Wednesday, July 31, 2013

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.

Monday, July 22, 2013

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.

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

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.

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

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.

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

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.