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The Asian Eye Institute is a total eye care center that provides specialized
medical services for a full range of eye diseases and visual disorders. Our team of
highly competent ophthalmologists, all fellowship-trained at the Harvard Medical
School, is led by the renowned Dr. Felipe I. Tolentino.
We maintain the most comprehensive and advanced diagnostic, laser and surgical
facilities under one roof. Ideally located at the Rockwell Center in Makati City,
Philippines, our Institute is designed to ensure a pleasant, comfortable and safe
environment for our patients.
Our shareholders include the most respected names in Philippine and international
scenes, known not only for their achievements in their respective fields but also for
their social consciousness and humanitarian spirit.
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Subspecialty Services
General Eye Service
Glaucoma
Retina and Vitreous Diseases
Cornea and Refractive Surgery
Pediatric Eye Diseases and Adult Strabismus
Immunology and Uveitis
Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery
Low Vision and Visual Rehabilitation
Anesthesia Service
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For your convenience, please call us at least one day in advance for an appointment.
Email : eyehelp@asianeyeinstitute.com
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About a hundred women went to Discovery Suites last June 2002 to attend
"Revitalize", an event organized by Herword.com and presented by Asian Eye
Institute and Discovery Suites. The event is organized for the benefit of learning
from respected health and fitness practitioners on ways to stay in the pink of
health.
Dr. Bobby Ang, one of the distinguished doctors of the Asian Eye Institute (AEI),
provided a ray of hope for members frustrated with contact lenses and glasses.
Explaining what LASIK (Laser Refractive Surgery) was all about, accompanied by a
video demonstrating the procedure, Dr. Ang stated that many patients have been
able to enjoy 20/20 vision, should they desire to do so. He further explained during
the open forum that he sometimes does not perform the 20/20 procedure if his
patient needs to properly read documents. Furthermore, for those who wish to
undergo the procedure but balk at the cost, Dr. Ang mentioned that AEI will be
tying up with prestigious banks for an installment plan -- allowing patients to pay
with their credit cards.
Aside from Dr. Ang, the event was also graced by other health and fitness experts,
Mr. Norman Encarnacion, a personal fitness trainer who gave tips on active living.
Dr. Perry dela Cruz, a cosmetic surgeon from the Medical Center Manila, Dr. Malu
Mangubat an Obstetrician-Gynecologist who talked about menopause, osteoporosis
and other women's health concerns, Shiseido Brand Manager Trish Briones who
demonstrated how to put-on a proper make-up and Ms. Cory Quirino who gave tips
on leading a healthier life.
Packed with information, the audience also enjoyed prizes which includes free eye
exams from the Asian Eye. But the real prize was knowing better ways to keep
oneself in the prime of life.
ARCHIVES:
REFRACTIVE SURGERY
By Robert T. Ang M.D.
August 2001
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Academic Positions:
1984
Associate Clinical Professor
Department of Ophthalmology
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1975-1984
Assistant Clinical Professor
Department of Ophthalmology
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1971
Associate Scientist
Eye Research Institute of Retina Foundation
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1966-1971
Visiting Research Ophthalmologist
Institute of Ophthalmology
University of the Philippines
1968-1971
Assistant Professor
Department of Ophthalmology
University of the Philippines
1965-1968
Instructor
Department of Ophthalmology
University of the Philippines
1964-1965
Senior Research Fellow
Eye Research Institute of Retina Foundation
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1962-1964
Research Fellow in Retina and Vitreous
Eye Research Institute of Retina Foundation
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1962-1965
Clinical Fellow in Retina and Vitreous
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1961-1962
Resident in Ophthalmology
Homer G. Phillips Hospital
St. Louis, Missouri, USA
1959-1961
Resident in Ophthalmology
St. Mary’s Hospital
Rochester, New York, USA
1957-1959
Resident in Ophthalmology
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1956-1957
Rotating Internship
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1957
Doctor of Medicine
College of Medicine
University of the Philippines
1952
Pre-medical degree
Associate in Arts
University of the Philippines
1972
Pennsylvania State Board
1971
Massachusetts State Board
1964
American Board of Ophthalmology
1959
Education Council for Foreign Medical Graduates
1957
Philippine Board of Medicine
Subspecialty Services
Facilities
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Mission/Vision
History
Board of
Directors/
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Eye Tips and Trivia
2000-2001
Research Fellow in Cornea and Refractive Surgery
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1998-1999
Clinical Fellow in Glaucoma
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1995-1996
Assistant Chief Resident
Department of Ophthalmology
Philippine General Hospital
1994-1996
Resident in Ophthalmology
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1992-1993
Rotating Internship
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1993
Doctor of Medicine
University of the Philippines
1988
Pre-medical degree
Integrated Arts and Medicine Program
University of the Philippines
1998-1999
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine
1997
Diplomate, Philippine Board of Ophthalmology
1993
Philippine Board of Medicine
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1998-1999
Clinical Fellow in Glaucoma
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1995-1997
Resident in Ophthalmology
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1993-1994
Rotating Internship
University of the East
Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center
1993
Doctor of Medicine (Cum Laude)
University of the East
Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center
1988
Pre-medical degree
Bachelor of Science (Magna Cum Laude)
University of the Philippines
2000
Diplomate, Philippine Board of Ophthalmology
1998-1999
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine
1994
Philippine Board of Medicine
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1997-1998
Clinical Fellow in Glaucoma
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1995
Chief Resident
Department of Ophthalmology
University of the East
Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center
1992-1995
Resident in Ophthalmology
University of the East
Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center
1991-1992
Rotating Internship
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1991
Doctor of Medicine
University of the East
Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center
1987
Pre-medical degree
Bachelor of Science
University of the Philippines
1997-1998
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine
1996
Diplomate, Philippine Board of Ophthalmology
1992
Philippine Board of Medicine
1988
Philippine National Pharmacy Board - 2nd Place
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1994-1996
Clinical Fellow in Oculoplastics and Orbit
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1993-1994
Research Fellow in Oculoplastics and Orbit
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1991-1992
Preceptorship in the Orbit Subspecialty
(under Prospero Ma. Tuaño, M.D.)
Department of Ophthalmology
Philippine General Hospital
1988-1990
Resident in Ophthalmology
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1986-1987
Rotating Internship
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1986
Doctor of Medicine
College of Medicine
University of the Philippines
1982
Pre-medical degree
Bachelor of Science
University of the Philippines
1997
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine
1991
Diplomate, Philippine Board of Ophthalmology
1988
Philippine Board of Medicine
Subspecialty Services
1997-1998
Clinical Fellow in Ocular Immunology and Uveitis
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1995-1996
Clinical Fellow in Medical and Surgical Retina
Institute of Ophthalmology
St. Luke’s Medical Center
1993-1994
Assistant Chief Resident
Department of Ophthalmology
Philippine General Hospital
1992-1994
Resident in Ophthalmology
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1990-1991
Rotating Internship
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1991
Doctor of Medicine
College of Medicine
University of the Philippines
1986
Pre-medical degree
Bachelor of Science (Magna Cum Laude)
University of the Philippines
1997-1998
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine
1995
Diplomate, Philippine Board of Ophthalmology
1991
Philippine Board of Medicine
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Facilities
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2000-2001
Clinical Fellow in Pediatric Ophthalmology and
Strabismus
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1996-1998
Clinical Fellow in Medical and Surgical Retina
University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics
Madison, Wisconsin, USA
1992-1994
Resident in Ophthalmology
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1990-1991
Medical Internship
Faculty of Medicine and Surgery
University of Santo Tomas
1990
Doctor of Medicine (Cum Laude)
1985
Pre-medical degree
Bachelor of Science (Magna Cum Laude)
University of Santo Tomas
2000-2001
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine
1996-1998
Wisconsin Board of Registration in Medicine
1996
Diplomate, Philippine Board of Ophthalmology
1991
Philippine Board of Medicine
1985
Philippine Board of Medical Technology
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Facilities
Our Medical Team
1995-1997
Research Fellow in Retina and Vitreous
Schepens Eye Research Institute
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1995-1997
Clinical Fellow in Ophthalmology
Retina Specialists of Boston
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1997
Medical and Surgical Retina Course
Centro Basiliero de Cirurgia de Olhos, Brazil
1995
Clinical Fellow in Medical and Surgical Retina and
Vitreous
Institute of Ophthalmology
St. Luke’s Medical Center
1994-1995
Chief Resident
Institute of Ophthalmology
St. Luke’s Medical Center
1992-1995
Resident in Ophthalmology
Institute of Ophthalmology
St. Luke’s Medical Center
1990-1991
Rotating Internship
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1991
Doctor of Medicine
University of the Philippines
1986
Pre-medical degree
Bachelor of Science
University of the Philippines
1997
Diplomate, Philippine Board of Ophthalmology
1991
Philippine Board of Medicine
1996-1997
Clinical Fellow in Glaucoma
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1995-1996
Glaucoma, Cataract, Anterior Segment Fellow
New England Glaucoma Foundation
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Clinical Fellow in Glaucoma
Simmons Eye Associates
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
1992-1994
Resident in Ophthalmology
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1990-1991
Rotating Internship
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1991
Doctor of Medicine
University of the Philippines
1986
Pre-medical degree
Bachelor of Science (Magna Cum Laude)
University of the Philippines
1997
Diplomate, Philippine Board of Ophthalmology
1995-1997
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine
1991
Philippine Board of Medicine
1996-1997
Clinical Fellow in Pediatric Anesthesia
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1991-1993
Resident in Anesthesia
Philippine General Hospital
University of the Philippines
1989-1990
Medical Internship
Chinese General Hospital
1989
Doctor of Medicine
University of Santo Tomas
1985
Pre-medical degree
Bachelor of Science (Cum Laude)
University of Santo Tomas
1996
Diplomate, Philippine Board of Anesthesia
1990
Philippine Board of Medicine
2000
Fellow in Contact Lens and Ocular Prosthetics
Contact Lens and Ocular Prosthetic Training and
Research Center
1999
Diagnostic Pharmaceutical Agent
Central Colleges of the Philippines
1993
Master of Science in Optometry (units earned)
Manila Central University
1991
Doctor of Optometry
Manila Central University
2000
Philippine Board of Optometry
(Diagnostic Pharmaceutical Agent Special License)
1992
Philippine Board of Optometry
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Our Facilities
Our diagnostic and surgical floors promote optimal delivery of care for eye patients.
Designed by Rothman Partners, Inc. of Boston and Palafox Associates of Manila, the
facility was built to meet the exacting standards of top eye centers in the United
States.
A laminar flow air-handling unit, the first of its kind in an eye laser and surgical
center in the country, ensuring the most sterile surgical environment and
preventing bacterial contamination of the surgical field.
Laser center for the treatment of anterior and posterior segment eye diseases.
A spacious patient-friendly recovery room for the safety and comfort of post-
operative patients.
Refractive and LASIK surgery suite with the most advanced excimer laser
capable of customized treatment for the full range of refractive errors, including
astigmatism, nearsightedness and farsightedness.
Glaucoma
Comprehensive Ophthalmology
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Our Mission
To deliver to all our patients the highest quality eye care at par with the best in
the world;
To advance the science and practice of ophthalmology in the Philippines and Asia;
and
To make high quality eye care available and accessible to the Filipino people.
Our Vision
We will be a center of excellence in the delivery of high quality eye care and
services in Asia and the Pacific Rim; and
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The Asian Eye Institute is born of the vision of two men recognized as leaders in
their respective fields: Mr. Oscar M. Lopez and Dr. Felipe I. Tolentino.
Mr. Lopez, Chairman and CEO of the Lopez Group of Companies, has been traveling
to Boston for the past ten years to avail of the world’s best specialized eye care
facilities and doctors for his glaucoma. In that period, he developed an enduring
friendship with Dr. Tolentino, the world-renowned Filipino-American
ophthalmologist.
In the course of his eight surgeries in a decade, Mr. Lopez recognized the need to
bring U.S. quality eye care to the Philippines, and persuaded his Boston friend to
consider giving something back to his old country. Their friendship led to the
construction in 1996 of a “cataract surgical clinic on wheels” which has helped over
3,000 indigent patients.
Exactly one year later, the project team invited business and government leaders to
participate in this noble undertaking. And with the support of public-spirited people
who shared this vision, the dream of the two men is now a reality.
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Board of Directors:
Mr. Oscar M. Lopez - Chairman & CEO
Shareholders:
ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation
Sumitomo Corporation
Mr. Peter Ng
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Did you know that . . . the first spectacles were invented in the 13th century in
northern Italy? For centuries after their invention, eyeglasses were costly but crude.
A person who needed them could only try out various lenses until he found some
that served his purpose. They were also considered an object of ridicule. As late as
the 18th century, it was considered a breach of etiquette to wear them in public.
Did you know that . . . the image focused by the cornea and lens on the retina is
actually upside down and two-dimensional? This upside down image is transmitted
to the brain as electrochemical signals, where it is properly analyzed, partly through
inherited ability and partly through experience, and translated into a right side up,
three-dimensional picture. This is just one example of the amazing way our eyes
and brain work together to compose our visual experience!
When you are diagnosed with an eye infection, make sure you throw out all your
eye makeup, eye cream, face powder, contact lens cleaner and solution, and all
other items that come into contact with your eyes, eyelids and surrounding areas. It
is possible that one of these items either caused the infection in the first place, or
subsequently became contaminated with it. Replace them with new ones when the
infection is eliminated, and sterilize your contact lenses and containers.
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LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis) involves the creation of a corneal flap prior to
laser treatment. The flap is then returned and allowed to heal naturally without the
need for stitches. Patients who have thin corneas or who have professions or
lifestyles that predispose them to trauma such as contact sports athletes or
military/police personnel may not be good candidates for LASIK. In this situation,
performing PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) may be the better alternative.
The full text of the article entitled "Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis (LASEK): electron
microscopy and visual outcomes of flap Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)"by Azar
DT, Ang RT, Lee JB, Kato T, Chen CC, Jain S, Gabison E, Abad JC appears in the
August 2001 edition of Current Opinion in Ophthalmology. Dr. Robert Ang, Asian
Eye Institute's refractive surgeon, is the second author in the article. Dr. Ang
regularly performs LASIK, PRK and LASEK at Asian Eye.
The full text of the article entitled "Dry eye after refractive surgery" by Ang RT,
Dartt DA, Tsubota K appears in the August 2001 edition of Current Opinion in
Ophthalmology. Dr. Robert Ang is the main author of the article.
What is AMD?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of adult legal
blindness in developed countries and affects people over the age of 40. AMD is a
progressively worsening condition that damages the light-sensitive film of the eye
called the retina. This leads to blurred central vision and loss of fine detail such as
recognizing faces or reading small print.
There are two types of this condition: dry AMD and wet AMD.
There are now several treatment options available for wet AMD.
1. Laser photocoagulation
spot" because this treatment also destroys overlying normal retina tissue.
Because of this, it is not advisable to treat some lesions in the exact center of
the retina (Figure 3).
2. Photodynamic therapy
1. See your eye doctor immediately if you are over 40 and you think your vision
is impaired. At present, the treatments are not usually able to restore vision
fully. Current treatment can preserve vision or slow down the rate of visual
loss so it is important to get treatment early.
2. Your doctor may request for a fluorescein or indocyanine angiogram help
detect and visualize abnormal vessels beneath the retina. This involves
injection of a dye then picture taking using a retinal camera.
3. Eat lots of green leafy vegetables. These contain some of the vitamins that
may be helpful in slowing down vision loss in AMD patients.
4. Avoid direct sunlight. Some of the light from the sun (UV light) may be
harmful to the retinas of susceptible persons. It may be advisable to wear UV
coated glasses or other protective caps or hats to minimize UV light
exposure.
5. Monitor your vision. Your eye doctor may provide you with a card so that you
can check your vision at home and detect early visual changes from AMD. If
you see any changes, you should go see your eye doctor immediately.
For questions regarding macular degeneration or any other eye problems, please
direct your queries to: eyehelp@asianeyeinstitute.com
The process of vision begins with light entering the eye and bringing with it
information it picks up as it touches or passes through objects in its path. These
light patterns (image) pass through the various parts of the eye until it reaches the
back wall of the eye (retina), where it is transformed into electrical impulses. The
impulses are then transmitted by nerve cells to the brain.
When the image passes through the different parts of the eye on its way to the
retina, the light rays must be bent to come to a focus and provide a sharp image.
This process is called refraction, and parts of the eye primarily responsible for this
are the cornea and the lens.
Error of refraction may occur when the cornea and lens fail to bring the focus point
directly on the retina, usually because the eyeball is too long or too short. In
nearsightedness or myopia, the focus point falls in front of the retina and the
patient has difficulty seeing objects that are far away. In farsightedness or
hyperopia, the focus point falls behind the retina and the patient has difficulty
reading or looking at objects that are close. In presbyopia, the lens loses its
elasticity and has a difficult time focusing for near vision.
For the most part, a simple error of refraction can be addressed by a pair of glasses
or contact lenses. Our doctors are complemented not only by a team of specialized
optometrists but also a complete array of eye instruments capable of determining
the eye wear needs of our patients.
Common eye infections include “sore eyes,” and are characterized by eye itchiness,
redness, tearing, and at times, pain. A comprehensive eye exam is conducted to
rule out any serious eye conditions. In general, common eye infections are treated
using medications such as eye drops.
What is a cataract?
A cataract is a partial or total opacity of the lens of the eye. It is the most common
cause of blurred vision for the older population. A cataract should not be viewed as
a disease condition. It is simply part of the aging process. The lens, which is
normally clear at birth, grows continuously as we age. By the time an individual
reaches 60 or so, it has become opaque enough so that light cannot pass freely
through it, resulting in blurred vision. Some individuals may develop cataracts at an
earlier age, especially if there has been prior use of steroids for a significant amount
of time, if they are suffering from diabetes, or if they have a family history of early
cataracts.
The only definitive treatment for a cataract is surgical. This entails removing the
lens of the eye and replacing it with an intraocular lens. This intraocular lens is man-
made; it does not dissolve in time and when implanted correctly inside the eye
normally lasts a lifetime. In fact, its power can be calculated in a way to change a
patient’s need for glasses after the surgery.
There are several ways to remove a cataract, depending on the state of maturity of
the cataract. A cataract taken out at the right time can be removed by a procedure
known as phacoemulsification. This entails breaking up the cataract into small
component pieces, thereby allowing it to be removed through a smaller wound
incision. A smaller wound allows for a quicker recovery period and a faster return to
normal activity.
Eye burns can arise from chemicals, excessive heat, radiation, or electricity. Burns
caused by chemicals are considered an emergency. Chemical eye burns can be
caused by an acid or alkali. Alkali burns do more damage to the eye than acid burns
because they penetrate and melt eye structures upon contact. Alkalis are usually
found in household cleaners and drain decloggers. Examples of acids are battery
acid, bleaching agents, and refrigerants.
The first thing to do in case of a chemical eye injury is to flush out the chemical by
exposing the eye to clean running water such as from a faucet. Immediate
examination by an ophthalmologist is needed.
Penetrating eye injuries include lacerations (open wound), usually involving a break
through the different layers of the eye. Some wounds also cause foreign bodies to
lodge within the eye. In these types of injuries, it is important not to put any
pressure on the eyeball and to see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible.
Blunt or contusion injuries usually involve a direct blow to the eye by a blunt object
like a squash ball, champagne cork or by a clenched fist. Injuries may range from a
superficial hemorrhage to more serious injuries like dislocation of the lens, iris
tears, retinal swelling or edema. Again, an eye examination by a specialist should
be done as soon as possible.
More common but less serious eye trauma includes a corneal abrasion and a corneal
foreign body. A corneal abrasion is a superficial defect in the outer surface of the
eye. It may come with intense pain, tearing and foreign body sensation. Contact
lens users may be prone to corneal abrasion when handling their eyes. A corneal
foreign body, on the other hand, is a fragment of an object which can adhere to the
cornea. Symptoms may be similar to a corneal abrasion. Removal of the foreign
body by an eye specialist is required.
Eye diseases and disorders may develop at any age. At times, symptoms of serious
eye disease appear only when enough damage has occurred to affect vision. It is
best to see an ophthalmologist at least once a year even if you have no medical
predisposition for eye diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension or any family history
of eye disease.
For a child, it allows detection of any refractive errors or eye muscle imbalance
during a period when intervention would produce the best possible result.
For the adolescent, it allows detection of refractive errors during this stage of rapid
growth and change. A lot of errors of refraction begin during this period of puberty.
For the adult, it allows screening for eye diseases that usually accompany other
medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and inflammatory diseases (e.g.
arthritis, back pains, kidney inflammation). It also allows screening for eye diseases
that normally begin in adulthood or are caused by aging, such as glaucoma or
retinal detachment.
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What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can affect the optic nerve. The optic nerve is
like a “telephone cable” containing nerve fibers or wires. These nerve fibers carry
messages from the eye to the brain, and these messages when put together create
vision. In glaucoma, the pressure in the eye is higher than that particular eye can
tolerate. As a result, the nerve fibers and blood vessels in the optic nerve become
compressed and can be damaged or destroyed. Damage to the nerve fibers impairs
vision.
At the front of the eye there is a small space called the anterior chamber. Clear fluid
(aqueous humor) continuously flows in and out of the chamber to bathe and nourish
nearby tissues. In glaucoma, the fluid drains too slowly out of the eye. As the fluid
builds up, the pressure inside the eye rises. Unless this pressure is controlled, it
may cause damage to the optic nerve and other parts of the eye, resulting in loss of
vision.
TYPES of GLAUCOMA Open-angle glaucoma often develops gradually and is commonly called chronic
glaucoma. In contrast, angle-closure glaucoma may develop rapidly, and is often
Open-angle referred to as acute glaucoma.
Closed-angle
Combined mechanism
Congenital More complex forms of glaucoma exist. One form is combined mechanism
Secondary glaucoma. In this form, both open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma are present.
Low tension The drain of the eye functions improperly as with open-angle glaucoma, and the
drainage angle is narrow or closed as with angle-closure glaucoma.
Secondary glaucoma is another form of this disease. In this form of glaucoma the
drainage angle is damaged due to conditions such as eye inflammation, tumors,
retinal detachment and injuries.
Still another form is low tension glaucoma. In this form, damage to the optic nerve
results even at eye pressures that are considered normal for most eyes.
Glaucoma can occur in people of all ages. However, it is more common in adults
than in children. While there are no known direct factors that lead to glaucoma,
certain groups of people are known to be at somewhat higher risk of developing
Most likely to get glaucoma than others. These are people who are of advanced age, have a family
Glaucoma history of glaucoma or diabetes, are nearsighted, are suffering from other eye
diseases, or are smokers. Factors that have not been found to trigger glaucoma
People over age 60 include coffee and alcohol intake and fluid restriction diets.
Family history of
glaucoma
Nearsighted individuals
People with diabetic What are the symptoms of Glaucoma?
eye disease
Smokers
Blacks over age 40 For open-angle glaucoma, there are no symptoms. Vision stays normal, and there is
no pain. However, as the disease progresses, a person with glaucoma may notice
Symptoms of Angle- his side vision gradually failing. That is, he can see clearly objects in front of him,
closure Glaucoma but may miss objects to the side. As the disease worsens, his field of vision narrows
and blindness results.
Severe eye pain
Headaches
Nausea, vomiting For acute angle-closure glaucoma, the symptoms are blurred vision, severe eye
Blurred vision pain, headaches, nausea, vomiting and seeing halos around lights.
Seeing halos around
lights
How is Glaucoma detected?
Gonioscopy allows the physician to directly visualize and examine the drainage
angle of the eye. This test allows him to determine the type of glaucoma suffered
by a patient.
Visual field tests are used to detect loss of side vision, a manifestation of
glaucoma damage.
Nerve fiber layer analysis is used to measure the thickness of the nerve fiber
layer and calculate the surface areas of the optic nerve head. Considered as the
Special Tests for latest and most advanced tool in glaucoma diagnosis and monitoring, this exam is
Glaucoma painless and takes about 10 seconds to perform.
Tonometry
How is Glaucoma treated?
Optic Disc evaluation
Gonioscopy
Visual Field exam In general, damage to the optic nerve cannot be reversed. Glaucoma treatment is
Nerve Fiber Layer used to control or prevent further damage to the optic nerve. For a person
Analysis diagnosed with glaucoma, regular eye examinations are a critical part of the disease
control and monitoring process.
Open-angle glaucoma is treated initially with medication (eye drops and oral
medicine) to decrease eye pressure. When this is insufficient, the drain itself may
be treated as well using laser surgery (trabeculoplasty). If there is a need for
further treatment, the next step is operative surgery to create a new drainage
outlet for the fluid to leave the eye, thus lowering pressure.
In angle-closure glaucoma, where the iris blocks the drainage system of the eye,
the initial therapy involves making an opening in the iris to restore the flow of fluid
to the drainage system, thereby relieving pressure. This is called an iridectomy,
which today is most commonly done using laser therapy.
Patients suffering from glaucoma must inform their eye doctors before using other
medications, especially those with glaucoma warnings (e.g. antihistamines and cold
remedies). Steroids should not be used unless the prescribing doctor is specifically
aware of the existence of glaucoma.
Studies have shown that early detection and treatment of glaucoma, before it
causes major vision loss, is the best way to control the disease. If you belong to
any of the groups most likely to get glaucoma (see Who is most likely to get
Glaucoma?), make sure to have your eyes examined regularly by an
ophthalmologist.
The retina is the delicate inner lining of the eye. It is about 1 millimeter thick and
is composed of a number of layers. The retina acts like the film in a camera. When
light strikes the retina, it “takes the picture” via a complex chain of chemical
reactions that changes light rays into electrical impulses. The impulses are then
transmitted to the brain through the optic nerve. If any part of the delicate retina is
damaged, some degree of vision will be lost.
The macula is the area in the retina responsible for central vision. It also allows
recognition of fine detail and color. A diseased macula affects both close and
distance vision. It causes difficulty in such activities as reading and looking at street
signs. Light sensitive cells called cones, responsible for both central and color
vision, are most common in the macula and are hardly found at all at the edge of
the retina.
Side vision is the responsibility of another type of light-sensing cells called rods.
Rods are more numerous in the peripheral retina. If this region is damaged, it is
difficult to move around without bumping into things or to fix one’s gaze on a
moving object. Night vision is also the product of rods.
The vitreous is the clear, gel-like substance that fills the eye.
The most common diseases that affect the retina and vitreous are:
■ Macular Degeneration
■ Retinal Detachment
■ Diabetic Retinopathy
Macular degeneration can best be described as damage or “wear and tear” of the
macula.
In dry macular degeneration, vision tends to worsen gradually with time. Tissues
of the macula break down and cells no longer fit tightly together, allowing fluid to
seep underneath the retina. This in turn causes the layers of the retina to separate
and become detached, disarranging light-sensitive cells (rods and cones) and
resulting in distorted central vision. Later, rods and cones may also degenerate and
die, resulting in blind spots.
In wet macular degeneration, vision loss may be rapid and severe. Abnormal
blood vessels that leak fluid and blood form at the back of the eye, causing the
layers of the retina to separate.
The symptoms of macular degeneration include distorted central vision and blind
spots at the center of vision. Colors may appear dim. A patient may be able to see
the outline of a clock, but unable to tell the time. He may have difficulty reading, as
words at the center of a page appear blurred or distorted, or may not be visible at
all.
Macular degeneration usually affects both eyes but symptoms may first occur in one
eye only. Because the healthier eye compensates for the loss in vision of the
affected eye, macular degeneration may initially go unnoticed.
Generally, macular degeneration does not lead to total blindness as only central and
color vision are affected. Because the peripheral retina remains healthy, peripheral
or side vision is retained along with the ability to see in the dark.
In order to check the macula for signs of damage, the following diagnostic tests are
necessary:
There is no cure for macular degeneration. However, laser treatment in the early
stages may help slow the progress of wet macular degeneration. Argon laser
surgery may be used to seal the abnormal, leaking blood vessels that damage the
macula.
If laser surgery is not appropriate and does not stop the degenerative process,
therapy should focus on helping the patient cope with the loss of central vision. Our
Low Vision and Visual Rehabilitation Service may be of help in minimizing the effect
of visual impairment on a patient’s lifestyle, and allowing him to continue with the
activities he enjoys.
Retinal detachment is a disease that most often results from tears or breaks in
the retina. These tears cause fluid from the vitreous cavity to seep beneath the
transparent layer of the retina and separate it from the pigmented layer. As light-
sensitive cells (rods and cones) are lifted away or detached from the pigment layer,
vision becomes darkened and distorted.
Breaks in the retina may result from thinning and deterioration due to aging. In
most cases, however, they occur when the vitreous, which is attached to the retina,
shrinks and pulls part of the retina along with it, leaving tears or holes. Shrinkage
of the vitreous may be caused by aging, abnormal growth of the eye, inflammation
or injury.
Some cases of retinal detachment are not caused by retinal tears, but by other eye
diseases such as tumors, inflammations, or diabetic complications. In these cases,
treatment of the disease that caused the retinal detachment is the only treatment
that might help bring the retina back to its normal position.
The early symptoms of a retinal break and retinal detachment include seeing
sudden flashes of light, floaters (floating black spots), and smoke or cobwebs.
If the retina is torn but retinal detachment has not yet occurred, the
ophthalmologist may use non-operative procedures if he feels that these may still
benefit the patient. Cryotherapy involves freezing the back wall of the eye behind a
retinal tear to induce the formation of scars to seal the edges of the retinal tear.
Photocoagulation using Argon laser surgery also induces the formation of scars by
placing small burns around the edges of the tear. Sealing of the tears prevents fluid
from seeping between the layers of the retina.
If retinal breaks lead to retinal detachment, laser treatment or cryotherapy may not
be enough. Retinal detachment may have to be treated by operative surgery such
as scleral buckling, designed to hold together the tissues of the retina and the back
wall of the eye until scars are produced to seal the retinal tears. Vitrectomy may
also be needed for more complex retinal detachments. In this procedure, the
vitreous is removed and usually replaced with a saline solution. This also removes
blood, debris or scar tissue that may either block light as it focuses on the retina, or
cause the retina to tear or be displaced.
A patient who has had diabetes for more than 10 years may develop a complication
called diabetic retinopathy. This condition is characterized by abnormalities in the
tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina, and usually affects both eyes at the same
time. In diabetic retinopathy, blood vessels in the macula leak clear fluid called
serum resulting in tissue swelling within the area. This condition is called macular
edema. The abnormal blood vessels may also bleed into the retina and vitreous
cavity. The leakage of fluid and blood may cause retinal detachment and pulling of
the macula, resulting in abnormal vision.
During the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, the patient may experience no
symptoms. In the more advanced cases of diabetic retinopathy, the patient may
experience cloudy vision, and distortion and blurring of central vision.
Diabetic retinopathy may lead to severe vision loss and even total blindness if not
treated early. It is best to see your ophthalmologist if you experience symptoms of
this condition, or if you suffer from diabetes.
The ophthalmologist will use an ophthalmoscope and a slit lamp to find abnormal
vessels. Fluorescein Angiography is necessary to assess just how far the diabetic
retinopathy has progressed. Ultrasonography can be used to check for retinal
detachment if the vitreous is clouded with blood.
Argon laser surgery may be used to seal the abnormal blood vessels that have
leaked serum into the retina. Laser treatment of the macula may also be necessary
to help preserve central vision. In severe cases of diabetic retinopathy, an operative
surgical procedure called vitrectomy may also be done to remove longstanding
blood from the inner eye, and to cut away scar tissue in order to relax any traction
on the retina. In this procedure, the vitreous is removed and usually replaced with a
saltwater solution.
First, a water-soluble dye is injected into a vein in the arm. As the dye passes
through the blood vessels of the retina, a special camera (fundus camera) flashes a
blue light into the eye and takes several photographs (angiogram) of the retina. If
the blood vessels are abnormal, the dye may leak into the retina or stain the blood
vessels. Damage to the lining underneath the retina or the appearance of abnormal
new blood vessels growing beneath the retina may also be revealed. The exact
location of these abnormalities can be determined by a careful interpretation of the
angiogram.
Argon laser surgery has been used successfully on the eye since 1970. The laser
beam is a high energy light that turns to heat when it is focused on the parts of the
retina to be treated. This light energy is precise, controlled and convenient. The
ophthalmologist controls the laser carefully by choosing a wavelength (color) that
the eye tissue being treated can absorb, focusing the laser beam precisely on the
problem area, and controlling the power and time of exposure.
Argon laser surgery is used for diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal
breaks and detachment, and other retinal abnormalities.
Choroidal melanoma is a cancer that affects the pigmented layer of the eye called
the choroid, which is made up of blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to
the retina. While it starts in the eye, it may spread to other parts of the body. Your
eye doctor may be able to detect and recognize it using an indirect ophthalmoscope
or ultrasound. Treatment may be in the form of enucleation (removal of the eye),
laser treatment, radiation treatment, cryotherapy or freezing. The appearance of
the tumor, its pattern, size and location will help determine which treatment should
be used.
Retina and vitreous diseases require immediate treatment to prevent severe vision
loss and possibly total blindness. If you are over the age of 40, suffer severe
nearsightedness or diabetes, have a family history of retina disease, had cataract
surgery, or suffered severe trauma to the eye or head, make sure to have your
eyes examined regularly by an ophthalmologist.
The cornea is the tough, transparent membrane at the front of the eye through
which light first passes. It acts like the convex lens of a camera, and is part of a
system of eye parts that successively bend light rays (refraction) to focus precisely
on the retina. The image is then translated into impulses that are sent to the brain.
Laser vision correction is a surgical procedure that uses an excimer laser to reshape
the cornea by removing a controlled amount of tissue in order to alter its refractive
power. The most common techniques are LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis) and
PRK (photorefractive keratectomy). The method of exposing the deeper corneal
layer differentiates these two techniques of laser vision correction.
In PRK, the surface layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed prior to laser
treatment. The epithelial cells grow back within 3 days after surgery. Vision slowly
improves but patients typically experience some amount of pain or discomfort
during this period.
If treatment for a patient does not result in full correction of the error, he may opt
to wear glasses, contact lenses or have additional laser surgery (enhancement
procedure). Published reports state that approximately 7-10% of patients request
for an enhancement or “touch up” procedure to improve visual results. AEI
performs enhancement procedures for patients who have already had previous laser
vision correction.
The front part of the cornea alone does not determine how well the eye can focus.
The other inner parts of the eye, and how they fit and work together, also
contribute to the focusing power of the eye. Glasses and contact lenses change the
way light bends even before it hits the eye. Conventional lasers reshape the eye
based mainly on the contour of the front part of the eye. These methods of
correcting errors of refraction can help you see better, but do not consider the other
parts of the eye that could be contributing to the vision problem.
The advanced laser system of AEI gathers and analyzes information on the other
parts of the eye to deliver a treatment that is tailored to these specific eye details.
The customized treatment may therefore result in vision better than with glasses,
contact lenses, or conventional laser. The special features of AEI’s laser system also
allow us to treat successfully patients with complicated or irregular astigmatism.
LASIK and PRK have undergone extensive USFDA testing and investigation and are
now considered by ophthalmologists worldwide as a relatively safe and effective
surgical procedure. The risks in laser refractive surgery are similar to those of other
eye surgeries. These include infection, poor vision, retinal complications and flap
problems.
AEI offers the most sterile laser environment in the country. A dedicated laminar
flow air conditioning unit specifically designed for operating room use ensures that
possible contaminants in the air inside the refractive laser suite is kept to a
minimum.
Our laser has a special device called an eye tracker that detects and follows eye
movement, thereby ensuring accurate laser pulse placement during the entire
procedure.
Prior to surgery
The initial visit may take up to one and a half hours for a thorough eye
examination. It is advised that arrangements be made for someone to take the
patient home, since part of the examination would require putting eye drops that
may blur vision for a few hours and make driving difficult or unsafe. In addition, it is
advised that the patient discontinue using contact lenses (1 week for soft contact
lenses and 3 weeks for hard/rigid gas permeable contact lenses) prior to the
scheduled examination to minimize the effect of the lenses on the test results.
Refractive surgery is done on an outpatient basis. While the surgery itself may take
only a few minutes, the actual stay may take up to two hours to accommodate
preparations before the surgery and resting time before the patient is sent home.
Both eyes may undergo surgery on the same day. The main advantage, however, of
scheduling the second eye on a different date is that the doctor may monitor the
healing response on the treated eye and use the information when treating the
second eye.
After surgery
Several post-operative visits will be scheduled to monitor recovery. The patient will
be advised on precautions and medications during the recovery period.
Visual recovery varies from patient to patient. With LASIK, majority of patients can
return to their usual activities a day or two after surgery. In PRK, recovery usually
lasts up to four days after the procedure. It is not unusual for vision to fluctuate
Indications for surgery include corneal opacity because of scarring, distorted corneal
shapes, and swelling of the cornea. Corneal transplantation will provide the patient
with a clearer cornea to allow better vision.
Corneal transplant carries risks similar to any major eye surgery. The risks include
infection, loss of vision, retinal detachment and glaucoma. In addition, there is a
risk of rejection of the donor cornea, which can result in graft failure, or loss of
transparency of the donor cornea. Rejection can occur at any time after the
surgery.
Several measures can be taken if the cornea is showing signs of rejection. These
measures include instilling additional eyedrops or injecting medications on the
surface of the eye. Patient cooperation and consistent follow up is needed in order
to detect these signs as soon as they appear. If the corneal graft rejection cannot
be reversed, corneal transplantation can be repeated.
The surgery itself is not painful since adequate anesthesia is given during surgery.
However, patients may feel slight discomfort afterwards because sutures (stitches)
will be left in place for several months after the surgery to allow the cornea to heal
properly.
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Infants and children can suffer from the same eye diseases as adults. However, the
causes of these diseases in children, as well as the treatment approach, recovery
period, and prognosis, are different from that in adults.
Some children’s eye diseases are caused by problems in the muscles that move the
eyeball up and down, and from side to side. Strabismus is a misalignment of the
eyes and is characterized by a squint (eyes appear to look at an object obliquely-in
Tagalog, banlag), or “cross-eye,” (in Tagalog, duling). An abnormal head turn or tilt
may also be a sign of strabismus. While glasses may often help this condition, there
are cases where they are insufficient and surgery is needed to realign the eyes.
Lazy eye or amblyopia is characterized by poorer vision in one eye than in the
other in the absence of a physical disease. Lazy eye is usually caused by a
refractive error (nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism) in the affected
eye and can be prevented or even reversed with timely and proper use of glasses or
contact lenses. Sometimes it is necessary to cover the better eye in order to
exercise the “lazy eye.” This treatment should be supervised closely.
Other common diseases that may occur in children include congenital cataract,
which is treated surgically. When a child has cataract, the central part of his eye
appears white, and his vision is blurred. Blepharitis and stye (in Tagalog, kuliti),
tearing, and nystagmus (jittery movement of eyes) are other common eye diseases
for children.
Adults with strabismus may experience double vision, eyestrain and difficulty in
reading. They may also have an abnormal head turn.
Adult strabismus can usually be corrected by surgery on the eye muscles. Use of a
special surgical technique called adjustable suture technique significantly increases
the chances of success in treatment.
What is retinoblastoma?
Premature babies weighing less than three pounds at birth may be affected by a
condition called retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). In ROP, abnormal blood
vessels and scar tissue grow over the retina, which is the part of the eye that
captures visual images and sends them to the brain.
ROP may or may not affect the baby’s eyesight. In some cases, the abnormal blood
vessels and scar tissue shrink or disappear without affecting vision. In other cases,
it may lead to distortion or detachment of the retina, which in turn may lead to
moderate to severe vision loss.
The baby’s ophthalmologist can detect ROP during an examination of the baby’s
eyes in the nursery. The examination involves shining a bright light with a special
instrument into the eye. It may be necessary to examine the baby’s eyes several
times to check the severity and progression of the disease before appropriate
treatment can be determined. Treatment may be in the form of laser therapy,
cryotherapy, or operative surgery.
Even after treatment, there is still a risk of developing visual impairment. Regular
examinations by an ophthalmologist will be needed as the baby grows, to ensure
that his vision is developing as normally as possible.
The best way to protect your child’s vision if you suspect an abnormal condition is
to bring him to a specialist in children’s eye diseases. Early intervention is very
important in minimizing the chances of permanent visual impairment. As children’s
eyes are still developing, it is also important to have regular eye examinations even
after a condition has been corrected or treated. Proper nutrition and vitamins such
as vitamin A (found in squash, carrots, papaya and other bright yellow fruits and
vegetables) can also help your child develop and maintain good vision.
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What is Uveitis?
Uveitis is a group of inflammatory eye diseases that affect the middle layer of the
eye called the uvea. The uvea lies between the outermost layer of the eye called
sclera (tough white coat of the eye) and the innermost layer of the eye called
retina. The uvea has three parts:
● The iris, the colored part of the eye that controls the amount of light that
enters the eye, located near the front of the eye;
● The ciliary body that produces fluid that gives the eye its shape, located
near the middle of the eye; and
● The choroid, made up of a lot of blood vessels that deliver oxygen and
nutrients to the retina, located near the back of the eye.
There are about sixty identified conditions that can result in inflammation of one or
all of the three parts of the uvea. Some of these diseases are confined to the eye
alone, while others may be associated with inflammation in other parts of the body
(e.g. arthritis, back pains, kidney inflammation).
The causes of uveitis are varied but generally can be grouped into the following:
The most common symptom of uveitis is decreased or blurred vision. While this
may be the only symptom, many patients also notice floaters (floating black spots),
dark or cloudy vision, eye redness, and eye pain. Frequently, the inflammatory
episode passes, only to recur with resulting gradual loss of sight. There may be
other related symptoms in the rest of the body such as diarrhea, joint and back
pains, falling hair and skin rashes.
Frequently, the eye doctor will be able to diagnose uveitis and identify which
specific uveitis the patient has by a thorough examination of the eye and an
analysis of symptoms or signals from the other parts of the body. Sometimes, he
may ask the patient to go through some tests, or even surgery to obtain a
specimen from the eye, in order to confirm this diagnosis. Usually, the doctor can
make a specific diagnosis; in some cases, however, he may only be able to classify
the disease according to its cause.
The goal of treatment of uveitis is to control the inflammation before it does further
damage to the eye, which is like putting out a fire. Depending on the specific type
of uveitis and on the severity of the disease, one or several medicines may be used.
These may include steroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as
ibuprofen or naproxen) or cytotoxic agents. Frequent monitoring of the eye and the
body is necessary to ensure that the inflammation has stopped and that no side
effects from the medicine are developing. Treatment is usually instituted by a
uveitis specialist who has had considerable experience in these medicines.
Sometimes surgery may be needed to improve the vision of the patient. Laser
treatment may also be needed by some patients in order to prevent complications
of uveitis such as glaucoma or bleeding in the eye.
Uveitis is currently the fourth leading cause of blindness in the world. However,
many advances in medical, diagnostic and surgical technology now allow the eye
doctor to become better at treating patients with uveitis. The type of uveitis is an
important factor in determining how difficult or easy it is to maintain eyesight. Early
consultation and treatment are very important to preserving vision. Make sure to
have your eyes examined regularly by an ophthalmologist, especially if you notice
any change in your eyesight.
The eyelids, orbit and lacrimal system can be affected by normal aging changes,
injuries, birth defects, inherited disorders, infections, inflammations and other
acquired conditions. The following are conditions that can be referred for ophthalmic
plastic surgery consultation:
Eyelid Conditions
Age Related Changes. Baggy fullness of the eyelids with drooping of the eyelid
skin; may be associated with other eyelid malposition changes.
Malposition:
Tumors - Benign and malignant growths on the eyelid that require excision and
repair to restore normal eyelid function.
Orbit Conditions
Inflammatory Conditions:
● Graves Thyroid Eye Disease (swelling of the structures in the eye socket
causing the eyeball to bulge forward, usually associated with abnormality in
thyroid function)
● Pseudomotor (non-infectious painful swelling of structures within the eye
socket)
● Cellulitis (infection of the soft tissue within the eye socket)
Trauma - Fractures (breaks in the bony orbital wall/s that can cause misalignment of
the eyes and deformities of the face).
Tumors - Benign or malignant tumors within the eye socket causing displacement of
the eyeball.
Acquired Anophthalmia:
Infections - Tearing with discharge caused by infected tear sac and obstructed tear
drainage.
Trauma
A patient is considered to have low vision when his remaining visual function is not
sufficient to allow him to perform particular, everyday tasks or activities such as
reading, writing, driving or watching television. He may also suffer from loss of space
orientation or balance, and may have a tendency to bump into things or have
difficulty catching or pointing at objects.
Most of the time, the condition arises when a patient’s eye has sustained irreversible
damage due to any of the following diseases:
● Glaucoma - The patient loses part of his visual field and later on develops
tunnel vision or blindness.
● Retinal Degeneration (Age-related macular degeneration and Retinitis
Pigmentosa) - The patient loses central vision and peripheral vision.
● Diabetes - The patient develops diabetic retinopathy and subsequently loses a
portion of his vision.
● Stroke - The patient loses a portion of his vision.
● Brain Tumors - The defect in the patient’s visual pathway will result in loss of
his visual field.
● Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) - The patient (usually a child) has poorer vision in one
eye than in the other.
Our low vision specialist will perform an evaluation of your various visual functions
(such as near or distance vision), and determine whether your vision may be
enhanced to enable you to participate in your desired activities. Optical and non-
optical devices may be used during the evaluation.
Based on his findings, our low vision specialist will help you understand your problem
and teach or coach you on how to cope with your condition. He will also provide you
with a visual rehabilitation program, depending on your needs and visual conditions.
The program may include special devices to help you perform everyday tasks,
whether they are near, intermediate or distance activities. These include magnifiers,
telescopes, microscopes, telemicroscopes, and electronic optical systems (Closed
Circuit Television or CCTV, magni-cam, and Low Vision Imaging System or LVIS). Our
specialist will train you on the proper use of these devices.
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There are several types of anesthetic that may be used during surgery.
General anesthesia causes a patient to sleep throughout the entire surgery, and
awaken at the end of the procedure. This is indicated in those patients who prefer it,
and those who would be unable to lie flat and still on the operating table during
surgery, such as young children. However, this may not be suitable for those whose
medical condition would pose more than a considerable risk for complications to
occur.
Local anesthesia isolates and numbs the area to be operated on. It may be
supplemented with intravenous sedation. The following are the more commonly used
techniques:
Asian Eye has a qualified anesthesiologist in the medical team who can help decide
which anesthetic would be most appropriate, taking into consideration the patient’s
medical condition, and the preferences of both patient and surgeon.
Yes, the patient will feel a little pinprick and pressure while the local anesthetic is
being injected. During surgery, however, the local anesthetic should have exerted its
effect and the patient will not feel anything. Post-operatively, pain is relieved by
simple analgesics such as paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Yes, definitely. The Asian Eye anesthesiologist will be with the patient constantly,
checking vital signs, interpreting data from monitoring equipment, and formulating a
treatment plan for any complication that may arise.
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