UV Blocking Contact Lenses

As you know, ultraviolet (UV) exposure can have detrimental effects on the eyes. Chronic UV exposure has been associated with eyelid cancer, pinguecula, pterygium, cataracts, and macular degeneration.  Many people are unaware that there are UV blocking contact lenses available.  These lenses have been on the market for over ten years.  Sometimes sunglasses fail to provide adequate protection because UV light is reflected and can come in from above and below the sunglasses, as well as the sides.  Contact lens wearers can increase their level of UV protection by wearing UV blocking contacts and sunglasses, therefore the entire eye and skin around it is protected.  UV blocking contacts are a great option for young patients who are going to be wearing lenses for many years.  UV blocking contacts are available as daily, weekly, and monthly lenses.   

Jennine Lutz, O.D.

Common Causes and Treatment for Dark Circle

Some common reasons why dark circles appear under the eye are the following:

•    The skin under the eye is very thin and as we age it becomes thinner
    causing the blood vessels below the skin to be more apparent.
•    Genetics-Dark circles under the eyes can be inherited. They are more
    noticeable in people with deep set eyes or fair skin.
•    Allergies- Dark circles can be seen in people who are allergic
    to pollen, dust, pet dander, etc.  This occurs because people
    often rub their itchy eyes.  This is also known as allergic shiners.
•    Lack of sleep and high levels of stress.

Ways to improve or decrease dark circles:

•    Get plenty of rest.
•    Drink lots of water.
•    Use cool compresses on the eyes.
•    Treat your allergic eyes with allergy drops.
•    Decrease salt intake.
•    Wear sun block with at least an SPF of 30 around the eyes.  

Jennine Lutz, O.D.

Dry Eye Syndrome is a leading reason why patients visit an ophthalmologist. However, this condition is very under diagnosed by many practitioners. We have added a new Dry Eye Section to our web site at http://www.matossianeye.com/site/dry-eye.htm  This section aims to educate the reader on the basics of Dry Eye Syndrome and the new diagnostic tests and treatments available. There are also many video clips included to help the patient visualize various aspects of Dry Eye Syndrome.

Priya Desai, MD

Dry Eye Syndrome and Diabetes

Diabetes is a tough disease since it effects almost every organ in the body.  As far as the eyes go, diabetes is one of the leading causes of blindness.  As a result, all diabetic patients are sent by their primary care doctors to have yearly dilated eye exams by an ophthalmologist.  However, Dry Eye Syndrome is also very common with diabetics and this tends to be very symptomatic in this population.  This less devastating eye problem should not be ignored in the diabetic patient.

Priya Desai, MD

Cynthia Matossian , MD offers Clinical Exposure to Aspiring Surgeon

Dr. Matossian built her ophthalmology practice into a highly regarded multi-specialty group practice over a period of 25 years, using the latest techniques of cataract and implant surgery.  This experience has made her a perfect mentor for Rebecca Sieburth, a graduate from Wheaton College, whose interest in surgery, was prompted by a summer internship with a vascular surgery team.

 “Ophthalmology is intriguing due to the fine very precise work involved in operating on an eye, which parallels the hands-on, tactile activities that I enjoy about art.” Rebecca says about her research in the field of ophthalmology.

Ms. Sieburth observed patient examinations, a complete range of preventative and corrective eye care, detection, and treatment of eye disease.  Rebecca was also invited to observe Dr. Matossian in the operating room, performing cataract surgery.