Carolina Ophthalmology Associates

What Does 20/20 Mean?

2012-02-02T10:56:00.000-05:00

Many of our patients ask what exactly does 20/20 vision mean. And it’s a really good question that often gets wrong answers. The first number indicates the standard in feet how far away the object in question is. The second number tells us how many feet away the object is when a normal eye can see it. I know, confusing, right? Hopefully the following example will clear things up for you. If you are seeing 20/60, that means you can see an object (or letter on an eye chart) at twenty feet but an eye that is considered “normal” can see it sixty feet away. So, the higher the second number, the worse your vision is.

If you or your child has had an eye test done and were 20/20, does that mean you have perfect vision? Not necessarily. It only indicates the sharpness of vision at a distance -not close up. Nor does it indicate other important aspects such as peripheral vision, colored vision, depth perception or testing for glaucoma. A person can still have an eye disorder and see 20/20 and that is why the doctors at Carolina Ophthalmology Associates recommend that you have a yearly comprehensive eye exam. Call to schedule an appointment at 967-4836 or click here to schedule an appointment on line.

Special LASIK Offer!

2011-08-29T11:06:00.001-04:00

Carolina Ophthalmology Associates is now offering the revolutionary iLASIK™ surgical procedure at a special introductory price of $1500 an eye! This introduction means you need to take a second look at laser vision correction surgery, here's why:

· iLASIK™ is the most advanced option

· 100% customized, all-laser procedure

· Maximized vision quality and decreased risk of night time glare and halos

· Unique to your eyes only

· Endorsed by NASA and US military

The iLASIK™ procedure joins the safety and precision of IntraLase (the bladeless technique for creating a flap) with the customization and superior results of Custom LASIK. This combination has proven to be immensely successful in helping patients achieve 20/20 vision or better.

Call Pam now for details and to find out if you can benefit from this exciting procedure at

919-945-3937

OFFER EXPIRES SEPTEMBER 15^TH

3-D Movie Anyone?

2011-08-10T16:45:00.003-04:00

As you’re sitting in the cool movie theater at the end of summer watching The Smurfs in 3-D and everyone is oohing and ahhing over the visual effects except for one – and it’s your child.

In a packed theater, there is always one in the crowd who says, 'What are you talking about? I didn't see anything flying out at me.' Or worse, they may mention that the movie actually made them dizzy or a little nauseated.

Dr. Scroggs points out, “Approximately five million Americans have vision problems that keep them from enjoying such 3-D movies as Captain America and the latest Harry Potter movie.” The problem has to do with binocular vision, which is the ability to align both eyes on a target and combine the visual images from the two eyes into a single, three-dimensional perception. "3-D is really our ability to judge distances," he said. "Adults use it a lot for driving, such as us to judge how far away the car in front of us is and children use it to judge how fast the ball is coming towards them during sports."

However, people with binocular vision problems will not be able to perceive the illusion of 3-D. An recent poll found that these individuals will experience headaches, dizziness and blurred vision from 3-D movies instead of enjoying the action packed flick.

Several different vision disorders could be the cause of the problem, including:

Amblyopia, or lazy eye, which occurs when one eye does not see as well as the other. Because of the difference between the two eyes, the ability to see 3-D is greatly reduced or absent.
Strabismus, or crossed eyes, in which the eyes do not line up in the same direction when focusing. Ultimately, a person with strabismus begins to suffer from double vision or loses the ability to see in 3-D.
Convergence insufficiency, in which the eyes are incapable of turning toward each other to fix on the same distance.

The good news is that the popularity in 3-D movies is giving some people their first clue of a vision problem they may have. These conditions can be treated by an ophthalmologist at Carolina Ophthalmology Associates, so call to schedule an appointment if you or a loved one has not had a recent exam or are experiencing any of the above problems.

Best of Chapel Hill

2011-06-21T10:03:00.000-04:00

Carolina Ophthalmology Associates has been selected by the readers of Chapel Hill Magazine in the category for “The Best Optometrist/ Ophthalmologist” in Chapel Hill.

The "Best Of Chapel Hill" poll is the only one of its kind dedicated solely to our community and those who are contributing to its continued success.

We'll be featured in the July/August issue of Chapel Hill Magazine, so be on the lookout.

Cheers to all who voted for us!

Hormones Can Result in Dry Eye Syndrome

2011-02-17T13:29:00.002-05:00

One of the most notable vision problems that affect women in larger numbers is dry eyes, or keratoconjuctivitis sicca. More than 60 percent of women suffer from dry eyes at a ratio of nine to one over men. Eyes become dry because the glands in the inner eyelids don’t produce enough oil, tears evaporate too quickly, or both. Dry eye syndrome has several causes. It occurs as a part of the natural aging process but also can develop as a side effect of medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, certain blood pressure medicines, Parkinson's medications and birth control pills; from contact lens wear or dry air conditions.

For women, it is usually a result of hormones -- such as when women go through menopause, pregnancy or take birth control pills. The solution sometimes lies with the gynaecologist and not the eye doctor because if it happens during menopause, there is very little an eye doctor can do to control the hormones that cause the dry eye symptoms.

Like women going through menopause, pregnant women also suffer from dry eye, most likely because of the high level of estrogen. This typically occurs during the last trimester. That is when there is a lot of dryness and because of chemistry and slight changes in astigmatism, vision can slightly change, but tends to go back to the way it was before pregnancy.

Along with lubricating eye drops, our doctors may recommend over the counter supplements such as TheraTears Nutrition that help lubricate with flaxseed and fish oils. In more severe cases, we may use prescribed products such as Restasis or insert punctal plugs. If you suspect you may have a dry eye condition, call Carolina Ophthalmology Associates to schedule an appointment today.

LASIK Holiday Special!

2010-12-08T16:45:00.003-05:00

'Tis the Season for Clear Vision

If you’re not already our patient, don't miss out on the holiday special Carolina Ophthalmology Associates is having on LASIK. Finally, with zero money down and financing provided, having Advanced Custom LASIK by one of the most experienced surgeons in North Carolina is now affordable. Dr. James Bryan has been helping patients achieve their best possible vision with LASIK for over a decade and is offering $1000 off (both eyes) for anyone who books their procedure by December 31st!

With so many festive events and family celebrations on the horizon, why wait to upgrade your lifestyle and increase your quality of life? For more information or to schedule your consultation, please call me 877.321.EYES.

Pamela Andrews, COA

Refractive Surgery Coordinator

Local Families Need Assistance

2010-11-30T16:26:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving may be over, but our food drive isn’t. Have an eye appointment scheduled soon? Don’t forget to bring a non-perishable item!

Several local families are in need and this is Carolina Ophthalmology Associate’s 8^th year collecting items for the InterFaith Council (IFC) Food Pantry. We will be collecting goods until the end of December. Items in need range from canned tuna, canned meats, soups, rice, beans, canned vegetables, canned fruits, juice, dry milk, cereals, spaghetti pasta and sauce; as well as diapers, soap, tooth paste, tooth brushes, shampoo and related personal hygiene items.

For information regarding donations or assistance, you may call IFC and its

Food Pantry at 929-6380 or visit them on line.

Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month

2010-11-01T11:20:00.007-04:00

Are you one of the 29 million Americans that have diabetes? During November's Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness, the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Carolina Ophthalmology Associates want to remind those with diabetes to protect their vision by having a dilated eye exam every year.

Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of legal blindness among working-age Americans.

Each year 12,000 to 24,000 people lose their sight due to diabetes. This includes people as young as 18 years old.

Diabetic retinopathy can also appear within the first year or two after the onset of the disease. For some people, diabetic retinopathy is one of the first signs they have diabetes.

Pregnant women with diabetes should have an eye exam in the first trimester – since diabetic eye disease can progress rapidly during pregnancy.

If you're diagnosed with diabetes, be sure to schedule a complete dilated eye exam once a year. Don’t smoke and keep your blood sugar under control through diet and exercise. Remember, it's your sight for life.

Just Launched!

2010-10-15T09:48:00.000-04:00

Our newly designed website has launched and is getting glowing reviews! The new site has more information, links and videos, better navigation and much more. We’ve made it easier for patients to find the information needed for their particular eye condition. If you haven’t checked out our new web site, you should definitely take a peek!!

http://www.carolina2020.com/

You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter.

Have a Happy & Safe Fourth

2010-06-30T11:53:00.001-04:00

Did you know that more often than not, fireworks injure bystanders more often then they injure the person setting them off? According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 5,000 Americans are sent to the emergency room during the Fourth of July holidays because of injuries due to fireworks.

Approximately 1,000 of those injuries were to the eyes.

“What surprised me was that children under the age of 15 account for almost half of the total injuries,” said Mark Scroggs, MD. “Parents need to understand that even consumer - approved fireworks require the use of fire and are dangerous.” So this year, go to the local park and see the fireworks from the safety of your blanket or car!

Want Cheap LASIK?

2010-06-08T16:16:00.007-04:00

Most of you have seen ads for $999 (or less) LASIK and think, “Wow, is that really possible?” Generally, LASIK surgery costs over two grand per eye, so people are shocked to see the difference. If you stop and think about it, you may have spent close to that on the last pair of glasses you bought. How can a high tech, precision surgery like LASIK cost almost as little as a pair of designer glasses?

The obvious answer is that it can’t. The ads are designed to get you in the door but are deceptive in many ways. This tactic is called the bait and switch. Unfortunately, by the time all of this is revealed to the patient, you’ve already invested your time, and may have been charged a consult fee that is nonrefundable if you do not proceed with the surgery.

Another tactic used is up-selling the patient with “optional” benefits which are not truly optional. The surgery itself is billed as one component, but the preoperative visit and follow-up care are then added onto the price. It is impossible to perform the surgery without doing a complete examination beforehand and of course post operative care will be needed afterwards, so the price skyrockets when you add everything up.

Another way to offer a cheaper LASIK procedure is to use inferior, out dated technology. In fact, the technology that is used is usually VERY old and doesn’t apply to most people that truly need LASIK. How else could it be offered at such a price difference? They may even say this is “cutting edge technology” when it is not.

Wouldn’t it be better to work with a practice that is honest and only uses the highest levels of technology? The choice is yours, but if you are interested in a free LASIK consultation with no strings attached, you should first visit Carolina Ophthalmology Associates. Why would you want less than the best for your eyes?

Great Lasik Experience!

2010-03-31T13:31:00.000-04:00

I had lasik surgery in December 2008. Until that time, I wore glasses for 37 years. I spent my lifetime keeping up with my glasses, purchasing new glasses annually, and constantly having my glasses adjusted. I also worried about keeping a second pair available for accidents.
The actual surgery was an easy process. I felt no discomfort, and my recovery was just 1 day! Pam explained exactly what would happen before, during and after surgery, and Dr. Bryan directed me through the process. I felt as though I was the only patient that day. Immediately after surgery, I sat up and read the clock on the wall across the room! I slept through the afternoon with no issues and no pain. A week after my surgery, my eyes became very dry causing my vision to be blurred with some discomfort. Dr. Bryan worked with me to resolve the dryness which restored my clear vision.
Lasik has changed my life! I am able to play with my kids, exercise, swim, but most of all I can see clearly. I have sharper vision, and I can see smaller details. It has opened my world! I do not have to keep up with my glasses nor do I have the expense of purchasing glasses. I enjoy waking up each day and getting dressed without having to put on glasses in order to see my hair, put on makeup, or if my clothes match!!!
I recommend anyone who is interested to make the commitment to lasik so you can change your life for the better! You will not regret the ease of life without the worry of glasses or contacts. You will be able to do more things and enjoy more moments in your everyday life!!!

Rebecca

Eye Care is Essential to Good Eye Health

2010-03-11T14:16:00.005-05:00

As you can imagine, eye examinations are very effective in detecting potential eye problems. Why then do most of us fail to schedule regular exams until we need new glasses, run out of contact lenses or it is time to visit the DMV?

Our eyes are greatly ignored, though they are very important to us. Generally, receiving eye examinations is very effective to detect some potential eye problems. But because most of us fail to do this, many eye diseases become worsened when they are diagnosed.

People seldom pay any attention to their eyes till they become sick. However, those problems can always not be treated easily when finally diagnosed.

For example, the damage caused by glaucoma is not reversible and if left untreated, can cause blindness. This disease does not show any noticeable symptoms until it’s done a significant amount of damage. But if detected at an early stage and treated properly, vision can be saved.

Prevention is much more effective than cure and receiving routine eye examinations is one of the best preventive methods. We can have the joy of good vision -even as we age- by scheduling regular eye exams.

To A Happy & Healthy 2010

2010-01-13T16:34:00.000-05:00

Looking back on the months gone by,
As a new year starts and an old one ends,
We contemplate what brought us here,
And we think of our patients and our friends.
Recalling all the surgeries and eye exams,
Hoping how they enriched your lives,
We reflect upon who really counts,
As the fresh and bright new year arrives.

And when we ponder those who do,
We immediately think of all of you.
Thanks for being one of the reasons COA will have a Happy New Year!

Lordy, Lordy

2009-12-07T15:41:00.000-05:00

Lordy, lordy, look who turned FORTY this year. Pam had her fortieth on April 4th and Jenny just had her big 4-0 on December 5th. Both of these gals are technicians that have worked for Carolina Ophthalmology for a number of years. They may be old, but they still look good!

Happy Birthday, Dr. Bryan!

2009-11-20T12:14:00.002-05:00

Happy birthday dear Dr. Bryan. We love you and hope you have a great time in Scotland!

From the best staff ever... yours.

Thanksgiving Food Drive

2009-11-12T16:40:00.010-05:00

Have an eye appointment scheduled soon? Don’t forget to bring a non-perishable item for our food drive.

This is our seventh year collecting food for the InterFaith Council (IFC) Food Pantry. Items in need range from canned tuna, canned meats, soups, rice, beans, canned vegetables, canned fruits, juice, dry milk, cereals, spaghetti pasta and sauce; as well as diapers, soap, tooth paste, tooth brushes, shampoo and related personal hygiene items.

The IFC & its Food Pantry is located at 110 W. Main Street in Carrboro. For information regarding donations or assistance, you may call 929-6380 or visit them on line.

Use Flexible Spending Account For LASIK

2009-09-30T16:50:00.005-04:00

Don’t let time slip away and miss out on the opportunity to save on LASIK or other refractive procedures at Carolina Ophthalmology Associates. Several of our patients are enjoying visual freedom by taking advantage of their Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA’s) this year. Be among those fortunate enough to enjoy the long-term benefits of Custom LASIK procedure by utilizing your FSA and paying for it with tax-free dollars that you’ve earned.

These programs, also known as Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) and Health Savings Account (HAS) are being offered by more and more companies. Depending on your tax bracket, the savings associated with paying for your LASIK procedure with your FSA could be 30% or more!

If you aren’t sure about your company’s savings options, contact your human resources manager now to find out more. Most companies renew their programs in October and have deadlines.

Contact Pam or Brittany today for your free LASIK evaluation by calling 945-3937.

Internet Access Available

2009-09-23T10:48:00.004-04:00

Carolina Ophthalmology Associates is excited to announce that we now have wireless internet services available. This will allow our patients or their companions the opportunity to enjoy access to online services while dilating in our office or if they prefer to step out by the pond, picnic, or lobby areas.

Make-Up Rules

2009-09-12T23:11:00.003-04:00

You may not consider yourself as having sensitive skin, but the area around your eyes may be. When it comes to eyelid dermatitis whose symptoms can be stinging, itching and redness, beware of these culprits.

Mascara should be replace often due to bacteria that quickly grows within the container. Usually every three months is recommended. Also, you may want to skip the brighter colored mascaras as the added dyes can cause sensitivity too. Black is the least irritating of all.

The next time you have your nails polished, keep them away from your eyes. Believe it or not, freshly painted nails have irritants that are the top cause of dermatitis. Make sure if you do touch your eyes, your nail polish is completely dry. If your eyes are irritated and you're not sure of the cause, make an appoinment at Carolina Ophthalmolgy Associates today by phone or on line.

Meet Brittany

2009-09-01T15:30:00.011-04:00

Congratulations go to Brittany, who has been with Carolina Ophthalmology Associates since June 2008. As a young girl, Brittany became interested in Ophthalmology from accompanying her grandfather to his retina appointments. Since then, she has gained experience in various aspects of Optometry and Ophthalmology.

After graduating from Campbell University with a degree in Biology, Brittany furthered her ophthalmology interest by completing the Certified Ophthalmic Technician (C.O.T.) training program sponsored by the Duke Eye Center and Duke School of Medicine. After months of dedication and hard work, Brittany is now certified through the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel. She currently resides in Chapel Hill with her husband Steven.

Is “Eye Exam” On Your Child’s Back-to-School Checklist?

2009-08-17T16:57:00.006-04:00

Preparing for the start of a new school year? Perhaps you should add Eye Exam to the top of your child’s school list.

“Starting by age five, children should have already had at least one eye exam by a professional” says Dr. James Bryan, MD. “Vision is a critical tool when it comes to your child learning.” In fact, experts say that 80% of what children learn in school is achieved visually. However, it is reported that one in four school-age children have some form of vision problem which can interfere with academic performance.

Family history can also play a role making it especially important that the child receives a complete eye exam if a parent or sibling is known to have any eye problems.

If you notice your child squinting, uninterested in reading, or seems to be "daydreaming" because he cannot see the letters in a book or on the board, it might be time to make an eye appointment.

Please call our office to schedule an appointment for your child with either Dr. Bryan or Dr. Scroggs at 919-967-4836.

Latisse...Voluptuous Lashes Can Be Yours!

2009-08-07T13:38:00.004-04:00

Do you wish you had long, beautiful eye lashes? Well it can be reality thanks to the makers of Botox, drug giant Allergan. Latisse is the first prescription product which has been approved by the FDA to grow thicker, fuller lashes in just 4 to 8 weeks of regular daily use.

If you love lash extensions and dye but are tired of spending an hour at the salon every month, Latisse is a better, safer and less expensive alternative. The result is a more natural look with all of the advantages of long, thick, full lashes.

Follow our blog to see how Latisse works as we will do our own demo on a lucky staff member!

For more information on Latisse, call Carolina Ophthalmology Associates at 945-3937.

If You've Had Vision Correction, You WANT to Read This

2009-07-31T15:31:00.006-04:00

As technology evolves, we have discovered that it is crucial for refractive surgery patients (if you’ve had LASIK, PRK, etc) to keep a record of pre-operation information that will be needed for future eye surgery, such as cataract surgery.

Dr. Bryan has started giving his patients their surgical operative report with vital information such as their eyes’ pre-operative measurements. This is an essential part of your health files and should be kept in a safe place for future reference. If you’ve had one of these surgeries, including RK (radial keratotomy) with Dr. Bryan when he began at Durham Clinic in 1993 (which later changed their name to Regional Specialty Physicians), then call Pam now to get your information at 919-945-3937. Also note that Dr. Bryan was in practice with North Carolina Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat in 2000 before opening his private practice with Dr. Scroggs which is now Carolina Ophthalmology Associates.

This is yet another excellent reason why you made the decision to have YOUR surgery with Dr. Bryan and not the bargain basement down the street that no longer has your information after seven years or worse yet, has gone out of business.

2009-06-24T12:26:00.001-04:00

Hello, I’m Shannon and I work as the Insurance Coordinator at Carolina Ophthalmology Associates.

I started working here as a receptionist in November 2006. For those of you that recognize me, I’m still here, just less visible since I’m no longer greeting you from the front desk.

Now, I’m using my 15+ years of experience in medical billing to better assist our patients. So, whether you have a question regarding your bill or need an insurance question answered, I can be reached by phone at 919-967-4836 or via e-mail at ShannonR@Carolina2020.com.

Baby Love

2009-05-27T16:34:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to our technician Jeanette and her husband Robert on the arrival of a new baby boy!

Jacob Louis Clemons was born on May 18, 2009 at 8:10 pm weighing 7lbs and 4oz.

Carolina Ophthalmology Associates Voted Best Vision Center

2009-05-05T14:07:00.008-04:00

Carolina Ophthalmology Associates was voted as the Best Vision Center by the readers of The Chapel Hill News paper. Dr. Mark Scroggs responds, “We are pleased to accept the 2009 Rose Award and would like to thank our patients that voted for us.”

For more information on our award winning practice, please visit our web site at www.carolina2020.com or call (919) 967-4836 for an appointment.

Eye Allergies

2009-04-21T13:27:00.008-04:00

“I sing of brooks, of blossoms, birds, and bowers/Of April, May, of June, and July flowers”.

Although it may be beautiful outdoors, the signs and symptoms of pollen allergy are not. They can include: sneezing, runny or clogged nose, itchy throat, teary, itchy eyes, red-rimmed eyes, allergic shiners (dark circles under the eyes caused by restricted blood flow near the sinuses) and the "allergic salute" (persistent upward rubbing of the nose that causes a crease mark across it).

Most allergens guilty for eye symptoms are airborne. There is no way to totally avoid the pollen, mold, dust, and animal dander that trigger our unpleasant symptoms. If not treated, an eye allergy can cause inflammation and irritation of eye tissue, leading to the condition allergic conjunctivitis.

As there is no cure for eye allergy here’s what you could do to keep the culprits out of your house and minimize the damage:

AVOID RUBBING YOUR EYES! Cool compresses can help soothe
Remove contact lenses as soon as symptoms appear.
Stay indoors when the pollen counts are at its peak, or if it is windy outside.
Keep windows shut and the air conditioner on
Use artificial tears and/or make an eye appointment to get prescribed a liquid antihistamine to put in your eyes
Wear glasses or sunglasses outdoors
Minimize clutter, book collections, and anything that collects dust and pollens
Keep pets outside or bathe them often and don't let them sleep in your bed
Wash your hair every day to rinse off dust and pollen, and if you've been in the yard, leave shoes at the door and wash your clothes in hot water as soon as possible

For Severe Cases, in addition to above:

Allergy-proof your home; put dust-mite-proof covers on bedding and pillows; clean surfaces with a damp mop, rag, or shampooer rather than dry sweeping or dusting.
Purchase an air filter to clean out pollens, molds and dust
Use a dehumidifier in damp areas like the basement
Install wood, tile or vinyl floors rather than carpet because they can be mopped regularly. If you do have carpets, have someone else do the vacuuming
Make an eye appointment before you experience problems. Oral antihistamines rarely help with ocular symptoms.

You won't be able to eliminate every allergen from your home, but with these steps you can make it a comfortable place even during the peak of allergy season.

On This Day, April 6th...

2009-04-06T11:12:00.016-04:00

Happy Birthday

Dr. Scroggs

...We think you're awesome!

-COA Staff

2009-03-20T16:45:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday COA!

March marks the eighth year anniversary for Carolina Ophthalmology Associates. Wanting to provide a more personal hometown feel for their patients, Drs. Mark Scroggs and James Bryan left their positions at NC Eye and Ear Hospital in 2001 to open their own private practice that was located on East Franklin Street.

Since then, we moved our four employees from an office with two exam rooms to the Boyd Hall Building on VilCom Circle that we are currently located in that entails six exam rooms, an expanded optical shop, a laser suite and 12 employees.

The physicians have been careful to balance growth without compensating the patients’ personal experience. Dr. Scroggs explains, “We have an emphasis on the patient’s care and continue to build and improve upon their satisfaction whether they are here for a routine exam or a complex ocular condition.”

As with any anniversary, the family at COA must also look to the future while reflecting on our past. Dr. Bryan adds, “We are constantly focusing on creating the best possible eye care practice that the people in our community and their families can trust and want to refer others.”

If there is any area of our practice that you feel could improve, please let us know by sending an email to want2see@carolina2020.com. We do value your comments and suggestions.

Where Are You Going to Buy Your Glasses?

2009-03-04T16:11:00.005-05:00

The bargains you can get online can be tempting, especially during this unstable economy, but how much does it really save you? Here are some things to consider before you go online to make your purchase. It takes a good bit of time and educating oneself to get a pair of glasses online that you’re going to really love and you’ll need to be comfortable making the following decisions for yourself.

So you want to know how a pair of glasses looks on you, simply try them on if you’re at The Vision Place. Optical websites offer creative solutions to address this important issue, but is it really the same? Online you may not be able to see the small details and you won’t know how they’re going to fit or feel until they arrive at your door step two weeks later.

In many ways, it is easier to select glasses if you have an optician helping you. Every frame is a custom job, so when you visit the optician, it is their job to take various measurements to ensure a proper fit that is specific to the size of your head, the distance between your pupils and that fit the bridge of your nose properly. Other wise, you may end up with a frame that is either too snug and pinches your nose and behind your ears or too loose and slides down your nose every time you lean over.

Another issue is measuring your own pupil distance (PD). If you don’t measure the distance between your pupils properly, then you may end up getting headaches if you're not looking directly through the centers of the lenses. Bifocals are especially tricky and are often avoided altogether by these types of web-based optical sites.

You will also need to educate yourself with everything that the optician usually guides you through such as deciding what lens material to use, which tint you may want and don’t forget about ultraviolet, crizal, anti-reflective and anti-scratch coatings… When making each decision on your own, what one may have thought would be a “fun” process can soon become overwhelming.

Last of all, beware of the various return policies. What if the prescription is wrong due to a doctor error or your vision changes in a month? Is there a warranty on the frame or lenses and if so, for how long? Our optical shop offers a 12 month manufacturer’s warranty and a 1 month money back guarantee for prescription changes/errors. If you can’t see properly out of your new glasses, bring them back.

At The Vision Place, you will have a qualified optician that is certified and available to assist you during each step of your purchase, making recommendations that will be best for you and your lifestyle. What’s more, UV protection, anti-scratch coating, a case and cleaning cloth is included with every purchase at no extra cost!

Happy Holidays

2008-12-15T13:51:00.006-05:00

Dr. Scroggs, Dr. Bryan and staff would like to wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season!

Our office will be closed for Christmas on Wednesday, December 24th and 25th and on the afternoon of the 26th.

We will reopen on Monday, December 29th and will be closed on Thursday, January 1st for New Years Day.

Double Your Pleasure

2008-11-13T14:49:00.010-05:00

If you haven't noticed yet, you will be greeted by two new smiling faces at our reception desk. We would like to introduce Jess and Sara to our patients.

On September 21st, Jess joined our staff. She is a very busy mother to two boys ages 4 and 2. In her free time, she enjoys racing all-terrain sports vehicles and volunteering through the local fire department and at The Ronald Mc Donald House.

Jess recently obtained her EMT certification and is training to become a flight paramedic. Her hobbies include car restorations, sport bikes, and salsa dancing. Jess says "I am very excited to be a part of the team here at Carolina Ophthalmology and I hope to see you soon!".

Just a short week later we were fortunate enough to also welcome Sara to our extended family. She graduated from Meredith College and is a former school teacher. After staying at home to raise her family for 13 years, she decided to returned to the work force. "I am enjoying being a part of Carolina Ophthalmology" she says. "In my spare time, I take care of my 4 dogs and spend time with my girls. We enjoy shopping, going to the beach and hanging out at our pool. We also are big Duke fans and like to cheer on the Blue Devils!!!".

Know Your Eye Care Team

2008-10-24T11:14:00.003-04:00

There are several types of eye care workers, each serving a variety of patient needs. However, most patients do not know the difference between an ophthalmologist, an optometrist or an optician.

We feel it is important for you to understand the differences in education, training and credentials among eye care providers. Consider those differences when selecting a provider. Here is a listing of the various members of the eye care provider team, what they do and their credentials. Opticians provide the most limited amount of service while ophthalmologists provide all services within the eye care continuum.

Opticians

What They Do:
They fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, following prescriptions written by optometrists or ophthalmologists.
They measure patients’ eyes, recommend eyeglass frames and lenses based on the patient’s needs and can reshape eyeglass frames to fit properly. When licensed to do so, opticians also can fit contact lenses.

Credentials:
They are licensed after they have earned either an associate opticianry degree (one- to two-year program), or after they have apprenticed for at least two years.
They must pass a licensing for certification. Certification is awarded after passing an exam, and must be renewed every three years.

Optometrists

What They Do:
Provide routine, primary vision care.
They examine eyes to detect vision problems and diagnose eye diseases such as glaucoma. They also test patients’ depth and color perception, as well as their ability to focus and coordinate eye function.
They prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses, and in NC, they can administer and prescribe medications to help diagnose vision problems and treat certain eye disease.

Credentials:
Optometrists to be licensed.
Optometrists must have a Doctor of Optometry degree (minimum of three years of undergraduate studies), followed by four years at an accredited optometry school.
They must pass a written and clinical state optometric board exam to receive a license.
They are regulated at the state level, and renew their license usually every three years.

Ophthalmologists

What They Do:
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in all aspects of eye health. They provide primary eye care services including eye exams and prescribe medications and perform surgical procedures, such as laser surgery and lens replacement.
Using both surgical and non-invasive techniques, ophthalmologists diagnose and manage eye diseases, conditions, and disorders, and treat and repair eye injuries.

Credentials:
Ophthalmologists must be licensed.
Ophthalmologists must have a minimum of three years of college, four years of medical school, a one-year internship, and at least three years of an ophthalmology residency (hospital-based training). They must then pass a licensing examination.
As medical doctors, ophthalmologists are regulated by state medical boards.

Visit our web site at www.carolina2020.com

Feed Those In Need This Thanksgiving

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Be sure to bring a can of food with you to your eye appointment as are currently collecting food for the InterFaith Council Food Pantry in time for Thanksgiving. Our patients have been so gererous in the past that this will be our sixth year participating!

Please visit our web site at http://www.carolina2020.com/