These are the questions most commonly asked of our Ophthalmologists and Optometrists about everything from routine eye care and eyewear to surgical and cosmetic procedures. We hope you’ll find the answers helpful and informative. Of course, if you don’t find the answers you need and want to speak to someone directly or want to find our location nearest you in Jacksonville, Orange Park, St. John’s or St. Augustine, please call us at (904) 296-0098 or contact us online. We’ll be glad to help you.
LASIK
Are You Cutting My Eye When I Have LASIK?
No, we offer the all laser LASIK procedure that provides a safe and effective way to improve your vision without contacts or glasses.
What If I Am Not A Candidate For LASIK?
Bowden Eye Associates will provide you with an extensive evaluation to determine the best surgical option for you. Your surgical options may include PRK, a surface treatment of the cornea, or ICL, an implantable contact lens.
What Is The ICL Procedure?
The Implantable Collimer Lens, otherwise known as the ICL, is an implantable lens most commonly used for patients who are unable to have other forms of refractive surgery because the prescription is not treatable with our conventional laser procedures. This technology has proven safe and effective for those patients who have always been told they cannot have LASIK. Please contact our Refractive Coordinator for more information on this procedure.
I Have Been Told I Have Keratoconus. Do I Have Options?
Yes, in some cases when glasses or contact lenses no longer work for you, small intracorneal ring inserts can be surgically placed in the eye. This procedure is called INTACS. Our Refractive Coordinator is available to answer any questions you may have regarding the INTACS procedure.
Cataract
Will My Cataract Grow Back?
No we will gently remove your cataract and place an Introcular Lens Implant (IOL) in your eye, however, sometimes a film can develop on the lens that is placed in your eye. This is often referred to as a secondary cataract as it causes much of the same symptoms the original cataract did. A simple laser procedure can be performed to remove the film and help restore your vision.
Glaucoma
Some Of My Family Members Have Glaucoma, Should I Be Tested For Glaucoma?
Yes, glaucoma tends to run in families. All members of your family should be tested and have yearly eye exams.
What Kind Of Testing Do You Perform For Glaucoma?
At Bowden Eye, we perform full eye exams, including dilation, as well as photos of the optic nerve. We offer visual field testing as well as laser scanning of the optic nerve which are designed to monitor small changes in the appearance of the optic nerve.
What Is The Treatment For Glaucoma?
The treatment varies with each individual. There are drops and oral medications, lasers designed to lower the eye pressure, as well as glaucoma surgery.
Routine Eye Care
Will My Insurance Cover My Exam?
We accept vision and medical insurance through a wide variety of insurance plans. Bowden Eye Associates has dedicated staff who will verify your benefits and coverage before your visit so that no unexpected costs arise.
What Is A Refraction And Will My Insurance Cover This Test?
A refraction is a test performed during the exam to determine what your best possible vision is. Routine insurance plans usually cover the refraction, however most medical insurance plans including Medicare do not cover the test. The test is the only possible way to get your visual acuity. Our staff will verify your benefits with your insurance company prior to your arrival to see if the refraction is covered under your benefits.
How Often Should I See An Eye Doctor?
It is recommended you see your eye doctor for a complete eye exam on a yearly basis.
Hearing
Is There A Cost For A Hearing Evaluation To See If My Hearing Is Impaired?
We do not charge for a hearing evaluation with Allison, our hearing specialist. The test is complimentary and available to current Bowden Eye patients as well as new patients. Ask our staff today to schedule your evaluation.
