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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does your comprehensive eye exam differ from a standard vision test?

Our exams are designed to be both comprehensive and highly personalized. We go beyond a basic prescription to evaluate eye health, visual performance, and how your vision supports your daily life—whether that’s screen use, driving, or detailed work.

2. Can I get retinal imaging instead of eye dilation?

Yes, we offer advanced wide-field retinal imaging that allows us to examine the back of the eye in detail, often without the need for dilation. When clinically necessary, dilation may still be recommended for a more thorough assessment.

3. How often should I have an eye exam?

Most adults benefit from annual exams, especially if they wear contact lenses or experience symptoms like dryness, eyestrain, or fluctuating vision.

4. Do you specialize in dry eye treatment?

Yes. We take a medical, root-cause approach to dry eye, focusing on why your symptoms are happening—not just temporary relief.

5. What treatments do you offer for dry eye?

We provide advanced in-office treatments including Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and radiofrequency therapy, designed to restore proper oil gland function and improve tear quality.

6. What does IPL do for dry eyes?

IPL reduces inflammation around the eyelids and improves the function of the oil glands, helping stabilize the tear film and reduce irritation over time.

7. How is radiofrequency different from IPL?

Radiofrequency delivers gentle, controlled heat to the eyelids to unclog blocked glands. It’s often used in combination with IPL for a more comprehensive treatment plan.

8. Is dry eye something that can be cured?

Dry eye is typically a chronic condition, but with the right combination of treatments, it can be significantly improved and well managed.

9. Can dry eye cause blurry vision?

Yes. An unstable tear film can lead to fluctuating or inconsistent vision throughout the day.

10. What are RGP lenses and who are they for?

RGP lenses are custom-fit lenses that provide exceptionally sharp vision. They are ideal for patients with astigmatism, irregular corneas, or those seeking higher visual clarity than soft lenses can provide.

11. Do RGP lenses take time to adjust to?

Yes—there is a short adaptation period. However, many patients find the clarity and long-term eye health benefits well worth it.

12. What are scleral lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter custom lenses that vault over the cornea and create a fluid reservoir, offering both vision correction and continuous hydration.

13. Who are scleral lenses best suited for?

They are ideal for patients with dry eye, keratoconus, corneal irregularities, or anyone who has struggled with traditional contact lenses.

14. Are scleral lenses comfortable?

Yes. Despite their size, they are often more comfortable than standard lenses because they protect and hydrate the surface of the eye throughout the day.

15. Can scleral lenses help with dry eye symptoms?

Absolutely. Many patients experience significant relief because the lenses maintain a stable, moisture-rich environment on the eye.

16. Do you offer myopia control for children?

Yes. We provide customized myopia management programs designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness and support long-term eye health.

17. What treatment options are available for myopia control?

We offer the STELLEST LENS which are specialized glasses, Misight soft contact lenses, and overnight lens therapy (Ortho-K), all tailored to your child’s needs and lifestyle.

18. How do I know which option is best for my child related to myopia control?

We evaluate prescription, age, progression rate, and daily habits to design a personalized treatment plan.

19. When should myopia control begin?

Early intervention—typically during elementary school years—provides the most effective results.

20. What does "boutique optical" mean?

It means a more personalized, design-forward approach to eye care. We focus on quality over volume—offering curated eyewear, advanced diagnostics, and individualized attention.

21. Do you carry curated or independent eyewear brands?

Yes. Our optical selection is carefully curated, featuring distinctive, high-quality frames that you won’t typically find in large retail chains.

Eyewear Brands:

  • Etnia Barcelona

  • Catch London

  • Bellinger

  • Tom Davies

  • MD 1888

  • Arbor

  • Scott Harris

  • Michael Ryen

  • Modo

  • Maui Jim

  • Saint Laurent

  • Bottega Veneta

22. How is your office different from big-box optical retailers?

We prioritize time, precision, and customization. Every exam, lens recommendation, and frame selection is tailored to the individual—not rushed or standardized.

23. Do you accept insurance?

We work with many vision plans and can help you understand and maximize your benefits.

Medical Insurance

  • Aetna

  • Anthem

  • BlueCross BlueShield

  • CareFirst

  • Cigna

  • Geha

  • Medicare

Vision Discount Plans

  • Aetna

  • Cigna

  • VSP

  • EyeMed

  • Spectera

  • March Vision Care

  • Blue View Vision

24. How long should I expect my visit to take?

Appointments are intentionally unrushed, typically lasting 30–60 minutes depending on the level of care and testing.

25. How do I know if I'm a good candidate for cataract surgery or refractive eye surgery (LASIK/PRK)?

Determining whether you’re a good candidate for cataract surgery or refractive eye surgery like LASIK or PRK starts with a comprehensive eye exam. During your visit, we evaluate your vision, eye health, lifestyle needs, and medical history to see if surgery is the right option for you.

We work closely with experienced cataract and LASIK surgeons and can refer you to a trusted specialist when appropriate. Our practice provides co-management of your care, meaning we support you before and after surgery with follow-up visits, monitoring, and personalized guidance to ensure optimal results.

If you’re experiencing blurred vision, glare, halos, or difficulty seeing at night, you may be a strong candidate for evaluation. Schedule an eye exam to learn more about your options for clearer vision.

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