- ArthritisCauses: Dry eyes can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, certain medications, hormonal changes, environmental factors such as dry air or wind, and medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or Sjögren’s syndrome.
- CryotherapyThe Eye and Laser Center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by highly skilled ophthalmologists who can diagnose and manage a breadth of retinal disorders. Services provided include diagnostic testing such as OCT imaging, ultrasound imaging, wide-field fundus photography and fluorescein angiography, as well as treatment options such as intravitreal injections, laser therapy, and cryotherapy. The center is committed to providing personalized care to each patient and works closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes.
- Emergency CareThis form is not for emergency use. Please contact the office Monday-Friday 8am-5pm with questions or concerns (803-285-4333). If after hours or during the weekend please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Once you submit your request, you will be contacted within 24 hours.
- GlaucomaGlaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damages the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss or blindness. It is often caused by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), the pressure within the eye. While many cases of glaucoma can be treated with medication, some individuals may require laser or surgical intervention to manage their condition.
- OphthalmologyDr. Edwards joined The Lancaster Eye Clinic in 1988 and helped found what has become The Eye and Laser Center. Dr. Edwards stays current with his practice by being an active member of the Academy of Ophthalmology, South Carolina Medical Associations, and a member and past president of the South Carolina Society of Ophthalmology.
- Macular DegenerationMacular degeneration is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina that is responsible for sharp, detailed vision. There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. Dry macular degeneration is the most common form and occurs when the macula thins and breaks down over time, causing gradual vision loss. Wet macular degeneration is less common but more severe and occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina, causing fluid leakage and bleeding that can lead to rapid vision loss. Symptoms may include blurry or distorted vision, difficulty reading or recognizing faces, and reduced color perception.
- Laser Eye SurgeryLASIK and PRK are both refractive surgeries that use laser technology to reshape the cornea and improve vision, with LASIK using a flap while PRK does not.
- CataractsCataracts are a common condition that affects the lenses of your eyes. Cataracts occur when the normally clear lenses become cloudy, causing blurred vision and other vision problems.
- Cataract SurgeryLaser assisted cataract surgery is a modern technique that uses a laser to perform certain steps of cataract surgery. This technique can improve the precision and accuracy of the procedure and provide better outcomes for patients. In this patient education page, we will discuss what Lensx assisted cataract surgery is, how it works, and its benefits.
- Eye ExamA routine eye exam is a comprehensive examination of your eyes, which includes several tests to evaluate your vision and overall eye health. Your eye doctor will typically start with a review of your medical history and any medications you may be taking, followed by a series of tests to check your vision, eye movements, and eye pressure.
- Diabetes Care
- Diabetic RetinopathyDiabetic retinopathy is an ocular manifestation of diabetes, a systemic disease, which affects up to 80 percent of all patients who have had diabetes for 10 years or more. The longer a person has diabetes, the higher his or her chances are of developing diabetic retinopathy.
- UltrasoundOriginally, the procedure to remove a cataract involved using a diamond blade to make a small incision in the cornea, the clear outer coating of the eye. The surgeon would then insert a small, ultrasound wave-emitting probe to soften the cataract enough to be suctioned out of the cornea. Once the cataract was cleared, only the thin outer membrane of the cornea—the lens capsule—remained. An intraocular lens (IOL) would be inserted onto the lens capsule, allowing light to once again safely pass through to the retina. (Note: Though laser technology is gaining widespread acceptance, traditional cataract surgery is still a common and modern procedure.)
- BotoxBotox is a neurotoxin that works by blocking the signals between nerves and muscles. When injected into the skin, Botox temporarily relaxes the muscles responsible for causing wrinkles, resulting in a smoother, more youthful appearance.
- Eyelid SurgeryEyelid surgery is a cosmetic surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the eyelids by removing excess skin, fat, and muscle. The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the surgery. During the surgery, incisions are made in the natural creases of the eyelids to minimize scarring. The surgeon removes or repositions excess tissue to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
- BlepharoplastyAs blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, fat, and muscle from the eyelids. The goal of this procedure is to improve the appearance of the eyelids and provide functional benefits. If you’re considering eyelid surgery, here’s what you need to know about the procedure and its benefits.
- Skin Care
- MicrodermabrasionMicrodermabrasion is a skin resurfacing treatment that uses a special device to gently exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin. This can help to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, and other skin imperfections.