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.

The post Why Stable Vision Is Important Before Refractive Surgery appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

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.

The post The Impact of Cataracts on Your Daily Life appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

Understanding the connection between aging and glaucoma is crucial for promoting early detection and effective management. At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, serving patients in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, our eye doctors’ diagnostic evaluations are designed to identify glaucoma in its earliest stages and support long-term vision preservation.

Age as a Primary Risk Factor

The risk of developing glaucoma increases notably with age. While the condition may affect younger individuals, it becomes significantly more prevalent in those over the age of 60. The structural and physiological changes that occur in the eye over time — such as reduced aqueous humor outflow, thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer, and changes to the trabecular meshwork — contribute to a higher likelihood of pressure-related optic nerve damage.

In particular, primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common form of the disease, tends to develop slowly and becomes more likely with advancing age. Angle-closure glaucoma, while less common, also increases in frequency in older populations due to anatomical narrowing of the drainage angle.

The Role of Routine Screening

Because glaucoma often develops without noticeable visual symptoms in its early stages, age-appropriate screening is essential. Patients over 60, or those with a family history of glaucoma, are typically advised to undergo regular comprehensive eye exams that include measurements of intraocular pressure, imaging of the optic nerve, and visual field testing.

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, our ophthalmologists and optometrists utilize high-resolution imaging modalities, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), to assess optic nerve health and retinal thickness. These tools help identify changes before functional vision is affected, which is particularly important in older adults where the condition may be progressing silently.

Long-Term Management Considerations

Although there is no cure for glaucoma, early diagnosis allows for effective management strategies that aim to reduce intraocular pressure and preserve existing vision. With age-related changes in eye anatomy and general health, glaucoma treatment may evolve over time. The team at Schwartz Laser Eye Center provides ongoing monitoring and care tailored to each patient’s needs, taking into account their age, ocular findings, and overall health status.

Schedule a Glaucoma Evaluation

If you are over 60 years old or have concerns about glaucoma, a comprehensive eye examination may be advisable. Contact Schwartz Laser Eye Center at 480-483-3937 to schedule a consultation at one of our locations in Scottsdale, Glendale, or Mesa, AZ. Early evaluation is key to supporting long-term optic nerve health and visual function.

The post Glaucoma and Aging: Why Risk Increases Over Time appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center — serving Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ — ophthalmologists Dr. Jay Schwartz and Dr. Orry Birdsong utilize detailed corneal mapping to both determine whether LASIK is clinically appropriate and to customize the procedure to each eye’s anatomy.

How Does Corneal Mapping Work?

Corneal mapping is a diagnostic imaging technique that measures the curvature, thickness, and surface characteristics of the cornea. Using computerized topography or tomography, this test generates a high-resolution, color-coded map that reveals both the shape and elevation profile of the corneal tissue. Our practice uses the trusted VISX CustomVue™ wavefront system.

These maps help the surgical team evaluate several key criteria, including:

• Overall corneal symmetry and smoothness
• Signs of irregular astigmatism or keratoconus
• Central corneal thickness (pachymetry)
• Corneal steepness or flatness in each quadrant

This data is essential in confirming that the cornea has the structural integrity to support flap creation and laser reshaping without compromising long-term stability.

Customizing the LASIK Procedure

No two eyes are exactly the same. Corneal topography allows our surgeons to identify subtle variations that may influence laser programming and treatment centration. Mapping enables tailored ablation patterns that preserve the integrity of the eye while achieving the desired refractive correction.

In addition to structural mapping, wavefront-guided imaging may also help identify higher-order aberrations, which are slight imperfections in the optical system that are not correctable with glasses. This combination of corneal and wavefront data enhances precision and supports improved visual quality in appropriate candidates.

Enhancing Safety and Surgical Outcomes

By identifying anatomical outliers or early signs of corneal irregularities, corneal mapping plays a big role in determining candidacy. If mapping reveals signs of thinning or asymmetry, the ophthalmologist may recommend an alternative procedure, such as PRK, or advise against surgery altogether. This approach prioritizes long-term corneal health and visual function.

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, each LASIK consultation includes comprehensive diagnostic testing under the supervision of an experienced clinical team. Corneal mapping provides the foundation for these evaluations and allows for recommendations tailored to each of your unique ocular traits.

Schedule a LASIK Evaluation

To learn more about whether LASIK may be right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Schwartz or Dr. Birdsong, two of the state’s most reputable ophthalmologists, at Schwartz Laser Eye Center in Scottsdale, Glendale, or Mesa, AZ. The diagnostic process includes advanced corneal mapping to guide a precise and personalized treatment plan—call (480) 483-3937 today.

The post How Corneal Mapping Guides Personalized LASIK Planning appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

Initial Eye Health Assessment

The consultation begins with a detailed review of your medical and ocular history. This includes an evaluation of any prior surgeries, eye conditions, or systemic health factors that could influence the choice of vision correction. The clinical team performs a comprehensive eye exam to assess current prescription stability, visual acuity, and overall eye health.

Diagnostic Testing for EVO+ ICL Suitability

During a consultation for EVO+ ICL, you will undergo several diagnostic tests to gather precise measurements of your anatomy. These assessments often include:

• Corneal topography to map the surface curvature of your cornea.
• Anterior chamber depth measurement to ensure there is adequate space to accommodate the lens.
• Endothelial cell count to evaluate the health of the corneal inner layer.
• Pupil size analysis to help plan for postoperative visual quality.

Each of these measurements allows the ophthalmologist to determine if the EVO+ ICL is appropriate for your unique ocular characteristics.

Discussion of Visual Goals

At a consultation, you have an opportunity to discuss their visual priorities and daily activities. The team at Schwartz Laser Eye Center explains how the EVO+ ICL works, including its ability to correct nearsightedness and astigmatism without removing corneal tissue. Unlike laser procedures, the EVO+ ICL is placed inside the eye behind the iris, where it remains invisible and functions alongside the natural lens.

Personalized Treatment Planning

Once diagnostic results are reviewed, our ophthalmologists outline a personalized treatment plan. This includes an overview of the procedure steps and a recommended timeline for surgery if you are found to be a suitable candidate. The approach helps you to feel informed and comfortable throughout the entire process.

Schedule a Consultation for EVO+ ICL

With experienced ophthalmologists Dr. Jay Schwartz and Dr. Orry Birdsong at the helm, Schwartz Laser Eye Center provides a thorough evaluation process supported by advanced diagnostic technology. This ensures you receive an individualized recommendation based on your ocular health and visual needs.

To learn whether the EVO+ Implantable Collamer Lens may be right for your vision correction needs, contact Schwartz Laser Eye Center. Schedule a comprehensive consultation in the Scottsdale, Glendale, or Mesa, AZ area , to begin the evaluation process. Call (480) 483-3937.

The post What to Expect During a Consultation for EVO+ ICL appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

While CLE is primarily performed to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses, it may also offer an added benefit: helping to limit the need for future lens-related procedures. Here, our team discusses some ways that CLE supports long-term vision stability.

The Dual Role of Clear Lens Exchange

CLE is designed to address refractive errors such as farsightedness, nearsightedness, and presbyopia by removing the natural lens and implanting a clear artificial lens. Unlike laser-based procedures that reshape the cornea, CLE modifies the internal optical system of the eye. This approach allows for a high degree of visual correction and may be suitable for patients with high prescriptions or age-related lens changes.

Importantly, because CLE involves removal of the natural lens, it also eliminates the possibility of cataract development in the future. Cataracts occur when the natural lens becomes cloudy with age, but that cannot happen once the lens has been replaced. This aspect of CLE may limit the need for future lens-based procedures, including cataract extraction.

Minimizing Future Surgical Intervention

Patients who undergo CLE often benefit from long-term visual stability, especially when combined with the selection of an appropriate intraocular lens (IOL). The lens chosen during surgery is matched to the patient’s refractive measurements, lifestyle, and ocular anatomy. For many, this approach may reduce the likelihood of needing additional surgical intervention related to lens clarity or focus.

While CLE does not prevent all age-related changes in vision, such as those that occur at the retinal or corneal level, it does proactively address the most common internal optical changes associated with aging. This may help patients maintain clearer, more consistent vision for years after the procedure.

Comprehensive Consultation and Planning

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, our eye doctors use a thorough preoperative evaluation process (including biometry, corneal imaging, and ocular health assessments) to determine whether CLE is appropriate. This individualized approach ensures each treatment recommendation aligns with both current visual needs and long-term eye health considerations.

If you are exploring vision correction options and want to understand whether clear lens exchange may help support long-term vision stability, contact Schwartz Laser Eye Center in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ. Our ophthalmologists Dr. Jay Schwartz and Dr. Orry Birdsong offer experienced clinical insight to support every patient’s visual goals. Call 1-888-553-3937 for a consultation.

The post Can Clear Lens Exchange Reduce the Need for Future Procedures? appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

Understanding Depth Perception

Depth perception lets your brain judge the distance and spatial relationship between objects. It relies on binocular vision, which is when both your eyes work together to form a cohesive three-dimensional view. Any condition that disrupts visual clarity in one or both eyes may compromise this process.

When a cataract begins to form, it reduces the amount of light that enters your eye and degrades the clarity of the image reaching your retina. The sharpness and contrast between objects diminish as your lens becomes increasingly clouded. This can make it more difficult to determine how far away an object is, particularly in more complex environments such as stairways, uneven surfaces, or busy sidewalks.

How Cataracts Influence Balance

Vision plays a key role in postural control. Your eyes help your body maintain orientation and respond to environmental cues. Your spatial orientation may be disrupted when your vision becomes impaired, especially by a cataract in one eye. This may lead to overcorrection in movement or uncertainty in your step placement.

Studies have shown that people with cataracts have a higher rate of balance-related difficulties, particularly in low-light conditions or unfamiliar settings. This decline in balance can increase the risk of tripping, stumbling, or falling. This is especially true among older adults who may already experience age-related decreases in strength or coordination.

Why Regular Eye Exams Are Critical

Because cataracts typically develop gradually, you may not realize how much your vision has changed. For example, you may unconsciously compensate by relying more heavily on your unaffected eye. Routine eye exams can identify early lens changes before they significantly affect your balance or depth perception.

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, our team uses detailed diagnostic imaging and functional vision assessments to evaluate how cataracts may be affecting daily visual tasks. This allows for informed planning and appropriate timing of surgical intervention if needed.

Schedule a Cataract Evaluation in Mesa

A comprehensive cataract assessment may be beneficial if you’ve noticed increasing difficulty with depth perception, spatial awareness, or overall visual clarity. If cataracts become problematic, our leading ophthalmologists may suggest cataract surgery to help you maintain your independence.

Contact Schwartz Laser Eye Center in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ at (480) 483-3937 to schedule a detailed evaluation.

The post How Cataracts Affect Depth Perception and Balance: Hidden Dangers appeared first on Schwartz Laser.