What is the difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist?
An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (MD) who diagnoses and treats eye disease and performs eye surgery. An optometrist (OD) provides primary eye care, including eye exams, glasses and contact lens prescriptions, and management of many eye conditions. Here, Dr. Woods and Dr. Hastings are ophthalmologists and surgeons, and Dr. Levine is an optometrist, so you can get both kinds of care under one roof.
Do you see kids?
Yes. Dr. Levine provides pediatric eye exams and myopia control, and received an award for clinical excellence in pediatrics during optometry school. A school vision screening is not the same as a full eye exam, so a comprehensive exam is a good idea if your child has trouble seeing the board, squints, or gets headaches.
What is myopia control?
Myopia (nearsightedness) often gets stronger as children grow. Myopia control, also called myopia management, uses approaches such as specialty contact lenses, special eyeglass lenses, or eye drops that aim to slow that progression. Dr. Levine can talk with you about whether it makes sense for your child.
How often should I get an eye exam?
The American Optometric Association recommends an eye exam every two years if you are 18 to 60 and not having any problems. From age 61 on, schedule a comprehensive exam every year, or as your eye doctor recommends.
How long does cataract surgery take?
The surgery itself takes about 10 minutes. It uses small incisions that are typically stitch-free, and you receive intravenous sedation for comfort. Plan on extra time at the surgery center for check-in and recovery.
What is the Light Adjustable Lens?
The RxSight Light Adjustable Lens is a lens implant used in cataract surgery that can be fine-tuned after your eye heals. Short, painless in-office light treatments adjust the prescription, and a final lock-in treatment sets it. You wear UV-protective glasses until the lens is locked in.
Is refractive lens exchange covered by insurance?
Usually not. Refractive lens exchange is an elective procedure, so its costs are out of pocket. Our team can walk you through your options and costs at your consultation.
Do you take my insurance?
We accept many vision and medical plans, including Medicare, EyeMed, Davis Vision, and Spectera, among others. Call (530) 899-2244 and we will check your eligibility before your exam.
What counts as an eye emergency?
Eye injuries, cuts, scratches, something stuck in the eye, chemical splashes, burns, sudden vision loss, double vision, eye pain, or a painful red eye all need prompt attention. Call us right away. For a chemical splash, flush the eye with lots of clean water. For a severe injury, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Do not rub the eye or try to remove anything stuck in it.
Can my optometrist co-manage my surgery?
Yes. When your optometrist refers you, they can choose to share your after-surgery care with us when the surgeon feels it is medically appropriate, or have us handle it. Either way, you return to your optometrist for your general eye care.
Do you have an optical shop?
Yes. Our optical shop offers a wide selection of frames, lens options like progressives and high-index lenses, protective coatings, and personalized fittings and adjustments.
