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Safely Viewing the April 2024 Solar Eclipse in Buffalo, NY

As the April 2024 solar eclipse approaches, excitement builds in Buffalo, NY, where observers anticipate a breathtaking event. According to NASA, the partial eclipse will commence at 2:04 p.m., with totality beginning at 3:18 p.m. However, it’s crucial to prioritize eye safety during this awe-inspiring moment. Buffalo, NY, finds itself in the path of totality, offering a rare opportunity to witness the sun completely obscured by the moon. Here at ECVA, we’re dedicated to guiding you on safely viewing this extraordinary phenomenon. 

Where to Get Eclipse Glasses in Buffalo 

Thanks to Erie County’s support, free eclipse glasses are now at the Buffalo Museum of Science (limit: two per person). You can also get them at all 37 branches of the Buffalo & Erie County Library System. Call your library ahead to check availability. If buying your own, choose reputable sellers like RainbowSymphony.com. Make sure the glasses are certified for solar viewing and meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard for direct observation of the sun. 

Dangers of Unprotected Viewing 

Staring directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause severe eye damage or even permanent blindness. The sun’s intense rays can burn the retina, leading to solar retinopathy, a condition where the cells of the retina are damaged by solar radiation. Therefore, it’s crucial to emphasize that looking at the eclipse without proper eye protection is extremely dangerous. 

Why Can’t I Wear My Sunglasses to Watch The Eclipse? 

 While sunglasses are essential for shielding your eyes from harmful UV rays during regular daylight, they are not suitable for viewing a solar eclipse. Regular sunglasses do not provide adequate protection against the intense brightness of the sun during an eclipse. Staring at the sun through them can still cause significant damage to your eyes. 

Using Specialized Eclipse Glasses 

The safest way to view a solar eclipse is by using specialized eclipse glasses. These glasses are equipped with solar filters that block out harmful ultraviolet, infrared, and visible light rays. When choosing eclipse glasses, ensure they meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard to guarantee sufficient protection for your eyes. Additionally, inspect the glasses for any damage or scratches before use, as compromised lenses can allow harmful light to penetrate. 

Making Your Own Solar Eclipse Viewer 

If you’re unable to procure specialized eclipse glasses, you can create a simple solar eclipse viewer using household items. One method involves constructing a pinhole projector using cardboard or paper. By poking a small hole in one piece and allowing sunlight to pass through onto another surface, such as a piece of paper or the ground, you can safely observe the eclipse’s progress without looking directly at the sun. 

Our Focus is on Care 

Whether you’re using specialized eclipse glasses or crafting a DIY solar eclipse viewer, take the necessary precautions to safeguard your vision. Let’s make this celestial event a memorable and safe experience for everyone in Buffalo, New York. 

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The Evolution of LASIK: From PRK to Bladeless Femtosecond LASIK

Vision correction surgery began making headlines in the 1980s and 1990s. It generated excitement as people learned they may have a path to see clearly without needing corrective lenses, including prescription glasses or contacts.  

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) quickly became one of the most popular options available. It offered less discomfort and faster recovery times, as well as the possibility to achieve 20/20 vision within one day.  

However, there are several types of vision correction surgery on the market and each works best in different situations. Here’s an overview of the options, including LASIK, PRK, bladeless femtosecond LASIK, and more.  

PRK  

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a laser eye surgery that predates LASIK. While it’s not as widely used as LASIK, it remains relevant since it’s a bladeless procedure. As a result, it’s an option for people with thin corneas. However, it’s generally limited to individuals with myopia and astigmatism, and it’s appropriate for significant hyperopia.  

With PRK, vision correction is achieved by working through the outer layer and reshaping the cornea to address refractive errors. Most patients see vision improvements within one month, though some may take closer to three months to achieve proper results, depending on how quickly the outer layer repairs.  

LASIK  

LASIK is a procedure that uses lasers to reshape the cornea, allowing it to treat myopia, presbyopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. A microkeratome (a type of blade) creates a flap to make the cornea accessible. Then, a laser removes specific tissue to correct refractive errors. Once the tissues are removed, the flap is put back into place to heal.  

While LASIK is effective, there’s a higher chance of dry eye as a side effect, which may make it a less-than-ideal choice for patients who already experience dry eyes. However, the bladed approach can more easily navigate certain cornea or pupil abnormalities when compared to a laser-based alternative.  

ASA  

ASA (advanced surface ablation) is similar to PRK, but it relies on a different type of laser. The laser loosens the outer layer of the cornea to allow the laser to penetrate more deeply to correct refractive issues, and it’s a bladeless procedure. Generally, ASA complication rates are lower than PRK, and outcomes are typically better due to the high degree of precision.  

LASEK  

LASEK (laser-assisted sub-epithelial keratomileusis) is also similar to PRK, but it creates an ultra-thin flap using the laser that remains attached. That layer is moved to the side to allow the laser to reshape the cornea and is then repositioned. The results are usually akin to what’s seen with PRK, and it’s a potential option for patients with thin corneas that make them ineligible for traditional LASIK. Additionally, it may work for patients who already struggle with dry eyes, a condition that can be exacerbated by LASIK.  

Bladeless Femtosecond LASIK  

Bladeless femtosecond LASIK, also known as femtoLASIK, uses a femtosecond laser instead of a blade to create the flap. Since it relies on all-laser technology, it may offer a greater degree of precision when creating the flap and may reduce the risk of complications. Once that’s done, lasers reshape the cornea to address the refractive errors before the flap is put back into place.  

With Bladeless femtosecond LASIK, it’s possible to correct the same refractive errors as you would with traditional LASIK. It may also work particularly well for patients who already experience dry eye, as that side effect is typically less pronounced and may not last as long.  

Connect With Top LASIK Doctors in Buffalo

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’re considering laser vision correction surgery or simply haven’t visited your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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Big News: Orchard Park Vision Care Office Reopens with a Fresh Look!

We are delighted to announce the reopening of our Orchard Park eye care center, which officially took place on Monday, October 30th. This marks the beginning of a new chapter for us, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with our cherished southtown community. 

A Commitment to Excellence 


At our Orchard Park center, we’ve poured our hearts into a comprehensive revitalization, driven by our unwavering commitment to delivering top-tier eye care that exceeds your expectations for both quality and service. Our mission is simple – to provide exceptional eye care while treating you as not just a patient, but as a unique individual. 

What’s New: 

  • Spacious Environment: The new center boasts a more spacious and comfortable setting, creating a welcoming and soothing atmosphere for all our patients. 
  • Cutting-Edge Technology: We’ve invested in state-of-the-art medical equipment to ensure that you receive the highest standard of care. Your eye health is our priority, and we’ve equipped our center accordingly. 
  • Expanded Optical Shop: Our Optical Shop has nearly doubled in size, offering an even wider selection of eyewear, frames, and accessories to cater to your style and vision needs. 

A Team Dedicated to You 

Our entire team, including our skilled ophthalmologists and dedicated staff, are united by a singular goal – to care for you as a person, not just a patient. We understand the importance of eye health in your overall well-being, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. 

Unmatched Eye Care Expertise 

Our specialized team of doctors and certified technicians are committed to providing the highest level of care for your eyes. We pride ourselves on dedicating time and attention to understanding the root causes of your eye conditions. This enables us to create personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. 

Schedule Your Visit in The Southtowns 

For any questions or to schedule an appointment at our newly rejuvenated Orchard Park center, please feel free to call us at 716.631.3937 (EYES) or 716.648.5329. We’re here to serve you, and we can’t wait to welcome you to our refreshed facility. 

Thank you for entrusting us with your eye care, and we look forward to providing you with the highest level of service and expertise at our Orchard Park location. 

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The Importance of Regular Eye Exams for the Whole Family

The start of the school year is on the horizon, so many households are taking the time to get ready for the upcoming academic year. One critical part of that equation is a back-to-school eye exam, ensuring children are able to see clearly when they’re in class. 

However, regular eye exams aren’t just critical for students; they’re essential for the whole family. Here’s why. 

Early Detection of Vision Problems 

Regular eye exams allow for the early detection of vision problems, ensuring prompt intervention and treatment. In children, undetected vision issues can lead to difficulties in school, delayed development, and social challenges. By scheduling regular eye exams for children, parents can identify and address vision problems early on, preventing any potential negative impacts on their education and overall well-being. 

For parents, regular eye exams can detect age-related eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Many of these conditions don’t produce noticeable symptoms in their early stages, making comprehensive eye exams critical for early diagnosis and timely treatment. 

Prevention and Management of Eye Conditions 

Eye exams are not just about identifying existing vision problems; they also play a crucial role in preventing eye issues and managing existing conditions. Eye care providers can assess your eye health, evaluate risk factors, and provide guidance on preventive measures that’s customized based on your unique needs. 

Regular eye exams are also crucial for individuals with existing eye problems. These exams help monitor for changes caused by the conditions. In turn, it’s easier to identify treatments that can resolve issues or prevent further deterioration and begin them as quickly as possible. 

Prescription Updates 

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, regular eye exams ensure that your prescriptions are current. Vision changes typically occur gradually, and you might not even realize that your visual acuity is shifting. Regular eye exams help identify changes in your vision and allow your eye care provider to update prescriptions as needed to maintain proper visual acuity. 

Overall Health Assessment 

Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and certain autoimmune diseases can lead to specific eye-related changes. During an eye exam, your eye care provider can identify abnormalities – such as changes in blood vessels, optic nerve damage, or deposits in the eyes – that may indicate underlying health issues. By catching these signs early, individuals can seek appropriate medical care and manage these conditions effectively. 

Setting a Good Example 

Regular eye exams for the whole family set a positive example for children and emphasize the importance of proactive healthcare. When children see their parents prioritizing proper eye care, they’re more likely to value and prioritize their own vision as they grow older. By making regular eye exams a family practice, you instill lifelong habits of self-care and promote overall well-being. 

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’re preparing for back-to-school season or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. 

Family looking at eyeglasses
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Common Age-Related Eye Problems

Vision plays a crucial role in everyone’s daily lives. But over time, age-related eye problems may arise, affecting a person’s ability to see clearly and perform common tasks. If you’d like to know about some common age-related eye problems, their causes, symptoms, and potential management strategies, here’s what you need to know. 

Presbyopia 

Presbyopia is one of the most common age-related eye problems. This condition is the result of the loss of elasticity in the lens, making it difficult to focus on nearby objects. People with presbyopia may experience eyestrain, headaches, and might start holding reading materials away from them to improve clarity. Fortunately, presbyopia can be easily managed with reading glasses, bifocals, or multifocal contact lenses. 

Cataracts 

Cataracts are another prevalent eye problem among older adults. They occur when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurry vision, faded colors, and increased sensitivity to glare. 

Although cataracts are a natural part of aging, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood that they’ll occur. For example, smoking, excessive sunlight exposure, and diabetes can accelerate the development of cataracts. 

In many cases, cataracts can be treated with surgery. The procedure involves replacing the cloudy lens with an artificial one, and the artificial lens restores clear vision. However, if symptoms are mild, using brighter lighting, wearing anti-glare glasses or sunglasses, or other less invasive options may work well. 

Age-Related Macular Degeneration 

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition that impacts the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision. When a person has AMD, it typically causes a gradual loss of vision in the middle of the visual field. That makes it challenging to read, recognize faces, or perform tasks that require fine visual acuity. 

While the exact cause of AMD isn’t known, specific factors can play a role. For example, genetics, smoking, obesity, and high blood pressure can increase the risk. 

Although there is no cure for AMD, early detection and lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet and protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays, can help slow its progression. 

Glaucoma 

Glaucoma is a set of eye conditions that harm the optic nerve, typically due to increased pressure in the eye, which leads to damage. The most widely experienced type of glaucoma is primary open-angle glaucoma. In most cases, it develops slowly and painlessly, gradually affecting peripheral vision. 

If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss. Regular eye examinations, along with medications, eye drops, or surgical interventions, can help manage glaucoma and prevent further damage. 

Dry Eye Syndrome 

Dry eye syndrome is when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when a person’s tears evaporate too quickly. Tear production usually decreases as a person ages, leading to dryness, irritation, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. 

Environmental factors, medications, and specific underlying health conditions can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Artificial tears, lifestyle adjustments – such as blinking more frequently and using a humidifier – and prescription medications can help manage dry eye syndrome effectively. 

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’re concerned about age-related eye problems or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. 

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Summer Eye Care Tips 

It’s officially summer, a time of year when people spend more time outdoors enjoying the excellent weather. However, it’s also a season that comes with specific eye health risks. Fortunately, it’s easy to keep your eyes in fantastic shape by taking some simple steps. Here are some summer eye care tips to get you started. 

Protect Against UV Light 

Ultraviolet (UV) light can harm your eyes. UV exposure is connected to a variety of eye conditions, including macular degeneration, photokeratitis, uveal melanoma, and many others. 

UV rays are present even when it’s cloudy outside. As a result, it’s critical to protect your eyes against UV light at all times. Often, the simplest way is to wear wraparound sunglasses with complete or full-spectrum UV protection. You can even purchase wraparound sunglasses that have your prescription, ensuring you can see clearly while shielding your eyes from harm. 

Wear Goggles When Swimming 

When you go swimming, wearing goggles is a must if you want to keep your eyes safe and healthy. In lakes, rivers, and the ocean, visibility can be low, so the goggles can protect your eyes against unexpected debris. 

Plus, natural bodies of water can contain tiny particles, bacteria, and microorganisms, all of which can damage the eye. By wearing goggles, you prevent them from reaching your eyes. 

If you’re swimming in a pool, chemicals like chlorine in the water are an eye irritant, so putting on goggles helps you avoid that irritation. Plus, pools can contain a wide array of contaminants, so it’s best to keep goggles on to avoid exposing your eyes to them. 

Apply Sunscreen and Bug Spray Carefully 

Sunscreen and bug spray both contain ingredients that can irritate the eyes. As a result, you want to exercise caution when applying either. Avoid spraying sunscreen or bug spray over or near your eyes, opting for a hand-based application instead. Additionally, keep both away from the eyelids entirely. 

If you’re sweating, causing your sunscreen or bug spray to drip across your skin, dab (don’t wipe) the sweat away using a clean cloth, napkin, or similar item. That ensures you don’t accidentally move the drips onto your eyelids or into your eyes. 

Wash Hands Regularly (and Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes) 

Pollen, dust, and dirt can all end up on your hands throughout the day, often irritating the eyes. Regular hand washing is a simple way to reduce your odds of exposing your eyes to contaminants or foreign objects if you touch your eye area, keeping your eyes safe. 

Additionally, it’s best to avoid rubbing your eyes at all. If there are particles or other materials in your eye, rubbing can increase irritation and may lead to more damage, such as scratches. Instead, use safe flushing methods to remove anything in your eyes, as that’s the safer approach. 

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’d like to learn more summer eye tips or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. 

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Myths About UV Protection and Your Eyes

Ultraviolet (UV) rays are harmful, including to your eyes. Since July is UV safety month, it’s the perfect time to consider how you can protect your eyes from this damaging form of radiation. To help you get started, we’re going to dispel some common misconceptions and myths about UV protection and your eyes. Here’s what you need to know. 

Myth: All Sunglasses Protect Against UV Rays 

Sunglasses don’t inherently protect against UV rays unless they have coatings designed to offer that protection. When selecting sunglasses, look for pairs that list UV-blocking capabilities on the lenses, preferably with a very high percentage, with 100 percent protection being the best option. 

Myth: Polarized Lenses Offer UV Protection 

While sunglasses can be polarized and offer UV protection, the fact that they’re polarized isn’t what blocks UV light. Instead, polarized lenses only cut back on glare. As a result, it’s critical to make sure that the product information lists that the lenses block UV light. 

Myth: You Only Need UV Protection on Sunny Days 

While clouds may reduce the amount of UV rays that reach you, the reduction is very limited. That means you’re eyes are still exposed to a significant amount of UV light when it’s overcast, so wearing UV-blocking sunglasses is still recommended. 

Myth: You Don’t Need UV-Blocking Sunglasses When in a Vehicle 

While it’s true that many vehicle windshields block the vast majority of UV rays, side windows don’t offer the same level of protection. As a result, it’s best to wear UV-blocking sunglasses when in a vehicle to adequately protect your eyes. 

Myth: Full-Spectrum UV Protection Sunglasses Are Expensive 

Full-spectrum UV-blocking sunglasses are available at practically any price point, and there are many highly affordable options on the market. Often, it’s possible to find a suitable pair for less than $20 at big box stores or through online retailers. 

Even prescription sunglasses with UV protection often cost less than most people assume. As a result, it’s possible to cover that need with prescription lenses without spending much more than you would on regular prescription glasses. 

Myth: Darker Lens Tints Offer More UV Protection 

How dark sunglass lenses are tinted doesn’t impact the level of UV protection. Instead, it only alters how much visible light reaches your eyes. As a result, any lens that offers a high percentage of UV-blocking will perform similarly to others when it comes to shielding your eyes from harmful rays, regardless of how dark the tint is on the lens. 

Myth: UV Damage Is Reversible 

In most cases, UV damage to the eye is functionally cumulative, causing it to add up over time. Additionally, most of the harm is irreversible once it occurs. 

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’re concerned about possible damage to your eyes caused by UV exposure or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. 

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What Is Eyelid Dermatitis?

Eyelid dermatitis is a form of contact dermatitis, a skin condition that occurs when you come into contact with a triggering substance, such as an allergen, dust, or irritating chemical. After contact, the eyelid experiences a reaction, leading to various symptoms.  

Whether you’re trying to determine if you’re experiencing eyelid dermatitis or would simply like to know more about the condition, here’s an overview of what causes eyelid dermatitis, the typical symptoms, and details about treatment.  

What Causes Eyelid Dermatitis  

Generally, eyelid dermatitis comes in two forms. First, there’s irritant contact dermatitis. As the name implies, this occurs after contact with a substance, such as a chemical or dust.  

Second, there’s allergic eyelid dermatitis. This version also occurs when there’s contact with a substance, but the substance is specifically an allergen in this scenario.  

In both cases, symptoms from eyelid dermatitis can develop quickly or slowly. Generally, this varies due to the substance involved, the amount of exposure, and the person’s degree of sensitivity to it.  

Common Symptoms of Eyelid Dermatitis  

Eyelid dermatitis can come with a variety of symptoms. Reddening of the skin is one of the more common ones, along with issues like skin swelling, thickening, or scaling. An itching, burning, or stinging sensation also frequently accompanies eyelid dermatitis. In some cases, pain and blistering can occur.  

Unlike eye irritation caused by an infection, eyelid dermatitis is not contagious. Primarily, that’s because eyelid dermatitis isn’t triggered by bacteria or infection. 

Will Eyelid Dermatitis Go Away Without Treatment  

Mild cases of eyelid dermatitis may clear up on their own, suggesting that no additional exposure to the substance triggered the reaction. However, eyelid dermatitis can lead to other conditions if it’s not treated swiftly. For example, it can increase a person’s chances of developing an eye infection.  

Additionally, the symptoms of eyelid dermatitis can align with the symptoms that occur due to other eye conditions, including infections or other potentially serious medical concerns. As a result, it’s best to consult with your eye care provider if you have symptoms of eyelid dermatitis.  

Treating Eyelid Dermatitis  

For mild cases of eyelid dermatitis, treatment isn’t always necessary. For more severe cases or situations where the discomfort is significant enough to make everyday activities challenging, working with your eye care provider to find a better treatment option is wise. They may precisely topical or oral corticosteroids or allergy treatments, or calcineurin inhibitors, depending on the cause of the reaction.  

It’s also wise to take specific steps if you have symptoms of eyelid dermatitis. Don’t wear makeup even if it isn’t likely to be the cause, as it may irritate the condition. Consider whether the triggering substance is potentially related to a new item in your home – such as lotion, laundry products, or anything else that may have contacted the eye area – and stop using it if it’s a potential irritant. Avoid scratching or touching the eye area, too.  

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you believe you’re experiencing symptoms of eyelid dermatitis or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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The Impact of Cataract Surgery on Vision and Quality of Life

Elderly white woman sitting down. She is smiling and holding someone's hand

Half of Americans aged 80 or older have cataracts or had surgery to remove them. Cataract surgery is one of the most common medical procedures in the United States. Cataract surgery is the only corrective treatment for this condition, effective in 97% of cases for restoring the vision of a person suffering from cloudy vision.

Cataract surgeons in Buffalo have seen firsthand how cataract surgery can improve the quality of life for their patients. This blog will help you understand the impact of cataracts on your life and how the surgery to remove them can be life-altering and positive.

What are Cataracts?

Cataracts are a common eye condition that typically occurs with age. They involve the clouding of the natural lens inside the eye, which leads to a progressive loss of vision. The lens of the eye is normally clear and helps focus light onto the retina at the back of the eye, allowing us to see clearly. However, when cataracts develop, the lens becomes cloudy, affecting the passage of light and causing vision problems.

How Can Cataract Surgery Improve Vision and Enhance Your Quality of Life?

A large and growing body of research shows cataract surgery can enhance your quality of life. Cataract surgery is an effective and commonly performed procedure that can significantly improve vision and enhance the quality of life for individuals with cataracts. Eye doctors for cataracts in Buffalo routinely perform this procedure to restore vision in their patients. Here are several ways in which cataract surgery can have a positive impact.

Cataract Surgery Improves Vision

Cataract surgery involves the removal of the cloudy lens in the eye and replacing it with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). This replacement lens allows light to pass through unimpeded, restoring clear vision and improving overall visual acuity.

Cataracts can cause blurry or hazy vision, making it difficult to perform daily tasks such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces. Cataract surgery in Buffalo and worldwide can dramatically improve visual clarity, allowing individuals to see objects and details more sharply and clearly.

Cataracts can cause colors to appear faded or dull. After cataract surgery, many people experience a significant improvement in color perception. Colors may appear more vibrant and true to life, enhancing the visual experience for cataract patients.

Cataracts can make the eyes more sensitive to bright lights, causing discomfort and glare. By removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear IOL, cataract surgery in Buffalo can alleviate these symptoms and improve tolerance to bright lights, allowing for better vision in various lighting conditions.

Cataracts often contribute to difficulties with night vision, such as halos, glare, or decreased visibility in low-light situations. Cataract surgery in Buffalo can improve night vision by eliminating the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear IOL, enhancing the ability to see in dimly lit environments.

Cataract Removal Increases Independence

Cataracts can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. Restoring clear vision through cataract surgery can help individuals regain independence and perform tasks with greater ease, such as reading, driving, participating in hobbies, and engaging in social activities. Improved vision can also lead to enhanced overall well-being and mental health.

Cataract Surgery Enhances Safety

Cataract surgery improves patient safety by addressing the vision impairment caused by cataracts, which can significantly impact an individual’s overall well-being and safety in various aspects of life.

Cataract surgery restores clear vision and improves visual acuity by removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure enables individuals to see objects, people, and potential dangers more clearly, enhancing their safety in navigating their environment. For example, cataracts can severely impair vision, leading to difficulties performing daily activities such as reading, driving, or recognizing hazards.

Cataracts can affect depth perception, making it challenging to judge distances accurately. This can pose risks while driving, walking on uneven surfaces, or engaging in activities that require depth perception. Cataract surgery improves depth perception by restoring clear vision, allowing individuals to assess distances better and navigate their surroundings safely.

Also, cataracts can cause sensitivity to bright lights, glare, and decreased contrast sensitivity. These visual disturbances can make it difficult to see clearly in bright sunlight, at night, or in environments with varying light levels. By removing the cloudy lens, cataract surgery reduces glare and improves contrast sensitivity, making it easier to see objects, recognize details, and navigate safely in various lighting conditions.

Cataracts often contribute to difficulties with night vision, such as halos, glare, or decreased visibility in low-light situations. These vision impairments can be particularly hazardous while driving or moving around in dimly lit areas. Cataract surgery improves night vision by removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear IOL, thereby enhancing the ability to see in low-light conditions and improving safety during nighttime activities.

Cataracts can increase the risk of falls and accidents due to impaired vision. By restoring clear vision, cataract surgery reduces the likelihood of tripping over objects, misjudging distances, or missing potential hazards. Cataract surgery improves overall safety, particularly for older adults more susceptible to fall-related injuries.

Increase Your Life Expectancy with Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery itself is not directly linked to an increase in life expectancy. Cataracts are primarily a vision problem, and while they can affect an individual’s quality of life, they typically do not directly impact overall life expectancy.

However, cataract surgery can significantly improve an individual’s vision and overall well-being. By removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear intraocular lens (IOL), cataract surgery restores clear vision, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities, such as reading, driving, or participating in social interactions, with greater ease and safety.

Improved vision and enhanced quality of life resulting from cataract surgery may indirectly contribute to certain aspects associated with a longer life expectancy. For example, better vision can help individuals maintain their independence, engage in physical activities, and reduce the risk of accidents or falls, which can positively effect overall health and longevity.

Cataract surgery may also allow for better management of other age-related eye conditions, such as macular degeneration or glaucoma, which can further contribute to maintaining vision and overall eye health.

How Do You Know If You Need Cataract Surgery?

Symptoms of cataracts include:

  • Blurry vision
  • Faded colors
  • Double vision

A comprehensive eye examination and consultation with an ophthalmologist or an eye care professional can determine if you need cataract surgery in Buffalo. Your doctor will assess your overall eye health, evaluate the severity of your cataracts, and consider various factors to determine if cataract surgery is necessary.

Consult the Eye Doctors at ECVA for Cataract Surgery in Buffalo, NY

As the leading cataract surgeons in Buffalo, NY, Eye Care & Vision Associates team is standing by to provide you and your loved ones the care you need for a lifetime. Find out why we are one of Buffalo’s most well-respected eye doctors for cataracts. Don’t waste another minute worrying about the health of your eyes. Contact ECVA, a respected and trusted cataract surgeon treating patients in Buffalo and the surrounding area.

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How Can I Fix My Vision Problems?

If you’re experiencing shifts in your visual acuity, you may wonder if there are steps you can take to fix the vision problems you’re noticing. While many vision issues require treatment from an eye care provider, there are steps you can take to ensure your eye health. In some cases, that may even resolve specific kinds of problems that are impacting your vision.  

Fortunately, many of the recommended steps are relatively simple to follow. Here’s a look at some things you can do to correct or avoid specific vision problems.  

Eat a Healthy Diet  

Specific vitamins and minerals are critical for eye health, and some may even prevent or slow the development of certain eye conditions that can rob you of your vision. Generally, eating a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables is an excellent way to ensure you get the nutrients you need. For example, they can help make sure that you’re consuming enough lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E. Enjoying food with omega-3 fatty acids is also recommended for good eye health.  

Maintain a Healthy Weight  

Maintaining a healthy weight can positively impact your eyes in several ways. First, it may lower the likelihood that you’ll develop Type 2 diabetes, which can harm the blood vessels in your eye and lead to conditions like diabetic retinopathy. Additionally, it may lead to better circulation, lower blood pressure, and other health benefits that are also helpful if you want to preserve your vision.  

Properly Manage Health Conditions  

A variety of health conditions can harm your eyes and vision if they aren’t adequately managed. Type 2 diabetes is one example, as uncontrolled blood sugar can lead to diabetic retinopathy. High blood pressure can also damage your eyes, as well as conditions connected to chronic inflammation. By following your treatment regimen, you are more likely to address the concerning symptoms, reducing the odds of eye damage.  

Wear Protective Eyewear  

Protective eyewear, like safety goggles, reduces your odds of experiencing eye injuries that can harm your vision. Plus, goggles reduce your chances of accidental chemical exposure that could damage your eyes.  

Sunglasses can offer some light physical protection, too. However, they’re also able to block harmful UV rays if you choose lenses with UV-blocking technology. Since UV damage is connected to conditions like macular degeneration, cataracts, and others, it’s a simple way to reduce your odds of developing a vision-impacting condition.  

Regular Eye Exams  

Regular eye exams are a critical part of the equation if you want to see clearly. By keeping up with your annual appointments, your eye care provider can identify changes that may require specific treatments. Additionally, they can ensure your prescription lenses are up-to-date, leading to better visual acuity.  

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’re concerned about your vision or eye health, or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.