Cataracts
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in adults 55 and older and are the surgical procedure most often performed by the ophthalmologists of the Roper St. Francis Eye Center.
Cataract surgery has advanced tremendously in the past 20 years. Modern techniques now include no-stitch, no shot, no patch cataract surgery, providing excellent outcomes and rapid visual recovery.
At the Roper St. Francis Eye Center, we offer the latest cataract treatments including astigmatism and presbyopia correcting intraocular lenses.
Diabetic eye care
The incidence of diabetes-related blindness can be decreased with early identification and intervention through retinal screening. The American Diabetes Association recommends all diabetics should have a dilated eye exam by an ophthalmologist at least once a year. Our doctors are experienced in identifying and treating diabetic retinopathy.
Argon Laser treatment of diabetic retinopathy is available. The most complex diabetic retinopathy can be handled by our retina sub-specialists.
Diabetics are also much more likely to have other medical and surgical eye problems such as glaucoma and cataracts. Our quick appointments and ease of scheduling allow our diabetic patients to receive the care they need in a convenient and timely manner.
Learn more about diabetes.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that gradually steal sight without warning. There may be no symptoms in the early stages of the disease and it is estimated that half of all people affected by glaucoma may not know they have it.
Vision is lost due to damage to the optic nerve, usually starting in the peripheral vision, but can worsen to affect all of the vision. Early detection and treatment can prevent this damage. The doctors of the Roper St. Francis Eye Center are experienced in both the medical management of glaucoma as well as the surgical techniques, including laser trabeculoplasty, filtering techniques and shunts.
Glaucoma risk factors include:
- Over 50
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Family History
People at high risk for glaucoma should get a complete eye exam, including eye dilation, every one to two years.
Macular degeneration
Our doctors provide screening and management of this serious cause of central visual loss in older Americans. Macular degeneration screening is a regular part of the complete dilated eye exam and comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation.
Oculoplastics (cosmetic eye surgery)
Oculoplastic conditions of the eye include drooping eyelids which may lead to a decreased field of vision or excess skin and tissue below the eyes creating an appearance of fatigue. Patients may elect to have the excess skin and tissue removed to gain a more youthful appearance or they may need to have the excess skin and tissue removed to improve their vision.
Retina
Diabetes affects millions of Americans and one of its most serious complications is blindness from diabetic retinopathy. Blindness can be decrease with early identification and intervention through retinal screening. Diabetics are also much more likely to have other medical and surgical eye problems such as glaucoma and cataracts.
Argon Laser treatment of diabetic retinopathy is available. The most complex diabetic retinopathy can be handled by our retina specialists. State-of-the-art equipment is available to perform more complex procedures such as laser vitrectomy or repair of a detached retina.
Routine eye care
If you are in need of routine eye care such as: eye exams, glasses and/or contact lens, please call one of our board certified doctor’s office directly. They have offices conveniently located throughout the tri-county area. Routine eye care is not provided at the Roper St. Francis Eye Center.