You’ve got to love springtime. The air becomes warmer, melting away the snow and making room for the return of fresh green grass, blooming  flowers, and… irritating allergies. Yes, allergies—A common yet unfortunate side effect of the changing seasons for some individuals.

Without proper treatments and precautions, allergies can turn your eyes as red as roses,  making it difficult to see and enjoy the beauty of spring. If you’re tired of allergies irritating your springtime fun, read on to learn more about the warning signs,  prevention tips, and when you might need to visit your eye doctor.

What Causes Eye Allergies?

Eye allergies (allergic conjunctivitis) are triggered by a reaction to indoor and outdoor allergens that enter your eyes. Examples of allergies include pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and pet dander. While they’re more common in the spring and fall, it’s very possible for them to happen year-round.

The eyes are exposed and sensitive, making them an easy target for allergens and irritants. The body responds to these allergens by releasing chemicals like histamines, which create inflammation. Eye allergies are not contagious and cannot be spread to other people.

Eye Allergy Signs & Symptoms.

The most common signs and symptoms of eye allergies  are:

• Redness
• Itching
• Swelling
• Burning
• Watery eyes
• Puffy eyelids

Additional symptoms may include a runny or itchy nose, sneezing, coughing, or sinus pressure. You may also experience blurred vision or eye fatigue.

Eye Allergy Prevention & Treatment.

To prevent eye allergies, one of the first things you can do is avoid triggering substances. At Vance Thompson Vision, we recommend:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coming indoors
• Wash bedding and pillowcases in hot water regularly
• Wear sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat to keep pollen out of your eyes
• Keep pets out of the bedroom to reduce pet dander
• Keep windows closed to avoid pollen entering your home

If any of these are too difficult to sustain or are proven ineffective, there are treatments to help keep your eyes irritation-free. To relieve symptoms of eye allergies, you can use:

• A cold compress to soothe irritation
• Artificial tears to help flush allergens from the surface of the eye
• Over-the-counter antihistamine or mast-cell stabilizer eye drops
• Oral antihistamines for systemic allergy symptoms
• Air purifiers to improve dryness

When Should You See an Eye Doctor?

If your symptoms are severe, persistent, or affecting your vision, it’s important to schedule an eye exam. Redness, pain, light sensitivity, discharge, or significant vision changes may indicate a condition other than allergies, such as dry eye disease, infection, or another inflammatory issue.

An eye care professional can help determine the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Spring Past Allergies

Spring is a beautiful time of year. You deserve to take in all it has to offer, free from irritation. Eye allergies are common, and there are effective ways to manage them—from avoiding triggers to using targeted treatments.

If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort or can’t find relief, we encourage you to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive evaluation.

At Vance Thompson Vision, we are committed to advancing research and delivering innovative solutions to help you see clearly and live fully.

Want to know more or are struggling with eye allergies? Visit our website or contact us at (877) 522-EYES (3937) to schedule a consultation.

Eye Allergy FAQs

What Are Eye Allergies?
Eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, occur when allergens like pollen, dust, pet dander, or mold trigger an immune response. This reaction can cause itching, burning, redness, tearing, and swelling. While they are more common in spring and fall, they can occur year-round.

Why Do My Eyes Itch?
Allergens trigger the release of histamine, a chemical that causes inflammation and that strong urge to rub your eyes. While rubbing may provide temporary relief, it can actually worsen inflammation and prolong symptoms over time.

The Dangers of Eye Rubbing
Eye rubbing can worsen allergy symptoms by spreading allergens across the surface of the eye and increasing inflammation. It can also worsen dry eye symptoms, increase the risk of infection from bacteria on your hands, cause broken blood vessels, and contribute to corneal thinning over time, which is associated with keratoconus.

Healthy Alternatives to Eye Rubbing
Rubbing your eyes can make your symptoms worse. Instead, consider using a cold compress to soothe irritation, applying preservative-free artificial tears to flush allergens from the eye’s surface, using over-the-counter antihistamine or mast-cell stabilizer eye drops, or taking oral antihistamines if recommended by your doctor. Showering before bed during allergy season and washing bedding regularly can also help reduce allergen exposure.

How Can I Tell If It’s Allergies or Pink Eye?
Eye allergies typically cause itching, watery discharge, and often affect both eyes. Viral or bacterial conjunctivitis may cause thicker discharge, crusting, eye pain, or light sensitivity and may begin in one eye before spreading. If you are unsure of the cause, an eye exam can help determine the correct diagnosis and treatment.

from Vance Thompson Vision Blog https://www.vancethompsonvision.com/blog/dont-rub-your-eyes
via Vance Thompson Vision

We are proud to share that Dr. John Berdahl, MD, of Vance Thompson Vision in Sioux Falls has been named the 2026 recipient of the American Glaucoma Society (AGS) Innovator Award.

The award was presented at the AGS Annual Meeting held February 19–22, 2026, in Rancho Mirage, California. The Innovator Award is given annually to a glaucoma specialist whose work demonstrates exceptional creativity and meaningful advancement in glaucoma diagnosis, treatment, research, or surgical practice.

This national recognition reflects Dr. Berdahl’s ongoing commitment to advancing clinical care and pioneering innovative procedures and approaches that continue to shape how glaucoma is understood and treated. His work aligns directly with the purpose of the Innovator Award: celebrating specialists whose ideas and leadership move the field forward in measurable and lasting ways.

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized by the American Glaucoma Society,” said Dr. Berdahl. “Glaucoma care continues to evolve, and I am grateful to collaborate with colleagues across the country who are dedicated to improving outcomes for patients. Innovation happens when we challenge assumptions and continually seek better solutions.”

The AGS Innovator Award is presented alongside other distinguished recognitions at the Society’s Annual Meeting, including honors such as the President’s Award and Humanitarian Award. Recipients are recognized publicly among peers and leaders in the glaucoma community.

For patients and families, this recognition represents something meaningful: access to care shaped by research, innovation, and forward-thinking leadership. At Vance Thompson Vision, advancing patient outcomes through technology, research, and clinical excellence remains central to everything we do.

We congratulate Dr. Berdahl on this well-deserved honor and celebrate the continued innovation happening right here in Sioux Falls.

To learn more about Dr. John Berdahl and his surgical expertise, visit his full bio.

from Vance Thompson Vision Blog https://www.vancethompsonvision.com/blog/berdahl-innovator-award-2026-2
via Vance Thompson Vision

We are proud to share that Dr. John Berdahl, MD, of Vance Thompson Vision in Sioux Falls has been named the 2026 recipient of the American Glaucoma Society (AGS) Innovator Award.

The award was presented at the AGS Annual Meeting held February 19–22, 2026, in Rancho Mirage, California. The Innovator Award is given annually to a glaucoma specialist whose work demonstrates exceptional creativity and meaningful advancement in glaucoma diagnosis, treatment, research, or surgical practice.

This national recognition reflects Dr. Berdahl’s ongoing commitment to advancing clinical care and pioneering innovative procedures and approaches that continue to shape how glaucoma is understood and treated. His work aligns directly with the purpose of the Innovator Award: celebrating specialists whose ideas and leadership move the field forward in measurable and lasting ways.

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized by the American Glaucoma Society,” said Dr. Berdahl. “Glaucoma care continues to evolve, and I am grateful to collaborate with colleagues across the country who are dedicated to improving outcomes for patients. Innovation happens when we challenge assumptions and continually seek better solutions.”

The AGS Innovator Award is presented alongside other distinguished recognitions at the Society’s Annual Meeting, including honors such as the President’s Award and Humanitarian Award. Recipients are recognized publicly among peers and leaders in the glaucoma community.

For patients and families, this recognition represents something meaningful: access to care shaped by research, innovation, and forward-thinking leadership. At Vance Thompson Vision, advancing patient outcomes through technology, research, and clinical excellence remains central to everything we do.

We congratulate Dr. Berdahl on this well-deserved honor and celebrate the continued innovation happening right here in Sioux Falls.

To learn more about Dr. John Berdahl and his surgical expertise, visit his full bio.

from Vance Thompson Vision Blog https://www.vancethompsonvision.com/blog/berdahl-innovator-award-2026
via Vance Thompson Vision

Before going into any surgery, it’s common to wonder about what will happen after. “How long will it take before I can live my life normally again?” One of the biggest benefits of LASIK and other vision correction procedures is that recovery is typically quick. In this blog, we’ll break down the average recovery time of patients, as well as things to be mindful of during this short journey on the way to clearer vision.

The LASIK Procedure

For the vision correction procedure, the surgeon uses a precise laser to gently reshape the cornea. This allows light rays to focus more directly on the  retina, ultimately reducing dependence on glasses and contact lenses. The procedure is performed in-office and typically lasts only a few minutes per eye.

For a LASIK procedure, the surgeon creates a thin protective flap in the cornea with a femtosecond laser. They fold the flap back and then gently reshape the cornea with an excimer laser. The flap is positioned back in place, where it will heal, allowing for clearer vision.

After Vision Correction Surgery

Once surgery is completed, many patients notice results immediately. The eye still needs time to fully heal, but the changes will be apparent once the patient opens their eyes. That being said, patients might experience some minimal discomfort following the procedure: 

• Discomfort – Stinging, burning, scratchiness, or feeling like something is in the eye. This typically lasts 4-6 hours after the procedure.
• Sensitivity to Light – Bright lights can be uncomfortable as the eyes adjust; sunglasses can be helpful.

Despite the noticeable improvement in vision, patients will need to have someone drive them home after the procedure. These post-surgery symptoms are normal and typically improve quickly. If patients find themselves dealing with these symptoms for longer than a week, we ask them to schedule an exam ahead of their routine follow-up appointment.

Restrictions & Care

After surgery, we ask our patients to adhere to a few small regimens to help with the healing process:

• No Eye Rubbing – Resist eye rubbing to avoid causing damage to the corneal flap.
• Eye Drops – To help with discomfort, we prescribe antibiotic, anti-inflammatory or lubricating eye drops.
• No Swimming – Keep your eyes free from water exposure for a few weeks. This helps to prevent potential infection.
• Avoid Irritants – Patients should refrain from using eye makeup, lotions, or perfumes near the eyes for the first week.

Winter Recovery

A common question we see from patients is if recovery is affected by seasons—specifically winter. The answer is both yes and no. Winter offers its fair share of benefits and challenges for recovery.

Benefits

• More Indoor Time – The cold weather encourages staying inside, which aligns with resting, avoiding any irritants and strenuous activities.
• Fewer Allergens – Winter often has lower pollen counts, resulting in less eye irritation from seasonal allergies.
• Reduces UV Exposure – Lower UV levels are gentler on sensitive, healing eyes compared to the summer months. 

Challenges

• Dryness – Indoor heating and cold, dry air can affect post-LASIK healing.
• Glare – Sunlight that reflects off the snow can increase brightness and glare.
• Wind – Cold winds can irritate the eyes and trigger potential tearing.

A Strong Recovery

Ultimately, the best thing for patients to do while in recovery is to follow the advice prescribed to them by their doctor. They might recommend eye drops or wearing protective eyewear to shield the eyes from UV rays. At Vance Thompson Vision, we work with our patients to develop a personalized recovery plan that supports optimal healing. We also schedule routine follow-up appointments to check on the status of their vision.

Want to know more about LASIK and vision correction procedures? Visit our LASIK page or contact us at 1-877-522-EYES (1-877-522-3937) to schedule your consultation today.

LASIK FAQs

Can you get LASIK if you have astigmatism?
Yes, patients with mild to moderate astigmatism are usually great candidates for LASIK. A consultation is required to determine if LASIK is the best refractive procedure for your specific vision. If it isn’t, you may qualify for another vision correction option.

What is recovery from LASIK like?
After the topical anesthesia wears off, most patients experience burning, tearing, and light sensitivity for approximately four hours. Generally, patients can see immediately after surgery, and their vision improves with each passing hour. Avoiding swimming, eye makeup, and eye rubbing is important. Many patients find it helpful to use preservative-free artificial tears to ease discomfort and aid healing.

When can I return to work after LASIK?
Many patients are able to return to work within one to two days after LASIK, depending on their comfort level and the type of work they do. Jobs that require prolonged screen time may cause temporary dryness or eye fatigue, which can typically be managed with lubricating eye drops and regular breaks.

Is LASIK painful?
LASIK itself is generally not painful. Numbing eye drops are used during the procedure to keep patients comfortable. Some mild discomfort, burning, or scratchiness may occur for a few hours after surgery, but this typically improves quickly.

When can I drive after LASIK?
Most patients are able to drive after 24 hours, once their doctor confirms their vision meets driving requirements at the post-operative exam. Patients should not drive on the day of surgery.

How long does it take for vision to fully stabilize? 
While many patients notice clearer vision immediately, vision can continue to improve and stabilize over the course of several weeks to a few months as the eyes fully heal. Follow-up appointments help ensure healing is progressing as expected.

from Vance Thompson Vision Blog https://www.vancethompsonvision.com/blog/what-to-expect-after-your-vision-correction-procedure-2
via Vance Thompson Vision

Before going into any surgery, it’s common to wonder about what will happen after. “How long will it take before I can live my life normally again?” One of the biggest benefits of LASIK and other vision correction procedures is that recovery is typically quick. In this blog, we’ll break down the average recovery time of patients, as well as things to be mindful of during this short journey on the way to clearer vision.

The LASIK Procedure

For the vision correction procedure, the surgeon uses a precise laser to gently reshape the cornea. This allows light rays to focus more directly on the  retina, ultimately reducing dependence on glasses and contact lenses. The procedure is performed in-office and typically lasts only a few minutes per eye.

For a LASIK procedure, the surgeon creates a thin protective flap in the cornea with a femtosecond laser. They fold the flap back and then gently reshape the cornea with an excimer laser. The flap is positioned back in place, where it will heal, allowing for clearer vision.

After Vision Correction Surgery

Once surgery is completed, many patients notice results immediately. The eye still needs time to fully heal, but the changes will be apparent once the patient opens their eyes. That being said, patients might experience some minimal discomfort following the procedure: 

• Discomfort – Stinging, burning, scratchiness, or feeling like something is in the eye. This typically lasts 4-6 hours after the procedure.
• Sensitivity to Light – Bright lights can be uncomfortable as the eyes adjust; sunglasses can be helpful.

Despite the noticeable improvement in vision, patients will need to have someone drive them home after the procedure. These post-surgery symptoms are normal and typically improve quickly. If patients find themselves dealing with these symptoms for longer than a week, we ask them to schedule an exam ahead of their routine follow-up appointment.

Restrictions & Care

After surgery, we ask our patients to adhere to a few small regimens to help with the healing process:

• No Eye Rubbing – Resist eye rubbing to avoid causing damage to the corneal flap.
• Eye Drops – To help with discomfort, we prescribe antibiotic, anti-inflammatory or lubricating eye drops.
• No Swimming – Keep your eyes free from water exposure for a few weeks. This helps to prevent potential infection.
• Avoid Irritants – Patients should refrain from using eye makeup, lotions, or perfumes near the eyes for the first week.

Winter Recovery

A common question we see from patients is if recovery is affected by seasons—specifically winter. The answer is both yes and no. Winter offers its fair share of benefits and challenges for recovery.

Benefits

• More Indoor Time – The cold weather encourages staying inside, which aligns with resting, avoiding any irritants and strenuous activities.
• Fewer Allergens – Winter often has lower pollen counts, resulting in less eye irritation from seasonal allergies.
• Reduces UV Exposure – Lower UV levels are gentler on sensitive, healing eyes compared to the summer months. 

Challenges

• Dryness – Indoor heating and cold, dry air can affect post-LASIK healing.
• Glare – Sunlight that reflects off the snow can increase brightness and glare.
• Wind – Cold winds can irritate the eyes and trigger potential tearing.

A Strong Recovery

Ultimately, the best thing for patients to do while in recovery is to follow the advice prescribed to them by their doctor. They might recommend eye drops or wearing protective eyewear to shield the eyes from UV rays. At Vance Thompson Vision, we work with our patients to develop a personalized recovery plan that supports optimal healing. We also schedule routine follow-up appointments to check on the status of their vision.

Want to know more about LASIK and vision correction procedures? Visit our LASIK page or contact us at 1-877-522-EYES (1-877-522-3937) to schedule your consultation today.

LASIK FAQs

Can you get LASIK if you have astigmatism?
Yes, patients with mild to moderate astigmatism are usually great candidates for LASIK. A consultation is required to determine if LASIK is the best refractive procedure for your specific vision. If it isn’t, you may qualify for another vision correction option.

What is recovery from LASIK like?
After the topical anesthesia wears off, most patients experience burning, tearing, and light sensitivity for approximately four hours. Generally, patients can see immediately after surgery, and their vision improves with each passing hour. Avoiding swimming, eye makeup, and eye rubbing is important. Many patients find it helpful to use preservative-free artificial tears to ease discomfort and aid healing.

When can I return to work after LASIK?
Many patients are able to return to work within one to two days after LASIK, depending on their comfort level and the type of work they do. Jobs that require prolonged screen time may cause temporary dryness or eye fatigue, which can typically be managed with lubricating eye drops and regular breaks.

Is LASIK painful?
LASIK itself is generally not painful. Numbing eye drops are used during the procedure to keep patients comfortable. Some mild discomfort, burning, or scratchiness may occur for a few hours after surgery, but this typically improves quickly.

When can I drive after LASIK?
Most patients are able to drive after 24 hours, once their doctor confirms their vision meets driving requirements at the post-operative exam. Patients should not drive on the day of surgery.

How long does it take for vision to fully stabilize? 
While many patients notice clearer vision immediately, vision can continue to improve and stabilize over the course of several weeks to a few months as the eyes fully heal. Follow-up appointments help ensure healing is progressing as expected.

from Vance Thompson Vision Blog https://www.vancethompsonvision.com/blog/what-to-expect-after-your-vision-correction-procedure
via Vance Thompson Vision

The New Year is all about fresh starts. Setting new goals, exploring new challenges, and discovering new solutions for treating glaucoma—which is especially exciting for our team. January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, and we’re calling attention to the advancements that have been made in glaucoma care and how they’re revolutionizing treatment for patients.

Understanding Glaucoma

Before we dive into treatments, it’s important to know what exactly glaucoma is and how it affects vision. 

Glaucoma occurs when pressure inside the eye causes damage to the optic nerve, resulting in the loss of peripheral vision, which eventually progresses to central vision and leads to blindness. When it reaches this point, glaucoma cannot be reversed and the damage to the optic nerve is permanent. Though not curable, glaucoma is treatable through management of the pressure in the eye to prevent further damage. What’s considered “normal” eye pressure varies from person to person. If eye pressure reaches above 21mmHg, it might be a good indication to talk to your doctor about further testing. 

Interventional Glaucoma – A New Way to Treat Glaucoma

Interventional glaucoma (IG) isn’t just a form of treatment—it’s a mindset shift. Instead of relying on eye drops as the first line of defense in treating glaucoma, IG is a proactive approach that utilizes  non-invasive lasers, drug implants, and/or minimally invasive surgery. Compared to eye drops, IG typically does a better job of preventing vision loss and the need for invasive, serious surgeries. Eye drops, which were once first-line, aren’t an effective solution on their own, and they often cause side effects and many patients will continue to lose vision. Non-drop options allow us to stay ahead of the disease, are safe and patient-friendly, and can reduce the risk of glaucoma progression.

IG treatments for glaucoma include:

Procedural Pharmaceuticals – Drug implants that are performed through a simple and painless process. They release medication into the eye exactly when needed. This way, patients get the benefits of medication while avoiding the side effects and daily burden of topical medications. These medication implants can last in the eye from approximately 4 months to 3 years.

Laser Treatments – These treatments target drainage tissue, improving flow and helping to stimulate and rejuvenate the eye. Lasers are usually performed in-office but may occasionally be done in the operating room.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – Resistance of the natural outflow pathway causes pressure in the eye to go up. Minor surgeries—such as MIGS—improve drainage in the eye, either through removal of drainage tissue or by inserting a stent. They can be done during cataract surgery or on their own.

Eye Drops and Medications – Prescription eye drops either slow the amount of fluid produced or improve drainage in the eye. To remain effective as a standalone treatment, they must be applied daily. Eye drops have a short window of efficacy from 12-24 hours and when used repeatedly over time, they can cause irritation (sometimes severe) to the eyes. For this reason, under an IG care plan, drops are offered only as a supplement or bridge to procedures

New Clear Resolutions

There’s a lot to look forward to in the new year. For our team, we’re most excited about where interventional glaucoma can go from here—and how it will continue to improve and transform the lives of our patients.

Want to learn more about glaucoma? Visit our glaucoma page or contact us at (605) 361-3937 to schedule your consultation today.

Glaucoma FAQs

What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma occurs when pressure inside the eye causes damage to the optic nerve, resulting in loss of peripheral vision. This can progress to central vision and lead to blindness.

 

Is glaucoma treatable or curable?
At this time, glaucoma is not curable and damage to your optic nerve is permanent. Glaucoma is treatable, however. Treatment requires the management of intraocular pressure to prevent further damage.

What is considered dangerously high eye pressure?
“Normal” eye pressure will vary from one person to the next, but an eye pressure above 21mmHg may be reason for further testing. Consult with your optometrist if you have any concerns.

from Vance Thompson Vision Blog https://www.vancethompsonvision.com/blog/whats-new-in-glaucoma-care-2
via Vance Thompson Vision

The New Year is all about fresh starts. Setting new goals, exploring new challenges, and discovering new solutions for treating glaucoma—which is especially exciting for our team. January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, and we’re calling attention to the advancements that have been made in glaucoma care and how they’re revolutionizing treatment for patients.

Understanding Glaucoma

Before we dive into treatments, it’s important to know what exactly glaucoma is and how it affects vision. 

Glaucoma occurs when pressure inside the eye causes damage to the optic nerve, resulting in the loss of peripheral vision, which eventually progresses to central vision and leads to blindness. When it reaches this point, glaucoma cannot be reversed and the damage to the optic nerve is permanent. Though not curable, glaucoma is treatable through management of the pressure in the eye to prevent further damage. What’s considered “normal” eye pressure varies from person to person. If eye pressure reaches above 21mmHg, it might be a good indication to talk to your doctor about further testing. 

Interventional Glaucoma – A New Way to Treat Glaucoma

Interventional glaucoma (IG) isn’t just a form of treatment—it’s a mindset shift. Instead of relying on eye drops as the first line of defense in treating glaucoma, IG is a proactive approach that utilizes  non-invasive lasers, drug implants, and/or minimally invasive surgery. Compared to eye drops, IG typically does a better job of preventing vision loss and the need for invasive, serious surgeries. Eye drops, which were once first-line, aren’t an effective solution on their own, and they often cause side effects and many patients will continue to lose vision. Non-drop options allow us to stay ahead of the disease, are safe and patient-friendly, and can reduce the risk of glaucoma progression.

IG treatments for glaucoma include:

Procedural Pharmaceuticals – Drug implants that are performed through a simple and painless process. They release medication into the eye exactly when needed. This way, patients get the benefits of medication while avoiding the side effects and daily burden of topical medications. These medication implants can last in the eye from approximately 4 months to 3 years.

Laser Treatments – These treatments target drainage tissue, improving flow and helping to stimulate and rejuvenate the eye. Lasers are usually performed in-office but may occasionally be done in the operating room.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – Resistance of the natural outflow pathway causes pressure in the eye to go up. Minor surgeries—such as MIGS—improve drainage in the eye, either through removal of drainage tissue or by inserting a stent. They can be done during cataract surgery or on their own.

Eye Drops and Medications – Prescription eye drops either slow the amount of fluid produced or improve drainage in the eye. To remain effective as a standalone treatment, they must be applied daily. Eye drops have a short window of efficacy from 12-24 hours and when used repeatedly over time, they can cause irritation (sometimes severe) to the eyes. For this reason, under an IG care plan, drops are offered only as a supplement or bridge to procedures

New Clear Resolutions

There’s a lot to look forward to in the new year. For our team, we’re most excited about where interventional glaucoma can go from here—and how it will continue to improve and transform the lives of our patients.

Want to learn more about glaucoma? Visit our glaucoma page or contact us at (605) 361-3937 to schedule your consultation today.

Glaucoma FAQs

What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma occurs when pressure inside the eye causes damage to the optic nerve, resulting in loss of peripheral vision. This can progress to central vision and lead to blindness.

 

Is glaucoma treatable or curable?
At this time, glaucoma is not curable and damage to your optic nerve is permanent. Glaucoma is treatable, however. Treatment requires the management of intraocular pressure to prevent further damage.

What is considered dangerously high eye pressure?
“Normal” eye pressure will vary from one person to the next, but an eye pressure above 21mmHg may be reason for further testing. Consult with your optometrist if you have any concerns.

from Vance Thompson Vision Blog https://www.vancethompsonvision.com/blog/whats-new-in-glaucoma-care
via Vance Thompson Vision

“I wish I would have done it sooner.” We hear this from our patients all the time. But it is true for us as well. As LASIK  surgeons, we have both had refractive surgery, and even we didn’t realize how much life improved after LASIK, until we experienced it ourselves.

Every day, patients ask us about LASIK, some with added hesitancy — or even fear — of having surgery done in their eye. Our goal at Vance Thompson Vision is to address any and all concerns through patient-specific education and give our patients the tools, resources, and guidance they need to feel confident when making important decisions about vision correction.

At first glance, LASIK surgery might seem daunting. A closer look, however, will reveal that it’s one of the safest elective procedures available — benefiting millions of patients every year.

How do we know this? Besides treating tens of thousands of patients with LASIK, and hundreds of thousands of total eye surgeries, at Vance Thompson Vision we had a significant hand in shaping LASIK into what it is today; we were part of the FDA-monitored trial that built the foundation for the procedure. What is LASIK?

Before we dive into the more common concerns we hear from patients, it’s important to get the full picture of what exactly LASIK surgery is.

LASIK is a laser vision correction procedure designed to reduce or eliminate the use of glasses or contact lenses. Through the combined effort of our expert surgeons and advanced technology, our team uses a precise laser to gently reshape the eye’s cornea — the clear dome on the front of the eye. This allows for light rays to focus better on the retina — the light-sensitive layer of tissue that rests on the back of the eye.

The LASIK procedure goes as follows:

1. The surgeon creates a thin flap in the cornea using a femtosecond laser. The flap is lifted, and the surgeon proceeds to gently reshape the cornea with a highly focused beam of light produced by an excimer laser.
2. Once complete, the surgeon repositions and smoothes the flap, where it begins to heal.
3. The patient sees results almost immediately.

LASIK is performed in-office, and it only takes a few minutes per eye. Most patients are able to return to their daily routine within the next day.

Common Concerns and Expectations

An important thing to manage when considering vision correction surgery is expectations. Below are a list of common concerns that we hear from patients and how we respond to them:

“LASIK Is Painful”

Before surgery, we provide patients with numbing eye drops to not feel pain. The only thing they may feel is slight pressure on the eye during surgery. 

“What if I move my eye and screw it up?”

We use advanced eye-tracking systems to monitor movement and pause the laser if it moves too much.

“LASIK wears off”

The LASIK procedure maintains one of the highest safety and satisfaction rates among elective surgeries, and results in a permanent change to the corneal shape. Patients’ eyes continue to age after LASIK and may require care down the road, but the cornea does not return to its former shape..

“Complications and Side Effects Are Common”

Serious complications are very rare, but temporary side effects such as dry eye are common, especially in the first few weeks following Lasik. These side effects are typically manageable and can be treated with topical medications like eye drops and improve with time.

Have No Fear. You’re in the Clear.

If you are hesitant about getting LASIK surgery, we understand. At Vance Thompson Vision, our team is here to help you understand the benefits, the process, and the risks. Thanks to years of research, we can confidently say that LASIK is one of the safest and most successful surgeries around. It’s surprisingly comfortable, you won’t mess it up, it doesn’t wear off, and as you heal we are here to manage anything that isn’t quite right. Want to know more about the benefits of LASIK? Contact us at (605) 361-3937 or visit our website to schedule your complimentary consultation today.

from Vance Thompson Vision Blog https://www.vancethompsonvision.com/blog/lasik-one-of-safest-surgeries-in-the-world-2
via Vance Thompson Vision

“I wish I would have done it sooner.” We hear this from our patients all the time. But it is true for us as well. As LASIK  surgeons, we have both had refractive surgery, and even we didn’t realize how much life improved after LASIK, until we experienced it ourselves.

Every day, patients ask us about LASIK, some with added hesitancy — or even fear — of having surgery done in their eye. Our goal at Vance Thompson Vision is to address any and all concerns through patient-specific education and give our patients the tools, resources, and guidance they need to feel confident when making important decisions about vision correction.

At first glance, LASIK surgery might seem daunting. A closer look, however, will reveal that it’s one of the safest elective procedures available — benefiting millions of patients every year.

How do we know this? Besides treating tens of thousands of patients with LASIK, and hundreds of thousands of total eye surgeries, at Vance Thompson Vision we had a significant hand in shaping LASIK into what it is today; we were part of the FDA-monitored trial that built the foundation for the procedure. What is LASIK?

Before we dive into the more common concerns we hear from patients, it’s important to get the full picture of what exactly LASIK surgery is.

LASIK is a laser vision correction procedure designed to reduce or eliminate the use of glasses or contact lenses. Through the combined effort of our expert surgeons and advanced technology, our team uses a precise laser to gently reshape the eye’s cornea — the clear dome on the front of the eye. This allows for light rays to focus better on the retina — the light-sensitive layer of tissue that rests on the back of the eye.

The LASIK procedure goes as follows:

1. The surgeon creates a thin flap in the cornea using a femtosecond laser. The flap is lifted, and the surgeon proceeds to gently reshape the cornea with a highly focused beam of light produced by an excimer laser.
2. Once complete, the surgeon repositions and smoothes the flap, where it begins to heal.
3. The patient sees results almost immediately.

LASIK is performed in-office, and it only takes a few minutes per eye. Most patients are able to return to their daily routine within the next day.

Common Concerns and Expectations

An important thing to manage when considering vision correction surgery is expectations. Below are a list of common concerns that we hear from patients and how we respond to them:

“LASIK Is Painful”

Before surgery, we provide patients with numbing eye drops to not feel pain. The only thing they may feel is slight pressure on the eye during surgery. 

“What if I move my eye and screw it up?”

We use advanced eye-tracking systems to monitor movement and pause the laser if it moves too much.

“LASIK wears off”

The LASIK procedure maintains one of the highest safety and satisfaction rates among elective surgeries, and results in a permanent change to the corneal shape. Patients’ eyes continue to age after LASIK and may require care down the road, but the cornea does not return to its former shape..

“Complications and Side Effects Are Common”

Serious complications are very rare, but temporary side effects such as dry eye are common, especially in the first few weeks following Lasik. These side effects are typically manageable and can be treated with topical medications like eye drops and improve with time.

Have No Fear. You’re in the Clear.

If you are hesitant about getting LASIK surgery, we understand. At Vance Thompson Vision, our team is here to help you understand the benefits, the process, and the risks. Thanks to years of research, we can confidently say that LASIK is one of the safest and most successful surgeries around. It’s surprisingly comfortable, you won’t mess it up, it doesn’t wear off, and as you heal we are here to manage anything that isn’t quite right. Want to know more about the benefits of LASIK? Contact us at (605) 361-3937 or visit our website to schedule your complimentary consultation today.

from Vance Thompson Vision Blog https://www.vancethompsonvision.com/blog/lasik-one-of-safest-surgeries-in-the-world
via Vance Thompson Vision

Did you know that cornea transplants are the most commonly performed type of transplant surgery in the United States? In 2023, the number of transplants performed in the U.S. surpassed 130,000. As impressive as that number is, you’d be surprised to know just how many people aren’t familiar with the procedure or why it’s necessary. Read on for a closer look at cornea surgery and the special circumstances that call for it.

Cornea Treatments 101

The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped layer on the front of your eye. It acts like a lens, bending (refracting) light rays as they pass through your eye and channeling them on your retina. The retina then converts the light into electrical signals that are transmitted to the brain, allowing you to see clearly.

At Vance Thompson Vision, we start with a consultation to discuss your symptoms, personal and family medical history, and perform several diagnostic screenings to determine which treatment option is the best fit for you.

Corneal Cross-Linking

Our corneas contain cross-links between collagen fibers in order to maintain their shape and strength. When there aren’t enough cross-links, this causes the cornea to become irregularly shaped, unstable, and weak. Corneal cross-linking is a procedure that halts disease progression and reinforces corneal stability, helping to strengthen and preserve your vision.

Cornea Transplant

Depending on the severity of your cornea’s condition, your doctor may recommend a cornea transplant. During a cornea transplant, your surgeon replaces your damaged cornea with donated, healthy corneal tissue, restoring your ability to see and improving your quality of life. There are different types of cornea surgeries depending on which layer of your cornea is the most damaged:

Full-Thickiness Transplant (Penetrating Keratoplasty)

In this procedure, the surgeon removes the entire center part of the damaged cornea and replaces it with a healthy, same-shaped piece of donor cornea.

Partial-Thickness Transplant (Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty)

This surgery is beneficial if the damage lies in the middle and outermost layers of your cornea. The surgeon removes those two layers and replaces them with healthy donated corneal tissue.

Endothelial Keratoplasty

This minimally invasive cornea transplant surgery benefits the innermost layer of your cornea (the endothelium). This type of procedure can be performed with two different types of surgeries.

• Descemet’s stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK)
• Descemet’s membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK)

Both procedures involve the surgeon removing the damaged innermost layer and replacing it with healthy donor tissue. The difference between these two surgeries is the type of donor tissue used. DSAEK is thicker, while DMEK is thinner. The decision of which to go with comes down to a conversation between you and your surgeon.

Why You Would Need Cornea Surgery

You doctor may suggest cornea treatment if you have:

• Keratoconus – A condition in which your normally round cornea becomes more cone-shaped, making your vision less sharp and causes you to become more nearsighted.
• Fuchs’ Dystrophy – With this disease, certain cells in your corneas die off, causing your cornea to swell with fluid. This causes blurry vision and, without treatment, can result in vision loss.
• Corneal Ulcers – When the cornea becomes infected it is called a corneal ulcer. Ulcers can  cause severe permanent vision loss and may even lead to  blindness. Vision can sometimes be restored with a cornea transplant.
• Injury/Trauma – The cornea can be damaged and scarred from unintended eye injuries and frequent eye rubbing. Not protecting your corneas may require cornea transplantation to restore vision. 

What can you do?

While there are some things that can’t be prevented, the majority of cornea disease we treat can be by these simple steps:

1. Eye Exams: We recommend a routine eye exam with your local optometrist every 1-2 years to catch corneal diseases early which allows for earlier intervention to prevent vision loss and blindness
2. Don’t rub your eyes: Every time you rub your eyes, you are damaging them little by little. Eye rubbing is one of the most common causes of blindness in young patients
3. Eye Protection: even if you don’t need glasses, it’s important to wear eye protection when you’re doing work that could damage your eyes (yes! Even trimming your lawn)
4. Contact Lens Hygiene: if you wear contact lenses, it’s important to work with a local eye doctor to ensure they aren’t damaging your eyes. It’s also important to not wear contacts in pools or hot-tubs and to avoid sleeping in them routinely.

 

Benefits of Cornea Surgery

In most cases, people who have undergone a cornea transplant see more clearly and, in some cases, have reduced eye discomfort. A cornea transplant is considered safe and takes an average of around two hours to perform.

Just like the eye, every surgical outcome is unique to the patient. Long-term success depends on several factors, including the underlying condition and overall eye health. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it might be time to schedule a consultation with your eye doctor.

A New Outlook

At Vance Thompson Vision, our comprehensive refractive and corneal surgery team has the expertise, tools, and facilities required to correct a variety of vision problems, and we are committed to finding the solution that’s right for you.

Want to know more about cornea surgery? Contact us at (605) 361-3937 to schedule an appointment for a complimentary consultation today.

from Vance Thompson Vision Blog https://www.vancethompsonvision.com/blog/cornea-surgery-what-you-need-to-know-2
via Vance Thompson Vision