Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find answers to some frequently asked questions. If you cannot find the information you are looking for, please call our office and one of our staff members will assist you. You may also email us your question using the contact form and someone from our office will get back to you within 24 hours.
Both optometrists and ophthalmologists are doctors who help patients maintain the health of their eyes. Doctors of optometry specialize in correcting vision with glasses and contact lenses. Most optometrists also treat common eye conditions such as glaucoma, dry eyes, lazy eyes, macular degeneration, and flashers and floaters.
An ophthalmologist is typically a Doctor of Medicine ( MD ) who treats all of the above conditions but also performs surgery to the eye. Optometrists and ophthalmologists work hand-in hand to provide the entire array of eye care.
Yes. Dr. Bannan is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. He is also a Member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
A cataract is the term used to describe the lens of the eye that has lost its transparency. It is important to understand that when cataract surgery is performed, the doctor is actually removing the lens of the eye. In order for the patient to see after cataract surgery, the surgeon must implant a transparent, artificial lens ( IOL ) at the time of cataract surgery. A cataract is not a film on the surface of the eye as is commonly thought.
No. Once the cataract is removed, it can never come back. However in the months or years following cataract surgery, 25-30% of patients experience clouding of the clear membrane inside of the eye that supports the lens implant ( IOL. ) This give rise to blurry vision that can be similar to the blur that the patient had prior to cataract surgery. Fortunately, we have a 2-minute laser treatment we can use to restore the vision in these cases. This laser treatment is called a YAG laser capsulotomy and is paid for by the patients medical insurance.
No. Dr. Bannan specializes in medical and surgical diseases of the eye. However, he has excellent working relationships with most of the optometrists in the area. If Dr. Bannan concludes that you need these services, he will refer you to one of his optometry colleagues near you.
Depending on the reason for your visit and the insurance you carry, a prior authorization may be required. Please contact us at 800.898.2020 so we can assist you in scheduling your appointment.
Please bring any pre-completed forms, your eye doctor’s referral form, an HMO pre-authorization (if applicable) and your insurance card. A list of your current medications and dosages, as well as any relevant medical records, is also requested. Finally, you may find it helpful to prepare a list of questions you have for the doctor.
Most eye care experts recommend that you have a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years, depending on your age, risk factors and whether you currently wear corrective lenses. Children need regular eye exams to detect vision problems that may interfere with learning.
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