation’s first eye hospital and is currently one of the world’s premier eye care facilities. Wills Eye Hospital has been recognized as one of the two best hospitals nationwide in Ophthalmology by U.S. News & World Report in its 2016-2017 annual survey.
- Macular DegenerationThe macula is the central part of the retina, integral to clear central vision. There are two types of Macular Degeneration, the dry type and the wet type. The dry type is most common, and consists of protein clumps called drusen accumulating under the retina with thinning of the retina. This can decrease the quality of central vision and can progress with time. Once identified, the patient will be started on specific vitamins to reduce the risk of progression and taught how to monitor for changes in between exams.
- Laser Eye SurgeryIntraoperative wavefront aberrometry is newly available technology which allows the surgeon to verify or refine the power of the IOL during surgery. This is helping to further minimize the need for glasses after surgery in many patients. It is especially useful in patients who have had prior refractive surgery including LASIK.
- CataractsThe term cataract refers to clouding of the lens of the eye. The lens is an important structure located behind the colored part of the eye (the iris). The function of the lens is to focus light on the retina.
- Cataract SurgeryCataract surgery has come a long way since it originated in the years BC. (Yes! There are cave drawings depicting ancient cataract surgery!) The surgery today is an outpatient procedure with a rapid recovery period. The majority of these procedures take only 15 minutes or less. Patients are discharged to home the same day. Most patients are able to return to light activity and desk work as soon as 24 hours after surgery.
- Eye ExamA healthy retina is critical to maintaining clear vision. The retina is best visualized with a dilated eye exam. There are also several testing modalities available to further evaluate the retinal health and function. A retinal examination is performed during a comprehensive medical eye exam.
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- Diabetes Care
- Diabetic RetinopathyHilary Brader, M.D. is a board certified and fellowship-trained medical retina specialist with expertise in macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vascular disease. Dr. Brader completed fellowship training in medical retina at the Harvard Medical School Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Pennsylvania Scheie Eye Institute. She earned […] Read More....
- UltrasoundThe femtosecond laser is cutting edge technology used to assist in cataract surgery. The laser does several stages of the cataract surgery, including the critical steps of opening the capsule (the shell surrounding the cataract) and softening the cataract. It also reduces mild to moderate levels of astigmatism. Laser-assistance can minimize the amount of ultrasound energy required to remove the cataract, allowing for less swelling and a faster recovery. It can improve the safety of surgery in certain patients. The laser can also aid in the precision of intraocular lens (IOL) placement. Precise IOL positioning is crucial, especially for some patients choosing the premium IOLs listed above.
- Eyelid SurgeryPlastic surgery of the eyelids and brow can help patients see more clearly as well as look younger and rejuvenated. By removing excess tissue and tightening the skin, cosmetic and functional eyelid surgery and browlifts can not only increase the visual field but also “turn back time” by reducing the appearance of wrinkles, lines and sagging skin that make you look angry or tired. It can also correct defects such as ptosis (droopy eyes) and dry eyes. These surgeries are typically performed as outpatient procedures with local anesthesia. Complications are rare.
- Plastic SurgeryOphthalmic plastic surgery, or oculoplastics, is a subspecialty of ophthalmology that deals with disorders of the eyelids, orbits (bones around the eyes), eyeball and lacrimal (tear) system.