Ophthalmologists are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating eye problems. They have either a medical degree or an osteopathic degree, and they are the only eye doctors who can perform surgery. As such, they can provide a variety of services. Dr. Reena Patel is an eye doctor at Wichita Vision Institute who offers a variety of treatments and procedures to help you overcome any condition you may be facing.
What Are Intraocular Lenses?
Intraocular lenses, also known as IOLs, are artificial lenses made of foldable plastic used to replace natural lenses damaged by cataracts. Ophthalmologists offer several different types.
Monofocal lenses are the oldest type. They are set to a specific distance range: near, medium, or far. If the patient chooses a monofocal lens to correct their distance vision, for example, they will still probably need prescription glasses or contact lenses for tasks like reading.
By contrast, multifocal lenses improve vision at all distances. Many patients who get multifocal lenses stop needing glasses or contact lenses.
Toric lenses are designed to help people with astigmatism.
What Is a Pterygium?
A pterygium is a benign growth that develops on the clear tissue covering the sclera or white of the eye. It usually grows on the side nearest the nose. So far, researchers have not yet discovered what causes a pterygium, but people who get a lot of exposure to the wind or the sun seem to be more susceptible.
A pterygium can cause such symptoms as blurred vision, itching, dryness, irritation, a gritty feeling or the sensation of having something in the eye.
Treatment will depend on the size of pterygium and its effects. A small pterygium may require nothing more than medication to reduce any inflammation or redness. A pterygium that grows large enough to start covering the cornea and thus blocks vision will have to be surgically removed.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome is a very common condition that affects over 100 million people throughout the world. It has multiple causes that include aging or living in a dry or windy climate. Dry eye syndrome can also be caused by certain medications, and it can occur as a symptom of another disorder like rosacea or rheumatoid arthritis.
Ophthalmologists offer many treatments for dry eye syndrome. LipiFlow, which is one of the newest, is an outpatient treatment that uses a machine that applies heat and pressure to the inner eyelids to unblock the glands that produce the oil needed for normal tears.
These are just a few of the conditions treated and services offered by Dr. Patel at Wichita Vision Institute in Wichita, KS. If you would like to learn more, contact us today to schedule your appointment!