A cataract is a cloudy area in the eye's lens that can cause vision problems. Most cataracts are caused by aging. In fact, more than half of all Americans, age 65 and older, have a cataract. In the early stages, stronger lighting or new glasses may lessen vision problems caused by cataracts. At a certain point surgery alone will be needed to improve vision. Cataract surgery, today, is safe and very effective. Dr. Loeffler utilizes the latest techniques using ultrasound fragmentation (phacoemulsification) to remove cataracts. Dr. Loeffler is currently trained in laser cataract surgery but this procedure has not yet been approved by the FDA. In Dr. Loeffler's hands, over 98% of patients have an improvement in vision following cataract surgery.

Oculoplasty is a specialized field within ophthalmology that concerns itself with the cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids, the tear ducts, and the orbit, which is the bony cavity around the eye. If you have droopy eyelids, eyelid tumors or excessive skin on either your upper or lower lids, trauma to your tear ducts or a fracture, thyroid disease or tumors around your orbit, you would be a candidate for oculoplastic surgery.

Botox is a protein that weakens muscles that wrinkle the skin. It is injected under the skin into areas surrounding the eyes, forehead and mouth to reduce "worry lines", "crow's feet" and "frown lines". The procedure is quick and usually done in the minor surgery suite. Because Dr. Loeffler trained in Canada, he has been using Botox longer than any local doctor. He has many years of experience with both the medical and cosmetic uses of Botox.

Dr. Loeffler will perform a thorough eye examination as part of a LASIK consultation. You will also be shown video tapes about the procedure to help educate you about LASIK. Dr. Loeffler will explain the benefits and advantages of having laser vision correction, but he will also discuss some of the complications that might arise. Your consultation will determine whether you are a good candidate for laser vision correction.

The following is a partial list of some of the requirements for LASIK:

	Vision and refraction stable for 1 year
	Contact Lenses (gas permeable) out for 4 weeks prior to LASIK
	Contact Lenses (soft) out for 1 week prior to LASIK
	Satisfactory eye examination
	Absence of keratoconus
	High myopes require corneal thickness measurements

To schedule an appointment for a LASIK consultation, call (954) 786-5353.