Explore expert insights on cataract eye care from Valley Eye Associates. Learn about symptoms, treatments, and tips for protecting your vision.

Protecting Your Vision: Why Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month Matters

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November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month—a dedicated time to focus on one of the most significant complications of diabetes: vision loss.

Whether you or a loved one are living with Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes, understanding how diabetes impacts your eyes is one of the most critical steps you can take to protect your sight and maintain your quality of life.

The single most important message from our clinical team this month: Up to 90% of diabetes-related vision loss is preventable with early detection and treatment.

Clinical Spotlight: Insights From Our Recent Educational Seminar

Our doctors and clinical staff recently gathered for our annual Optometric Educational Seminar, where our medical team presented the latest advancements in eye care, early diagnosis, and modern treatment options. Dr. Douglas salm had presented on Diabetic Macular Edema, and shared the below four crucial facts that every patient should know:

  1. DME is a Leading Cause of Vision Loss: Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)—swelling in the central part of the retina—remains the leading cause of vision loss in working-age adults with diabetes. Global cases are projected to rise significantly over the coming decades.
  2. Delayed Care Can Lead to Permanent Damage: Untreated DME and advanced retinopathy cause progressive retinal stress that can result in irreversible vision loss.
  3. High-Risk Communities Need Extra Care: Recent findings from the American Academy of Ophthalmology highlight that awareness remains low among ethnic groups at higher risk for diabetes. Increasing awareness and early screening/detection is crucial.
  4. “No Symptoms” Doesn’t Mean “No Damage”: Many sight-threatening diabetic eye conditions develop completely without pain or noticeable vision changes in their early stages. A dilated exam is often the only way to catch damage before it affects your vision.

What Is Diabetic Eye Disease?

Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of conditions that affect individuals with diabetes:

  • Diabetic Retinopathy: Occurs when elevated blood sugar damages the micro-blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye).
  • Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): A complication of retinopathy where leaking fluid causes swelling in the macula (responsible for sharp, central vision).
  • Glaucoma: Diabetes doubles the risk of developing glaucoma, which damages the eye’s optic nerve.
  • Cataracts: People with diabetes are prone to developing cloudy lenses (cataracts) at an earlier age.How Often Should You Have Your Eyes Checked?

Standard medical guidelines recommended by our doctors outline when and how frequently patients with diabetes should receive a comprehensive dilated eye exam:

Patient Category Recommended Screening Schedule
Type 1 Diabetes First dilated exam within 5 years of diagnosis
Type 2 Diabetes First dilated exam at the time of diagnosis
No Retinopathy + Blood Sugar at Goal Every 1 to 2 years (as advised by your eye doctor)
Any Retinopathy Present At least annually (more frequently if progressing)
Pregnancy (Pre-existing Diabetes) Exam prior to pregnancy or in 1st trimester; then each trimester & up to 1 year postpartum

(Note: Regular eye screenings do not replace a full dilated eye exam!)

Reminder about our different exams (medical verse vision):

Routine eye exams are preventative wellness checks designed for patients who have no current medical eye symptoms or underlying conditions. These exams focus on evaluating your general vision health and updating your prescription for glasses or contact lenses. If you are being evaluated for a medical reason (such as diabetic macular edema), your visit must be billed to your medical insurance provider. However, you can still use your Vision Plan benefits for glasses or contacts at a later date

A medical eye exam is focused on diagnosing, managing, or treating a specific eye health issue, a new physical complaint, or an ongoing chronic condition. These visits are billed directly to your medical insurance (such as Anthem, UnitedHealthcare, Medicare, etc.), rather than a vision plan.

3 Steps You Can Take Today

Beyond scheduling your eye exam, taking care of your overall health plays a primary role in protecting your eyes:

  • Manage Your ABCs: Keep your A1C (blood sugar), Blood pressure, and Cholesterol levels within the target ranges recommended by your primary care doctor.
  • Avoid Tobacco Use: Smoking damages blood vessels throughout the body, accelerating retinal complications.
  • Stay Active: Regular physical movement supports vascular health and blood sugar management.

📞 Schedule Your Dilated Exam This Month

Don’t wait for your vision to change before taking action. If you or a family member have diabetes and have not had a comprehensive dilated eye exam in the past 12 months, give our clinic a call today or request an appointment online.

Your sight is worth protecting—we are here to help every step of the way!  

Comprehensive Routine Exam
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Is Your View Fading? What You Need to Know for Cataract Awareness Month

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Why You Shouldn’t Rush Your Cataract Eye Surgery: Clarity Over Speed

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STOP! Take a breath. It is not an emergency.

If you’ve recently been told you have cataracts, your first instinct might be to get them out as quickly as possible. We live in a world of “instant results,” and the idea of surgery can feel like a looming deadline.

However, at Valley Eye Associates, we often tell our patients something that surprises them: Take your time.

In the vast majority of cases, cataract surgery is a non-emergent procedure. While it is life-changing, it is rarely an “immediate” medical necessity. Here is why waiting a month or two—and doing your homework—is actually the smartest move you can make for your vision.

This is a One-Time Decision

Unlike a prescription for glasses that you can change next year, the intraocular lens (IOL) you choose during cataract surgery is intended to stay in your eye for the rest of your life. Rushing into surgery without understanding your options is like buying a house after only seeing the front door.

You need time to consider:

  • Your Lifestyle: Do you drive a lot at night? Do you spend hours on a computer? Are you an avid reader?
  • The Lens Options: From standard monofocal lenses to premium multifocal or Light Adjustable Lenses (LAL), each technology offers a different “visual lifestyle.”
  • Your Priorities: Are you okay with wearing reading glasses, or is your goal to be completely glasses-free?

Getting to Know Your Surgeon

Choosing who performs your surgery is just as important as the surgery itself. Waiting a few extra weeks gives you the space to ask questions, review the surgeon’s experience, and ensure you feel comfortable with the team that will be caring for you. A good surgical outcome is a partnership between you and your doctor.

A Month or Two is Normal

Patients often worry that their vision will rapidly deteriorate if they don’t book surgery for next week. In reality, cataracts typically progress slowly. Waiting 4 to 8 weeks to schedule your procedure is perfectly standard and gives you time to plan your recovery, arrange transportation, and clear your schedule.

When Speed Does Matter

While we advocate for a measured approach, we are always monitoring for the exceptions. There are rare cases where a cataract becomes “hyper-mature,” causing increased pressure or inflammation in the eye. Our Promise: If your case is urgent or your vision loss is putting your safety at risk, we will work tirelessly to get you seen and scheduled immediately. Your safety is our only non-negotiable.

The Bottom Line

We don’t want you to just see better; we want you to see exactly how you want to see. By taking the time to understand the different lens technologies and choosing the right timing for your life, you aren’t “delaying” your health—you are “optimizing” your future. We want you to feel empowered, not “processed.” Whether you want surgery next month or six months from now, our goal is the same: ensuring that when you finally do go into the OR, you are 100% confident in the plan we’ve built together.

Ready to start the conversation without the pressure? Schedule your cataract examination today, and let’s talk about your options together.

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Valley Eye Associates Is Committed to Research

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Research advances ophthalmology. For example, the results from past studies has lead to treatments beyond drop therapy for glaucoma patients. Without clinical studies, cataract surgery might still be performed solely with a blade instead of being the laser-focused procedure it is today. Forty-somethings looking for freedom from glasses might still be soaking their contact lenses in solution overnight.

Thanks to research, all this  and more are made possible for those seeking clear vision. Exciting breakthroughs like that spur doctors to continue honing their skills, something that’s especially true at Valley Eye Associates. Here we not only enthusiastically embrace research, but we also actively participate in clinical studies. Our patients — some of whom are facing serious vision conditions — are counting on us to be on top of the latest advancements.

And we are. Valley Eye Associates values research so highly that we make it a practice-wide priority. We’re involved in studies that advance laser vision correction along with those that explore better treatments for cataracts, glaucoma, cornea, and dry eye.

Rest assured, Valley Eye Associates only agrees to participate in research studies we’ve thoroughly investigated and would perform on ourselves or loved ones. Research moves the field forward, and that’s always a good thing for patients; however, we are also committed to conducting research in the safest, most efficacious manner possible.

Interested in participating in a research study? Our doctors are all familiar with our current studies and the ideal patient profile for each. If you’re a match, your doctor will share the research opportunity with you.

We do not recommend that patients put off treatment to participate in a research study.

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Light Adjustable Lens Offers True Customization

The RxSight Light Adjustable Lens® (LAL) is the world’s first FDA-approved implant that can be adjusted and reshaped after surgery.

Just what, exactly, does all that doctor-speak mean for you, our patients? An unheard-of level of customization for your cataract surgery.

The most performed procedure in the U.S., cataract surgery replaces a cloudy, natural lens with a clear, artificial lens known as an IOL. Because there are several kinds of IOLs to choose from, prior to surgery our doctors will visit with you about your needs and perform thorough measurements of your eye.

This is so that together you and your doctor can select the best lens. All of our pre-operative care also gives your surgeon precise information to ensure the best possible post-operative outcome.

However, no matter how sophisticated our diagnostics, they can’t perfectly anticipate how your eye will heal. In other words, your vision will be greatly improved after surgery, but you may still have a slight case of myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. This has always been the case, and cataract sufferers in particular still tend to need their glasses.

Enter the Light Adjustable Lens. With it we have the flexibility to adjust your vision after surgery. Once you’ve completely recovered — which usually takes about three weeks — your surgeon will use UV light to adjust your new lens’ power in a very specific and mathematical way. Up to three light adjustments can be performed and once a patient’s desired correction is achieved, a final “lock in” treatment is applied.

Valley Eye Associates is excited to offer this customizable new lens! Many cataract patients fit the LAL’s criteria for use. Contact us at (920) 739-4361 to schedule an examination and learn if you’re a candidate.

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Can the Vivity Lens Help You?

Cataracts are a normal, expected part of aging, and, counterintuitive as it may seem, for some patients, they present an opportunity in disguise.

Here’s why: during cataract surgery, a cloudy, natural lens is replaced with a clear, artificial lens. In other words, your cataract surgery may do more than clear your cataracts. Depending on which lens you select, it may upgrade your overall vision. The advancements and technology behind artificial lenses (or IOLs as they’re more commonly known) is constantly improving, leading to more and better options for patients to choose from.

One of the lenses we’ve seen very positive results from is  Alcon’s AcrySof™ IQ Vivity™. What sets this lens apart is that, while other IOLs split light into several separate focal points, the Vivity uses a non-diffractive technology called X-Wave that bends and stretches light. Because of that, patients benefit from an extended range of vision.

Furthermore, the way other IOLs split light into several focal points often results in glare, starbursts, and halos even after your cataracts have been corrected. Patients with the Vivity report fewer visual disturbances, and often find that they can resume driving at night, something that wasn’t possible with cataracts and even after surgery could be troubling due to the glare, starbursts, and halos associated with other lenses.

There’s even more promising news. Recent clinical trials found that Vivity not only provides quality vision at distance and intermediate ranges in bright and dim light, they also found that patients’ dependence on glasses or contact lenses is decreased after their surgery.

Vivity is best for patients who want improved intermediate and near vision. Intermediate vision comes into play for activities such as working at a computer; near vision is accessed for activities such as reading or sewing. This lens may not be a good fit for patients with extreme near or farsightedness.

Valley Eye has seen firsthand how the Vivity has benefited our patients, and we’d love to see the same positive results for you. To discuss whether this or another IOL can help you, schedule a Cataract Examination today.

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Cataract Awareness Month: Five Common Questions About Cataract Surgery

Around 3 million Americans undergo cataract surgery each year. Cataract treatment involves surgery to remove the clouded natural lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. Here are five frequently asked questions about cataracts.

1. How do I know if I have cataracts?

Cataracts can create a wide variety of vision symptoms for people, but most people suffering from cataracts experience some of the following symptoms:

    • Cloudy vision
    • Blurry vision
    • Colors that don’t appear bright or vivid
    • Trouble seeing or driving at night or in low-light environments
    • Increased sensitivity to glare
    • Frequent prescription changes in your glasses or contacts

If you are experiencing any of these vision symptoms, schedule a Cataract Examination with your eye doctor to determine if cataract surgery can improve your vision and lifestyle.

2. When is the right time to have cataract surgery?

For many people, cataracts develop slowly, over months and even years. They don’t notice how much their vision has declined until it begins affecting their daily lives in many ways. This is one of the most frustrating parts of cataracts for many people — they slowly create poor vision without people noticing the slow decline.

The best time to have cataract surgery is whenever your cataracts begin to affect your daily vision and lifestyle. Whether your cataracts are small or large, our advanced cataract surgery technology ensures you no longer need to wait or suffer from blurry, cloudy vision due to cataracts.

3. Is cataract surgery painful?

No, cataract surgery isn’t painful! Thanks to the numbing eye drops applied to the surface of the eye before the procedure, you won’t feel any pain. The drops do wear off a few hours after cataract surgery. Once this occurs, you may experience some minor discomfort that can be treated with an over the counter pain reliever.

4. What happens during cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed outpatient surgery in the United States — it is a predictable, comfortable, and precise surgery experience. During the procedure, eye numbing drops and a light sedation will be administered through IV to keep you relaxed throughout the procedure. Your surgeon will gently remove the cloudy cataract lens and replace it with an intraocular lens (IOL). With the latest advancements in cataract surgery, no stitches are required, leading to quicker recovery and more precise outcomes. Cataract surgery at Valley Eye Associates is a premium experience that will get you back to seeing clearly.

5. What’s the recovery like after cataract surgery?

After your outpatient procedure, you will return home and rest for 12-24 hours. Your eye will feel comfortable very quickly after cataract surgery, and most patients experience improvement in their vision just one to two days after cataract surgery as their eyes adapt to the new IOL. It’s very important that you use your prescribed medications and follow your doctor’s instructions after your surgery.

Most patients resume normal daily activities just two to three days after cataract surgery. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions after your surgery and will check on your recovery during your follow-up visits. After this short recovery period, you’ll be free to enjoy your new vision for a lifetime!

Learn More About Cataract Surgery
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Introducing the PanOptix® IOL

The PanOptix intraocular lens implant (IOL) for cataract patients is now available at Valley Eye Associates. It is the first and only FDA-approved trifocal lens to replace the eye’s natural lens after cataract surgery!

If you’re over the age of 45, you may be noticing changes in your vision. Colors may be less vivid, reading without glasses may be difficult, you may require more light to read, and your vision may be blurry or hazy. These are all common symptoms of cataracts and presbyopia—vision conditions that affect the majority of people as they age.

Vision following cataract surgery with the PanOptix lens exceeds previously unattainable levels with older technology. The PanOptix lens provides patients with:

  • Outstanding range of vision—near, far, and in-between
  • Brighter, more vivid colors
  • Less dependence on glasses or contacts

“I have been very impressed with the latest generation of multifocal intraocular lens implants,” says Dr. Michael Vrabec. “The trifocal multifocal IOL, called the Alcon PanOptix lens, has been used overseas for many years with excellent results. It was approved by the FDA for use in the United States in the last half of 2019 and I began offering it to patients shortly after its approval. With over 50 patients having had this IOL implanted in their eyes, I have found the lens to have even better distance, intermediate, and near vision without glasses when compared to older generation of bifocal multifocal IOLs,  better vision in low light, and less glare and halos at night.”

99% of people with the PanOptix lens would choose the same lens again.*

98% of people with the PanOptix lens would recommend it to family and friends.*

80.5% of people with the PanOptix lens reported that, within the past week, they never had to wear glasses to see.*

To schedule your cataract examination and learn more about the PanOptix lOL, please call Valley Eye Associates at (800) 344-4443.

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June is Cataract Awareness Month

Cataract surgery is a procedure to remove your eye’s clouded lens and replaces it with an artificial lens to restore clear vision. When the presence of your cataracts interferes with your daily activities, surgery is likely the best option.

The team at Valley Eye Associates has performed over 55,000 surgical procedures over a combined 50 years of experience. Our expertise and commitment to excellence helps us provide a premium cataract surgery experience to all patients. Valley Eye Associates offers the following cataract surgery options:

Traditional Cataract Surgery

  • Corneal incisions are made manually by your surgeon.
  • A traditional replacement lens eliminates dimmed, fuzzy vision caused by cataracts.
  • The procedure is covered by Medicare; you will still need corrective lenses, especially for near vision.

High Definition Laser Cataract SurgeryTM

  • Corneal incisions are made with a laser for a more precise cut.
  • Advanced lens options not only replace the clouded cataracts, but also address other vision problems like astigmatism, nearsightedness or farsightedness.
  • High Definition Laser Cataract Surgery may eliminate the need for glasses or contacts for many or most activities.
  • A portion of the procedure is covered by Medicare. Additional fees may apply.

Intraocular Lens (IOL) Options

There are more IOL options available than ever before, and choosing the proper IOL for your vision goals and lifestyle will ensure you are completely satisfied with the outcome of your cataract surgery. You will meet with your surgeon to discuss your vision goals and determine which lens best fits your lifestyle.

Monofocal IOLs

A monofocal IOL is an advanced acrylic lens that focuses vision on a single point. This lens will allow you to see clearly at one distance and require you to wear glasses or contact lenses to see at other distances. Many people who choose this lens decide they want to see clearly in the distance and wear reading glasses for near vision (cell phone) or intermediate vision (speedometer). Valley Eye Associates is proud to feature the TECNIS Monofocal Lens and the Alcon Acrysof in its cataract program.

TORIC IOLs

For patients with moderate or advanced astigmatism, the TORIC IOL is an excellent option when combined with HDLCS to achieve clear vision at one distance (usually far) without glasses or contact lenses.

Multifocal IOLs

A multifocal IOL is a premium clear lens that features concentric focus rings, allowing you to focus and see clearly at multiple distances after surgery. The goal of a multifocal lens is to help you see near, far, and everything in between to reduce or eliminate your need for glasses or contact lenses. Multifocal IOLs are a fantastic option for those willing to invest in lens technology for a more active and spectacle-free lifestyle.

ORA Intraoperative Technology Benefits

ORA is a powerful tool for improving your cataract surgery, and Dr. Vrabec, Dr. Salm, Dr. Unger and the team at Valley Eye Associates is the first in the region to offer this exciting technology.

  • ORA allows your surgeon to accurately review your vision during your cataract procedure
  • ORA offers measurements for more accurate calculations to guide your cataract procedure
  • VerifEye+ Technology validates the ORA data in real-time during your surgery, adding another layer of precision
  • ORA is clinically proven to result in more consistent accuracy for your cataract procedure, leading to higher patient satisfaction
  • ORA is highly beneficial for patients with astigmatism, as well as patients who have had previous eye surgery, such as LASIK or PRK
  • ORA reduces the need for follow-up treatments after your cataract surgery

Want to learn more about High Definition Laser Cataract Surgery? Join us for our next Live Cataract Seminar with Dr. Michael Vrabec at Pinnacle Cataract & Laser Institute:

Tuesday, September 24
5:00 pm

Wednesday, November 13
5:00 pm

RSVP Now
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