Indiana Surgeon on Dry Eyes & LASIK

Indiana eye surgeon Scott Buck, M.D. explained about the causes and treatment of dry eyes after LASIK surgery. “By far the most common side effect of LASIK is dry eyes. In fact, it is pretty much normal and expected for all LASIK patients to have temporary dry eye symptoms after their treatment. The critical thing to know is that the dry eye symptoms should be temporary”, explained Dr. Buck.

Here is what you should know about LASIK and dry eyes. LASIK is corneal surgery. ANY time we do corneal surgery we typically sever some corneal nerves and we often temporarily disturb the delicate cells on the surface of the eye. “By the way, during cataract surgery and any other eye surgery procedures that involve the cornea we do the exact same things,” said Dr. Buck. These corneal nerves connect to the Lacrimal Gland which is responsible for producing tears. When the nerves are temporarily interrupted there is a decrease in the amount of tears that are produced-making your eyes feel dry and gritty. To make you more comfortable during the time it takes for the corneal nerves to heal and regenerate we may do one of more of the following for you:

Prescribe Artificial Tear Eye Drops

Insert Tiny Tear Duct Plugs

Prescribe Restasis® Eye Drops

Prescribe Dietary Supplements with Omega-3 Oils

Each of the above acts to either retain the tears that you have, supplement the tears that are lacking or help you produce more of your own tears so that you will be most comfortable and heal properly. Each person will regenerate the fine corneal nerves at a DIFFERENT RATE and thus will need to use one or more of the above tear helpers for different amounts of time. A very important consideration is how healthy your tear film was BEFORE your surgery. A critical part of your LASIK consultation will be a careful examination of your tear film. Sometimes, in order to make you the most comfortable and make the healing and visual recovery process as quick and easy as possible for you, we may actually prescribe one or more of the above BEFORE your surgery.

If you or someone you know has questions about LASIK and dry eyes or would like to schedule a Free LASIK Evaluation please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center to schedule a Free Consultation with LASIK Surgeon Scott Buck, M.D. at 866-522-3937, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser. 

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear  and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Find Top Indiana LASIK Surgeons

“Making your best effort to find a top Indiana LASIK surgeon is well worth the time,” commented Kelley Connors, Refractive Surgery Coordinator at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN. But what makes a top LASIK surgeon? For sure, top Indiana LASIK surgeons have the skill, expertise and experience to perform LASIK surgery in a safe, effective and predictable manner. But they also have some other characteristics that set them apart from the rest.

Top LASIK Surgeons are easy to trust because they are empathic-they hear and appreciate what you say and they connect with you and your personal goals.

Top LASIK Surgeons take care and time to consider every aspect of your eye health and vision during your evaluation and consultation.

Top LASIK Surgeons say NO! if you are not a good candidate.

Top LASIK Surgeons insist that you return for proper follow-up care even if YOU think you are doing just fine.

Top LASIK Surgeons want to hear your questions-and are happy to answer them in simple understandable language.

Top LASIK Surgeons fully discuss the risks, benefits, possible complications and side effects in a balanced manner.

Top LASIK Surgeons can be counted on to effectively manage your eye surgery when things are going perfectly as well and when things a bit off track.

Choosing a LASIK surgeon is the single most important decision you will make. Do the research. Meet the surgeon. If it works out move ahead. If not, schedule another consultation. At NW Indiana Eye & Laser Center our patients regularly tell us that Scott Buck, M.D. is a “Top Indiana LASIK Surgeon”.  You can find out for yourself by scheduling a Free LASIK Consultation!

The best way for you or someone you know to find out if they are a good candidate for LASIK at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center is to have an evaluation, examination and consultation with LASIK Surgeon Scott Buck, M.D. If you or someone you know is thinking about LASIK, please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 866-522-3937 and schedule a Free LASIK Consultation, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser. 

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear  and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Astigmatism & LASIK at NW Indiana Eye & Laser

NW Indiana Eye & Laser Center offers correction of astigmatism with LASIK and other types of Laser Eye Surgery. “Astigmatism is something that is often confusing to patients. A lot of patients I speak with are under the incorrect impression that having astigmatism means you can’t have Laser Eye Surgery such as LASIK to correct your vision”, commented Indiana LASIK Surgeon Scott Buck, M.D. “In fact LASIK for astigmatism is not only possible-but we use it all the time as an excellent way to correct vision”, said Dr. Buck. Here is what you need to know about LASIK and astigmatism.

First, astigmatism is one of the common types of refractive problems that cause blurry vision. Common refractive-or eye focus problems-include nearsightedness or myopia, farsightedness or hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia. At Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center we can correct these types of eye problems with glasses, contact lenses or laser vision correction such as LASIK.

“Astigmatism usually results from an unequal curvature of the cornea-the outermost clear dome in the front of the eye-that causes the eye to have two different curvatures and thus two different focal points. This can make images look more blurry at a specific orientation so that things horizontally are blurred or things vertically are blurred, depending on the direction of the astigmatism,” explained Indiana Optometrist & Contact Lens Specialist Dr. Stephen Buck. "Astigmatism can be very annoying visually and can even cause headaches and many visual symptoms apart from the blurriness itself,” said Dr. Stephen Buck.

“Today, as LASIK surgeons, we are able to accurately measure and treat all types of astigmatism with high degrees of precision and predictability by using very fast tracking and scanning lasers like the Allegretto Wave Laser we have at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser,” said Dr. Scott Buck.

If you or someone you know has astigmatism and would like to be less dependent or possibly even be free from the hassle of glasses and contact lenses for seeing at distance please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center to schedule a Free Consultation with LASIK Surgeon Scott Buck, M.D. at 866-522-3937, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser.

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Longer Fuller Eyelashes & LATISSE™

NW Indiana eye specialist Scott Buck, M.D. is ready to help patients see their best and look their best.  “Lash enhancers, like LATISSE™, have been used to produce longer fuller eyelashes since ancient times in order to help brighten the look of eyes. LATISSE™ is an option for those patients who want to make the most of their own natural lashes by enhancing their growth so that they are actually longer, fuller and darker,” explained Dr. Buck.

LATISSE™ is an FDA approved treatment that can help you grow fuller, longer lashes. Most people who are interested in their appearance know the value of having big, bright, beautiful eyes. While eye makeup alone may be able to help you achieve a fuller and longer look for your eyelashes, LATISSE™ can actually help you grow fuller, longer eyelashes on your own! Your lashes are a big part of making your eyes more visible and adding that bright beautiful look to your appearance.

LATISSE™ is a solution intended for use on the upper eyelid margins or the base of the eyelashes. It is a solution we can prescribe after an initial examination and consultation so that it can be determined if LATISSE™ is a good choice for you. It is important to follow your physician's instructions for LATISSE™ use. “As an eye physician and surgeon, your eye health and vision-along with how you look are my priorities. Patients need to let us know if any side effects occur so that they can be addressed,” advised Dr. Buck.

In a small number of patient side effects of LATISSE™ can include itching and redness of the eye itself, eye irritation, darkening of the skin around the eye, dryness or redness of the skin around the eye. Make sure that you keep the appointments for follow-up visits with Dr. Buck so he can be sure you are getting the results you desire and not experiencing any of the side effects mentioned.

LATISSE™ is available from many physicians. As a Board Certified Ophthalmologist, Dr. Buck is an eye physician and surgeon who is a specialist in understanding your eyes and the delicate tissue around your eyes including your lashes, eyelid margins, and eyelids. He is specifically trained and experienced in the examination and treatment of these of these areas for your eye health and cosmetic appearance-and we are here to help you look your best!

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about eyelash enhancement for longer fuller lashes with LATISSE™  or would like to schedule consultation please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser. 

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear  and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Indiana LASIK Surgeon on Good Candidates

LASIK Surgeon Scott Buck, M.D. of Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN explained how to tell if you might be a good LASIK candidate. “LASIK is not for everyone and so we want to be sure we carefully review who is potentially a good LASIK candidate,” said Scott Buck, M.D. Here are some things to think about to help you determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK.

 

• The great majority of patients who are nearsighted, farsighted or have astigmatism are potential candidates for LASIK.  
• Good LASIK candidates are at least 18 years of age or older and have stable vision. This means that their eyeglass or contact lens prescription has not changed much in the last year or so. Many people do not have "stable" vision until 21 years of age, however, so each person is a bit different. 
• Good LASIK candidates have healthy eyes that are free from retinal problems, corneal scars, and any other eye diseases. They have normal corneal shapes and thickness as well as healthy tears. 
• The best LASIK candidates are those with a lifestyle, activities or occupation in which they are dissatisfied with their contact lenses or glasses. 

“Being free of the hassle of eyeglasses or contact lenses for seeing at distance motivates millions of people-just like you-to consider LASIK,” said Dr. Buck. “But we want to be able to discuss your expectations and how you think having LASIK might benefit you-so think about that question as you get ready to come in and see us for a consultation.”

 

The best way for you or someone you know to find out if they are a good candidate for LASIK at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center is to have an evaluation, examination and consultation with LASIK Surgeon Scott Buck, M.D. If you or someone you know is thinking about LASIK, please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 866-522-3937 and schedule a Free LASIK Consultation, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser. Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Indiana Eye Doctors on Diabetes & Eyes

Indiana eye doctor Scott Buck, M.D. shared some useful information regarding how diabetes affects your eyes and vision. “Diabetes is a disease that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin to control blood sugar levels. Although glucose is an important source of energy for the body’s cells, too much glucose in the blood for a long time can cause damage in many parts of the body, including the heart, kidneys, blood vessels and the small blood vessels in the eyes,” explained Dr. Buck. “When the blood vessels in the retina swell, leak or close off completely, or if abnormal new blood vessels grow on the surface of the retina, it results in Diabetic Retinopathy, which can lead to significant vision loss and even blindness if not diagnosed and treated as early as possible.”

Those people who are at greater risk of developing Diabetic Retinopathy are those who have poor blood sugar control, women who are pregnant and people with high blood pressure, high blood lipids or both. Also, people who are from certain ethnic groups, such as African-Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans are more likely to develop Diabetic Retinopathy. Diabetes can cause vision in your eyes to change even if you do not have retinopathy. If your blood sugar levels change quickly, it can affect the shape of your eye’s crystalline lens, causing blurry vision, which goes back to normal after your blood sugar stabilizes. Maintaining good control of your blood sugar helps reduce episodes of blurry vision.

If you or someone you know has diabetes or even high blood sugar, especially if there is a family history of diabetes-you should have regular eye exams to help protect your eye health and vision. Please schedule a Diabetic Eye Examination by calling Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser.

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

IN Doctors on Contact Lenses, Halloween & Eyes

The eye doctors at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN wish to advise our community about the possible related risks from Halloween, contact lenses and eyes. Valparaiso Contact Lens Specialist Dr. Stephen Buck stated, “Halloween, decorative contact lenses and your eyes may not be a great combination.” Dr. Buck further noted, “Each year many Halloween revelers seek to turn their eyes from blue to some far out appearance or ghoulish look by using over-the-counter, decorative contact lenses that may enhance holiday fun, but can lead to serious vision-threatening problems.”

According to the Food and Drug Administration, all contact lenses are regulated medical devices that require a prescription and proper fitting by an eye-care professional. Even someone with perfect vision would still require an eye exam and a prescription in order to wear any kind of contacts, including cosmetic lenses. Some websites advertise decorative contacts as if they were fashion accessories or toys with fanciful, playful packaging in order to attract teens and young adults, especially girls. The problem is not that people use decorative, noncorrosive lenses-sometimes called Plano-or zero-powered lenses, but that they buy the devices without a prescription through unlicensed vendors on the Internet or at flea markets and specialty shops.

“The buyer of these over-the-counter contact lenses faces a huge risk including scratched corneas, pink eye and more serious types of blinding infection as a result of a corneal ulcer,” warned Valparaiso Ophthalmologist Scott Buck, M.D. of Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center.

In 2005, a federal law was passed that classified all contact lenses as medical devices and restricted their distribution to licensed eye-care professionals. Illegal sale of contacts can result in civil penalties of up to $11,000 per violation.

The safe and effective use of contact lenses-whether decorative or not-requires proper fitting and education about their care to prevent the potential for serious eye  problems from becoming a reality. If you or a friend would like to learn more about contact lenses of any type including decorative contacts please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser.  

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear  and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Indiana Ophthalmologist on Bulging Eyes

Indiana Ophthalmologist Scott Buck, M.D. of Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center helped us understand more about bulging eyes and bulging eye problems. “Bulging eyes is the common description most people use to describe the eye conditions known as Exophthalmos or Proptosis,” explained Dr. Buck. “In addition to possible being a bit odd looking, bulging eye conditions can also cause a number of problems including not being able to completely close your eyes during sleep or even during normal blinking which can lead to dry eye symptoms, discomfort and ultimately damage the eye’s surface as a result of scarring. Sometimes eye bulging can even restrict or interfere with normal eye movements. Eye doctors need to be able to properly diagnose the difference between eyes that are simply “prominent” and perhaps protrude a little as compared to eyes that actually “bulging,” further explained Dr. Buck.

Causes of bulging eyes can include Graves Disease that results in hyperthyroidism and too much thyroid hormone, inflammation of the tissue around the eye and inside the bony orbit of the eye called Cellulitis, certain tumors behind, inside or around the eye, hemorrhages behind the eye and injury to the eye.

If you or someone you know suffers from bulging eyes please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser.  

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear  and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Find the Best Indiana Cataract Surgeons

To find the best Indiana Cataract Surgeons requires a little bit of work and investigation but is always worth it. Finding an eye surgeon who is a Cataract Specialist can help you to be confident that you are getting the most current information, thoughts and techniques to deal with your cataracts.

Ask People You Trust for a recommendation. Ask your friends, co-workers and family-but most importantly ask you primary care physician who they would go to or who they would send a parent to for cataract surgery.

Don’t Limit Yourself to Insurance Lists. Just because a Cataract Surgeon is “in network” isn’t a reason to use them if you are able to identify a top cataract surgeon you wish to go to who isn’t listed. Paying a slightly higher co-pay or deductible may be very worthwhile to get the Cataract Surgeon of your choice. If the best Cataract Surgeon in your area happens to be in the insurance list then you are all set.

Use the Power of the Internet. Take a minute to search “cataract surgeons in (insert your town/city/state)” or “best cataract surgeon in (insert your town/city/state)”. This will at least give you a starting place to begin creating a list of eye surgeons to investigate further.

Visit the Cataract Surgeon’s Web Site.
Once you have compiled a list, visit their web sites and get a feel for their practice culture and philosophy. While a web site by itself can’t tell you much about surgical skills, it can tell you about how well he or she presents information and explains detail to patients. This is important in how comfortable you may feel in that practice.

Schedule a Consultation and Meet the Cataract Surgeon. The only sure fire way to find out if you are comfortable and get a sense of trust from a cataract surgeon is to schedule a consultation and meet the surgeon personally. They should be able to clearly explain your eye health and vision as well as the cataract procedure and answer any questions you have in understandable language and terms. Whether or not you find the right cataract surgeon right off the bat it is never inappropriate to:

Get a Second Opinion. Making a decision about eye surgery is a big deal. Getting to a place where you feel confident, relaxed and comfortable is important.

If you or someone you know has a cataract or wishes to learn more about cataract surgery please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser.

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Eye Injury Prevention Month in Indiana

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center wishes to alert our community that October has been designated Eye Injury Prevention Month by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “The common situations that lead to eye injury can often be prevented,” commented Ophthalmologist Scott Buck, M.D. “When most people go out to mow the lawn, jump-start the car or get ready to do some spring cleaning, the last thing they think about is protecting their eyes, but it should be first on their mind.”

Before using a lawnmower, power trimmer or edger, check for debris. Stones, twigs and other items can become dangerous projectiles shooting from the blades of a lawnmower, potentially injuring your eyes or those of innocent bystanders. Many household chemicals, such as cleaning fluids, detergents and ammonia, are extremely hazardous and can burn the eye's delicate tissues. When using chemicals, always read instructions and labels carefully, work in a well-ventilated area and make sure spray nozzles point away from you and others before spraying. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after use. Prevention is the first and most important step in avoiding serious eye injuries, so be sure to protect your eyes with appropriate protective eyewear.

If you or someone you would like to learn more about eye injury prevention or arrange a protective eyewear fitting please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser.

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Transitions® Color Changing Eyeglass Lenses

At Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center more and more patients ask us about color changing eyeglass lenses from Transitions®. Transitions® Lenses for eyeglasses use advanced technology to give you the benefits of clear lenses indoors and at night, plus distinct advantages of sunglasses outdoors - all in the convenience of one lens. Transitions® Lenses are clear indoors and at night but automatically adjust their level of tint to changing light conditions outdoors. They provide visual comfort and quality at any and every moment, helping you to see better today. This is a convenient and comfortable way to overcome the limitations of regular clear lenses which can allow the glare of the sun to cause you to squint and strain your eyes and make it difficult to see objects clearly in bright light.

In addition, Transitions® Lenses work to protect you just like sun block protects your skin. Transitions® Lenses help preserve the health and wellness of your eyes by blocking 100% of harmful UV rays. Transitions® Lenses use special photochromic dyes which are activated when exposed to Ultraviolet or UV light. The activation of these dyes causes them to darken and to reversibly "tint" the lens. When exposure to the UV light diminishes, the lenses fade back to clear. As outdoor light conditions change, the level of darkness adjusts, creating just the right level of tint and allowing just the right amount of light to enter the eyes at any given time. This action allows Transitions® Lenses to help protect your eyes from the light you can see - reducing glare, diminishing eye strain and fatigue and enabling you to distinguish contrast more easily. It's important to note that no matter how light or dark your Transitions® Lenses are, they are always blocking 100% of eye-damaging UVA and UVB rays. In other words, Transitions® Lenses provide automatic protection from UV rays in any environment, continually protecting your eyes from the light you can't see while you enjoy comfort and vision quality in the light that you can see. Most of our patients with Transitions® Lenses tell us that the adjustment happens so quickly and smoothly, they are unaware of it!
If you or someone you know is thinking about color changing eyeglass lenses like Transitions®, please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser.

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Valparaiso Doctor on Smoking & Eye Health Risk

Valparaiso Ophthalmologist Scott Buck, M.D., an eye doctor at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center shared information about eye health risk and smoking. “In addition to performing eye surgery and laser treatments, one of my roles as an eye physician and surgeon is to help patients become aware and knowledgeable about their eye health risk and ways to prevent eye disease where possible,” commented Dr. Buck. ”Smoking can have a great effect on your eyes-especially in terms of your risk of cataracts and age related macular degeneration,” he explained.

Avoiding smoking, or quitting, is one of the best investments you can make in your long-term eye health. Smoking-even in your teens or twenties when your senior years seem far away-increases your future risks for cataracts and age related macular degeneration (AMD). The more a person smokes, the greater the risks. In general, if you quit smoking the risks of these eye diseases decreases to approximately the same level as if you never smoked at all. Keep in mind that smoking also increases your risk of cardiovascular disease which also can affect your eyes. Besides the vascular problems mentioned smoking and even being around smokers and their second hand smoke increase the likelihood of dry eye.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about eye health risks and smoking or might need an eye exam for any eye problem, condition or disease please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser and we will be happy to help.

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Indiana Facebook Contest Cool School Eyewear

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center invites students under 21 going back to school to enter our Facebook Cool School Eyewear Contest, show off their coolest eyewear and win an IPod Touch. “Beginning on September 14, 2012 if you are back in school and would like to win an IPod now is your chance,” said Kelley Connors of Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center. “To enter on September 14th you just need to go to facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser and post a picture wearing your coolest new back to school eyeglasses along with an essay in 100 words or less as to why they are the coolest-then on October 15^th get your parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins-all of your friends, relatives and classmates to vote for you-they can each vote one time each day until October 21. Whoever gets the most votes-GETS THE IPod!”

Ø  Go to www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser

Ø  Find the Cool School Eyewear app

Ø  LIKE the Practice, Upload a Photo and Submit an Essay in 100 words or less as to why they are the coolest.

We will be accepting entries between September 14, 2012 and October 14, 2012. Then beginning on October 15, 2012 we will open the contest to allow you, your parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins-all of your friends, relatives and classmates to vote for you once each day.  Whoever has the most votes by their friends, relatives and classmates will be the coolest person selected to win an IPod with, complements of our practice!! So-be sure to tell your parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins-all of your friends, relatives and classmates that you have entered and they should vote for you.

There is no entry fee or cost of any kind to enter the Facebook Cool School Eyewear Contest.

LASIK Cost at NW Indiana Eye & Laser Center

“The cost of LASIK at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center is a lot more affordable than one might think,” explained Kelley Connors, Refractive Surgery. “I find that when I am speaking to patients about having LASIK, many people really want to have LASIK but get stuck when they ask themselves, “Can I afford the cost of LASIK?” she said.
With the economy being tough it can be unnerving to think about spending money on anything-no less something that seems a bit frivolous. For folks who consider their eyes and vision correction frivolous-LASIK is not for them. For people who can imagine doing the kinds of things they do each day-or would like to do each day-without the hassle of having to wear glasses or contacts-LASIK can be something to be had at any cost.
Many people who decide to have LASIK think they should shop for the best price. We’re not sure what would possess folks to think about price shopping for surgery. Oh, maybe because they forgot that LASIK is surgery? Maybe it’s because they see a bunch of deceptive advertisements and hype. It’s tough to believe that folks would shop around for LASIK like they shop for a brake job for their car-but it happens every single day. It’s also tough to believe that folks would shop price for LASIK RATHER than shop for the best LASIK Surgeons to whom they are entrusting their eye health and vision.

LASIK is about three things…..First, LASIK is about safety and results. Second, LASIK is about safety and results. Third, LASIK is about safety and results. Safety and results depend on the skill, experience and expertise of surgeon and the staff.

Almost ALL practices today have ways of making LASIK affordable. This can be through the use of monthly payment plans, the use of employer Flex Plans and special offers that can help you use your tax refund or bonus. Shop surgeon quality-NOT price……find the best LASIK surgeon with whom you can develop TRUST. One who gets to know you. One who you can get to know. You may already know them based on their reputation in the community or by the fact that they have taken care of a family member, co-worker or friend. There is no way of setting a best price on empathy, trust, comfort, safety and results.

If you or someone you know is thinking about LASIK, please have them schedule a Free LASIK consultation with Scott Buck, M.D at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser. Let us tell you if you are even a good candidate for Laser Eye Surgery for Laser Vision Correction. Then let us help make LASIK affordable.

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

School Eye Exams for Indiana Children

Indiana eye doctor Dr. Stephen Buck reminded us that school eye exams are an important part of what we do for children at NW Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso. “Children starting the new school year should have the opportunity to get off on the right foot with a thorough eye health and vision exam,” commented Dr. Buck. “We often find that having enjoyed the summer months, kids aren’t really attuned to changes in their vision until they have been back in the classroom for a while. By that time parents and teachers are wondering why their students are not off to a stronger start to the academic year.”

As we gear up for the 2012-2013 school year, parents should make certain that they schedule a routine eye exam for their children. Good eye health and vision is an important part of the learning process and success in school. Reading, writing and computer work are among the visual skills that students are required to perform daily. However, studies show that 86 percent of children start school without ever having an eye examination.

If you or someone you know needs to schedule a back to school eye examination please feel free to contact Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser.

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear  and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

NW Indiana Eye & Laser Mobile Web Site

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center is pleased to announce the launch of its new mobile web site. “Patients who use an iPhone or Android-really any mobile smartphone or computer tablets like an iPad and want to schedule eye exams, contact lens exams, LASIK evaluations, those looking for eyeglasses and eyewear and even cataract and lens implant patients-are able to find us easily and contact us on their mobile devices today,” explained Dr. Stephen Buck. “It’s really very easy to reach us on your smartphone-just search Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser on your smartphone you can click right through to see it!”

If you are at a desktop computer and want to use a regular phone to schedule an appointment reach us at 219-464-8223 or for greater detail and more in depth information visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or to just be social come see us at facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser

IN Cataract Surgeon on Macular Degeneration

IN Cataract Surgeon Scott Buck, M.D. commented on cataracts and age related macular degeneration (AMD). “Cataracts and macular degeneration share at least one common risk factor-age,” commented Dr. Buck. “With increasing age cataract formation and macular degeneration both increase in frequency and incidence, so it is pretty common to have one, the other or both as we head through our 50’s, 60’s and 70’s,” he further explained. “The question that I often discuss with patients is whether to have cataract surgery and lens implants if they also have macular degeneration. And if they do-will it make the AMD get worse and faster.” 

“The general consensus among cataract surgeons is that with proper preoperative diagnostic testing, examination and consultation patients who have Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and who develop a cataract are able to have cataract surgery after being thoroughly counseled on what to expect with regard to overall vision improvements and lifestyle benefits-it’s really all about helping the patient understand and develop realistic expectations,” continued Dr. Buck. 

While AMD is not a reason to avoid cataract surgery, realistic expectations must be established by and between you and your cataract surgeon. Further, the most current and widely accepted studies on AMD progression after cataract surgery found that there was no difference in the frequency of the disease among patients who had cataract surgery as compared to those who did not. 

If you or someone you know has a question about cataracts, cataract surgery, lens implants or macular degeneration or wish to schedule an eye examination for a cataract and lens implant evaluation, please feel free to contact Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser and schedule an appointment so we can help. 

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Children & Nearsighted Risk

Indiana Ophthalmologist Scott Buck, M.D. commented on research regarding the risk of nearsightedness in children. “At the annual meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology researchers reported that increased time spent in natural light and viewing distant objects during childhood may reduce the risk of nearsightedness in children,” explained Dr. Buck. “This time of year we see a great number of children for back to school eye exams at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center and we do try to explain to parents how to help kids minimize the risk of myopia.” 

A review of data of 10,400 participants showed that for each additional hour outdoors per week, the chance of developing myopia dropped by about 2%, according to a presentation at the annual meeting of the 2011 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. It was reported that myopic or nearsighted children included in the study tended to spend about 3.7 fewer hours per week outdoors than children with normal vision or hyperopia. Further, increasing outdoor time might reduce the chances of myopia worsening, according to the study. 

If you or someone you know has a question about children’s eye health and vision, nearsightedness or wish to schedule an eye examination for children of any age please feel free to contact Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser and schedule an appointment so we can help. 

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

Indiana Eye Doctors & Contact Lenses for Swimming

Eye doctors from Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center shared information about wearing contact lenses for swimming. Indiana Contact Lens Specialist Dr. Stephen Buck commented, “We try to counsel patients that contact lenses really should not be worn for swimming, taking showers, in bath tubs or in hot tubs as this can pose safety risks to patients. Especially this time of year with the amount of time contact lens wearers spend in water related activities, we hear patient questions all the time about wanting to wear their contacts while in a pool or hot tub or even while in the shower,” further explained Dr. Stephen Buck. “This is not a good idea and can significantly increase the safety risks of contact lens wear”, noted Scott Buck, M.D. 

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recommended that contact lenses not be exposed to any form of water. Although rare, a sight-threatening eye complication, Acanthamoeba Keratitis, is caused by an organism present in all forms of impure water (i.e., swimming pools, tap water, saunas, wells, and showers). Acanthamoeba and certain forms of bacteria present in water can become attached to the contact lenses, possibly resulting in an infection. 

“We would prefer that contact lens wearers insert their lenses after showering. If lenses are being worn while showering we recommend keeping your eyes firmly closed. If you accidently wear your contact lenses while in the bathtub or hot tub avoid having water splashed into your eyes. If your eyes are exposed to water, instill a lubricating drop to help loosen the lens on the eye, remove the lens with clean, dry hands, then clean and disinfect it the lens, or discard it,” advised Dr. Stephen Buck. “Never sleep in a lens that has been exposed to water without first cleaning and disinfecting it.” 

“Contact Lenses are really quite safe to wear if your follow proper care guidelines and instructions. However, if water restrictions such as swimming, bath tubs and showering are part of your daily routine, you do need to keep your lenses out. Many more patients-even very successful contact lens wearers-finds this to be a hassle and are now interested in discussing LASIK as an option” said Scott Buck, M.D. 

If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about LASIK or scheduling a Free LASIK Consultation please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser and schedule an appointment so we can help. 

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete.

NW Indiana Eye & Laser Center Web Site Launch

The eye doctors at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center have released a new web site to help patients learn more about eye exams, cataracts, cataract surgery and lens implants, laser eye surgery-such as LASIK-for vision correction, eyeglasses and eyewear, contact lenses and eye diseases including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. “Our ophthalmologists and optometrists believe that having patients be well informed about their eye conditions and problems helps us to help them in making the best possible decisions about their eye care,” explained Scott Buck, M.D.

Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center in Valparaiso, IN is staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services. We are conveniently located for patients seeking eye care from throughout northern Indiana including La Porte, Mishawaka, South Bend, Michigan City, Crown Point, Merrillville, Chesterton, South Haven, Westville, Hebron, Lowell, Valparaiso and Walkerton as well as Chicago, Illinois suburban areas of Frankfurt, Calumet City, Monee and Crete. 

If you or someone you know has questions about any aspect of their eye health and vision please feel free to call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, visit Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center or facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser and schedule an appointment so we can help.

Welcome

Welcome to Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center blog.