Treatment options for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have continued to advance, including newer therapies for certain forms of the condition. Understanding the treatments currently available can help you have a more informed conversation with your eye doctor about managing AMD and protecting your vision.

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, board-certified ophthalmologists Dr. Jay L. Schwartz and Dr. Orry Birdsong work alongside skilled optometrists to provide comprehensive eye care in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, Arizona, including evaluation and management of macular degeneration.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration is an eye condition that affects the macula, a small area near the center of the retina. AMD is generally classified as either dry or wet.

Dry AMD is the more common form and involves gradual changes within the macula. Wet AMD involves abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina. An advanced form of dry AMD, known as geographic atrophy, can cause areas of retinal cell deterioration.

A comprehensive eye examination can help determine the type and stage of AMD and guide recommendations for ongoing care.

What Are the Latest Treatment Options for Macular Degeneration?

Treatment depends on the type and stage of macular degeneration. Current options may include:

• Anti-VEGF injections: These medications are used to manage wet AMD by targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein involved in abnormal blood vessel growth.
• Complement inhibitor injections: Newer medications have expanded treatment options for geographic atrophy associated with dry AMD. Syfovre (pegcetacoplan) and Izervay (avacincaptad pegol) are therapies designed to slow the progression of geographic atrophy.
• Nutritional supplements: Specific vitamin and mineral formulations may be recommended for some individuals with AMD based on their diagnosis and eye health.
• Regular retinal monitoring: Detailed eye examinations and imaging, including optical coherence tomography (OCT), can help your eye doctor monitor the macula and determine appropriate ongoing care.

Learn More About Macular Degeneration Treatment in AZ

Advances in macular degeneration treatment have provided additional options for managing certain forms of AMD. The appropriate treatment plan depends on a careful evaluation of your eyes and the condition’s type and stage.

To learn more, schedule an eye examination with Schwartz Laser Eye Center in Scottsdale, Glendale, or Mesa, AZ. Call (480) 483-3937 or 1(888) 553-3937 to schedule a consultation.

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LASIK and lens replacement are two established approaches used to address refractive error and reduce dependence on corrective lenses. LASIK involves reshaping the cornea to modify how light is focused within the eye. Clear lens exchange, also called refractive lens exchange and abbreviated CLE or RLE, removes the eye’s natural crystalline structure and replaces it with an intraocular lens (IOL).

Schwartz Laser Eye Center serves Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, and provides a range of vision correction procedures. The practice includes Dr. Jay Schwartz, a board-certified ophthalmologist and LASIK surgeon, board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Orry Birdsong, and several optometrists who provide comprehensive and coordinated care.

When LASIK Is Evaluated

LASIK is a corneal refractive procedure used to address nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism by reshaping corneal tissue to adjust the eye’s focusing characteristics.

An assessment for LASIK typically considers stability of refractive prescription over time, tissue thickness and topographic markers, overall ocular surface and eye health status, your distance-vision goals, and whether you also need help with age-related near-vision loss.

LASIK is one of several options that may be discussed when the cornea is structurally appropriate for laser treatment and when refractive error is the primary focus of correction. 

When Lens Replacement (RLE/CLE) Is Evaluated

Lens replacement is a procedure in which the natural crystalline lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens. This approach is typically used when there is significant refractive error, presbyopia is present as part of the overall visual profile, or corneal characteristics are not optimal for laser-based techniques.

To determine the most appropriate IOL option, your provider will consider eye measurements, ocular health, and your goals for distance, intermediate, and near vision. The selection process is individualized and based on clinical findings.

Comparative Considerations

The selection between LASIK and lens-based procedures depends on a comprehensive ocular assessment rather than a single factor. Your surgeon may consider corneal measurements and topography, the condition of the natural lens, clarity, and age-related changes. They also take into account refractive error profile, retinal and optic nerve health, and visual requirements for distance, intermediate, and near tasks.

Clinical Evaluation at Schwartz Laser Eye Center

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, a detailed eye examination and diagnostic measurements help the clinical team decide whether a corneal or lens-based procedure may be suitable. Dr. Jay Schwartz, along with the practice’s optometrists and ophthalmologist, reviews corneal and lens findings to determine suitability and to outline available treatment categories.

Consultation and Next Steps

A comprehensive eye examination is used to decide whether corneal- or lens-based correction is appropriate. To schedule an evaluation, contact Schwartz Laser Eye Center in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, at (480) 483-3937.

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Cataracts develop when the normally clear lens inside your eye gradually becomes cloudy. The lens focuses light onto the retina, helping create a clear image. With age, changes within the lens can cause its proteins to break down and clump together. These changes can interfere with light transmission and may eventually affect the clarity, color, and sharpness of your vision.

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, board-certified ophthalmologists Dr. Jay L. Schwartz and Dr. Orry Birdsong work alongside skilled optometrists to provide comprehensive cataract care in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ.

What Happens Inside the Lens as Cataracts Form?

Your natural lens contains proteins that help keep it clear. As the lens ages, these proteins can change and clump together, scattering light and creating the cloudiness associated with age-related cataracts.

These changes can begin around age 40, although noticeable cataract symptoms may not appear for years.

What Factors Are Associated With Cataract Development?

Several biological and environmental factors may influence the development if cataract. These include:

• Aging: Natural changes in the lens can contribute to cataract formation over time.
• Diabetes: May be associated with an increased risk of developing cataracts.
• Family history: A family history of cataracts may influence the development of cataracts.
• Certain medications: Some medications may contribute to changes within the eye’s natural lens.
• Previous eye injury or surgery: Changes to the eye following an injury or previous procedure may be associated with cataract formation.
• Smoking: Smoking is another factor associated with cataract development.
• Ultraviolet exposure: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light may contribute to changes within the lens.

What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?

As a cataract progresses, you may notice:

• Cloudy or blurry vision
• Faded colors
• Increased sensitivity to bright light
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Frequent changes to your glasses prescription

How Are Cataracts Treated?

When cataracts begin to interfere with your vision, cataract surgery may be considered. During the procedure, the cloudy natural lens is replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL). Schwartz Laser Eye Center offers cataract care with advanced lens options, including the AcrySof® Toric IOL for individuals with astigmatism.

Schedule a Cataract Evaluation Today

Understanding how cataracts form can help you recognize vision changes and discuss them with an eye doctor. Schwartz Laser Eye Center provides cataract evaluations and surgical care at our Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa locations.

To schedule a consultation with our eye care team, call (480) 483-3937 or 1(888) 553-3937.

The post How Cataracts Develop: A Clinical Analysis appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

Red, irritated eyes can leave you wondering what caused them and what you should do about them. Conjunctivitis, commonly called pink eye, is inflammation of the conjunctiva and can have several causes. Three common types are viral, bacterial, and allergic conjunctivitis. Although they can look similar, certain symptoms can help distinguish one type from another.

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, our board-certified ophthalmologists provide comprehensive eye care in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ. Our team includes Dr. Jay L. Schwartz and Dr. Orry Birdsong, along with skilled optometrists experienced in diagnosing and managing a wide range of eye conditions.

Understanding the Different Types of Conjunctivitis

Viral, bacterial, and allergic conjunctivitis share some common symptoms, but understanding their differences can help you know what to look for:

1. Viral Conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis is a common infectious form of pink eye. It often causes redness, irritation, tearing, and watery discharge. Some people may also have symptoms of an upper respiratory infection around the same time.

Because viral conjunctivitis can spread through contact with contaminated hands and personal items, good hygiene is particularly important. An eye doctor can examine your eyes and guide appropriate care.

2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis can also cause red, irritated eyes. One notable difference is that the discharge may be thicker or mucus-like. Eyelids that stick together, particularly after sleeping, can also suggest a bacterial cause.

Since viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can have similar symptoms, it may be difficult to determine the cause by appearance alone. A professional eye examination can help clarify the diagnosis and guide suitable care.

3. Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when the conjunctiva reacts to an allergen rather than an infection. It commonly affects both eyes and is especially associated with itching, redness, watering, and swelling.

Seasonal allergens such as pollen may contribute to symptoms. Management may include limiting exposure to known allergens and following your doctor’s eye care recommendations.

Find Conjunctivitis Care in Scottsdale, AZ

Knowing the types of conjunctivitis can help you better understand what may be behind red, itchy, or watery eyes, but similar symptoms can make self-diagnosis difficult. Schwartz Laser Eye Center can evaluate your eyes, determine the likely cause, and discuss appropriate care.

To schedule an eye examination at our Scottsdale, Glendale, or Mesa location, call (480) 483-3937 or 1(888) 553-3937.

The post 3 Types of Conjunctivitis: Viral, Bacterial, and Allergic appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

Lens replacement procedures, including

Multifocal IOLs are one category of lenses that may be evaluated during the consultation process. At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, serving Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, our award-winning eye doctors assess lens options through detailed diagnostic testing and individualized consultation.

Lens Replacement Procedures

The natural lens inside the eye works with the cornea to focus light onto the retina. Over time, this lens can become less flexible or develop opacity. Cataract surgery and clear lens exchange procedures address these changes by replacing the natural lens with a transparent artificial implant.

Intraocular lenses remain in the eye permanently and are selected based on the patient’s ocular measurements and visual goals. Because the artificial lens replaces the natural lens, its optical design plays a central role in how the eye focuses light after surgery.

How Multifocal IOLs Work

Multifocal intraocular lenses are designed with optical structures that create multiple focal points. These lenses use specialized zones or diffractive patterns to distribute incoming light across near, intermediate, and distance ranges.

When light enters the eye through a multifocal lens, it is directed toward multiple focal points on the retina. The visual system then processes these focal ranges during various tasks, such as reading, using a computer, or viewing distant objects. The design differs from monofocal lenses, which are typically set to focus at one primary distance.

Evaluation for Multifocal IOL Technology

During a cataract or clear lens exchange consultation, several diagnostic measurements are taken before selecting an intraocular lens. These tests may include corneal topography, axial length measurement, macular imaging, and evaluation of overall ocular health.

These measurements help determine whether the optical characteristics of a multifocal lens align with the structure of the eye. The ophthalmologists and optometrists at Schwartz Laser Eye Center use these findings to guide discussions about lens technologies during consultations in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ.

Comprehensive Lens Replacement Consultations

Lens replacement consultations involve reviewing ocular measurements, medical history, and refractive stability. These evaluations help determine whether multifocal intraocular lenses or other IOL designs may be considered.

If you are exploring cataract surgery or clear lens exchange, a consultation provides the opportunity to review lens technologies and diagnostic findings. To schedule an evaluation at Schwartz Laser Eye Center in Scottsdale, Glendale, or Mesa, AZ, call (480) 483-3937.

The post Multifocal IOLs for Lens Replacement appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

The 

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, serving Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, our ophthalmologists offer comprehensive evaluations to determine whether this lens-based approach is appropriate given your unique ocular anatomy and refractive measurements.

How Refractive Errors Affect Your Vision

Clear vision depends on light focusing precisely on your retina at the back of your eye. In nearsightedness, light focuses in front of your retina rather than directly on it, causing distant objects to appear blurred. Astigmatism results from irregular corneal curvature, which can distort focus at multiple distances.

EVO+ ICL improves vision by altering your eye’s focusing power without reshaping your cornea. The lens is placed behind your iris and in front of the natural crystalline lens, where it works in combination with your eye’s existing structures to redirect light more accurately onto your retina.

The Optical Design of EVO+ ICL

The EVO+ ICL is made from Collamer®, a biocompatible material designed to integrate with your eye’s internal environment. The lens is selected based on precise measurements of your eye, including anterior chamber depth, corneal curvature, and refractive error.

Because the corneal surface is not reshaped, the natural corneal structure remains unchanged. The optical correction occurs internally, allowing the implanted lens to provide the additional focusing power needed to achieve clearer distance vision. In appropriate candidates, this design supports high-definition optical quality while preserving corneal integrity.

Customization Through Diagnostic Testing

Before EVO+ ICL is recommended, detailed diagnostic testing is performed. Measurements typically include corneal topography, endothelial cell evaluation, anterior segment imaging, and wavefront analysis. These tests ensure there is adequate space in your eye for safe lens placement and confirm overall ocular health.

The clinical team at Schwartz Laser Eye Center uses this data to determine whether EVO+ ICL aligns with your long-term visual goals and anatomical suitability. We also confirm your prescription stability prior to surgery to support consistent correction.

Long-Term Vision Considerations

The EVO+ ICL is designed to remain in place permanently. Because it does not remove corneal tissue, it represents a lens-based alternative to surface laser procedures. Routine follow-up examinations remain important after implantation to monitor overall ocular health and visual performance.

Schedule a Refractive Surgery Evaluation

If you are exploring refractive surgery options, a comprehensive consultation is the first step. Schwartz Laser Eye Center provides detailed evaluations in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ to determine whether EVO+ ICL (or a different procedure) is appropriate based on diagnostic findings. To schedule an appointment, contact (480) 483-3937 today.

The post How Does EVO+ ICL Improve Your Vision? appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

If you are considering 

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, serving Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, our talented eye doctors rely on precise diagnostic data to determine candidacy and create individualized treatment plans.

How Contact Lenses Affect the Cornea

Contact lenses rest directly on the surface of your cornea. Over time, this contact can temporarily alter your cornea’s natural shape and curvature, particularly with rigid gas permeable or extended-wear lenses. Even soft contact lenses can influence corneal measurements by applying subtle pressure to the corneal surface.

Because LASIK reshapes the cornea based on its natural shape, any temporary distortion may affect the accuracy of preoperative testing. For this reason, discontinuing contact lens use allows your cornea to return to its baseline shape before measurements are taken.

Why Accurate Measurements Matter

Before LASIK, detailed diagnostic testing is performed to evaluate your eyes’ corneal thickness, curvature, and overall optical quality. These measurements guide every aspect of surgical planning, from determining candidacy to programming the laser. If contact lenses are worn too close to the evaluation, the data collected may not reflect the cornea’s true anatomy.

Allowing time without contact lenses helps ensure that corneal topography and wavefront measurements are consistent and reliable. This supports accurate planning and helps our clinical team determine whether LASIK or another refractive procedure is most appropriate.

Recommended Time without Contacts

The time required to stop wearing contact lenses varies depending on the type of lenses used. Soft contact lenses typically require a shorter discontinuation period, whereas rigid gas-permeable lenses may require a longer discontinuation period. During your initial consultation, the clinical team at Schwartz Laser Eye Center will provide specific guidance based on your lens type and wearing history.

Following these instructions helps ensure your evaluation yields stable, natural corneal measurements.

Supporting a Comprehensive LASIK Evaluation

Stopping contact lens use before LASIK is not a procedural requirement but rather an essential step in the diagnostic process. By allowing your cornea to stabilize, the ophthalmologists and optometrists at Schwartz Laser Eye Center can perform a thorough assessment and determine whether LASIK, PRK, EVO+ ICL, or another option aligns with your ocular anatomy and vision goals.

If you are considering LASIK, a comprehensive evaluation is the first step. Contact Schwartz Laser Eye Center in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, at (480) 483-3937 to schedule a refractive surgery consultation and receive individualized guidance on preparing for your visit.

The post Why You Should Stop Wearing Contacts Before LASIK appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

Retinal Structure

The retina contains layers of specialized cells that detect light and transmit visual signals to the brain through the optic nerve. These structures depend on a stable network of small blood vessels to supply oxygen and nutrients. In individuals with diabetes, prolonged exposure to elevated glucose can affect these blood vessels, altering both their function and integrity.

How Elevated Glucose Affects Retinal Blood Vessels

Consistently high blood glucose may contribute to changes in the walls of retinal blood vessels. These vessels may become less efficient at regulating fluid and blood flow, which can influence retinal thickness and clarity. Over time, these vascular changes may lead to the development of diabetic retinopathy, a condition characterized by progressive alterations in the retinal microvasculature.

In the early stages, these changes often occur without noticeable symptoms. Because the retina lacks pain fibers and early visual changes can be subtle, affected people are usually unaware of retinal changes until more advanced findings are present during an eye exam. This is one reason routine diabetic eye evaluations are essential.

Retinal Swelling and Visual Function

Diabetes may also affect the macula, the central area of the retina responsible for detailed vision. When fluid accumulates in this region, it may change how light is focused, leading to fluctuations in visual clarity. Consequently, reading, recognizing faces, or performing tasks requiring fine detail may become more challenging. These fluctuations often vary from day to day, especially when blood sugar levels shift.

Long-Term Effects on Retinal Health

As diabetes continues over many years, cumulative changes in the retinal vessels may increase the likelihood of structural alterations. Detailed retinal imaging, including optical coherence tomography (OCT) and wide-field photography, helps detect early changes long before they interfere with vision. Identifying these findings early allows our clinical team to determine appropriate follow-up intervals and coordinate care with a patient’s primary physician or endocrinologist.

Comprehensive Retinal Evaluations

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, serving Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, diabetic retinal evaluations include a review of ocular history, visual acuity testing, dilated fundus examination, and advanced imaging. These diagnostic tools provide a detailed view of retinal layers, vessel integrity, and macular thickness. Regular monitoring helps track changes over time and supports timely clinical decision-making.

For a diabetic retinal evaluation, contact our practice at (480) 483-3937 to schedule an appointment. 

The post How Diabetes Affects the Retina appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

Refractive surgery (including 

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, with locations in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, our ophthalmologists and optometrists perform comprehensive evaluations to determine whether vision stability has been achieved before scheduling surgical correction.

What Stable Vision Means

Stable vision refers to a consistent eyeglass or contact lens prescription over a period of six months to one year. Minor fluctuations in vision are common, but significant prescription changes can indicate that the eye’s refractive state is still shifting. Because refractive surgery is customized to correct the current prescription, performing the procedure before stability is reached could result in undercorrection or overcorrection if the eyes continue to change afterward.

Why Vision Stability Matters in Surgery Planning

Achieving stability before surgery helps ensure predictable and lasting results. The laser or lens-based procedure is programmed to match the unique curvature and refractive properties of your cornea or lens at the time of treatment. If those parameters change later, the correction will no longer be optimal. 

This is especially important for younger patients, whose eyes may continue to change slightly into their mid-twenties, and for individuals experiencing vision fluctuations due to systemic conditions or hormonal factors.

By confirming prescription stability, the ophthalmology team at Schwartz Laser Eye Center can determine whether the corneal shape, ocular surface, and refractive error measurements are appropriate for permanent correction. Establishing this baseline reduces the likelihood of future enhancement procedures and supports accurate long-term outcomes.

How Stability Is Determined

During a refractive surgery consultation, detailed diagnostic testing is performed to measure corneal topography, thickness, and overall refractive power. Your clinical history and past prescriptions are also reviewed to identify any changes over time. Consistency in these measurements confirms that the visual system is stable enough for surgery. If changes are observed, your eye doctor may recommend a period of observation before proceeding to ensure that your vision remains steady.

Comprehensive Evaluation at Schwartz Laser Eye Center

Refractive surgery is always preceded by a detailed assessment that considers ocular health, corneal structure, and prescription history. At Schwartz Laser Eye Center in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, each patient receives an individualized evaluation to confirm candidacy and timing for surgery. This careful approach allows the team to create a precise, customized surgical plan once stability has been verified.

For a comprehensive refractive surgery consultation, contact Schwartz Laser Eye Center at (480) 483-3937 to schedule an appointment at one of our three locations.

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Cataracts are a common condition that gradually affects the clarity of vision as the eye’s natural lens becomes clouded. While these changes often begin subtly, they can have a significant influence on how you function day to day. 

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center — serving Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ — our ophthalmologists and optometrists perform detailed evaluations to identify cataracts early and guide appropriate management to support long-term visual health.

Visual Changes That Affect Everyday Tasks

The hallmark of cataracts is a progressive decrease in lens transparency. This clouding scatters light as it enters the eye, leading to symptoms that interfere with everyday visual activities. You may notice that reading small print becomes more difficult, even under bright lighting. Driving, especially at night, can become challenging as glare and halos around headlights increase. Colors may appear faded or yellowed, making it harder to distinguish important contrasts for cooking, dressing, or navigating environments safely.

How Cataracts Influence Depth Perception and Focus

Beyond reduced clarity, cataracts can also affect depth perception, which is your ability to judge distance accurately. Tasks such as stepping off curbs, climbing stairs, or pouring liquids may require greater concentration. As the lens continues to lose flexibility and transparency, focusing on objects at different distances can become more difficult. These gradual changes often lead to increased reliance on external lighting or visual aids to complete familiar tasks.

Adaptations in Daily Routines

Many people with cataracts unconsciously adjust their routines to cope with vision changes. You might avoid driving at night, choose brighter environments for reading, or enlarge text on digital devices. While these adjustments can temporarily improve function, they do not address the underlying problem. Over time, these adaptations may limit activity levels and independence, particularly if clear vision is essential for your work or daily activities.

Comprehensive Evaluation and Monitoring

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, cataract evaluation includes measuring visual acuity, assessing lens clarity, and using advanced imaging to determine the extent of lens opacity. These assessments help distinguish cataracts from other age-related visual conditions. Regular monitoring allows the clinical team to recommend the most appropriate timing for surgery when cataracts begin to interfere meaningfully with daily function.

Supporting Visual Clarity and Independence

Although cataracts develop gradually, maintaining regular eye examinations is essential for continued safety and independence. Early identification allows for proactive management and informed planning of surgical options. For a comprehensive cataract assessment, contact Schwartz Laser Eye Center in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ at (480) 483-3937.

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