Does Poor Vision Impact Quality of Life

A cataract can cause sharp images to become blurred and bright images to become dull. It can also contribute to difficulty with night driving. When sight is compromised – your quality of life is compromised. Each year, nearly 22 million Americans age 40 and older are affected by cataracts and seek some form of treatment.
The best option for correcting cataracts is surgery. But not just any cataract surgery – The LenSx® laser is the first FDA-approved laser for use inside the eye. This sophisticated piece of equipment, which makes cataract surgery safer, is the most precise and the most effective for the majority of patients. Specialty Eye Institute is the first in Michigan to offer their patients this advanced treatment. The precision of the laser allows patients to have customized vision with multifocal lenses. Patients can now choose to have vision for distance, intermediate, and near without glasses.
Read the Full Article published in the June issue of the Jackson Magazine

Specialty Eye Institute Moves Corporate Office

Specialty Eye Institutes' Ann Arbor corporate office has relocated to Jackson.  SEI purchased a building at 850 West North Street, where it houses approximately 25 employees who handle billing, scheduling, accounting, and other business functions for the company’s 10 ophthalmologic centers.

“SEI was founded in Jackson in 1979.  We are happy to be back here where it all started,” said SEI Vice President.
Also located in Jackson, is SEI’s medical office at 1116 West Ganson.  This location has the highest volume of patients in the company, seeing as many as 30,000 patients a year. “We are excited to have a strong presence in the Jackson community.  Much of our staff calls Jackson home, so it greatly contributes to our corporate culture,” adds DeMott.

Specialty Eye Institute offers comprehensive eye care services in 10 locations throughout Michigan and Ohio. Treatments include diseases of the eye, cataracts, corneal disease, glaucoma, dry eye, macular degeneration, diabetic eye care and laser vision correction.
For more information about Specialty Eye Institute, or to schedule an appointment, please call 1-877-852-8463 or visit www.specialtyeyeinstitute.com.

 

Specialty Eye Institute Physician Celebrates 10 Years of Excellence

The subspecialty of retina is unique in the sense that patients with retina problems are in danger of losing their precious gift of sight, if left untreated. By possessing the ability to recognize and treat these patients, Dr. Gordon feels she is making a difference in the lives of her patients. It is important that patients receive the best possible care to correct or restore their vision, along with a doctor who understands their concerns and who always puts their needs first.  This is the kind of care you can expect from Dr. Gordon and her staff.

Specialty Eye Institute would like to congratulate Dr. Carmelina Gordon on 10 years of excellence.   Dr. Gordon, a Vitreoretinal Specialist, has been proudly serving patients at the Lansing and Jackson SEI offices.

Because retinal care is vital to a patient’s health and quality of life, Dr. Gordon maintains a strong focus on the latest technology, to assure that her patients are given the best treatment options to preserve their vision.  Her dedication to research and clinical studies for Macular Degeneration has earned her a prestigious reputation in the medical field.     


When asked why she became an Ophthalmologist, Gordon replied, “I chose ophthalmology as I think the gift of sight is one of the most precious gifts that we have.”  SEI’s Vice President adds, “Dr. Gordon is a great asset to our team.  We are grateful to her for providing such excellent care to our patients.”    

Specialty Eye Institute offers comprehensive eye care services in Michigan and Ohio. Treatments include diseases of the eye, cataracts, corneal disease, glaucoma, dry eye, macular degeneration, diabetic eye care and laser vision correction. For more information about Specialty Eye Institute, or to schedule an appointment, please call 1-877-852-8463 or visit www.specialtyeyeinstitute.com.

Michigan locations: Adrian, Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, Chelsea, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Lansing. Ohio locations: Bryan and Toledo.

Winner of Free Lasik Has New Outlook on Life

Sara Ward, Western Michigan University student and Portage resident, has a new outlook on life since visiting Specialty Eye Institute’s Open House in Portage. Ward’s name was drawn at the event, and she was the lucky recipient of a Free Lasik procedure. Ward attended the Open House to learn more about SEI and their eye care services, never thinking she would actually walk away a winner.


The actual patient experience was a collaborative effort between Ward’s Optometrist, Dr. Patrick Holser, and SEI’s Ophthalmologist, Dr. Paul Ernest, to provide seamless care. Dr. Holser determined Ward’s candidacy for the surgery, while the actual procedure was performed by Dr. Ernest. Post-surgical follow-ups were provided by both physicians.

Just one day after surgery, Ward was ecstatic about her results, posting on SEI’s Facebook page, “Thank you SEI for showing me a whole new world! When I woke up the day after my LASIK and was actually able to read the numbers on the clock instead of seeing a big red blur it made me cry! Everyone at the Portage location was great and I will be recommending you to all of my friends!” After her one-week follow-up, Ward reported that her eyes were healing well and she was thrilled to realize her dream of 20/20 vision without glasses.

Specialty Eye Institute offers comprehensive eye care services in Michigan and Ohio. Treatments include diseases of the eye, cataracts, corneal disease, glaucoma, dry eye, macular degeneration, diabetic eye care and laser vision correction. Michigan locations: Adrian, Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, Chelsea, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Saline, Southfield & West Bloomfield. Ohio locations: Bellevue, Bryan, Sandusky and Toledo.

View more patient testimonials on Specialty Eye Institute’s Facebook page. To learn more about SEI, please call 1-877-852-8463 or visit www.specialtyeyeinstitute.com.

February is AMD Awareness Month (age-related macular degeneration) - Facts you should know about AMD

Macular degeneration occurs when the center of the retina, known as the macula, is damaged. Macular degeneration is the leading cause of legal blindness in people over the age of 55. The cause of macular degeneration is unknown.

Although the macula is very small, it is responsible for acute vision. Normal everyday activities such as reading, driving, watching television, recognizing faces, and detailed work such as needlepoint or drawing are dependent upon a healthy macula.

Macular degeneration affects central vision only. Peripheral vision and color vision usually remain normal. This loss of central vision usually occurs gradually. Macular degeneration typically affects both eyes, although not necessarily at the same time. Additionally, each eye’s vision may decline at different rates.

     Video simulation of what someone with macular degeneration sees

How is Macular Degeneration Detected?

Although the cause of macular degeneration is unknown, there are signs that the disease is present in the eye.


Patients experiencing any of the following symptoms should see an ophthalmologist immediately: 

• Straight lines appear wavy
• The center of vision appears distorted but the other areas of vision remain clear
• The center of vision appears dark, white or blurry
• The ability to perceive colors changes or diminishes 

A qualified ophthalmologist can detect signs of macular degeneration during a routine eye examination. Declining vision or a change in the eye’s blood vessels are often indications that macular degeneration is occurring.

Common eye ailments that are not thought to be linked to macular degeneration include cataracts and cataract surgery, dry eye syndrome, and floaters (moving spots in the field of vision).

Although there is no cure for macular degeneration, early detection is important. Once the disease is identified, treatments are available. Further, there is extensive research being done in this field and advanced treatments are being developed. The sooner patients with macular degeneration are diagnosed, the earlier they can receive these advanced treatments.

Specialty Eye Institute offers sophisticated eye exams that are capable of detecting macular degeneration early, before you develop noticeable symptoms. We offer the most advanced macular degeneration treatment options available.

Preserving and protecting your vision from macular degeneration depends upon routine eye exams. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Video Credit: National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health

Physician and Former Navy Officer Helps a Cadet in Need

Dr. Gago with Kyle after surgery

For most people, Friday the 13^th is an unlucky day.  For most people, that is, except ROTC cadet, Kyle Kausch of Ann Arbor. In preparing for a career in aviation, Kausch knew he was in need of corrective eye surgery.  With a small window of opportunity before leaving to study abroad in Brisbane, Australia, Kausch had to act fast.  


On Thursday, January 12, he called SEI Eyecare & Laser Centers in Lansing, and explained his need for surgery as soon as possible.  A stroke of good luck, and teamwork, Kausch was in the next day for surgery with Dr. Luis Gago.  As a former officer in the Navy, Dr. Gago was happy to have the opportunity to help another serviceman.  However, the teamwork didn’t end there.  Staff at SEI worked and researched diligently, and was able to coordinate Kausch’s 3 month post-surgical visit with an Ophthalmologist in Australia.  Now, two weeks after his Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK), Kausch says he “has better than 20/20 vision in both eyes, and couldn’t be happier with the experience he had with SEI.”

Specialty Eye Institute offers comprehensive eye care services in Michigan and Ohio. Treatments include diseases of the eye, cataracts, corneal disease, glaucoma, dry eye, macular degeneration, diabetic eye care and laser vision correction. For more information about Specialty Eye Institute, or to schedule an appointment, please call 1-877-852-8463 or visit www.specialtyeyeinstitute.com.

Michigan locations: Adrian, Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, Chelsea, Jackson, Kalamazoo, and Lansing. Ohio locations: Bryan and Toledo.
Founded in 1979, SEI has grown tremendously over the years.  Today, SEI has 10 locations between Michigan and Ohio, and sees about 130,000 patients a year.  With a team of 20 board-certified ophthalmologists, SEI doctors offer laser vision correction, treatment and surgery for diseases of the eye including: glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.  

Tips to Relieve Dry Eye Symptoms this Winter

Now that the cold winter weather has arrived, low humidity increases dry eye problems for some. There are various types of dry eye syndrome and some of the symptoms can be confusing like constant watery eyes. Learn more about dry eye syndrome and some simple steps you can do to control the discomfort:


What is dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome is a lack of lubrication and moisture in the eye. Ironically, patients who have dry eyes often have excessive tearing. 


What are the symptoms of dry eye?

• Burning eyes
• Scratchy, gritty eyes
• Itchy eyes
• Dry eyes
• Excessive tears or watery eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Red eyes
• Contact lens discomfort

What are the causes of dry eye?

• Natural aging process - As we age, the production of tears diminishes.  At age 65, we produce about 60% fewer tears than we did at age 18.  Almost all people tend to get drier eyes as they get older.
• Contact lenses - Wearing contact lenses is one of the leading causes of dry eye, due to the increase in tear evaporation resulting in irritation.
• Disruption of blinking - Since blinking helps lubricate the eye by spreading tears, any disruption of blinking, which can occur with reading and computer work, may result in dry eye.
• Medications - Antihistamines, decongestants, heart medication, birth control pills, certain blood pressure medicines and antidepressants can also cause dry eye.
• Environmental Factors - Sun, wind, smoke and air conditioners can also cause dry eye.

Although there is no known cure for dry eye, here are some simple steps you can take to keep your eyes lubricated this winter season: 

• Over-the-counter artificial tears and ointments can be helpful to provide moisture and lubrication for the surface of your eye (available at your local pharmacy).
• Use a humidifier 
• Avoid excessive air movement by decreasing the speed of ceiling and oscillating fans.
• Remember to blink when reading, watching TV or working on the computer
• When driving point the air vents away from your eyes

If chronic dry eye symptoms persist, prescription eye drops may help, contact Specialty Eye Institute to learn more at 877.852.8463 or www.specialtyeyeinstitute.com.