Diseases that affect the anterior, transparent portion of the eye are treated by a cornea specialist. This structure in the anterior eye directs light towards the lens and is very important in assisting with sight. Some persons lose their vision if they do not get treated quickly for their condition and these ophthalmologists regularly prevent blindness. An optical surgeon can reverse the effects of some conditions and help patients to regain sight without using contact lenses or glasses.
Refractive and LASIK surgery, transplants and complex cataract surgery are also performed by these ophthalmologists. Complex problems are usually referred to them from other practitioners.
Transplants may be done with natural or artificial material. The AlphaCor is a popular choice when an optical surgeon wants to use artificial material. It was developed in Australia and may eventually completely replace donor tissue.
These ophthalmologists treat a number of diseases which are commonly found in the population such as glaucoma. Glaucoma can progress to irreversible blindness. Blindness is sometimes a sign of the disorder in affected persons, which often does not show any signs until it is in the late stages. Persons who have glaucoma will not lose their vision if it is detected early.
Another condition that is encountered in their patients on a regular basis is dry eye. Usually, this organ produces tears. The fluid keeps the surface lubricated. This is important for a number of reasons. The eyeball is constantly exposed to potential sources of infection. This fluid defends the eyeball from bacteria and other sources of infection.
Specular microscopy is one of several tests that are used to gather information. Wavefront aberrometry and confocal microscopy are other tools used to gather information about the condition of their patients.
Different disorders are detected using these tests. Confocal microscopy (TSCM) for example, is used to identify and manage inflammations of the surface of the organ. This inflammation is termed keratitis. Keratitis may be due to acanthamoeba. It can also have a variety of other causes. Tear film abnormalities and dystrophies are also detected with TSCM.
The price of surgery is affected by several different factors. Contributing factors include the age of the patient, the gender of the person being treated and their health before the procedure. The location of the operation will also affect the price.
Transplants and other courses of treatment which are conducted by a cornea specialist are usually partially paid for using health insurance. A well trained and skilled optical surgeon with years of experience will be better able to take you through the process successfully.
Dr. Vahid Feiz is a cornea specialist who is a board-certified, cornea-fellowship trained surgeon. With extensive experience enhancing vision, Dr. Fiez can perform refractive surgery as well as corneal transplants and cataract surgery. (http://www.eastbayvision.com/)