Our Services

Slit lamp biomicroscopy uses a handheld microscope with illumination to allow the user to see fine structure and detail of the eye. With this technology, the eye can be examined head on as well as in cross section. The cornea, anterior chamber, iris, and lens are examined using this technique.

Indirect ophthalmoscopy uses a specialized headset with illumination and a handheld converging lens. This technique allows for examination of the vitreous and retina.

Glaucoma testing includes the measurement of intraocular pressure with a special instrument called a tonotomer. The tonotomer has a special probe that gently touches the eye to obtain a pressure reading. Gonioscopy uses a magnifying lens placed on the eye which allows the user to visualize the entrance to the drain of the eye, called the drainage angle.

The electroretinogram is a test of retinal function. A change in electrical potential occurs when light stimulates the specialized retinal cells called photoreceptors. This electrical activity can be measured with special equipment that utilizes a light source, electrodes, and amplification/filtering systems.

When internal structures of the eye are not clearly visible on routine examination, ocular ultrasound may be performed. This technique utilizes ultrasonic waves that reflect off the surfaces of structures back to its source. The ultrasound unit creates a picture using the information.

Especially for older pets, using local numbing (with or without mild sedation) for certain procedures is often preferable to using full anesthesia. Certain eyelid procedures and corneal procedures can often be performed with “local”.

Phacoemulsification cataract surgery utilizes a high tech machine that generates ultrasound waves to break up and remove cataracts. This is the most common technique to remove cataracts in both animals and humans. Animal Eye Doctors utilize the same high tech machinery and instrumentation that would be used for a human.

Common eyelid conditions that may require surgery include entropion, ectropion, eyelid masses/ tumors, and eyelid injuries.

Corneal conditions that weaken or change the tissue may require a grafting technique. Grafts may utilize corneal tissue (taken from another part of the cornea or a donor), conjunctiva, or cryopreserved disks of amnion or collagen. The graft is sutured into the cornea with the goal of it being permanently incorporated into the cornea.

To relieve high pressure in the eye (glaucoma), surgery may be performed to decrease fluid inflow or increase fluid outflow. Endolaser surgery uses a diode laser energy emitted from a tiny probe with a camera through which the tissue inside the eye that produces fluid can be targeted and ablated. A similar procedure uses an external laser to target the tissue with application through the sclera. Drainage devices that evacuate fluid from the eye can be implanted (gonioimplants).

Eye injuries may involve outer or inner tissues of the eye and may be vision threatening. Some injuries may be treated medically while others may require surgery.