Cornea
The cornea is the clear layer on the surface of the eye that helps protect it. It also helps to focus light as it passes through the eye to the retina. If the cornea becomes damaged, it can potentially affect your quality of vision. Dr. Tory Prestera and Dr. Kevin Garff are experienced in treating a wide range of corneal conditions and diseases. To learn about some common conditions, please review the information below. If you have noticed any of the symptoms noted, please contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors.
- Pterygium Surgery
- Pinguecula Excision
- Corneal Transplants
- Ocular Surface Tumors/Cancer
- Dry Eye
- Eye Infections
Pterygium Surgery
A pterygium is an abnormal fleshy growth that can develop along the surface of the eye, affecting your vision and causing irritation. As it spreads, it can distort the cornea, causing astigmatism or even block the vision. With proper treatment, pterygia can be successfully removed to restore vision.
Pinguecula Excision
Similar to a pterygium, a pinguecula is a growth that occurs on the surface of the eye. It is most often caused by a deposit of calcium, fat, or protein. A pinguecula typically occurs on the inside corner of the eye, closest to the nose, and looks like a yellowish patch or bump. A pinguecula does not extend from the white of the eye to the cornea like a pterygium, but the pinguecula can sometimes lead to the development of a pterygium. Dr. Prestera and Dr. Garff are both skilled at pinguecula extraction, which can usually be achieved with prescribed eye drops or ointments, but may require surgical intervention in certain cases.
Corneal Transplants
Corneal transplants may be needed when the cornea has endured an extreme amount of damage. In these cases, if your condition is not addressed and treated, you may be susceptible to vision loss. Corneal disease can be caused by trauma to the eye, corneal swelling, and a variety of infections that include viral, fungal, and bacterial. The corneal transplant procedure is typically completed using one of two techniques: penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) or endothelial keratoplasty. Both methods have had significant success in treating corneal disease.
Ocular Surface Tumors/Cancer
Dr. Garff is highly trained and experienced at carefully removing cancerous or malignant tumors that develop on the surface of the eye, such as squamous cell carcinoma and ocular melanoma. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of cancer that can develop on the eye’s surface (conjunctiva). Dr. Garff is trained in the latest techniques for ocular tumor removal with ocular surface reconstruction. Ocular melanoma is another common type of conjunctival cancer found in adults, although it is fairly rare overall. If untreated, it can spread and even be fatal.
These types of tumors may not show signs or symptoms right away, so it is important to schedule regular eye exams to ensure early detection.
Dry Eye
If your eyes are constantly dry, red, and irritated, you may be suffering from Dry Eye Syndrome. This condition can be caused by a variety of things, such as environmental factors, contact lens use, or the natural aging process. However, it can also be caused by a lack of lubrication in the eye. We offer a variety of treatment options that can help alleviate Dry Eye Syndrome.
Eye Infections
In addition to the conditions listed above, Dr. Prestera and Dr. Garff are skilled at treating a wide variety of other types of eye infections. If you are experiencing changes in your vision, irritation, pain, redness, or other irregularities, please contact us as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.
Contact Prestera Eye Medical Group
For more information about corneal conditions or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Prestera or Dr. Garff, please contact us today.