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(312) 291-9680Visit WebsiteMap & Directions875 N Michigan Ave Ste 1550Chicago, IL 60611 Write a Review

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Fri:	9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Sat:	9:00 am - 11:00 am

Doctors for Visual Freedom

Doctors for Visual Freedom Eye Care Services

At Doctors for Visual Freedom, we're passionate about helping people feel, look, and see their best.
Our staff is enormously talented, experienced, and honest in their work. We foster long-lasting relationships with patients, who trust our skills, abilities, and thorough assessments of their needs. From free snacks in the waiting room and a strict no-wait policy to examinations equipped with the latest technological advancements, we strive to make our patients comfortable from the moment they walk in the door.

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Places Near Chicago with Physicians & Surgeons, Family Medicine & General Practice

Wrigleyville (6 miles)
Cicero (13 miles)
Oak Park (14 miles)
Lincolnwood (15 miles)

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TollFree: (877) 393-3701

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botox

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amex, discover, visa, mastercard

Neighborhoods

Streeterville, Central Chicago, Near North Side

Other Links

http://www.doctorsforvisualfreedom.com

https://www.bigcityoptical.com/doctors-for-visual-freedom.html

Categories

Physicians & Surgeons, Family Medicine & General Practice, Physicians & Surgeons, Physicians & Surgeons, Ophthalmology, Physicians & Surgeons, Otorhinolaryngology (Ear, Nose & Throat), Physicians & Surgeons, Pediatrics, Physicians & Surgeons, Surgery-General

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Details

Phone: (312) 291-9680

Address: 875 N Michigan Ave Ste 1550, Chicago, IL 60611

Website: http://www.doctorsforvisualfreedom.com

Doctors for Visual Freedom

Doctors for Visual Freedom Eye Care Services

At Doctors for Visual Freedom, we're passionate about helping people feel, look, and see their best.
Our staff is enormously talented, experienced, and honest in their work. We foster long-lasting relationships with patients, who trust our skills, abilities, and thorough assessments of their needs. From free snacks in the waiting room and a strict no-wait policy to examinations equipped with the latest technological advancements, we strive to make our patients comfortable from the moment they walk in the door.

LASIK Surgery

LASIK Surgery in Chicago
Dr. Golden and Dr. Foulkes are LASIK surgeons at heart. Always honest with patients and wanting to help everyone achieve the clearest vision possible, they will only recommend surgery if they feel a patient is an excellent candidate. Our entire team is passionate about helping people see the world better. Freeing patients from contact lenses and glasses is a true passion. Over the past two decades, Dr. Golden and Dr. Foulkes have collectively performed nearly 100,000 procedures. They specialize in training staffs of doctors and helped open dozens of LASIK centers across the country—from Miami to Seattle.

What Is LASIK?

LASIK
which stands for Laser-Assisted Intrastromal Keratomileusis—is a surgical procedure designed to reduce your dependence on glasses and contact lenses by altering the curvature of the eye to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
LASIK is a derivative of a surgical procedure that began in the 1940s in Bogata, Columbia.
In 1989, a Greek ophthalmologist by the name of Ioannis Palikaris performed the first LASIK procedure on a human eye, taking flap-making technology and combining it with the extraordinary precision of the Excimer laser.

LASIK At Doctors for Visual Freedom Laser Center

Because of his experience with flap-making technology
Dr. Mark Golden first starting teaching international surgeons the techniques of LASIK in 1993. He began performing LASIK in the United States in 1996 upon FDA's approval of the Excimer laser.
Before a patient can be approved for LASIK surgery
They must undergo a complimentary 90-minute screening evaluation to determine whether or not they are a good candidate. During this evaluation, a map of your eyes will be created with Orbscan®, and your current visual status will be assessed with an autorefractor. These results will enable Dr. Golden to rule out most patients who would not be good candidates for LASIK surgery. During this evaluation, Dr. Golden will also sit down and speak with you about the entire surgical process, answering any questions you might have about LASIK.

What Is LASIK?

LASIK stands for Laser In-situ Keratomileusis
This is an eye surgery that is used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism through the use of lasers – or refractive laser surgery. The surface of the cornea is cut into and folded back so the inner cornea can be reshaped by a laser. The top layer of the cornea is then placed back into its natural position. Millions of people wishing to correct their vision have successfully undergone LASIK.

Learn More about LASIK

Our Technology

Traditional Lasik vs. custom Lasik

As with many surgical procedures, LASIK has improved as newer technology opened the way for better methods.
The main difference between traditional LASIK vs. Custom LASIK is the advanced WaveFront technology used to diagnose and treat eye disorders. WaveFront technology can measure the unique eye characteristics with 25 times more precision than the traditional methods of checking for glasses. These measurements are precise, and can measure the degree of both LOAs (lower order aberrations) and HOAs (higher order aberrations) directly, giving a map of the visual system as unique as a person's fingerprint. This data is then used to program the computerized laser equipment to perform highly accurate ablation based upon the unique measurements taken for each eye.
Overall, Custom LASIK is far more precise than traditional LASIK.
This advantage means that Custom LASIK can treat more aberrations with a single procedure, and results are better and more predictable than with traditional LASIK.
Custom LASIK is a major advance in laser eye surgery that can replace any traditional LASIK procedure.

About LOAs and HOAs

LOAs include refractive disorders such as farsightedness (hyperopia), nearsightedness (myopia), and astigmatism.
LOAs can be diagnosed using either traditional examination procedures or wavefront technology with the VISX CustomVue®. LOAs can be corrected with laser surgery or with glasses or contact lenses.
HOAs are refractive disorders that also can affect vision.
Using WaveFront diagnostics, 64 have been diagnosed. They cause problems such as night glare, starbursts, halos around lights, decreased contrast, and double vision. Those with a high level of HOAs tend to have large amounts of glare at night.
HOAs are often the result of the interaction between multiple aberrations in an eye.
HOAs are diagnosed using WaveFront technology, and they cannot be diagnosed using ordinary eye examination techniques. Nor can they be corrected with lenses.
The incidence of HOAs is far lower after Custom LASIK than after traditional LASIK.
This allows for the opportunity for better vision after WaveFront-guided Custom LASIK than could be had with the best pair of glasses or contact lenses. Also, FDA studies showed that those with Custom WaveFront LASIK had 85 percent less glare at night than before surgery.

Custom LASIK Advantages

Using the VISX S4 WaveFront diagnostic and treatment equipment
Dr. Golden diagnoses HOAs as accurately as LOAs. WaveFront data creates maps of the unique characteristics of each eye and guides the laser in ablating precisely targeted corneal tissue. WaveFront makes the difference between traditional LASIK and custom LASIK.

Custom Wavefront-Guided LASIK Is Also:

Twenty-five times more precise than traditional LASIK.
Better able to achieve 20/20 or better vision than traditional LASIK.
More likely to avoid loss of contrast sensitivity.
More likely to avoid HOA results such as night vision aberrations.
Used to treat loss of best-corrected vision from other eye surgery.
More likely to preserve best-corrected vision than traditional LASIK.
Capable of determining whether refractive surgery is contraindicated.

Am I a Candidate?

Who Is a Good LASIK Candidate?

A good candidate for LASIK must meet a set of requirements before the surgery can be performed.
During your initial consultation at Doctors For Visual Freedom Laser Center, you will be given a thorough screening to see if you meet this standard set of requirements before we move on to the next stage of pre-surgical evaluation. Most people with standard far- or near-sightedness will have very little trouble qualifying for this very safe and popular procedure.

General Requirements for LASIK Surgery

The eye or eyes must be properly developed and mature
For this reason, a good LASIK candidate must be at least 18 years or older.
There should be no history of Herpes in the eye.
LASIK surgery could potentially cause a flare-up of the virus.
You must not be pregnant or nursing within three months of the time of surgery.
Those with autoimmune disorders such as Lupus or Sjorgen's syndrome may not be good LASIK candidates
Those with dry eye syndrome need this treated before they become good candidates for LASIK.
Scarring on the cornea or abnormally shaped corneas can also disqualify you for LASIK.

Good Candidates for LASIK

A good candidate for LASIK surgery normally has myopia, hyperopia and/or astigmatism.
There is no age limit for LASIK. If you wear contacts, you will be asked to remove them for a week or more depending on the type of contacts you use. Contacts, especially hard contacts, have the effect of reshaping the eye, and the eye needs to get back to its original shape and size before surgery. The initial consultation to determine eligibility can, however, be performed if you are still wearing contacts.

Medications and Eligibility

Certain medications and drugs can have a drastic effect on the results of LASIK surgery.
Immunosuppressants or steroids can have an effect on how the eye heals after surgery. Other drugs and medication can cause side effects similar to dry eye syndrome, which can affect the outcome of the surgery. Please divulge any and all medications you are currently taking to your doctor during your initial consultation.
If you live in Chicago or Arlington Heights, Illinois and are interested in finding out whether or not you are a good candidate for LASIK surgery
please contact our Chicago LASIK surgeons today to schedule your free screening evaluation.

What Happens during Surgery?

How Does LASIK Work?

A myopic eye has corneal curvature that is too steep and light comes to focus in front of the retina (like the film in the camera).
A hyperopic eye has corneal curvature that is too flat and light wants to focus behind the retina.
An astigmatic eye has an oval-shaped cornea instead of a spherical one where the eye is shaped more like a football than a basketball and there are two points of focus of the light.

What Happens during Surgery?

The LASIK laser follows your individual treatment plan to cause corneal tissue to be evaporated in a non-thermal manner
A steep cornea is flattened by removing a little tissue from its center. A flat cornea is steepened by removing tissue from around its periphery. An oval cornea is tilted at a specific angle so the laser is targeted to remove that excess tissue causing the oval shape.
Anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eyes and you are helped to relax with the use of Valium
You may feel pressure when the corneal flap is created. Immediately following surgery, you might experience a "sandy" feeling, sensitivity to light, or watering of the eyes which typically lasts only a few hours. Dryness of the eyes is expected afterward and you will have moisturizing eye drops to be used as needed.
Your vision improvement is immediate and dramatic
The side effects will gradually fade over three to four months and you will have a series of follow-up visits so Dr. Golden can make sure no problems arise.
Your experienced and capable team at Doctors for Visual Freedom Laser Center stands ready to evaluate your vision concerns with a free LASIK consultation
If you live in the Chicago metropolitan area or nearby and want to find your visual freedom, please contact Doctors for Visual Freedom Laser Center today to find out if you are a candidate for this life-changing procedure.

LASIK FAQs - Common Questions About Lasik

What is LASIK?
LASIK stands for Laser In-situ Keratomileusis. This is an eye surgery that is used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism through the use of lasers – or refractive laser surgery. The surface of the cornea is cut into and folded back so the inner cornea can be reshaped by a laser. The top layer of the cornea is then placed back into its natural position. Millions of people wishing to correct their vision have successfully undergone LASIK.
Am I a candidate for LASIK?
LASIK is not right for everyone. LASIK patients are those who wish to correct some kind of vision problem, but since no two patients have the same eyes, what may be good for one person is not good for another who may have the exact same problem. Generally, good LASIK candidates are over 18 years of age with stable vision. That is, your vision prescription must not change for at least one year. If you have received an eye injury or an infection, you may need to wait until the eye becomes stable. Those with a history of herpes eye infections are generally not good candidates. Individuals with dry eyes may not be good candidates for LASIK until their dryness has been treated. You must not be pregnant or nursing for at least three months if you want LASIK. In addition, LASIK is not an option for people who have thin corneas or irregularity in the curvature of the cornea.
How long does LASIK last?
A LASIK vision correction is permanent in that your corneal shape will remain in its corrected curvature. However, as we reach mid-life, near vision starts to become blurry and reading glasses become necessary. This is the condition called presbyopia—it is not a problem with the cornea, but with the lens. Your LASIK surgeon can explain this more fully at the time of your evaluation. All candidates who qualify for LASIK benefit from dramatic improvement in their acuity and quality of vision. The exact degree of improvement varies according to your individual vision problems.
If I am not a good LASIK candidate, are there alternatives?
Technology for correcting vision has come a very long way, so if you are not a candidate for LASIK, there are several other options. The experienced eye surgeons as Doctors For Visual Freedom offer alternatives that will correct your vision just as well as LASIK. These alternatives include photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and conductive keratoplasy (CK). PRK reshapes the cornea just as LASIK does, but there is no cutting into the cornea surface to create a flap. With CK, there is no cutting at all. Instead, radio waves are used to correct vision by shrinking the corneal tissue. CK is best for patients who are over 40 years old and are farsighted due to presbyopia.
Are there risks with LASIK?
LASIK risks and complications are very rare with LASIK. However, this is a medical procedure that involves cutting into your cornea, so the procedure is not entirely risk-free. Some of the risks associated with LASIK include over or under correction, eye infections, dry eyes, and problems with the flap.

LASIK Financing

LASIK Costs

In order to find out if you are a candidate for a refractive procedure call our office to schedule your complimentary screening or find the time for a comprehensive examination.
Please contact us or call at 312-291-9680 to schedule your appointment.

Payment Plans

Doctors For Visual Freedom offers all of our Internet patients the opportunity to have 24 month interest-free financing
We are happy to help you fill out an application when you come in for your evaluation. Care Credit allows us to give qualified patients the opportunity to pay for your procedure with a low monthly charge over a 24 month period of time with no money down required and no pre-payment penalty.
With Care Credit we can also offer a variety of extended payment plans and may be able to use their service to pay off over as long as 60 months
Give us a call to learn more.
Care Credit may be able to give you a line of credit to allow for several members of your family to have Refractive Surgery or may be used for other procedures such as dental or plastic surgery

LASIK Misconceptions and Myths

LASIK is not for people over the age of 40.
While people over the age of 40 tend to develop more diseases and disorders – of either their bodies or eyes – age alone does not determine LASIK eligibility. In fact, some of the diseases and disorders considered precautions may not disqualify a patient from LASIK. Dr. Golden evaluates numerous factors about your general health and eye health before recommending LASIK or an alternative procedure. The oldest person that Dr. Golden has treated with LASIK was 86 years old.
LASIK is the cure-all for any eye disorder and gives you perfect vision.
LASIK treats refractive disorders of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. LASIK can treat presbyopia, but this is an indirect treatment since presbyopia results from age-related stiffening of the lens rather than changes to the shape of the cornea. Other disorders have alternative eye surgeries specific to each. Even when used to treat refractive disorders, LASIK does not always result in 20/20 vision. Sometimes it results in better than 20/20 vision, and sometimes it drastically improves vision even if unable to correct all the way to 20/20 vision.
LASIK can correct all refractive errors.
There are limits to the range of refractive error that LASIK can correct so that you can stop wearing corrective lenses. People with extreme refractive error may find that their vision can be corrected enough to need a lower corrective prescription. Others may eliminate the need for lenses for just one range of vision. Improvements in LASIK are continually being researched. What could not be achieved a few years ago is possible now with the advent of custom wavefront LASIK technology. We expect research will continue to develop improved treatments in the future.
LASIK vision correction is permanent.
This one is just correct enough to cause confusion. The surgical changes made by LASIK ARE permanent because LASIK removes corneal tissue. The permanence of the vision correction resulting from LASIK depends upon how aging affects your eyes. Some who have LASIK early in life have changes in the shape and size of their eyes over time requiring small amounts of fine-tuning several years later. There are numerous eye disorders associated with aging that change eye structure and function. These changes alter the way your eyes refract the light that enters them. A variety of age-related changes can cause changes in your vision, so you may lose clarity of vision at any distance over time.
LASIK limits a person's job opportunities.
Increasingly fewer employers impose LASIK surgery restrictions on employees. Those that do may not restrict you if you have an alternative laser correction procedure, such as PRK, Epi-LASIK or LASEK. Today professionals such as firefighters, pilots, emergency first responders, police, athletes and even astronauts are able to work their jobs after having LASIK or other laser treatment. Check with your employer before having any laser eye surgery to be sure of company policies. Most people find that these policies are outdated and based upon early LASIK outcomes.
If you are considering LASIK and want to clear up any misconceptions and myths about LASIK please contact Doctors for Visual Freedom Laser Center for accurate information.

LASIK and Your Lifestyle

The decision to undergo LASIK surgery can be made for any number of different reasons.
A vast majority of these reasons, however, revolve around being less dependent on contacts or glasses to correct your vision. While LASIK does not promise perfect vision, you will see a dramatic improvement to your vision that will enhance your lifestyle in ways that you may not have even thought possible.

Enjoy Life without the Hassles of Contacts and Glasses

Athletes
Whether you are a professional athlete or simply a sports enthusiast, decreasing your dependency on glasses and contacts will help increase your performance and decrease your risk of an eye injury or the loss of a contact while engaging in your sport of choice.
Parents
For parents with young children, LASIK surgery can decrease your anxiety by helping you to keep a better watch over your kids and make the late nights go by easier without having to search for your glasses in the dark.
Commuters
For frequent travelers or those who spend a lot of time driving to and from work, LASIK surgery offers a number of advantages. Better natural eyesight will keep you and the drivers around you safer.
Accident-prone people
Count how many times you have sat on your glasses or lost a contact lens and you may be more inclined to get LASIK surgery. When you depend on corrective lenses to be able to function in the world, these incidents can cause a severe amount of stress and turn what should be enjoyable times into frustrating experiences.

Potential Changes To Your Lifestyle

Despite having many advantages, there may be certain lifestyle changes you may have to make after LASIK surgery
A common side effect of this operation is dry eyes, so you may want to carry around eye drops, especially immediately after your surgery. For the first few weeks after surgery we recommend that you wear full UV protection for your eyes, and after that it will be more important to make sure that you don't expose your eyes to any direct sunlight. This can potentially reverse the effects of your LASIK surgery. You will also need to avoid any swimming until your eyes have fully healed.

LASIK Safety

As technology for corrective eye surgery continues to evolve, our patients feel increasingly more comfortable committing to LASIK surgery as a way to improve their vision.
You probably know friends and family members who have had great success after LASIK. You may have also heard about the risks involved. Vision is such an important sense for all of us that it is reasonable for you to have concerns about the safety of eye surgery.

Technology

Your safety is of utmost importance to us.
That is why Dr. Golden and his staff use the latest VISX Custom Wavefront technology. From the beginning, VISX has been the leader in laser vision technology and more doctors in the United Stated use the VISX laser than all the others combined. The FDA has given the VISX laser the widest ranging approvals available for any laser used in vision correction surgery.
With active tracking
Our eye surgeons are able to accurately and precisely correct your vision while the tracker follows every move your eye makes naturally during the procedure.

Are You a Good Candidate for LASIK?

Chances are you know the kind of eye disorder you are experiencing
If you are farsighted, nearsighted or have astigmatism, these can all be helped with LASIK. One of the biggest safety aspects when it comes to LASIK surgery is identifying the best treatment for your eyes. We carefully test your eyes to determine whether you are a good candidate for LASIK and if you are not the perfect match, we will let you know.

Personalized Care

Our eye surgeons have performed thousands of successful Laser Vision Correction procedures
You will be well equipped for every aspect of the process because we walk you through it before it happens. It helps to understand that your recovery continues after you leave the operating room. We provide you with thorough follow-up care and evaluations and you are always welcome to call if you ever have any questions.
Your eyes are as unique as you are and we will work with you to determine whether LASIK is safe for your situation
During your initial evaluation, you will have the chance to discuss your options with our highly skilled LASIK surgeons. We can show you how LASIK and your lifestyle can work well together.
Our patients have made us one of the premier choices in Chicago, Arlington Heights and Downtown Chicago for LASIK surgery
Please contact the experienced eye surgeons at Doctors for Visual Freedom to schedule your free evaluation today.

LASIK Surgery - Laser Vision Process

What is LASIK?
LASIK is a procedure in which the curvature of the eye is altered to reduce nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. LASIK stands for Laser In-situ Keratomileusis. In this procedure, a thin peel is created from the surface of the cornea with an instrument. After the peel is made, it is turned back to expose the inner layer of the cornea, which is then reshaped with the laser. Finally the top layer is put back into place.
What you can expect - The Laser Vision Process
Your pathway to visual freedom is made up of five distinct phases; The Screening Evaluation, The Pre-surgical Evaluation, The Surgical Procedure, Recovery and Follow-up Care.
The Screening Evaluation
This evaluation takes sixty to ninety minutes and is available at either office by appointment. Upon arrival, a brief registration will be obtained. There will be several tests, including creating a map of your eyes with an Orbscan® and another checking your current visual status with an autorefractor. Based on these results, we are able to rule out most people who would not be candidates for surgery. We will then have a chance to sit down and talk about the surgical process and answer any questions that you have.

The Pre-Surgical Evaluation

The pre-surgical evaluation gives us a chance to thoroughly understand your eyes and will give us a chance to take the measurements needed for surgery
We will discuss all aspects of the surgery and help you to decide whether or not corrective surgery is your best option. The concern of the Doctors For Visual Freedom team is to recommend what is best for you whether that be surgery or another option.
Depending on your needs, this comprehensive evaluation takes about an hour and a half and includes a wide dilation of your pupils
Your vision up close will be blurry for about four to six hours and your pupils are usually dilated until the next day.
In order to have final surgical results you should not wear your daily wear soft contacts for one week before your evaluation or surgery and two weeks for extended wear or toric soft lenses
If you chose, you may wear your extended wear lenses only during the day for a week and then get out of them entirely for the last week. Gas permeable lens wearers typically take about one month per decade for the corneas to stabilize and you should be out of these lenses for a minimum of three weeks. It may be possible for you to switch into soft contact lenses until the corneas stabilize and then just stay out of even soft lenses for the last week.
Follow-up Care
It is critical that you keep your scheduled appointments. You will be seen at the center the day after the procedure, then at one week, one month, three months, six months and one year. If you are having problems, there will be more visits and they are included in your surgical fee. These visits usually take only a few minutes. If you are having a problem during the follow-up period, please feel free to contact us at any time.

The Surgical Procedure

The day of surgery, feel free to shower or bathe
There is no limitation to shampoos or scrubbing of the face. Do not use eye make-up, perfumes or strong smelling hair sprays or deodorants as they may affect the ability of the laser to give you a good treatment. You can eat normally before and after the procedure but limit your caffeine intake as you need to be relaxed during your procedure and sleep afterwards. Take all of your usual medications. Please arrange to have someone drive you home after your procedure.
When you get to the laser center you will meet with our surgeon
Dr. Mark Golden. He will check your eyes at the slit lamp to make sure that you have no eye infection and then you will have a chance to ask any questions that you might have. He will highlight the important steps of the surgical procedure.
When all of your questions have been answered
you will be asked to sign your informed consent form. You will then be offered Valium, sedative to make you more comfortable and relaxed. The sedation takes 20-30 minutes to take affect and you will sit in a quiet room with your eyes closed until ready.
Dr. Golden talks non-stop during the entire procedure
He will tell you what is going to happen, what is happening and then how you did. If there are any problems, he will just stop the procedure, talk with you and then start up again when you are ready. Once in the laser suite, you will receive drops to numb your eyes. These ensure that the procedure itself is painless although you will still have a strong pressure for a short time. The area around the eyes is cleaned with a cold antibiotic soap. The left eye is covered and a special device is placed to keep the eye from blinking. The microkeratome is then placed on the eye and the vision goes dark for a few seconds. During this time the flap is being made. The flap is then examined and assuming that it looks good it is reflected out of the way. The laser treatment is then performed. You will see a pulsing red light and it is critical for you to hold the light as still as possible during the procedure. Dr. Golden will guide you through this portion telling you of how you are doing and let you know if there is too much movement. There is a safety feature on the laser called a tracker. This means that if you move a little bit, the laser will move with you. If you move too much then the laser will automatically stop. When this is completed, the flap is replaced in to position and it is cleaned allowed to stick down.
Lastly, drops will be placed in your eye and a similar procedure will be performed on the left eye
When surgery is completed, you will be taken to the slit lamp to ensure that the flaps are clean and in good position. Amazingly, patients immediately notice that their nearsightedness is gone, but the vision is always very cloudy.

Recovery

You should arrange to have someone to drive you home.
Your vision will be blurry and you will be groggy from your sedation. On the way home it is best if you keep your eyes closed. About 30 minutes after you leave, the numbing drops wear off and may be sore. The best way to get rid of the discomfort is to lie down and sleep for four to five hours. Sleeping is not necessary, but it is important to keep your eyes closed as much as possible until the next morning. When you wake up, place your drops in your eyes without touching the eyes. The easiest way to place drops is to lean back or even lie down on a bed. Wait five or ten minutes between drops. Preservative free tear drops will make your eyes feel better and the more that you the faster that your vision will stabilize and the faster that you will feel better. Use preservative free tears for the first week and after that most people can use any tear drops. You will be given special shields to protect your eyes while you sleep. These should be used for the week after your procedure.
Initially after the local anesthesia has worn off
your eyes may experience some discomfort and medicines like Advil, Aspirin or Tylenol may help. The best way to manage this irritation is to sleep through the first few hours while it is most prominent.
Your vision will also be initially cloudy
as though looking through a thick fog. By the time you awaken after this nap, it should be markedly improved. Your vision will get better throughout the day and will be much better by morning. Some fluctuation of vision is expected over the first several weeks. The frequent use of tear drops will help the vision stabilize more quickly.
You may shower the morning after surgery including washing your hair and letting the water run over your face and closed eyes
You should not use a wash cloth or use a towel to dry your face. If your vision is clear enough, you may drive and return to work the day after your procedure.
Please wear sun glasses when outside for the next three months when exposed to sunlight. It is best to avoid pregnancy for three months.

The LASIK Flap

Upper Hinge Vs. Nasal Hinge

In the past, the most common hinge position was the nasal position
but in recent years most LASIK surgeons create flaps with upper hinges, allowing them to be lifted up from the bottom. This technique is sometimes referred to as "down-up LASIK".
The down-up technique is believed to be more physiologic, since your blinking will help keep the flap in position, contributing to a smoother healing process
Also, gravity contributes to keeping the flap in the best position. However, some LASIK surgeons still prefer the classic nasal hinge since it can reduce the risk of dry eye after LASIK laser eye surgery. Dr. Golden will determine the best hinge position for you after thoroughly examining your eyes.

Creation of the LASIK Flap

A smooth, uniform surface
Uniform cut depth
A sufficiently large hinge that is displaced from the laser ablation
A suitable diameter for refractive ablation

The LASIK Flap Healing Process

Once the LASIK flap is replaced after Laser Vision Correction
the healing process will begin. Since everyone heals differently, the full amount of time it will take for the flap to heal will vary from patient to patient.
In most cases, the LASIK flap will be secure after around two weeks
After a full month, you should be able to return to all of your physical activities, including sports. However, if there is a risk that you might suffer a direct blow to your eye while playing a sport, you should always wear protective goggles.
If you have further questions about the LASIK flap
please contact Doctors For Visual Freedom today to schedule a free LASIK evaluation with our experienced Chicago eye surgeon Dr. Golden. We serve patients throughout the Chicagoland area.

Cosmetic Procedures in Chicago

Botox® Cosmetic

BOTOX® Cosmetic is best known as an effective means of softening and relaxing contracting facial muscles that cause unseemly wrinkles
When your muscle is injected with BOTOX® Cosmetic, it no longer receives the nerve signal to contract.
One BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment can last anywhere from four to six months
but the muscle memory may cause a more permanent effect resulting in less severe muscle contractions over time. The treatment is typically complete in a few minutes with mild discomfort to the injected muscle.

Juvéderm®

As we age, our skin loses elasticity, and the actions of our facial muscles begin to create wrinkles and creases
The hyaluronic acid that is naturally present in your skin maintains the hydration and volume of your tissues. In medicine, this substance has been used to alleviate joint pain and treat wounds. Hyaluronic acid was first used for facial rejuvenation in Europe in 1996. The hyaluronic acid in JUVÉDERM® works by adding volume to your skin, thereby reducing the evidence of folds and fine lines.

Latisse®

The use of prescription LATISSE® is proven to produce longer and fuller eyelashes as well as promote eyelash growth
Results can be seen gradually within weeks and full results are achieved anywhere from eight to sixteen weeks. Using a sterile applicator, LATISSE® is applied daily directly to your lashes on the upper eyelid. No surgery is needed and LATISSE® is FDA approved as a medically safe procedure.
Chicago, Buffalo Grove, Arlington Heights and Downtown Chicago residents
have made Doctors for Visual Freedom their choice for cosmetic treatments in BOTOX® Cosmetic, LATISSE® and Juvederm™.

Fillers

Dr. Golden has been injecting fillers into the face to help people look younger for more than a decade.
Fillers can be used diminish facial lines and restore volume and fullness to the face. They fill shallow contours, soften facial creases, add volume to cheeks, and plump thin lips. With injectable fillers, you can look more youthful look for a fraction of the cost of a surgical facelift. Treatments generally take less than 30 minutes and results can last from a year to two or more.
The objective of fillers is to look better but not have the appearance of having had fillers.
Patients have the opportunity to watch as fillers are applied so that they can make a judgment as to the amount to achieve the appropriate contour of the face. Our patients tell us that their friends and spouses say that they look younger or more rested, but typically no one knows unless told they are told that fillers were applied. A natural appearance is important to Dr. Golden and if you want exaggeration of expression or huge lips, you should look elsewhere for care.
BOTOX® Cosmetic injections relax the muscle under a wrinkle
but fillers can fill the deep creases or lines on the face causing trouble spots to nearly disappear. Fillers are used to plump and lift cheeks, jawlines and temples as well as eliminating deep creases not amenable to BOTOX® Cosmetic treatments quickly and easily.

Skinmedica® Products

At Doctors For Visual Freedom we believe everyone deserves to have radiant skin
That's why we've picked the SkinMedica® line of advanced skin care products that rejuvenate skin. As skin ages, elasticity decreases and lines appear. Their scientifically proven recovery compounds include essential ingredients ranging from vitamins C and E to retinol to TNS®—a patented blend of growth factors, soluble collagen, antioxidants and matrix proteins. The impact is clear beautiful skin. All SkinMedica® products come with an absolute guarantee—use to the last drop and if you are not fully satisfied, bring it back for a full refund. That's how confident we are about our products.

Routine Eye Care

Your Medical History

If you are a new patient, Dr. Golden will review your medical history during your consultation
Some conditions—such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and rheumatoid arthritis—can have a direct impact on your eye health. Just as importantly, a careful examination of the eye can reveal systemic diseases including atherosclerotic disease, hypertension, diabetes, cancer, thyroid disease, damage from smoking, sickle cell anemia, liver disease, arthritis, cancer, and brain tumors.
Other medical conditions that can affect your eyes include:
Heart disease, Cancer (tumors can spread to the eye), Thyroid problems, Hormonal changes.
Your family history will also be reviewed, as certain eye conditions are hereditary.

Your Eye Examination

Retinoscopy
Determines your base prescription by having you focus on an eye chart while Dr. Golden shines a light into your eye and changes lenses in a device in front of your eyes.
Refraction
For fine-tuning your precise prescription. Dr. Golden will flip lenses in front of each eye and ask you which particular lens makes your vision clearest.
Visual Field Testing
An accurate measurement of peripheral vision that measures the field of vision which is important in the discovery of glaucoma, multiple sclerosis and brain disease.
Cover test
Used to determine how well your eyes are working together. You are directed to stare at a small object in the distance while covering one of your eyes at a time.
Slit lamp examination
A slit lamp is a device used to magnify the structures of your eyes to more accurately evaluate eye health.
Glaucoma test
Depending on the circumstances, either a numbing drop will be administered to your eye, or a quick burst of air will be used to measure your eye pressure for glaucoma.
Dilation
Eye drops are placed in your eyes to dilate your pupil, allowing Dr. Golden to more clearly examine the inner structures of your eyes. Since this will maximize your light sensitivity, it is best to bring a pair of sunglasses with you for driving home.

When To Come In

Younger Children
All children should have an eye examination by the age of three and also before the start of kindergarten. If parents or pediatrician notices vision problems, wandering eyes, crossed eyes or other problems, an exam sooner should be scheduled.
Older children
They should have an examination every two to three years. If they wear glasses they should be seen at least on a yearly basis. As a child grows, there need for glasses can change dramatically. These children should be seen if they have complaints of troubles seeing the board at school or complain of discomfort of the eyes.
Adults
Between the ages of 20-40 most need an exam every two to three years unless there is a change in vision, pain, flashes of light, new onset floaters, tearing or an injury to the eye.
Adults older than the age of 40 should have an examination on a yearly basis
This becomes even more important for African Americans as the incidence of glaucoma is higher. A comprehensive dilated exam is essential for all diabetics at least on a yearly basis.

Dry Eye Treatment in Chicago

What Are Dry Eyes?

The outer layer of the cornea is covered with a layer of tears that evens out irregularities allowing for a perfect surface
When that layer is damaged in some way, the eye can be uncomfortable and the vision blurry. The incidence of dry eyes increases with age. Those with dry eyes either are not able to produce enough tears or the tears will be of poor quality. Dry eye syndrome is common and may affect up to 20% of the United States population.
A wide variety of problems can cause dry eyes including medications
a variety of systemic diseases, environmental factors and laser vision correction to name only a few. Surprisingly, many eye doctors fail to treat or treat inadequately patients with symptoms of dry eyes. The Doctors For Visual Freedom Dry Eye Center of Excellence was established to address these problems.
We start with a careful history to find associated causes of your dry eyes followed by a step-wise approach to treatment
Your doctor will accurately diagnose the cause of your dry eyes and institute a treatment regimen customized for you.
Tears are made with more than just water
They are a combination of water, lipids, electrolytes, proteins and constituents that fight bacteria. Tears drain into ducts found in the inner corner of the upper and lower eyelids, which then drain into the nose.
Symptoms of dry eyes include a dry or sandy feeling
Irritation such as grittiness or foreign body sensation can also occur. Excessive watering of the eyes can be the sign of a lack of a quality tear and may be more common in a windy environment.

Doctors for Visual Freedom Dry Eye Center of Excellence

The most common complaint of patients in an eye doctor's practice is that of dry eyes
At Doctors For Visual Freedom, we work hard to help those with such problems. We take the time to understand the pattern of your problem. Is it worse in the morning or worse later in the day? Do you have medical issues causing your dry eyes? Has surgery made your dry eyes worse?
We can help with dry eyes and you do not need to suffer
Call the office to schedule an appointment and get relief fast.

Learn More about Dry Eye

What Is Dry Eye Disease?

It is easy to confuse dry eye syndrome with eye strain or allergies.
Those with allergies, typically complain of itching and although they can make the symptoms of dry eyes worse they should not be confused. Long hours staring at the computer at a computer screen or symptoms of air pollution symptoms may also exacerbate dry eyes, but they are not the real cause.
Your eyes need a "tear film" in order to have a smooth surface to protect the corneal surface.
Changes to the quantity and quality of the tears produced leads to the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. An inadequate on incomplete tear film cannot provide adequate nutrition and protection to the surface of the eye. This can lead to damage of the cornea which leads to symptoms of the dry eye Syndrome.
Approximately six million women and three million men in the U.S. suffer moderate to severe dry eye disease
Unfortunately, the rate of diagnosis of dry eye is shockingly low, at about 5%. Dry eye complaints are less straight forward than issues like a cataract or glaucoma and can be difficult to diagnose and treat. Many eye doctors prefer not to treat such patients.
Dry eyes are the most common reason for a patient to come in to the office
Many eye doctor offices pay little attention to complaints of dry eye because it is so common and these patients can take more time. As part of your visit at Doctors For Visual Freedom, we take a careful history and try to understand all that is bothering the patient.
Dry eye symptoms happen when the eyes fail to produce an adequate quantity of tears or the tear composition is abnormal
Men and women both can have dry eyes but it is more common in women. Dry eyes tend to become more significant with age and the hormonal changes found with menopause. A wide variety of medical conditions are associated with dry eyes including but not limited to Sjögren's Syndrome, Rheumatoid arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Sarcoidosis, Psoriasis, Lupus Thyroid disease, and Rosacea, other collagen vascular diseases.
A wide variety of medications can also lead to dryness or cause worsening of symptoms.
Antihistamines dry out all mucous membranes including the eyes. Other medicines contributing to dry eyes include tranquilizers, antidepressants, anxiolytics, diuretics and Acutane.
The dry eye syndrome has many similarities with allergies and eye strain
While allergies, long hours at the computer, high pollution, climatic conditions or just "eyestrain" may aggravate dry eye symptoms, they may not be the root cause.
You need a consistent "tear film" in order to protect the front surface of the cornea
In the Dry Eye Syndrome, changes tear production results in a change in the quantity and quality of the tears made. The abnormal tear film no longer provides adequate nourishment or protection to the cornea surface of the eye. This irregular tear film surface can lead to damage of cornea leading to irritation, blurriness and redness.
If you think that you have dry eyes, give our office a call.

Symptoms of Dry Eye Disease

Soreness
Tired Eyes
Changes in Vision
Sandy or Gritty Feeling
Redness
Stinging
Foreign Body Sensation
Stringy white mucous
Eye rubbing
Burning
Scratchy Sensation
Sensitivity to Light
Tearing
Pressure feeling in eyes
Contact Lens Discomfort
Blurred Vision

Causes of Dry Eye Disease

Environment
The cold, dry and windy climate in Chicago is a major cause of dry eye disease in people during the winter. Dry eye symptoms can also be worsened with heat, high altitudes and UV exposure. Cigarette smoke, pollution in general, heating in the winter and air conditioning in the summer can all exacerbate dry eye disease.
Decreased blinking
In this world where so many of us use computers and smart devices, it is common to find that people have a decreased rate of blinking because of intense concentration. This is also found in those that read even from books or newspapers for hours at a time. This is commonly referred to as CVS (Computer Vision Syndrome) and is associated with neck and back issues as well. The decreasedblink rate allows the tear film to dry out leading to discomfort. Treatment for CVS can be as simpleas closing your eyes for a few seconds every fifteen minutes.
Medications
Both prescription and over-the-counter medications can lead to dry eyes or worsen symptoms. Allergy medications are known to dry all mucous membranes including the eyes. Antidepressants, sleep medications, anxiolytics, some medications for the treatment of high blood pressure, Parkinson's drugs, some types of birth control pills, and diuretics can all lead to a worsening of dry eye disease.
Contact Lens Wear
One of the most common reasons that people choose to have LASIK is that their contact lenses become uncomfortable due to dry eye disease. With an excess of two million individuals dropping their contact lens wear, about half give dryness or discomfort as their primary reason.
Diseases
Dry eyes is associated with a wide variety of autoimmune diseases including Rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, Sarcoidosis and Sjögren's diseases. Diabetes may also cause worsening of dry eye disease. Facial rosacea (excess of fine blood vessels on the superficial skin) is frequently associated with ocular rosacea. Ocular rosacea can lead to blepharitis which is commonly associated with dry eyes.
Laser Vision Correction
Everyone who has LASIK or PRK Laser Vision Correction has dry eyes afterwards for at least the first three to four months. We like to treat such patients prophylactically so as to avoid the typical problems. Many individuals have dry eyes postoperatively and this is most commonly, in our experience, due to the dry eyes preoperatively.
Aging and hormonal changes
The older that you become, the more likely it is that you are going to have problems with dry eyes. Women tend to have more trouble than men and post-menopausal women have more problems. Thyroid conditions can also lead to dry eyes.

Testing for Dry Eye Disease

Tearlab® Osmolarity Testing

Dry eye disease the most common reason that patients go to the eye doctor yet it is shockingly underdiagnosed
Your eyes require a healthy and balanced tear in order to nourish and protect the cornea. Changes in the quantity or quality of your tears can lead to damage to the cornea.
One way of testing the tear imbalance is to measure the level of salt in the tears called the tear osmolarity.
When the osmolarity of the tear film is measured to be elevated, this is an indication of dry eye disease. Tracking the osmolarity of the tear film can be a good way of measuring the progress of treatments.
Doctors For Visual Freedom is an Accredited Dry Eye Center of excellence
As a part of your evaluation, you will receive a questionnaire of your symptoms which may suggest dry eye disease. Then, if indicated, your tear osmolarity can be checked with the TearLab® Osmolarity Testing. The symptoms of dry eye may not be dry eye at all. TearLab® Osmolarity Testing can help us better understand and treat you symptoms.
TearLab® Osmolarity Testing requires only a tiny sample of tears from each eye and generates your osmolarity number in a few seconds
It is quick and gives us a meaningful metric of the health and stability of the tear film.
Fill out and bring a copy of the Test to your next appointment and ask, "What is my number?"

Treatment of Dry Eye Disease

What Can I Do?

Take breaks during extended computer time
Make sure your computer monitor is at or below eye level
Discontinue ceiling fan use or decrease the speed
Consider a humidifier instead of a fan
Try to increase sleep time
Reduce or stop smoking
Decrease caffeine intake to four or fewer beverages per day
Talk to your eye doctor about contact lens wearing time, type of lens, etc.

Tips for Sufferers

Nutrition

Drinking lots of water and eating healthily can help improve a dry eye condition.
Studies have found that omega-3 oils
found in walnuts, tuna, and salmon—are beneficial for both dry eyes and overall health. Any disease is best approached from the inside-out, so talk to our Accredited Dry Eye Center at Doctors for Visual Freedom about nutritional supplements that may be right for you.

Hygiene

Warm Compresses
Soak a clean washcloth with hot water, roll the washcloth, and hold it in contact with both eyelids until the cloth cools. Reheat the cloth and repeat this process for at least five minutes.
Lid Washing
After warm compresses, lightly wash the eyelashes and eyelids with your eyes closed, using a mild soap diluted in one capful of water—baby shampoo works well for this. You can do this with your fingers or a soft washcloth.

Drops, Ointments, and Steroids

There are many over-the-counter dry eye drops and ointments to choose from at your local grocery store or pharmacy
However, choosing a treatment based on convenience or price can lead harsh preservatives and chemicals that may worsen your condition.
Contact our experienced ophthalmologists at Doctors for Visual Freedom for full consultation and treatment to properly relieve your dry eyes.

Emergency Eye Care in Chicago

Ocular Emergencies

Sudden loss of vision
A central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) is a loss of blood flow (stroke) to the eye. Treatment here is best within the first six hours and the earlier that this is treated, the better.
Chemical burns to the eye
First irrigation of the eye with large amounts of water is important. If visiting the ER, make sure that you receive follow up with an ophthalmologist as some chemicals can have effects on the eye long after the initial injury.
Open globe
When hit in the eye so hard that the eyeball itself is broken is an immediate emergency. Do not put a patch on the eye and take care not to touch the eye. If possible try to put a paper cup over the eye to protect it from pressure. It is important to go directly to the emergency room of a hospital with eye coverage.
Corneal ulcers
If you have pain in your eye and wear contact lenses, you should be aware that corneal infections (corneal ulcers) can lead to loss of the eye in as little as 24 hours. If you see a white spot on the surface of the eye, this should be considered a corneal ulcer. We believe that anyone with pain associated with contact lens wear should be seen the same day.
Flashes of light or new onset floaters can be a sign of a retinal hole or detachment
The retina is the surface inside of the eye that transmits light images to the brain. A retinal detachment is similar to wallpaper peeling off of a wall. Flashed and floaters may, though, be a sign of a normal aging process called a posterior vitreous detachment. It is always best to have a full examination to be able to determine whether the situation is normal or could lead to something much more serious. Until seen, it is best to lie down and restrict activities.

Doctors for Visual Freedom's Excellent Staff

The incredible team at Doctors for Visual Freedom works together to live up to our reputation of top-quality care every single day.
Both doctors and staff undergo constant training, always striving to perform better for our patients. An environment that fosters learning and curiosity helps create an extremely positive office culture where everyone is focused on performing better for the patients and always reaching higher.

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) in Chicago

The Corneal Flap

With LASIK, a special microkeratome is used to create a flap on your corneal tissue that remains attached by a hinge
With LASIK, a special microkeratome is used to create a flap on your corneal tissue that remains attached by a hinge. This flap is then gently pulled back, and your corneal stroma is reshaped using a cool laser and computer-controlled pulses. Your corneal flap is then returned to its original position and held in place with your eye's natural suction and sticky sugars. This helps decrease recovery time and your level of discomfort following surgery.
With PRK, no flap is needed
Instead, the front surface of your cornea is directly altered using an excimer laser. This is done by removing the surface layer called your corneal epithelium. This layer will regenerate several days following the procedure. As with LASIK, your corneal stroma is reshaped, restoring good vision.

Treatment for Eye Diseases and Disorders

Refractive Disorders

Nearsightedness (myopia)
Myopia is also known as nearsightedness. Without glasses or contacts people who are nearsighted can typically see up close but not far away. Nearsightedness happens when the eye is so long that light rays that enter the eye want to focus in front of the retina which produces a blurry image for distant objects. Myopia is typically progressive, starting in childhood and finally reaching its maximum about the time that the body in general stops growing. Girls tend to physically mature faster than boys and their prescription usually stops changing by their late teens. Boys take longer to physically mature and may not have a stable prescription until their early 20s. Nearsightedness requires a minus power or divergent corrective lens in your glasses and contacts. Surgically, nearsightedness can be corrected either by flattening the cornea with a laser or implanting an intraocular contact lens (ICL) or intraocular lens (IOL). To learn how to find your visual freedom from nearsightedness, come in for your complimentary screening evaluation. To find out what can be done for you and your eyes, schedule an appointment for your complimentary screening evaluation.
Farsightedness (hyperopia)
Those with hyperopia or farsightedness commonly need no glasses until they reach their late 30's and find that they use reading glasses before their friends. Shortly thereafter, they may notice that they see better for distance with their reading glasses. Soon after that they find that they are dependent on their glasses for near and far. Unlike myopia where the eye is too long, in hyperopia the eye is too short or the cornea too flat so that light rays entering the eye want to focus at a spot behind the retina. Hyperopia or farsightedness can be helped with Laser Vision Correction. Some may find adequate treatment with the less invasive Conductive Keratoplasty (CK) procedure. To find out if your hyperopia is eligible for treatment, give us a call to schedule your free screening.
Astigmatism
When an individual has astigmatism the cornea has two curvatures causing the cornea to be shaped more like a football. This causes blurred vision for both near and distant objects. Astigmatism can exist alone or in combination with either myopia or hyperopia. Dr. Golden is experienced at treating individuals with even very large amounts of astigmatism. He performed LASIK on his wife more than eight years ago and she had 4.5 diopters (very high but half of the highest patient that Dr. Golden has treated) of astigmatism in each of her eyes. To this day she still has better than 20/20 vision. Dr. Golden particularly enjoys helping patients with high astigmatism, as they experience such a profound change in their lives. Those with high astigmatism have blurry vision both at near and far, and nothing has ever been clear to them before. To find out what can be done for you and your eyes, schedule an appointment for your complimentary screening evaluation.
Presbyopia
Laser Refractive Surgery is a predictable method of correcting farsightedness, nearsightedness and astigmatism. These vision problems occur because the size and shape of the eye does not allow light to focus at the proper position on the retina. Another vision problem that occurs universally as we age is a decrease in the ability of the lens to focus called presbyopia. Presbyopia is a word derived from the Greek which means "aging eyes." It is entirely normal and starts to occur to those in their forties. The protein that makes up the lens in your eyes are flexible and soft when you are young and as you age the proteins in the lens become less flexible and harder. When the lens loses its ability to change its shape, then ability to focus on near objects is decreased. Presbyopia generally starts in the early to mid forties and worsens through about age sixty-five. With presbyopia, people who wear glasses need bifocals or take off their glasses if they are nearsighted, those wearing contact lenses or who have good vision for distance need reading glasses. If you are in your 40's, considering Laser Vision Correction, and nearsighted, you must understand that you will no longer be able to take your glasses off in order to see up close and because of presbyopia will need glasses to see up close. Laser Vision Correction in itself has no effect on your eye's focusing mechanism on the lens of the eye, so it does not correct for presbyopia. If you only require glasses for reading, Laser Vision Correction may not be your first choice. If you need distance vision correction because of nearsightedness, farsightedness or have astigmatism and need help with close vision because of presbyopia, Laser Vision Correction may be an option. You would have several options. Most people will chose to have full distance vision in both eyes, others will chose Monovision with one eye for distance and the other for near and others will enjoy the benefits of multifocality seen with Conductive Keratoplasty which would be performed after the Laser Vision Correction procedure has healed. If you have only moderate nearsighted, you may find that having a procedure only in your dominant eye may leave you with good vision for near and far. In order to know what would be best for you, come in for a comprehensive examination and allow us to help you decide on what would be best for you. Dr. Golden had Conductive Keratoplasty (CK) in August 2004 and quickly grew to enjoy his freedom from reading glasses, CK is not usually a permanent procedure, but can keep someone out of reading glasses for many years. To find out what can be done for you and your eyes, schedule an appointment for your complimentary screening evaluation.
While any of these forms of eye disorders can be bothersome, most will not be considered dangerous to your eye health.
The most serious types of eye disorders are diseases of the eye that, if left untreated, can lead to severe visual impairment or blindness.

Diseases of the Eye

Cataracts
Glaucoma
Macular Degeneration
Diabetic Retinopathy
Ocular Manifestations of Systemic Disease
Regular eye exams can detect these problems before they get too serious
In many cases, Dr. Golden will be able to correct the eye disorder or disease and preserve or even improve your visual acuity. For example, if you suffer from cataracts, a clouding of the lens of the eye, lens replacement surgery is available.
If you are diabetic
the best way to prevent diabetic retinopathy is to keep your blood sugar and blood pressure within normal ranges. Maintaining your overall health will be extremely beneficial to your eye health, as well.
Helping you understand how your eyes work and how to keep them healthy is just one part of what we do during your regular eye exams
If you live in Chicago, Arlington Heights or Downtown Chicago and have concerns about your vision, please contact Doctors for Visual Freedom to schedule your consultation today.

Cataracts

Cataracts and Cataract Surgery

A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye
The lens of the eye is normally clear, but when the lens becomes less transparent, this is called a cataract. Some people believe that a cataract is a film that grows over the eye, but that is not the case.
Babies can rarely be born with cataracts, but more commonly
cataracts are associated with aging. Everyone who lives long enough will develop a cataract, but risk factors such as smoking, diabetes or the use of steroid medications may cause the growth of a cataract earlier. Others may notice that with cataracts that colors are less intense or washed out. Early cataracts may cause a change in eyeglass or contact lense prescription.
At one time, cataract surgery was so risky that a cataract needed to be "ripe" or "mature" before surgery was recommended
Today, cataract surgery is generally very successful and therefore there is no need to delay surgery unnecessarily. The time for cataract surgery is when the individual cannot see the things that they need to be able to see. For each individual this will be different as an airplane pilot has different visual requirements than a retired person who does not read or drive.
Chicago eye surgeon Dr. Golden has performed thousands of cataract surgeries in the past,
but at this time, he prefers to refer his patients to those who specialize in cataract surgery. He is happy to evaluate your need for a procedure, counsel you on the advanced options available, to help you find an appropriate surgeon and to assist in your postoperative care. Please contact us today to schedule a cataract consultation.

Glaucoma Treatment

Glaucoma means that the pressure in the eye is too high and that causes damage to the optic nerve, which serves as the connection between the eye and the brain.
There are two main forms of glaucoma and several less common types
The most common are open and closed angle glaucoma. In open angle or chronic open angle glaucoma, the eye produces too much fluid and the pressure builds up over a long period of time. In closed angle glaucoma, the ability of the fluid normally produced in the eye is blocked from getting out of the eye and the pressure becomes extremely high.
Glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness in the U.S. and in most situations
the blindness can be prevented with treatment. Your risk for glaucoma is increased if you have a family member with glaucoma or are of African descent. Glaucoma is much more likely in the elderly.
There are no symptoms from open angle glaucoma until the very end
There is a gradual loss of peripheral or side vision that occurs very slowly. This is best tested with Visual Field Testing. In contrast, with angle closure or acute glaucoma most people notice decreased or cloudy vision, nausea and vomiting, red eye and severe pain.
A comprehensive examination is needed to make a diagnosis of glaucoma
However, a check of the intraocular pressure alone is not enough. In order to make a diagnosis of glaucoma, it is necessary to examine carefully the inside of the eye and the appearance of the optic nerve looking for damage. Additionally, when a suspicion of glaucoma exists, visual field testing looking for changes in the visual field is needed.
Most individual with open angle glaucoma can be treated with eye drops
Some will require more than one drop, oral medications, laser surgery or even surgery to allow for easier flow of fluid out of the eye.
Those with acute angle closure glaucoma should seek emergency treatment
Those with an angle closure attack complain of severe pain including headache and nausea. Without treatment blindness can happen in only a few days. Treatment includes medications by mouth and IV in addition to drops. Patients with closed angle glaucoma are typically cured with a laser surgical procedure called an iridotomy. This uses a special laser to open a hole in the colored part of the eye called the iris. The new hole prevents another attack. Diagnosis and treatment of an attack should occur as quickly as possible because the pressure in the eye is very high. Please contact our office if you should have pain like this or come in for a comprehensive eye examination to find out if this is a potential concern of yours.

Macular Degeneration Treatment

Macular degeneration, also known as Age Related or Senile Macular Degeneration or ARMD,
AMD or SMD is a disorder of the area of the retina called the fovea or macula used when you are looking at something or someone. The retina is like the film in the camera and the macula is the portion of the retina that is used for best vision. When you are looking directly at something and want to see fine detail, you are using your macula. Light hits the retina and sends impulses to the optic nerve. The optic nerve then acts as the telephone connection between the eye and the brain. Macular degeneration most commonly progresses slowly so that people may not notice any change in their vision. In those with Wet Macular Degeneration the changes can occur very quickly and may lead to a loss of central vision if not treated. Macular degeneration is the most common cause of irreversible vision loss in those over 60 years of age. There are two main forms of macular degeneration are the dry and the wet form.

Dry Macular Degeneration

Dry macular degeneration occurs when the retinal cells of the macula die leading to blurring of central vision
As dry macular degeneration gets worsens, some may lose their central vision, but maintain their vision in the periphery. Most commonly, people notice slightly blurry vision with difficulty recognizing faces or reading. Some may compensate by using a brighter light when reading or trying to perform fine tasks. Dry AMD can affect either eye or both. It is quite possible to have good vision in one eye while having poor central vision in their other eye.
On examination, the most common early signs of dry macular degeneration are drusen and retinal pigment epithelial changes
Drusen come in many varieties but most are a yellowish color and are formed from retinal cells and may be associated with retinal pigment epithelial change seen as brown or black specks on the retina. They are often found in people over age 60 and are seen and followed during a comprehensive dilated eye exam. When seen at Golden Eye Surgeons and Consultants, we take high resolution digital photographs and can show you the findings in your eyes. Dry macular degeneration has three stages -- early, intermediate, and advanced and may occur in one or both eyes.
People with early changes of macular degeneration may have little or no vision loss
People with intermediate changes have more significant retinal changes and can have blurred vision centrally. More light or a hand-magnifier may help you with reading and other fine tasks. People with advanced dry AMD have a significant loss of retinal photoreceptors in the macular region. This at its worst, can lead to a loss of central vision that may cause the inability to read or recognize faces until they are very close to you. Even with a loss of central vision, most people still maintain good peripheral vision.
If you have macular degeneration in only one eye
you may not notice any changes in your vision. Your other eye may allow you to see clearly, drive, read, and see fine details. If you experience blurry vision, you should call us to schedule a comprehensive examination including dilation and digital imaging.

Wet Macular Degeneration

Wet macular degeneration is very different than dry macular degeneration
Unlike the slow changes in the dry form, in wet macular degeneration blood vessels grow under the retina. These blood vessels are fragile and leak blood and fluid and then lead to swelling of the macula with resultant decreases in vision. If you notice that lines that were previously appeared straight seem curved this may mean that there has been a recent growth of blood vessels that needs immediate treatment. If you become aware of this condition or other changes to your vision, contact our office immediately as you will need a complete dilated eye exam. With wet macular degeneration, loss of central vision can occur very quickly without treatment. Treatment these days may allow for excellent vision depending upon how quickly this is caught and treated.

Diabetic Eye Care

Diabetes and the Eye

The eye is particularly sensitive to the effects of elevated blood sugars.
Most serious are the effects that diabetes can have on the retina, but can also lead to early cataracts and diabetics have an increased risk for glaucoma. Having diabetes for a longer period of time increases the chance of having diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is also more likely to occur earlier and be more severe if diabetes is poorly controlled. Nearly everyone who has had diabetes for more than 30 years will show some signs of diabetic retinopathy. The best way to prevent diabetic eye disease is to consistently keep blood sugars and blood pressure in the low normal range.
All diabetics should have a comprehensive dilated examination at least on a yearly basis
Diabetic retinopathy is a term for disorders of the retina caused by diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in younger Americans. The two main types of retinopathy are nonproliferative and proliferative. Diabetic retinopathy can lead to blindness without treatment.
If it has been more than a year since you last had an examination
you recently became pregnant or just started an exercise program, please contact us to set up an appointment for an eye examination.

Diabetic Eye Disease

It can effect several parts of your eye including the cornea, the lens and the retina.
Diabetes can lead to a softness of the skin of the cornea. The cornea is the clear tissue that is found on the front of the eye. Diabetics are more prone to the problem of Recurrent Erosion Syndrome which can cause one to awake early in the morning with pain in the eye.
When blood sugars go up in diabetics, the lens of the eye swells
This is the reason that glasses that were perfect one day may not be so good a few days later. It can take several weeks to bring the lens size back to normal when blood sugars normalize. This repeated cycle of swelling and deturgescence can cause cataracts. Those with diabetic eye disease can expect to need cataract extraction at a younger age than many of their peers.
Most important to diabetics are the changes that occur to the retina called diabetic retinopathy
Diabetes causes areas of the retina to lack oxygen. This then leads to the growth of new blood vessels in an attempt to supply more oxygen to these areas. Instead of the blood vessels being a good quality blood vessels, these new blood vessels leak blood as well as protein and fat leading to swelling of the surrounding retina as well as hemorrhages inside of the eye.
We have a wide variety of treatment options available for treatment
but the key is to catch the problems early and before catastrophic changes occur. This is why all diabetics need an eye exam at least yearly if not more often.

Pediatric Eye Care

Age 5
The State of Illinois requires an eye examination and the submission of proof of that by October 15 of the year that your child first starts kindergarten or entering a new school. This examination will ensure that your child will be able to see when at school. The form can be downloaded here.
After age 6
Children who had any abnormality when seen on their first examination should have an exam on a yearly basis. Children's eyes are still changing quickly and as the child grows, so do the eyes. A child who does not need glasses who grew 4 inches in the last six months, may need new glasses even sooner than a year.
We suggest a routine eye exam for all kids after the age of six unless there is some complaint and they should be seen immediately.
Headaches, learning difficulty or troubles reading can be a sign of the need for glasses or may hide a more significant problem.

Parents Recognize Problems First

Trouble seeing small objects
Poor ability to follow an object
Abnormal movement of the eyes
One eye turning in or out (cross-eyes or wall-eye)
Frequent eye rubbing
Sensitivity to light
Redness
Tearing
A white pupil instead of black

In School-Age Children, Watch for Other Signs Such As:

Troubles seeing in the distance such as the blackboard
Troubles seeing up close or troubles reading
Squinting
Complaints of itching
Difficulty learning

Other Services and Resources

Age-Related Eye Problems and Warning Signs
Cataracts
Conductive Keratoplasty (CK)
Computer Vision Syndrome
Contact Lenses
Eye Infection
Eye Strain
Glaucoma
Headaches
LATISSE®
Macular Degeneration
Optical

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