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10.04.10 , In
Vision
Maintaining your eyesight and health is crucial in maintaining a great quality of life at any age. Often, diseases and conditions of the eye advanced to very severe levels before they are discovered. Why is this? Because so many of us skip our regular eye exams. A skilled and experienced doctor can detect problems in our eyes before symptoms present themselves; and getting a jump on any condition is a good way to help stop its progress or even reverse any damage it has already done. One of the most healthy decisions you can make is to find yourself the best ophthalmologist and make sure to visit regularly – whether you think you need to or not.
Experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists are able to detect conditions which might affect your vision, as well as other areas of your health. They can also refer you to specialists if you have a condition that requires more targeted action and treatment. A diabetic retinopathy specialist, for instance, can help you determine if you need surgery. Diabetic retinopathy is, of course, associated with diabetes and can cause blurred vision, floaters, poor nighttime vision, and shadows or missing blocks of vision. Again, most people don’t notice until it has done a lot of damage to the eyes. Your specialist will be able to tell if you need photocoagulation or vitrectomy surgery or if you can forgo treatment. You can stop the progression of diabetic retinopathy – but only if you know you have it!
No one wants to develop problems with their sight, but those in Austin find themselves in the lucky position of having world-class doctors in the area to treat them. Ophthalmologists and eye surgeons in Austin are among the best-trained in the world and regularly incorporate the latest technologies and equipment into their practices. This benefits you because detection can be done earlier, and treatments can be more effective.
The skill and professionalism of the doctor and staff are essential whether you are going in for a regular checkup or to discuss vision disturbances. Your doctor has to know the types of treatments that are now available – as well as what is best for you. A good example of this is LASIK surgery. The traditional surgery involved the use of a microkeratome to cut a small flap in the cornea to allow access to the eye. This is also known as “bladed” Lasik. A newer technique uses a second laser to create the flap, and this is known as “bladeless” or “all laser” Lasik. Automatically, you may assume the newer surgery is better. And what could be more reassuring that hearing the word “bladeless” when you’re about to undergo eye surgery!
But bladeless Lasik still involves creating a flap in the cornea that allows access to the eye, and in your particular case, the older method may be more appropriate. Some surgeons recommend the bladed surgery because it is more comfortable for the patient. It depends on your needs and the experience of your doctor. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to eye treatments, and a good doctor knows this.
Find the best doctor – and make an appointment today.
About the Author: Mark Masters has authored may pieces on the eye care & surgery industry and enjoys keeping his readers up to date in this field
