DLM Internal

Cataracts can be removed at any point in their development; there is no wrong time to remove one. However, insurance may only cover cataract surgery once it’s affecting your vision.

Cataract removal surgery can happen at any stage. As soon as cataracts affect your vision and your everyday life, it’s typically the perfect time to schedule a complete eye exam with the doctors at Eye Consultants. Cataract surgery may be the best way to restore your vision.

At Eye Consultants, we use mild IV sedation during cataract surgery. This type of anesthesia ensures you’re completely comfortable throughout the procedure. With IV sedation, you are awake but in a drowsy and relaxed state. Our surgeons are also comfortable performing the surgery under only local sedation. In this case, patients can drive themselves to and from the procedure and can avoid having to fast overnight.

With cataract surgery at Eye Consultants, most patients can return to their normal activities the day after surgery. That said, it can take about four weeks before patients are fully healed from the procedure.

The success rate of cataract surgery is very high. The surgery is successful 97% of the time. At Eye Consultants, Dr. Dealy and her team specialize in cataract surgery and have performed thousands over the years, so you can count on our team to give you the vision you’re looking for.

Absolutely. Cataract surgery is done on only one eye all the time. When one eye is healthy, there is no reason to have surgery on that eye.

The average age for cataract surgery in the US is around 72. That said, patients can come to us for surgery at any age.

Before cataract surgery, you’ll want to prepare by getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, and arranging for a friend or family member to drive you to and from surgery. We also recommend that you avoid alcohol and smoking, wear comfortable clothes, and avoid wearing any makeup to your appointment.

Yes, most patients are awake during cataract surgery, although there are circumstances when we do put patients to sleep. We use mild IV sedation so you will be awake but in a sleepy and relaxed state.

Yes, in almost all cases, patients will need IOLs (intraocular lenses) when undergoing a cataract surgery. They restore your vision after the surgery and give you the crystal clear vision you’re looking for.

There are generally four different types of IOLs. They include the monofocal, toric, multifocal, and extended depth-of-focus. Monofocal, multifocial, and extended depth-of-focal lenses correct near or far vision, while toric lenses are for people with astigmatism.

For some patients, glasses will still be needed after IOLs. While IOLs can correct some vision issues, they may not correct them all and glasses may continue to be necessary for some tasks.

Monofocal lenses are the most popular type of lens and typically appropriate for most patients. They can address nearsightedness or farsightedness. That said, which lens is right for you will depend on your specific concerns. Multifocal lenses are the second most popular type of lenses implanted, as they are able to correct both distance and near vision at the same time and offer more freedom from glasses.

Intraocular lenses are designed to last a lifetime. The plastic material that IOLs are made out of will not break down over time.

Generally, monofocal IOLs are covered by insurance, including Medicare. They are considered medically necessary. Advanced or premium IOLs are usually not covered by insurance, but it can depend on your insurance plan.

Toric IOLs are designed to correct astigmatism. They have a unique shape that compensates for the irregular shape of the cornea, allowing light to reflect and focus evenly across the eye and leading to clearer vision.

While it’s not common, yes, you can change the type of intraocular lens you have. That said, it’s typically only done when there is a complication during surgery.

You will likely see improved vision within 1-3 days, but it can take 4-6 weeks before you are fully recovered. During the first stages of the recovery process, you will need to wear a protective eye shield for a few days to ensure the eye can heal properly.

An intraocular lens is very small. They range in size from 11mm to 13mm in diameter. How thick they are depends on their refractive power and the type of lens it is.

Contact lenses and glasses both have advantages, it depends on your lifestyle and vision needs. Contacts provide a wider field of vision and are ideal for active individuals, while glasses can be easier to maintain and may offer more eye protection.

It is best to avoid napping while wearing contact lenses, unless they are specifically approved for extended wear. Sleeping in lenses can reduce oxygen to your eyes and increase the risk of infection or irritation.

Crying with contact lenses is usually harmless, but your lenses may shift or become blurry temporarily. Simply blink to reposition them or remove and clean them if they become uncomfortable.

The cost of contacts varies but typically ranges from $20 to $75 per box, depending on the brand and type. Annual expenses may vary from $150 to $500 or more, especially if you need specialty lenses.

People with certain eye conditions, severe allergies, dry eyes, or difficulty handling lenses may not be ideal candidates. A comprehensive eye exam can determine if contacts are a good fit for you.

Replacement depends on the type of lens. Daily lenses are disposed of after one use, while bi-weekly and monthly lenses are replaced every two to four weeks. Always follow your eye doctor’s recommended schedule.

Many vision insurance plans help cover the cost of contact lenses, but coverage varies. Some may include a yearly allowance, while others offer discounts through in-network providers.

Daily contacts are worn once and discarded, offering convenience and minimal cleaning. Monthly lenses are worn for up to 30 days, with nightly removal and proper cleaning, making them a more cost-effective option for regular wearers.

Wearing lenses overnight can cause dryness, redness, or even infection due to reduced oxygen flow. If this happens, remove the lenses as soon as possible and allow your eyes time to rest. See your eye doctor if irritation persists.

It is safe to wear contacts daily if they are the right type and you care for them properly. Be sure to give your eyes a break occasionally and follow your optometrist’s guidance for healthy lens use.

Different types of punctal plugs have different lifespans. Some are designed to stay in temporarily for a few weeks and other plugs can be left in permanently. Temporary plugs are made from collagen or other types of material that dissolve naturally into the body.

Punctal plugs are generally safe and have minimal risks, but complications can occur. Punctal plugs can fall out or become displaced, which could cause eye irritation. A scratchy sensation and redness are also possible side effects. If any of these symptoms occur, please schedule an appointment to remove or replace the punctal plug.

Therapeutic contact lenses protect the cornea while relieving pain and promoting healing after a corneal injury. They deliver drugs directly to the ocular surface and seal wounds.

Contacts are considered medically necessary when they provide better vision improvement than glasses. Certain eye conditions like keratoconus, dry eye, and anisometropia or corneal diseases and scarring are common reasons for patients to receive contact lenses.

The most common side effect of BlephEX is mild irritation that goes away shortly after the procedure. Less common side effects include redness, swelling, and itchiness but the risk of these potential complications is limited when you receive BlephEX from our expert team.

Almost all patients enjoy the benefits of their BlephEx treatment and find it well worth the time. The procedure takes less than thirty minutes and requires no downtime.

Meibomian gland damage (MGD) can become permanent if left untreated. The glands will continue to shrink and the tear film can become permanently damaged without early treatment.

Natural aging, frequent use of contacts for long periods, eye strain from computer use, certain medications, and environmental factors like smoke, pollution, and wind can all contribute to meibomian gland dysfunction.

Patients with a history of seizures or epilepsy should not receive OptiLIGHT IPL and those with an active eye or eyelid infection should wait to receive treatment. You will also have to schedule your procedure for a later date if you have had eye surgery in the last six months or are scheduled for chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

The most common side effects of OptiLIGHT IPL are mild swelling, redness, light sensitivity, and a scratchy feeling. These symptoms typically improve within a few days after treatment but if they do not, please schedule an appointment right away.

When taking Restastis eye drops, you’ll want to avoid touching the tip of the container directly to your eye, remove contact lenses before using Restasis, wash your hands before putting eye drops in, and allow your eyes to become completely clear before driving.

Xiidra typically takes a few weeks before you start seeing a significant difference in your dry eye symptoms. At that point, you should feel less itching, dryness, and redness.

Blurred vision is a common side effect of Xiidra, but it typically disappears within a few seconds. That said, it can take hours for some to clear their vision.

Vevye eye drops can take about four weeks to start working, but some patients have seen their symptoms lessening sooner than that. Most patients see significant improvement in their dry eye symptoms by three months.

As with any drug or treatment, yes, you can use too much Cequa. While it’s unlikely to be dangerous if you use one or two drops extra, it can cause some temporary side effects like discomfort or redness.

No, Cequa should not be stored in the refrigerator. It should be stored at room temperature (about 68 degrees Fahrenheit).

Yes, because shaking the formula could cause air bubbles to form. This could affect how the medication comes out of the bottle and into your eye.

Some of the side effects of Tyrvaya include sneezing, nose irritation, coughing, and sore throat. If these side effects don’t go away or are bothersome, don’t hesitate to contact us for alternative treatment options.

It typically takes at least two weeks before you notice an improvement with serum tears. That said, some patients have noticed a reduction in symptoms after a week, while others had to wait a few months before seeing a significant improvement.

We typically recommend 5,000-10,000 IU of vitamin D per day to see an improvement in dry eyes. Vitamin D can improve tear production, reduce inflammation, and improve the function of the eye's barrier.

A retinal disease is any condition that affects the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye responsible for vision. Common retinal diseases include macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment, which can impair vision or lead to blindness if untreated.

While some retinal diseases can be managed or improved with treatment, not all can be fully cured. Early detection and ongoing care are critical for preserving vision and slowing disease progression.

Treatment for retinal diseases varies depending on the condition and may include medications, laser therapy, injections, or surgery. Regular monitoring by an eye specialist ensures the most effective management plan.

The retina cannot heal itself from significant damage, but prompt treatment can often prevent further deterioration and, in some cases, restore partial vision. The extent of recovery depends on the type and severity of the damage.

Untreated retinal diseases can lead to progressive vision loss and, in severe cases, permanent blindness. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preserving eye health and vision.

Optometrists and ophthalmologists use various methods to detect retinal damage, such as dilated eye exams, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and retinal photography. These tools help evaluate the retina's condition and detect early signs of disease.

Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover the diagnosis and treatment of retinal diseases. It is advisable to confirm coverage with your insurance provider.

Restoring vision after retinal damage depends on the condition and its severity. While some treatments can improve vision, others aim to prevent further loss rather than restore sight.

The most common retinal diseases are macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, and retinitis pigmentosa. Each affects vision differently and requires tailored treatment.

If you have retinal damage, avoid activities that strain your eyes, such as prolonged screen time or heavy lifting, which can increase intraocular pressure. Follow your doctor's recommendations and prioritize regular check-ups to monitor your condition.

Glaucoma surgery is usually performed under a local anesthetic with mild IV sedation.

While glaucoma surgery doesn’t cure glaucoma or undo existing vision loss, it can help to protect vision and prevent it from worsening.

Dr. Heather Dealy is a board-certified, experienced ophthalmic surgeon who is dedicated to providing detail-oriented care for her patients. She is fellowship trained in the surgical management of Glaucoma.

Glaucoma surgery is covered by most major medical health insurance plans. To learn more about your coverage, please reach out to your insurance provider today.

The cost of glaucoma surgery may vary depending on multiple factors. To learn more about pricing, please contact Eye Consultants today.

There are various glaucoma surgery techniques that may be used to lower eye pressure and prevent or reduce damage to the optic nerve. These options may include selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), implantation of Durysta™ implant, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), trabeculectomy, tube shunt surgery, or diode laser cyclophotocoagulation. To learn which treatment is best for you and how it is performed, please get in touch with our practice today to schedule a consutlation with Dr. Dealy.

When performed by a board-certified ophthalmologist such as Dr. Dealy, risks are greatly reduced. The benefits often outweigh the risks for most advanced glaucoma cases. To discuss candidacy and if this procedure is right for you, please contact our Delaware office today.

The goal of glaucoma surgery is to reduce pressure in the eye, prevent vision loss, and protect any remaining vision.

Recovery following glaucoma surgery may vary depending on the type of surgery that is performed. Our team will provide you with thorough aftercare instructions to ensure that you heal properly for ideal results.

Glaucoma surgery can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 8 2 hours, depending on the type of procedure and the severity of the glaucoma being treated. Dr. Dealy will discuss the specifics of your procedure with you during your consultation appointment.

Those diagnosed with glaucoma should be seen by their provider at least once a year, however, some may need more frequent follow-up. Regular appointments are crucial for monitoring the progression of your disease and for making any necessary adjustments to your treatment.

People at risk for glaucoma should undergo regular screenings in order to catch the disease early. The frequency of glaucoma screenings will change as you enter certain age groups for example, people under the age of 40 will need to be checked every 1-2 years, while people over the age of 65 should be checked every 6-12 months.

A glaucoma evaluation involves a series of different tests. Some tests can take as little as one minute, while others may take up to 30 minutes. In total, a glaucoma evaluation takes up to two hours to perform.

Before a glaucoma test, you will want to avoid drinking alcohol, lots of coffee, and straining your eyes with too much computer work. These can all cause your blood vessels to dilate and can interfere with imaging and test results.

The progression of glaucoma can vary from person to person with some patients experiencing rapid progression and others gradual. While glaucoma can progress to total blindness, this can be prevented by routine follow up with your eyecare provider.

Screening methods for glaucoma can include reading your interocular pressure (IOP), evaluating your optic nerve, visual field test, and measuring the thickness of your cornea. Additional tests may be required, but they will be determined during your consultation.

Glaucoma tests commonly include dilation of the eyes. This can cause blurred vision and may make it difficult for you to drive home. While you are permitted to drive following a glaucoma test, some patients arrange for a ride home from the evaluation just to be safe.

Symptoms of glaucoma include eye pain, eye pressure, headaches, rainbow halos around lights, tunnel vision, blurred vision, blind spots, nausea, and redness. Symptoms may vary from person to person and can often occur gradually.

A new patient glaucoma visit can take up to 2 hours from start to finish. This includes a series of short exams throughout the visit. Rest assured that these tests are not painful and each test is crucial in the determination of your glaucoma severity.

Glaucoma can be diagnosed during a regular eye exam. When glaucoma is suspected, we run two different tests: a visual field analysis and optic nerve imaging. This allows your doctor to detect and monitor glaucoma and provide proper treatment.

Gradual loss of peripheral vision is typically the first sign that you may have glaucoma. That said, it can depend on the type of glaucoma you have. With open-angle glaucoma, there is a gradual vision loss. Angle-closure glaucoma is sudden and often starts with severe eye pain, sudden blurriness, and headaches.

Absolutely! Glaucoma is completely treatable, especially if it’s caught early. By lowering the intraocular pressure, we can prevent or slow down the risk of vision loss.

How long you have untreated glaucoma before you go blind greatly depends on the type of glaucoma you have. With open-angle glaucoma, you can have the condition for years before you go blind. With angle-closure glaucoma, blindness can happen within days.

If you have glaucoma, we generally recommend avoiding foods high in trans or saturated fats. Limiting your caffeine and alcohol intake is also recommended. Generally, along with treatment, sticking to a healthy lifestyle can help you manage your glaucoma.

An ophthalmologist and/or a glaucoma specialist is the best person to diagnose glaucoma. Our very own Dr. Dealy is both and can help you diagnose and treat your glaucoma.

No, glaucoma does not go away on its own. If left untreated, it can lead to vision loss and blindness. It’s why it is so important to receive treatment as early as possible.

If you have a history of glaucoma, are over the age of 60, are very nearsighted or far-sighted, or are of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent, you are at a higher risk of developing the condition. That said, anyone from young children to older adults can develop glaucoma.

If caught early and treated, yes, you can drive with glaucoma. If it’s in later stages or you’ve lost some or all of your vision, driving may be limited or prohibited altogether.

There are a variety of ways to treat glaucoma. At Eye Consultants, we offer prescription eye drops, surgical options like laser iridotomy and selective laser trabeculoplasty, and minimally invasive treatments like IDose and Hydrus. Which treatment is right for you will depend on how much the glaucoma has progressed, your medical history, age, and more.

No, seniors do not have to take a special driving test to prove they can drive, but they may be asked to submit a medical form proving they are fit to drive. They may also be asked to take an eye exam each time they renew their license.

According to the U.S. Census and the Federal Highway Administration, 85 is when most seniors stop driving. That said, it can differ from person to person. Some seniors may need to stop sooner than that.

If you notice they are having a delayed response time while driving, are having trouble seeing, are easily distracted, are getting lost, or their driving habits have changed, it may be time for them to stop driving. More frequent dents and dings on the car can also be a sign that driving is no longer safe for them.

The most common vision problem is age-related macular degeneration. The condition involves damage to the center of the retina and symptoms can include blurred vision, changes in the way you see color, low vision, and being able to see less in low light.

Age-related vision changes can impact how you see your dashboard and how streetlights look and make it difficult to see at night. This can make it difficult to see lane markings, signs, and pedestrians, increasing the chance of possible accidents.

In general, if your vision is 20/200 or worse in one eye, you are not allowed to drive. The exact vision standards can differ by state, but 20/200 is the standard. If you are blind or have 20/200 vision in one eye, the other eye must be 20/40 or better.

Age can affect your vision, hearing, and reflexes, making it more difficult to see objects and people on the street, hear potential hazards, or react quickly enough to avoid an accident. Strength issues and arthritis can also make it harder to drive and steer.

As the cornea ages and the lens becomes less clear, it can be harder to see at night. Any light can scatter in the eye, causing a glare and making vision while driving very difficult at night. Cataracts, macular degeneration, and the natural aging process can all affect how well you see at night.

In Delaware, there are now routine vision tests and regular renewals required for senior drivers. This not only ensures they are safe to drive but also decreases the risks of accidents and injuries for senior drivers and other drivers on the road.

The best glasses for driving with macular degeneration are bioptic telescope glasses. These innovative glasses have a small telescope on each lens, improving distance vision while maintaining peripheral vision.

Blurry vision and increased sensitivity to light can last several hours. Until your vision returns to normal, it is generally recommended that you avoid driving.

Regular, annual eye exams are essential for detecting early signs of diabetic retinopathy or other diabetes-related vision issues. We may recommend more frequent checkups if you have existing eye conditions.

The diabetic eye screening helps identify early signs of diabetes-related eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, or glaucoma, even before symptoms arise.

A diabetic eye exam focuses on detecting eye conditions related to diabetes; it often involves pupil dilation and specialized retina imaging. A regular eye exam assesses general vision health.

Complications of diabetes may cause blurry vision, dark spots, or fluctuating vision quality. Over time, untreated diabetes-related damage can lead to significant vision loss.

During a diabetic eye exam, we will dilate your pupils with eye drops to get a clear view of your retina. We may use specialized imaging tools to capture detailed pictures of the back of your eye.

To prepare for a diabetic eye exam, bring your medical history, current medications, and details about your diabetes management. If your pupils are dilated, arrange for someone to drive you, and wear sunglasses for comfort afterward.

Directly after a diabetic eye exam, the dilation drops may blur your vision and make your eyes sensitive to light. These effects can last a few hours, so avoid activities requiring sharp vision until your eyesight fully clears.

Diabetic eye screening involves an in-depth examination of the retina to check for damage caused by diabetes. This typically includes pupil dilation and retinal imaging to detect concerns.

Timely identification and treatment of conditions like diabetic retinopathy can prevent or slow progression, preserving vision and improving overall eye health for diabetic patients.

A routine eye test, or a comprehensive eye exam, is a standard check-up performed by an eye care professional to assess your vision and overall eye health. It helps detect common vision problems and eye conditions early on.

Adults with no vision problems should have an eye exam every 1–2 years. Children should have their first eye exam around 6 months, again at age 3, before starting school, and then every 1–2 years. People over 60, those who wear glasses or contacts, or individuals with diabetes or a family history of eye disease may need exams more frequently.

A routine eye exam usually includes a review of your medical history, a vision test, a refraction test to determine your prescription for glasses or contact lenses, an eye muscle function test, and an examination of your eyes' external and internal structures. It may also include tests for eye pressure to screen for glaucoma.

Dilation is often part of a routine eye exam, especially for adults over 60 or patients at risk for certain eye diseases. While not always required, dilation helps detect conditions like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma at an early stage.

Both optometrists and ophthalmologists are qualified to perform routine eye exams. Optometrists are eye care professionals who specialize in vision testing, prescribing glasses and contact lenses, and diagnosing common eye conditions. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who can do everything an optometrist does, treat more complex eye diseases, and perform surgery.

To prepare for your eye exam, bring your current eyeglasses or contact lenses, a list of any medications you take, and information about your eye and medical history. Be ready to discuss any vision problems or symptoms you’re experiencing. If you think your eyes may be dilated, you may want to bring sunglasses and arrange for someone to drive you afterward.

A standard routine eye exam usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of your needs and whether your eyes are dilated. It may take a bit longer if additional testing is needed.

If your eyes are not dilated during the exam, you can drive afterward without any issues. However, if dilation is part of your exam, your vision may be blurry and sensitive to light for a few hours. In that case, it’s a good idea to bring sunglasses and consider arranging for someone to drive you home, especially if you’re uncomfortable driving with blurred vision.

A routine eye exam evaluates your visual acuity, determines whether you need corrective lenses, and screens for common eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. It also checks the overall function of your eyes and can even detect signs of systemic health issues, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

The cost of a routine eye exam without insurance varies depending on where you go and whether additional services are included. On average, the cost ranges from $50 to $250.