Optical Physics May Help Macular Degeneration Distortion

The application of optical physics might be helpful to patients with visual distortion caused by macular degeneration (AMD).  Even as our ability to quickly detect, diagnose and treat macular degeneration advances, there are still some patients who experience a disturbing distortion and twisting of their vision resulting from macular degeneration.

Nobel Laureate Walter Kohn described a potential application of what is a dynamic “translator” for the particular distortion a patient experiences either in handheld computers or an optical corrective lens. We routinely use the Amsler Grid, a graph-paper-like pattern to diagnose AMD-Dr. Kohn suggested that the Amsler grid could also be used to develop an optical correction.

When people with healthy eyes look at the Amsler Grid, they see its straight horizontal and vertical lines, with a dot at center.  Patients with AMD, however, often perceive a distortion about two or three centimeters in diameter in the center.

Dr. Kohn has initiated the development of software that lets an AMD patient, using a mouse, pull the virtual lines until he or she perceives the grid as “perfect,” yielding reversal of the specific distortion a person experiences. Dr. Kohn then uses these results to create a correction for that patient. In one experimental device, a handheld computer scans the printed page, using software to perform dynamic compensation, distorting the text to make it readable for patients. In addition, Dr. Kohn uses of a slab of optical material to fabricate the visual correction so that AMD patients could hold the optical slab of refractive material over text, pictures or reading material, just like the magnifying glass people use for seeing small type—only the surface of Kohn’s slab resembles ocean currents or waves that reverse the distortion. These are very exciting ideas and offer promise to help us deal with the visual distortion caused by macular degeneration.

Patients who wish to who wish to learn more about macular degeneration should feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination at 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, Cecilwood Health Center, 969 Main Street, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

Predictors of Macular Degeneration Risk

Recent research on the risk of macular degeneration progression is quite useful for patients to understand. Researchers reporting in Ophthalmology evaluated the factors of age, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, genetic variations, pre-existing retinal disease and drusen size to establish an algorithm for predicting the risk of patients in progressing to the move visually disabling advanced age related macular degeneration. What we now know for sure is that the increased risk of progression is correlated with age, lower educational level, being a current or former smoker and having a higher body mass index (BMI) than those who did not progress. This is helpful in how we counsel, evaluate and follow patients at risk for macular degeneration.

If you are over 50 years old or even earlier if you have a family history of AMD or any of the risk factors mentioned, you should please call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, Cecilwood Health Center, 969 Main Street, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

NY Surgeon on Cataract Eye Surgery Innovation

N.Y. Cataract Surgeon Satish Modi, M.D. shared experiences in advances in eye surgery with other eye surgeons attending this year’s American Academy of Ophthalmology Meeting in New Orleans. “I was pleased to have been invited to help other cataract surgeons learn about The Cataract Refractive Suite - we have been using the LenSx® Femtosecond Laser at Dutchess Ambulatory Surgery Center in Poughkeepsie for some two years. We take pride in bringing advanced eye surgery technology to the Hudson Valley. For me personally, it is a mission of passion to find, integrate and share innovations in eye surgery to help patients get the best possible results,” said Dr. Modi.

Dr. Modi introduced laser cataract surgery to the Hudson Valley in 2012 and has been dedicating time to host eye surgeons from throughout the U.S. at Dutchess Ambulatory Surgery Center and teach them how to use innovative cataract surgery techniques and technology such as LenSx® Femtosecond Cataract Laser.

If you or someone you know has questions about cataracts lens implants or laser cataract surgery please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination at 845-454-1025, visit Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, Cecilwood Health Center, 969 Main Street, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

YAG PI for Narrow Angle Glaucoma

“A YAG PI is the abbreviated name for a YAG Laser Peripheral Iridotomy procedure we use to prevent or treat narrow angle glaucoma,” explained eye surgeon Andreas Wolter, M.D. of Seeta Eye Centers serving the Hudson valley with offices in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Carmel, New York. This type of laser eye surgery procedure uses the YAG Laser to create a small opening in the Iris-the colored part of your eye-so that fluid can properly drain from the eye in order to be absorbed by surrounding eye tissue.  The eye continuously produces fluid in order to maintain healthy pressure in the eye. Old fluid drains through the Trabecular Meshwork as new fluid is made. For some patients, this drainage system can become blocked, leading to a rise in Intraocular Pressure or IOP.  If left untreated the increased pressure can cause permanent vision loss.  The YAG Laser is used to precisely create the tiny opening in the Iris which functions as a "back up drain" in the event of a blockage.  The microscopic opening is usually made in the Iris under the upper eyelid and is not even visible to the casual observer. The opening itself is called a Peripheral Iridotomy and is less than 1mm in diameter. This tiny hole helps maintain a normal flow of fluid through the eye thus preventing visual loss due to a rise in Intraocular Pressure.

At Seeta Eye Centers a YAG PI procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes. We will numb the eye with anesthetic eye drops so you are comfortable. Dilation is not necessary. When a Peripheral Iridotomy (PI) is indicated for both eyes, the procedures are usually done at least a week apart. Prescription steroid eye drops are required for five to seven days following the procedure.  Patient recovery is very quick; generally 2-3 days, although some sensitivity to light can be present for up to a week after treatment. 

If you have questions about a YAG PI should feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination at 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, 969 Main Street, Cecilwood Health Center, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512.

Therapeutic Contact Lenses for Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a progressive, potentially visually debilitating eye disease in which degenerative thinning of the cornea results in irregular bulging of the normally round cornea. This condition results in distorted vision, ghosting and glare-because of corneal warpage-and requires special contact lenses as glasses and ordinary contact lenses don’t work well for these patients. Although most people wear contacts for cosmetic reasons, there is a population of people that have to wear special contact lenses to be able to see properly. For these people these therapeutic lenses are a medical necessity because they can’t achieve useful vision with glasses. Keratoconus is one of these medical conditions.  Therapeutic lenses are also used for people who have had corneal transplants, scarred corneas or who suffer from severe dry eyes. These contact lens fittings are much more complex and lengthy as compared to regular fittings.

If you or a friend would like to learn more about therapeutic contact lenses or contacts for keratoconus, please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, Cecilwood Health Center, 969 Main Street, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

Vision & Night Driving Difficulties

Night driving is difficult for many people. Driving in the dark is much different from driving during the daylight hours. The human eye's field of vision is much smaller without the help of natural light. Sunlight provides the strongest light source. When it goes down at night, there are a variety of man-made lights that help drivers safely navigate the roads. Our eyes will adjust to lower levels of light (pupils dilate in darkness and constrict in brightness), but they have difficulty functioning properly when switching from bright to dark, or vice-versa. This can happen quite a lot on the roads at night when you look directly into the headlights of oncoming traffic.  Driving either just before sunrise (dawn) or immediately after sunset (dusk) are also very dangerous time periods on the roadways, and many car accidents occur during these times. The problem is that while the sky is still well lit, the roads begin to get dark. This causes a disparity between light and dark and can cause vision problems for drivers. Car accident statistics are jarring at night. Despite 60 percent less traffic on the roads, more than 40 percent of all fatal car accidents occur at night. If you must drive at night and feel less than confident, the following tips will help you improve your night vision and reach your destination safely.

Here’s what you can do to see as well as possible when driving at night.

• Make sure that your eyes are examined regularly by an ophthalmologist and that your eye prescription for glasses and contacts is up-to-date.
• Wear a pair of glasses with antireflection coating on the lenses.
• Do not wear sunglasses after dusk.
• Clean your windshield inside and out.
• Make sure your headlights are clean.
• Use your high-beams when you can.
• Dim your instrument lights to reduce brightness when you look at them.
• Adjust your rearview mirror to “night” setting to dim the glare of headlights when cars are behind you.
• Keep an extra two car lengths away from the car ahead of you at night.
• It is also advisable to have an eye exam with an ophthalmologist to rule out any possible eye conditions causing difficulties with night driving as well as discuss vitamins, nutritional therapy or medications helping to improve night time vision.

 If you have any concerns about your night time vision please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, Cecilwood Health Center, 969 Main Street, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

Contact Lenses for Astigmatism

Have you been diagnosed with astigmatism and think that you can’t wear contact lenses? It is estimated that 75% of people wearing eye correction have some amount of astigmatism correction.  Astigmatism is a refractive condition like myopia or nearsightedness and hyperopia or farsightedness. All of these common eye conditions cause the same thing-blur. Depending on how much astigmatism you have, you may not need to actually correct it in your contact lens prescription. If you do have moderate amounts of astigmatism, there are contacts for astigmatism that correct this problem and help you see clearly. With today's technology we can fit, prescribe and fabricate practically any astigmatic contact lens prescription.

If you or a friend would like to learn more about contact lenses for astigmatism, please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, Cecilwood Health Center, 969 Main Street, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

NY Eye Exams for Diabetic Retinopathy

“Regular eye exams are the best way to help prevent vision loss from diabetic retinopathy,” said Satish Modi, M.D., a NY eye physician and surgeon in the Hudson Valley with offices in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Carmel, New York. “The eye examinations for diabetic retinopathy need to be thorough and when necessary include advanced testing such as retinal photography, fluorescein angiography and ocular coherence tomography in order to really document how the retina and it’s blood vessels are functioning,” Dr. Modi further explained. “Depending on the severity and the risk of progression of each patient’s diabetic retinopathy we will advise them of the frequency and intervals for their exams. But, patients with diabetes need to know that it is terribly important to keep their appointments.”

Vision loss from diabetes and especially catastrophic vision loss from diabetic retinopathy can be prevented with early detection, diagnosis and treatment. If you or someone you know has diabetes or even elevated blood sugar levels they should work to prevent diabetic eye disease and problems with regular eye exams by calling Seeta Eye Centers by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, 969 Main Street, Cecilwood Health Center, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512.

Disposable Contact Lenses for Kids?

Seeta Eye Centers Contact Lens Specialist Dr. Guzman loves to fit kids with contacts. “I really enjoy fitting kids with their first contacts. I love the expression on their faces when they can see around my exam room without glasses.” To be sure we take extra care when fitting children with contact lenses for the first time. “Those of us that have kids know how sloppy they can be. They must practice good hygiene when caring for contacts-but they usually don’t! That is why my lens of choice for kids is DAILIES®. They use them once and throw them away. No more worries of using dirty lenses, torn lenses etc. There is nothing better for the eyes than putting on a fresh pair of lenses every day. The comfort, vision, and safety can’t be beat.”

If you or a friend would like to learn more about disposable contact lenses for kids or fitting children with contacts, please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, Cecilwood Health Center, 969 Main Street, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

Cataract Surgery for NY Diabetes Patients

Cataractsurgery for patients with diabetes can be performed successfully with good results. “In performing cataract surgery and lens implants for patients with diabetes we are especially critical in our preoperative evaluations and apply cautious surgery techniques,” commented NY Cataract Surgeon Satish Modi, M.D. “For over a year now we have used the Alcon® LenSx® Femtosecond Laser to perform bladeless laser assisted cataract surgery for these patients. It has proven to be a real plus, giving us even greater confidence in the precision and predictability for higher risk patients.”

“Given the growing diabetic population in the U.S. and the fact that diabetes is a known risk factor for developing cataracts and diabetic retinopathy, it is not uncommon for diabetic patients to need cataract surgery and often at an earlier age than others who are not diabetic,” explained Andreas Wolter, M.D., a New York Cataract Surgeon at Seeta Eye Centers in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. “We know that diabetics can have some difficulty with wound healing. My cataract surgery incision is very tiny-2.2.mm-and really poses no additional risk to diabetic patients than to non diabetic patients. The really exciting thing about my cataract surgery technique is that I we now use the femtosecond laser for bladeless cataract surgery which gives me exquisite control of the wound and incision architecture each and every time I operate,” noted Dr. Modi.

Early diagnosis and treatment is the key to preserving eye health and vision with diabetes. If you or someone you know suffers from diabetes and is concerned about cataracts or in need of cataract surgery and lens implants please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, 969 Main Street, Cecilwood Health Center, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

Contact Lenses for Dry Eyes

Seeta Eye Centers Contact Lens Specialist Dr. Guzman remarked, “If I had a dollar for every time that I had a patient come in and tell me-“I miss wearing my contacts because my eyes are too dry,” I would be a multimillionaire.” As we get older our eyes do get drier, and this along with medications, hormone changes and environmental conditions can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable. However, there is no need to discontinue contact lens wear. Contact lens companies have invested billions of dollars in researching new materials and designs to make lens wear more comfortable for patients with dry eyes. Two contact lenses-ACUVUE® TruEye® and Ciba DAILIES® Total 1® lenses are the lens of choice for my dry eye patients.  New contact lens technology combined with medications for dry eyes have made many dry eye patients happy again!

If you or a friend would like to learn more about contact lenses of any type including ACUVUE® TruEye® and Ciba DAILIES® Total 1®  contacts for dry eyes, please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, Cecilwood Health Center, 969 Main Street, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

NY Patients Prevent Diabetic Eye Problems & Disease

“We really want to work to help patients with diabetes from throughout the Hudson Valley avoid diabetic eye problems and the consequences of diabetic eye disease,” explained NY Ophthalmologist Andreas Wolter, M.D. Prevent Blindness America has designated November as National Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month. “What we know from the most recent Prevent Blindness America Vision Problems in the U.S. report is that diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness in adults 20-74 years of age. This data is even more striking when you consider that diabetes affects 25.8 million people in the United States. Although there is no cure for diabetic eye disease, annual eye exams for diabetes patients are essential to help slow the progression of the disease,” said Dr. Wolter.

The Prevent Blindness America Vision Problems in the U.S. identified that there are almost 8 million people ages 40 and older who have diabetic retinopathy. This represents an 89 percent increase between the years 2000-2012. “While it is unexpected that that the incidence of certain eye diseases and problems increases with the aging of the baby boomer population, it is very disturbing to see the dramatic spike in diabetic retinopathy cases which is directly a result of the diabetes epidemic that is rampant in the U.S.,” Dr. Wolter explained. The vision loss from diabetic retinopathy can be prevented if it's caught early and treated in time. More than one third of those diagnosed with diabetes do not adhere to vision care guidelines recommending a dilated eye exam every year. As part of Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month we are urging people with diabetes to have a dilated eye exam every year.

In addition to having regular eye examinations and testing at the direction of your eye doctor, patients can help to reduce the risk of developing diabetic eye disease  by not smoking, controlling their cholesterol and lipid profile and blood pressure, as well as working to eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fish, fruit and green leafy vegetables and exercising. 

If you or someone you know has diabetes or even elevated blood sugar levels they should work to prevent diabetic eye disease and problems with regular eye exams by calling Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, Cecilwood Health Center, 969 Main Street, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

Multifocal & Bifocal Contact Lenses to See Up Close?

Do you have problems seeing up close? Are you holding your phone three feet in front of your face so you can read your text messages? Are you grabbing your spouse’s reading glasses to read the menu? Are you constantly taking off your glasses to see up close?  If you are-then you may be one of the millions of people suffering from PRESBYOPIA (a Greek word meaning aging eyes).

Multifocal Contact Lenses for Seeing up Close

Presbyopia is a condition in which the lens inside of our eye becomes less flexible and prevents us from focusing objects close to our face. It usually begins in our early forties and quickly gets worse. Seeta Eye Centers Contact Lens Specialist Dr. Mel Guzman commented, “Patients come to me constantly telling me that they don’t want to wear bifocal glasses or if they are already – they are physically tired of raising their chin up to view the computer. Well, the good news is that you don’t!  There are multifocal contact lenses! And you don’t have to strain your neck to see the computer!” 

  

The technology behind multifocal and bifocal contact lenses is quite amazing. The improvements in the presbyopic contact designs over the past ten years have made them more popular. “The goal of multifocal contact lenses is to provide you with vision correction that will comfortably give you the most out of your daily activities done,” said Dr. Guzman. For example, computer work, driving, shopping, casual reading and even texting without having to use supplementary reading glasses is a great convenience and makes everyday activities really comfortable. If you are expecting to curl up with a 500 page novel you are setting yourself up for a disappointment.

How Do Multifocal & Bifocal Contacts Work?

The manner in which multifocal and bifocal contact lenses work is very different than their eyeglass counterparts. Your bifocal glasses have a separate zone for reading and distance-one zone does not affect the other. The design of multifocal and bifocal contact lenses is quite different- there is no separation between distance and near. This is called SIMULTANEOUS VISION. This means that your eyes receive rays from both far and near at the same time no matter where you are looking. Your brain eventually learns what to do. For most people it takes about two weeks to adapt to this “new” way of seeing. When you stop and think about this you realize how AMAZING this tiny piece of plastic is. Again, no system is perfect! And keep in mind that fitting these specialty lenses can be time consuming and can take several visits, but if you keep REALISTIC expectations and have patience you will be pleased with this technology.

If you or a friend would like to learn more about contact lenses of any type including multifocal and bifocal contacts please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, 969 Main Street, Cecilwood Health Center, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

Discount Centers LASIK Hidden Costs

Patients shopping around for the best LASIK price in NY should exercise due caution and beware of low LASIK prices with hidden costs you don’t know about at many discount LASIK centers. “We make the cost of bladeless LASIK in NY affordable for almost anyone at Seeta Eye Centers. Anyone who wishes to minimize their dependence on or even eliminate the need for eyeglasses and contact lenses to see at distance is pleased and surprised in a positive way by our flexible monthly payment plans and other ways to fit LASIK into your budget,” commented Stacey Koch, Refractive Surgery Coordinator at Seeta Eye Centers serving the Hudson Valley region of NY with offices in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Carmel, New York. “We hear from too many patients who shop for the best price for LASIK and end up getting an unpleasant surprise,” noted Ms. Koch. “Reputable and trusted LASIK surgeons tend to quote fees for LASIK that are comprehensive fees-that is they include everything you need to have LASIK and its associated evaluations and follow up care-regardless of your prescription”, she explained.

What patients seeking bladeless LASIK in NY should know is that discount LASIK centers that offer the lure of the best price for LASIK often quote a price for LASIK that is right on the edge of being deceptive in that it uses the lowest price to draw you in for an evaluation and get you excited about the possibility of having LASIK but then presenting you with hidden costs and fees. These hidden costs and fees can include an additional fee for your prescription that was not within the advertised range. It can include an extra hidden cost of LASIK for astigmatism. It can include an additional hidden cost for follow up care. It may include an extra hidden cost for custom wavefront LASIK or an add on hidden cost for enhancements-and on and on.

Hidden costs and fees for LASIK are somewhat typical of the sales and marketing practices of certain discount centers. LASIK is surgery. “You should choose a LASIK surgeon based on their reputation as recommended by friends and relatives and NOT based on the best price. Choosing a LASIK surgeon based on the best price alone could set you up for a number of hidden costs you can’t even understand and end up costing you more in the long run,” summarized Ms. Koch

If you or someone you know has a question about LASIK or would like to schedule a Free LASIK Consultation please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers at 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, 969 Main Street, Cecilwood Health Center, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

Halloween Contact Lens Eye Problems

NY eye specialist Andreas Wolter, M.D. of Seeta Eye Centers in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Carmel New York advised patients to use caution in order to avoid Halloween contact lens eye problems. “Contact lenses are a medical device. Sometimes we forget this as we try and look cool by changing our eye color or look devilish with decorative non prescription Halloween contact lenses as part of our costume”, stated Dr. Wolter. “Even someone with perfect vision would still require an eye exam and a prescription and proper fitting in order to wear any kind of contacts, including cosmetic lenses-comfortably and safely.”

According to the Food and Drug Administration, all contact lenses are regulated medical devices that require a prescription and proper fitting by an eye-care professional. Some websites advertise decorative contacts as if they were fashion accessories or toys with fanciful, playful packaging in order to attract teens and young adults, especially girls. The problem is not that people use decorative, non corrective lenses-sometimes called Plano-or zero-powered lenses, but that they buy the devices without a prescription through unlicensed vendors on the Internet or at flea markets and specialty shops. The buyer of these over-the-counter contact lenses faces a huge risk including scratched corneas, pink eye and more serious types of blinding infection as a result of a corneal ulcer

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

The safe and effective use of contact lenses-whether decorative or not-requires proper fitting and education about their care to prevent the potential for serious eye  problems from becoming a reality.

If you or a friend would like to learn more about contact lenses of any type including decorative contacts please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters and we will be happy to give the most appropriate information and refer you to qualified licensed contact lens practioner who will help you get the safest contact lenses for your eyes.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue Poughkeepsie, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

NY Surgeon on Cataract Night Driving Problems

Night driving problems caused by cataracts can be particularly difficult for patients,” shared NY Cataract Surgeon Satish Modi, M.D. “Patients constantly tell me that one of the most troubling things about their vision with cataracts is how difficult it can be while driving at night,” said Dr. Modi of Seeta Eye Centers serving the Hudson valley with offices in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Carmel, New York. “Driving at night is already difficult enough as reduced lighting can cause you to misjudge distances and boundaries like the edge of the road as well as simply causing an overall dimming of your vision,” Dr. Modi further explained. “So, if you have the beginning of a cataract and are becoming fearful of night driving, please tell as it might well be time to consider whether cataract surgery might be a good option to help you regain your night driving comfort and confidence,” Dr. Modi suggested.

If you or someone you know feels they have night driving problems that might be related to cataracts or has a question about cataracts, cataract surgery or lens implants please feel free to schedule an eye exam by calling Seeta Eye Centers at 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue Poughkeepsie, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512.

Macular Degeneration & Increased Stroke Risk

Late age related macular degeneration (AMD) may be an indicator of the increased risk of stroke. You may wonder, “What does my risk of having a stroke have to do with age related macular degeneration?” Possibly quite a bit as it turns out. The Rotterdam Study reported at the International Stroke Conference Older suggested that adults with late-stage, age related macular degeneration (AMD) may have a significantly higher risk for hemorrhagic stroke than do individuals without the eye disease. There may be a common underlying process contributing to both age related macular degeneration (AMD) and bleeding strokes, but more research will be needed to determine if that’s the case. Researchers found that the risk for any stroke was 56% higher in participants with late-stage AMD than in individuals without AMD after they controlled for the effects of age, sex, diabetes, blood pressure, use of antihypertensive medication, smoking, cholesterol levels, carotid artery plaques, body mass index, alcohol intake, and C-reactive protein levels.

“The single most significant finding in the study was that participants with late-stage AMD-either the wet or dry forms-had six fold higher risk for intracerebral hemorrhage or stroke than did participants without AMD,” noted Dr. Satish Modi of Seeta Eye Centers.”This is a critical piece of information we need to share with patients and their physicians.”

If you or someone you know suffers from or is concerned about age related macular degeneration (AMD), especially if they are concerned about their risk of stroke or have a family history of stroke please feel free to schedule an eye exam by calling Seeta Eye Centers at 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, Cecilwood Health Center, 969 Main Street, Fishkill, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

Safe & Healthy Contact Lens Wear

While contact lens wear is really quite safe, it is important that they be properly prescribed, fit and cared for in order to allow patients a safe and healthy wearing experience. Seeta EyeCenters’ Andreas Wolter, M.D. shared some tips for wearing contact lenses and maintaining healthy vision. “We remind patients that contact lenses are a medical device and even those worn purely for cosmetic purposes, should be prescribed and properly fit by a licensed eye care professional," explained Dr. Wolter. "Too many patients forget this and end up buying and wearing contact lenses without proper medical guidance and a valid prescription. Then, often without even realizing it, they put themselves at risk for serious, even blinding eye infections."

Following the instructions given to you by your eye doctor carefully and completely can go a long way to help avoid contact lens problems and complications. "Our experience clearly shows that by not following instructions on proper wear and care, contact lens wearers are more likely to have discomfort and may actually put themselves at greater risk for infection or other serious complications, such as microbial keratitis," said Dr. Wolter. “We often find that improper storage, handling and disinfection of contact lenses really predispose patients to unnecessary risk.”

Some good contact lens care, handling and disinfection tips to follow include:

• Always wash your hands with soap before inserting or removing your contact lenses.
• Always empty the storage case of disinfection solution after removing your lenses, and fully refill with fresh solution before storing them.
• NEVER clean your case with tap water.
• REGULARLY-even daily- clean your case.
• REGULARLY-at least monthly- replace your case.

If you or someone you know has questions about contact lens care, handling and disinfection please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Middletown, Kingston, New Paltz, Newburgh, Beacon, Bedford, Catskill, Cornwall, Eastchester, Ellenville, Florida, Goshen, Harriman, Harrison, Highland, Highland Falls, Kerhonkson, Mahopac, Monroe, Montgomery, Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, New City, Scarsdale, Saugerties, Spring Valley, Tarrytown, West Point, White Plains, Woodstock, Yorktown Heights and Yonkers, NY.

NY Doctor on Eyes & Colon Cancer

NY eye doctor Andreas Wolter, M.D. of Seeta Eye Centers in Poughkeepsie, Carmel and Fishkill asked, “What could a colonoscopy for colon cancer risk possibly have to do with your eyes?” As it turns out-plenty! The retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) is a layer of the retina which can sometimes be thicker than normal at birth-or “hypertrophic.” Congenital Retinal Pigment Epithelial Hypertrophy (CHRPE) is usually found before patients reach 30 years of age and although they may enlarge with time they usually do not lead to malignancies like colon cancer.

“During regular eye exams when we find these areas of retinal pigmented epithelial hypertrophy typically they do not cause any vision problems or symptoms and are pretty unremarkable,” commented Dr. Wolter.

However, there is an association between people with Gardner's Syndrome-Familial Colonic Polyposes-or polyps of the colon, and CHRPE. If your eye doctor has told you that you have Congenital Retinal Pigment Epithelial Hypertrophy-perhaps called “Bear Tracks” or “Pigment Spots” or “Retina Freckles”, it is important to carefully explore and review your family history reasonable with a Gastroenterologist who will likely schedule you for a colonoscopy. A study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology concluded that patients with such “freckles” should be referred for colonoscopies. CHRPE has a “statistically significant” correlation with hereditary colon polyps known as Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, or FAP. It may be that the freckles are caused by the same genetic mutation that produces the polyps. 

Thus-when we are over 50 years of age, the reasons to have yearly eye exams includes not only detecting cataracts, glaucoma, age related macular degeneration (AMD) and other eye diseases, but regular eye examinations may very well be a reminder to be screened via colonoscopy to help detect early risks and potential indicators of colon cancer.

Patients who wish to learn more about Bear Tracks, Retina Freckles, Pigment Spots or CHRPE should feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue Poughkeepsie, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512.

NY Ophthalmologist on Contact Lens iPhone App

Andreas Wolter, M.D., a NY Ophthalmologist at Seeta Eye Centers reviewed an iPhone app to help contact lens wearers. “An app is available for use on iPhones and iPads that provides a convenient way to keep track of how many times you have worn your reusable contact lenses. No more having to wonder if it's time to replace your contacts. This is a nice way to help keep your contact lenses safe and your eyes healthy,” commented Dr. Wolter. “Proper lens replacement is critical to your eyes' health when wearing contacts. The app is available at iTunes for contact lens wearers to have a look at.”

If you or someone you know has a question about contact lenses please call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue Poughkeepsie, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512, for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

Lucentis®, Diabetic Macular Edema & Vision Loss

Lucentis® eye injections work to treat diabetic macular edema, or swelling of the macula-a leading cause of vision loss associated with diabetes. “This is really good news for our diabetic patients who are experiencing diabetic eye problems,” commented Andreas Wolter, M.D. of Seeta Eye Centers in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Carmel, New York. Lucentis® has been used for some time to is to treat “wet” age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and now Lucentis® is the first drug FDA approved to treat diabetic macular edema. More than 500,000 people in the U.S. have diabetic eye disease and before Lucentis® had to have laser treatment to address this complication of diabetic retinopathy.  “The use of Lucentis® to treat diabetic macular edema gives us a great tool and a significant advantage is managing vision loss from diabetes,” commented Dr. Wolter. “As we well know, the key to preservation of eye health and vision for diabetics is early detection, diagnosis and treatment.”

If you or someone you know has questions or needs an eye exam for diabetic eye disease or the problems from diabetic retinopathy and diabetic retinopathy please feel free to call

Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue Poughkeepsie, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512.

Driving Safely after Cataract Surgery

Cataract Surgeon Andreas Wolter, M.D. of Seeta Eye Centers remarked on how cataracts and cataract surgery impact driving safely, particularly with regard to differences between men and women. “An interesting study on cataract surgery and driving was reported in Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology whereby motor vehicle accidents involving men decreased by 15.3% in the 12 months following cataract surgery but the frequency of postoperative crashes didn't change significantly for women,” noted Dr. Wolter. “We know all too well that delaying cataract surgery often results in patients modifying their lifestyles and activities. This is especially the case as people restrict their driving in response to health and vision changes. We need to hear from patients about their driving habits and whether they have had to change them as their cataracts develop-then we can help,” said Dr. Wolter.

If you or someone you know has a question about cataracts, cataract surgery, lens implants or driving please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue Poughkeepsie, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512.

Why Do Women Need Bifocals Sooner?

“Women often puzzled by why it seems that they need bifocals or reading glasses before men they know of the same age,” remarked Andreas Wolter, M.D., a NY Ophthalmologist at Seeta Eye Centers. Recent research reported in Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science (IOVS) found that women tend to need bifocals sooner to correct their near vision and the onset of presbyopia-the age related near vision focusing problem. The studies show that presbyopia, the inability to see at a close distance that occurs with age, is more common in women. While men and women need bifocals as they age, the need is more common among women and tends to hit them at younger ages than men. It is believed that while men and women appeared to actually have the same focusing ability when looking at nearby objects, because women are generally shorter than the men, with proportionally shorter arm lengths, they needed to hold objects closer to their faces when reading and thus required the near vision presbyopia correction of bifocals, reading glasses or even bifocal contact lenses sooner.

Patients who wish to learn more about near vision focusing problems, presbyopia, bifocals or reading glasses should feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue Poughkeepsie, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue,Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County.

Smoking Increases Risk of Cataracts

Smokers should be aware that smoking increases the risk of cataracts. Satish Modi, M.D., a Cataract Surgeon at Seeta Eye Centers in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Carmel, New York commented on the relationship between smoking and risk of cataracts. “Most patients I speak to today are well aware of the vascular risks of smoking. Some smokers know that they are also at increased risk of glaucoma and age related macular degeneration. However, what may be new information for smokers is that they are also at increased risk of cataracts,” stated Dr. Modi.

Patients who are current smokers or who have any history of smoking are at increased risk of getting a cataract according to researchers reporting in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science. The researchers found that the overall current literature suggests that smoking was associated with increased risk of age related cataract, especially nuclear cataract and to some extent posterior sub capsular cataract. They further recommended that additional efforts should be made to confirm these findings and clarify the underlying biological mechanisms. A healthy lifestyle and diet are meaningful ways of maintaining eye health and vision-whether lowering your risk of cataracts, keeping the tiny blood vessels in the eye functioning properly or minimizing the associated risks of glaucoma-it’s important to avoid smoking as a lifestyle choice.

If you or someone you know feels they are at risk for cataract development, has a question about cataracts, cataract surgery or lens implants please feel free to schedule an eye exam by calling Seeta Eye Centers at 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centersis conveniently located at 23 Davis Avenue Poughkeepsie, New York 12524 and 664 Stoneleigh Avenue,Suite 100, Carmel, New York 10512 for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Middletown, Kingston, New Paltz, Newburgh, Beacon, Bedford, Catskill, Cornwall, Eastchester, Ellenville, Florida, Goshen, Harriman, Harrison, Highland, Highland Falls, Kerhonkson, Mahopac, Monroe, Montgomery, Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, New City, Scarsdale, Saugerties, Spring Valley, Tarrytown, West Point, White Plains, Woodstock, Yorktown Heights and Yonkers, NY.

Smoking Increases Risk of Cataracts

Smokers should be aware that smoking increases the risk of cataracts. Satish Modi, M.D., a Cataract Surgeon at Seeta Eye Centers in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Carmel, New York commented on the relationship between smoking and risk of cataracts. “Most patients I speak to today are well aware of the vascular risks of smoking. Some smokers know that they are are also at increased risk of glaucoma and age related macular degeneration. However, what may be new information for smokers is that they are also at increased risk of cataracts,” stated Dr. Modi.

Patients who are current smokers or who have any history of smoking are at increased risk of getting a cataract according to researchers reporting in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science. The researchers found that the overall current literature suggests that smoking was associated with increased risk of age related cataract, especially nuclear cataract and to some extent posterior sub capsular cataract. They further recommended that additional efforts should be made to confirm these findings and clarify the underlying biological mechanisms. A healthy lifestyle and diet are meaningful ways of maintaining eye health and vision-whether lowering your risk of cataracts, keeping the tiny blood vessels in the eye functioning properly or minimizing the associated risks of glaucoma-it’s important to avoid smoking as a lifestyle choice.

If you or someone you know feels they are at risk for cataract development, has a question about cataracts, cataract surgery or lens implants please feel free to schedule an eye exam by calling Seeta Eye Centers at 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Middletown, Kingston, New Paltz, Newburgh, Beacon, Bedford, Catskill, Cornwall, Eastchester, Ellenville, Florida, Goshen, Harriman, Harrison, Highland, Highland Falls, Kerhonkson, Mahopac, Monroe, Montgomery, Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, New City, Scarsdale, Saugerties, Spring Valley, Tarrytown, West Point, White Plains, Woodstock, Yorktown Heights and Yonkers, NY.

Cataract Surgery Lowers Hip Fracture Risk

Cataract surgery may actually lower the risk of hip fracture. “You may wonder what cataract surgery has to do with preventing hip fractures?” commented NY Cataract Surgeon Satish Modi, M.D. Recent studies suggest that cataract surgery may offer patients with cataracts a distinct advantage in preventing and lowering the risk of hip fractures. A report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association evaluated the risk of hip fracture among more than 1 million people on Medicare aged 65 with cataracts. The researchers found people who had cataract surgery had a 16% lower risk of hip fracture one year after the procedure. Visual impairment from cataracts-whether from blurry vision, glare, halos or decreased contrast-is a known risk factor for falls. Thus when we improve vision for patients with cataracts, their mobility is typically improved as well as their confidence and the safety with which they navigate. A hip or pelvis fracture is the sentinel event that leads to a progressive decline in quality of life and usually signifies increased mortality and morbidity. Accidental falls and the resulting bone fractures are a major cause of disability and death among the elderly. “The key here is that there is a demonstrated need for timely cataract surgery for seniors in order to manage the risk of challenged mobility with resulting fractures. We are quite fortunate-and it is really rewarding-to be able to provide cataract patients with modern patient friendly cataract surgery on an outpatient basis that utilizes tiny incisions, eye drops for anesthesia and a quick visual recovery,” summarized Dr. Modi.

If you or someone you know has questions about cataract, cataract surgery, lens implants or hip fracture prevention please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Middletown, Kingston, New Paltz, Newburgh, Beacon, Bedford, Catskill, Cornwall, Eastchester, Ellenville, Florida, Goshen, Harriman, Harrison, Highland, Highland Falls, Kerhonkson, Mahopac, Monroe, Montgomery, Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, New City, Scarsdale, Saugerties, Spring Valley, Tarrytown, West Point, White Plains, Woodstock, Yorktown Heights and Yonkers, NY.

Cataract Awareness Month in NY

NY Cataract Surgeons Satish Modi, M.D. and Andreas Wolter, M.D. of Seeta Eye Centers in Poughkeepsie, New York discussed cataract awareness in the aging population. “Today’s cataract patient is as often someone in their 50’s as it is someone in their 70’s-people just don’t want their lifestyle and activities limited by cataract development,” noted Dr. Wolter. “It has now been more than a year since we brought bladeless laser cataract surgery to the NY Hudson Valley region. With the availability of bladeless laser cataract surgery along with lens implants that can correct astigmatism and near vision focusing presbyopia problems after cataract surgery we have a lot to offer patients to help maintain their active lifestyles,” commented Dr. Modi.

Today, it seems as if virtually everyone knows someone who has a cataract or has had cataract surgery and lens implants. This is probably because some 25 million people age 40 and older have cataracts- a 19 percent increase from 2000. Further, more than half of all Americans over 65 have some degree of cataract development. In fact cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss among seniors. 

Patients may not know that a cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye preventing light rays from passing through it easily. This results in a clouding and blurring of vision. Cataracts are not a growth or a film over the eye. For many patients cataracts start out slowly and have little effect on vision at first. But, as the cataract becomes denser, so does the impact on vision. The most common symptoms that bother patients with cataracts can include blurring of vision, sensitivity to light and glare, double vision in one eye, poor night vision, fading or yellowing of colors and frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescriptions.

“What many people do not realize is that the poor vision in seniors is often associated with premature or accelerated mental decline. Further, the challenges reduced vision creates in terms of mobility and safety can also put patients at increased risk for orthopedic injury-especially hip fracture. So, helping seniors restore vision with cataract surgery has an important place in securing senior health, well being, mobility, safety and mental state,” said Dr. Modi.

If you or someone you know has questions about cataract, bladeless laser cataract surgery or lens implants please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Middletown, Kingston, New Paltz, Newburgh, Beacon, Bedford, Catskill, Cornwall, Eastchester, Ellenville, Florida, Goshen, Harriman, Harrison, Highland, Highland Falls, Kerhonkson, Mahopac, Monroe, Montgomery, Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, New City, Scarsdale, Saugerties, Spring Valley, Tarrytown, West Point, White Plains, Woodstock, Yorktown Heights and Yonkers, NY.

My Thrilling LASIK Experience Story

Having LASIK surgery through Dr. Modi’s office has been an absolutely wonderful and thrilling experience! Such a surgical procedure has to be a personal decision made by each individual after serious consultation with their doctor. However the Team at the Poughkeepsie Offices of Dr. Modi is friendly, warm, professional and know what they are doing. They very calmly and unobtrusively convinced a very anxious 58 year old man (Me) that despite the potential drawbacks that come with many medical procedures the potential of LASIK surgery, using the very latest techniques, and Dr. Modi’s years of professional expertise, could result in what I am now experiencing.

Since being in the First Grade (remember I said I’m now 58) I had to wear glasses and go to a doctor’s office for eye exercises because I had a “lazy eye”. In other words my eyes did not focus together on any one object. Though with corrective lenses I had close to 20/20 eyesight I was not focusing with both eyes, and my brain was interpreting what was happening so I saw one image, usually from my right eye, and ignored the other image from my left. When I concentrated I could sometimes merge the images but it took considerable effort and was distracting for my entire life.

As a child the eyeglass lenses grew thicker. By 1972 I switched to soft contact lenses, and the little disinfecting pots that were available before chemical disinfection. Better than glasses but still not quite 20/20 and by then the discrepancy between the vision in my two eyes had grown worse. Actually “seeing” one image with both eyes is what gives most of us depth perception. Since I only saw out of my dominant eye, the clarity and perception of the images I saw was lacking. However I had never experienced proper vision with both eyes so I really did not know what I was missing. When I reached 50 I was still wearing soft contact lenses but now I needed reading glasses as well; and the discrepancy between my two eyes grew so one was 20/175 and the other 20/450. I wasn’t comfortable with extended wear lenses; so, between carrying around reading glasses and dealing with the soft lenses; I just decided it was easier to wear one pair of eyeglasses for both. When I came to work in Poughkeepsie in 2010 I found that several of my colleagues had seen Dr Modi and had successfully completed Lasik Surgery. It became something I started to consider but to say I was apprehensive would be a gross understatement. I kept coming back to the idea that I could see and going through surgery that might have an unintended result was not a wise choice. However after further discussions at work, I decided to look into the procedure.

WOW!!!!!!!!! My surgery was a success, but I never imagined the benefits I am experiencing. When I am rested and looking to the horizon as I drive home each and every day I now see what everyone else has been looking at all their lives. What a beautiful mixture of colors in the Fall! 

The depth of the trees lining Hudson Valley’s mountainsides is magnificent! The clarity of the view with my new 20/15 eyesight with both eyes focused on the same horizon is truly a gift!

Though I still have to concentrate to see one sight with both eyes, it has never been this easy, and what I am seeing for the first time in my life cannot be appreciated until you really SEE the beauty of God’s nature around us.

I can’t thank Dr. Modi, Stacey, and the professional staff at Seeta Eye Center in Poughkeepsie enough! I can’t believe what I didn’t even know what was possible with normal eyesight. It’s an exciting and thrilling experience!

Thank you!

Patients who wish to learn more about Bladeless LASIK or schedule a Free Bladeless LASIK Consultation should feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Middletown, Kingston, New Paltz, Newburgh, Beacon, Bedford, Catskill, Cornwall, Eastchester, Ellenville, Florida, Goshen, Harriman, Harrison, Highland, Highland Falls, Kerhonkson, Mahopac, Monroe, Montgomery, Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, New City, Scarsdale, Saugerties, Spring Valley, Tarrytown, West Point, White Plains, Woodstock, Yorktown Heights and Yonkers, NY.

NY Surgeon Advises on LASIK vs. Contact Lenses for Swimming

Enjoying summer often means swimming and participating in water sports. Satish Modi, M.D., a LASIK Surgeon in NY commented on the risks and benefits of LASIK vs. contact lenses for swimming. “There is sufficient data and clinical information about swimming with contact lenses that we are quite clear that contact lenses and swimming are not a good combination,” stated Dr. Modi of Seeta Eye Centers in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Carmel, New York. “Many more patients-even very successful contact lens wearers-finds this risk to be troubling and visit us as they are interested in discussing LASIK as an option,” said Dr. Modi.

It is generally known that wearing contact lenses for swimming and water sports and activities poses a risk of Acanthamoeba Keratitis, a potentially catastrophic eye infection of the cornea. Acanthamoeba Keratitis is caused by an organism present in all forms of impure water such as swimming pools, tap water, saunas, wells and even showers. 

Contact lenses are really quite safe to wear if your follow proper care guidelines and instructions. However, if water restrictions such as swimming, bath tubs and showering are part of your daily routine, you do need to keep your lenses out. If this is an inconvenience or too much hassle LASIK may be an option to consider.

If you or someone you know has questions about swimming with contact lenses or participating in water sports with contact lenses or would like to learn more about LASIK or even schedule a Free LASIK Consultation please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an appointment by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Middletown, Kingston, New Paltz, Newburgh, Beacon, Bedford, Catskill, Cornwall, Eastchester, Ellenville, Florida, Goshen, Harriman, Harrison, Highland, Highland Falls, Kerhonkson, Mahopac, Monroe, Montgomery, Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, New City, Scarsdale, Saugerties, Spring Valley, Tarrytown, West Point, White Plains, Woodstock, Yorktown Heights and Yonkers, NY.

Recovery from Bladeless Laser Cataract Surgery

“Recovery from our bladeless laser cataract surgery and lens implant procedure at Seeta Eye Centers is worth sharing information about as often the patient expectations of cataract surgery recovery are not exactly in line with how much different and easy we are able to make it for them,” explained NY Cataract Surgeon Satish Modi, M.D. of Seeta Eye Centers in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Carmel, New York. “I routinely perform cataract removal and lens implants using a very tiny incision, with no needles and typically only eye drops for anesthesia,” explained Dr. Modi. “When our cataract patients leave the Dutchess Ambulatory Surgery Center they are surprised and pleased by how comfortable and unremarkable the postoperative course is. In fact, most patients don't require pain medications as at most they have a slight foreign body feeling from the incision which usually clears in a few hours.” 

Dr. Modi further explained, “The vision the day after bladeless laser cataract surgery is usually quite good and patients often excitedly comment about how well they are seeing. This is because when we remove the cloudy lens material of a cataract through a tiny 2.2 mm incision we must use a high speed ultrasonic probe or what is called a phacoemulsifier. This creates a great deal of heat as it acts as a small “jackhammer”, with fragments moving within the eye. With laser cataract surgery we use less energy as the femtosecond laser can and does fragment and break apart this hard core or nucleus-this in turn, allows me to remove the now "chopped up and softened" nucleus with less applied energy to the eye which results in very little swelling. 

Finally, Dr. Modi advised patients, “One thing that we do explain to patients about their vision after bladeless laser cataract surgery is that depending on the type of lens implant you have had there may be a little adaptation. For example, if you have had a near vision presbyopia correcting multifocal lens implant such as the Acry®Sof ReSTOR® there may be re-learning of how to see far and near. Most patients adapt pretty quickly.” 

If you or someone you know has questions about cataract, bladeless laser cataract surgery, lens implants or the recovery from any type of eye surgery please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers at 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Middletown, Kingston, New Paltz, Newburgh, Beacon, Bedford, Catskill, Cornwall, Eastchester, Ellenville, Florida, Goshen, Harriman, Harrison, Highland, Highland Falls, Kerhonkson, Mahopac, Monroe, Montgomery, Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, New City, Scarsdale, Saugerties, Spring Valley, Tarrytown, West Point, White Plains, Woodstock, Yorktown Heights and Yonkers, NY.

Adult Eye Health Considerations for Those Over 40

“Maintaining eye health and vision as adults enter their 40’s needs to be a priority in order to enjoy a active and productive lifestyle,” commented Satish Modi, M.D., a NY eye physician and surgeon at Seeta Eye Centers in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Carmel, New York. “What is important to consider is that as we enter our 40’s and beyond, middle age is a time when symptoms of many eye diseases may begin to emerge and when other diseases can develop without any symptoms at all. It is crucial for adults even without symptoms or known risk factors for eye disease to get a baseline eye examination at 40 for early detection, diagnosis and treatment of eye problems, conditions & diseases,” stressed Dr. Modi. Starting early will help to preserve eye health and vision. Some things to consider as we enter our 40’s:

Eyes & Exercise
Our eyes need good blood circulation and oxygen intake, and both are stimulated by regular exercise. Regular exercise also helps keep our weight in the normal range, which reduces the risk of diabetes and diabetic retinopathy. Remember to use sun safety and protective eyewear when enjoying sports and recreation.

Eyes & Smoking
Avoiding smoking, or quitting, is one of the best investments you can make in your long-term overall and eye health. Even though as you enter your 40’s old age seems a long way off, smoking can increase your risks for cataracts and macular degeneration (AMD) as well as for cardiovascular diseases that indirectly influence our eyes’ health. Smoking increases the risk of severe vision loss for people with other eye diseases, such as glaucoma, as well.

Eyes & Sleep
As we sleep, our eyes enjoy continuous lubrication. Also during sleep the eyes clear out irritants such as dust, allergens, or smoke that may have accumulated during the day. Some research suggests that light-sensitive cells in the eye are important to our ability to regulate our wake-sleep cycles. This becomes more crucial as we age, when more people have problems with insomnia. While it's important that we protect our eyes from over-exposure to UV light, our eyes also need exposure to some natural light every day to help maintain normal sleep-wake cycles.

Eyes & Systemic Health Problems
Systemic health problems like high blood pressure and diabetes that may be diagnosed or become more problematic in midlife can also affect eye health. One warning sign of both high blood pressure and diabetes is when the ability to see clearly changes frequently. Be sure to keep your eye doctor informed about your health conditions and use of medications and nutritional supplements, as well as your exercise, eating, sleeping and other lifestyle choices.

Dry Eye Problems
This uncomfortable condition becomes more common as people age. Women are more susceptible after menopause due to hormonal changes, but incidence also increases for men as they grow older. It is usually treated with over-the-counter or prescription eye lubricants. If dry eye is severe, surgery to reduce tear drainage may be needed. If you have contact lenses, follow the use guidelines and avoid wearing lenses longer than recommended. If dry eye persists, talk to your eye doctor about possible treatments. Definitely discuss dry eye treatment with your eye doctor if you are thinking about or planning to have LASIK or other refractive surgery. Some medications increase dry eye. If you are taking pain relievers, antidepressants, antihistamines, or have questions about your medications, please bring this to our attention during your eye exam. You may wish to consider following a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) as it may reduce or help prevent dry eye.

If you or someone you know is entering their 40’s, it is time to schedule regular eye exams to preserve eye health and vision. Please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Middletown, Kingston, New Paltz, Newburgh, Beacon, Bedford, Catskill, Cornwall, Eastchester, Ellenville, Florida, Goshen, Harriman, Harrison, Highland, Highland Falls, Kerhonkson, Mahopac, Monroe, Montgomery, Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, New City, Scarsdale, Saugerties, Spring Valley, Tarrytown, West Point, White Plains, Woodstock, Yorktown Heights and Yonkers, NY.

My Story of Eyeglasses & Contact Lens Struggles

My story is really about how LASIK addressed my eyeglass and contact lens struggles as a nearsighted person. As an individual who struggled with severe nearsightedness since I was seven, I struggled with eyeglasses and contact lenses for most of my life. I would hear on the local radio stations, advertisements for vision correction through surgery that was performed by Dr. Satish Modi. I was in envy of those who underwent the procedure and told myself, “someday”. As the technology improved and Dr. Modi's expertise and reputation continued to excel, I recently convinced myself to attend a consultation with the office manager at Seeta Eye Center. Upon completion of initial tests that confirmed I was an ideal candidate, Stacey went into detail about the procedure and benefits. She answered my questions, addressed my concerns and I left that appointment with the confidence that Dr. Modi would soon make my world a better place. With the added benefit of special financing, the opportunity cost was to my advantage and I would make this a fortieth birthday gift to myself.

On the day of the procedure, the support of the professional staff at the office strengthened my confidence and maintained my comfort. Dr. Modi's pleasant demeanor also confirmed years of assurance. The facility's state of the art equipment went hand in hand with the expertise of everyone I encountered during the process of vision correction. My wife was kept apprised of my progress while she waited in my private recovery room. As the minutes, hours and days passed, my vision improved and my eyes healed just as explained. Follow up exams and personal progress reports were performed by Dr. Modi. The ability to wake up independent of corrective lenses and the gift of perfect vision throughout the day – every day – has been a blessing to me. I have Seeta Eye Center to thank for bestowing that great blessing upon me.

Patients who wish to learn more about Bladeless LASIK or schedule a Free Bladeless LASIK Consultation should feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Middletown, Kingston, New Paltz, Newburgh, Beacon, Bedford, Catskill, Cornwall, Eastchester, Ellenville, Florida, Goshen, Harriman, Harrison, Highland, Highland Falls, Kerhonkson, Mahopac, Monroe, Montgomery, Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, New City, Scarsdale, Saugerties, Spring Valley, Tarrytown, West Point, White Plains, Woodstock, Yorktown Heights and Yonkers, NY.

NY Eye Doctor on Fireworks Eye Injury Prevention

NY eye doctor Andreas Wolter, M.D. alerted July 4th holiday celebrants that fireworks eye safety should be top of mind in enjoying the festivities with family and friends. Dr. Wolter cautioned patients, “While enjoy the fireworks this July 4th, it’s best to leave their use and display to professionals trained in there safe use. Eye safety is pretty critical with fireworks displays. Eye injuries are the second most frequent injury we see from the emergency room each July 4th weekend,” said Dr. Wolter.

Around the Fourth of July, fireworks and celebrations often go together. There are precautions everyone can take to prevent eye injuries. The best defense against kids suffering severe eye injuries and burns is to not let kids play with any fireworks. Do not purchase, use or store fireworks of any type. Protect yourself, your family and your friends by avoiding fireworks. Attend only authorized public fireworks displays conducted by licensed operators, but be aware that even professional displays can be dangerous. However, if an eye accident does occur, there are a few things you should know:

• Do not rub the eye.
• Do not attempt to rinse out the eye. This can be even more damaging than rubbing.
• Do not apply pressure to the eye itself-but protecting the eye from further contact with any item, including the person’s hand.
• Do not stop for medicine! Over-the-counter pain relievers will not do much to relieve pain. Aspirin (should never be given to children) and ibuprofen can thin the blood, increasing bleeding. Take the person to the emergency room at once.
• Do not apply ointments or drops. They may not be sterile and may make the area around the eye slippery and harder for the doctor to examine.

Once you are seen in the emergency room please feel free to have them call Seeta Eye Centers as we always have an eye doctor “on call” to provide consultation and continued care for you.

 

If you or someone you know has questions about fireworks eye safety and eye injuries please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

 

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Middletown, Kingston, New Paltz, Newburgh, Beacon, Bedford, Catskill, Cornwall, Eastchester, Ellenville, Florida, Goshen, Harriman, Harrison, Highland, Highland Falls, Kerhonkson, Mahopac, Monroe, Montgomery, Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, New City, Scarsdale, Saugerties, Spring Valley, Tarrytown, West Point, White Plains, Woodstock, Yorktown Heights and Yonkers, NY.

Exercise Reduces Risk of Macular Degeneration

Exercise may be helpful in reducing your risk of age related macular degeneration (AMD) according to the Beaver Dam Eye Study. Researchers reporting in the British Journal of Ophthalmology presented data that suggests that regular exercise can decrease the risk of the eye disease age-related macular degeneration (AMD). “AMD is one of the most common causes of vision loss among seniors and those over 50 years old. It affects central vision, which is important for driving, reading, seeing faces, said NY eye surgeon Satish Modi, M.D. of Seeta Eye Centers in Poughkeepsie, Carmel and Fishkill, New York.

The researchers examined about 4,000 women and men who were followed for more than 15 years, conducting eyes tests and recording their levels of exercise. They were aged 43 to 86 and were assessed every five years starting in 1988. Considering other factors like age, weight, and blood fat levels, those participants who were active lowered their chances in developing AMD by up to 70% when compared to those who barely had any exercise. Those who regularly walk were found to have lowered their chances to 30%.

But how much exercise is enough? The U.S. Department of Agriculture has recommended 90 minutes every day. This should be enough if you have an active job or walk during the say but would probably require you to do more if you have a sedentary lifestyle. It may help if you wear a pedometer, just to know how much you are walking. You can also try other forms of exercise such as cycling, golf, gardening, swimming, and other sports activities. Cleaning your house can even be of great help.

So how much does exercise to help eye health? It is a little too hard to tell exactly how exercise exactly affects eye health but here are some facts to give you some idea:

• Exercise can lower eye pressure helping to reduce the risk of glaucoma.
• Exercise can help prevent half of the cases of type 2 diabetes, a known risk for significant vision loss from diabetic retinopathy.
• Exercise improves the health of the cardiovascular system by lowering triglycerides and increasing HDL levels. Macular degeneration has been known to be caused by some factors of heart disease.
• Exercise can make us less likely to perform risk taking activities which can damage our health as well as that of others.

If you or someone you know has questions about exercise, macular degeneration and eye health please feel free to call Seeta Eye Centers and schedule an eye examination by calling 845-454-1025, visiting Seeta Eye Centers or facebook.com/seetaeyecenters.

 

Seeta Eye Centers is conveniently located for patients from Westchester County, Rockland County and throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County and Orange County including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Middletown, Kingston, New Paltz, Newburgh, Beacon, Bedford, Catskill, Cornwall, Eastchester, Ellenville, Florida, Goshen, Harriman, Harrison, Highland, Highland Falls, Kerhonkson, Mahopac, Monroe, Montgomery, Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, New City, Scarsdale, Saugerties, Spring Valley, Tarrytown, West Point, White Plains, Woodstock, Yorktown Heights and Yonkers, NY.