One of the best things about being in the ophthalmic industry is the pace at which technology changes, and how it impacts my optometry practice!
We are lucky to be part of an industry that is committed to innovation. I tell my patients frequently, "We expect technology from every other industry in our lives, we should expect the same from medicine."
Here are the 5 most popular ophthalmic products in my office:
1. State Optical Co. Eyewear
I'm a fan of 'Made in America.' I'm also a huge fan of Europa International. State Optical Co. is brought to you by the forces behind Europa.
Europa is committed to private practitioners and our practices. They don't sell their eyewear online and they are eager to contribute frames to overseas missions.
State Optical Co. is the first luxury brand made in America, specifically Chicago. The line was designed by Blake Kuwahara and created using a 75+ step process.
Even the hinges ooze technology.
Even the hinges ooze technology.
My favorite feature is the 21 dot state design on the temple representing the 21st state of Illinois. I got my first hands on look at Vision Expo East, and can't wait to have them in the office in the next several weeks!
2. Acuvue Oasys 1 Day
Don't we have enough daily spherical lenses?
The Freshday/Clariti lens I wrote about last year, has now become my 2nd tier lens. It's still a great list at its moderate price point. The Acuvue Oasys 1 Day has become my top tier daily lens of choice! I haven't had a patient that hasn't raved about the lens thus far.
The vision is far superior to most other daily lens options on the market due to the increased optical zone. For my patients, ithas been a good combo for vision and comfort. I have also found that I can correct up to -0.75 to -1.00 of astigmatism with this lens.
My athletes also prefer this type of lens over a toric with -0.75 of correction. It gives them clear vision 100% of the time vs. the fluctuation of a toric.
3. Anti-Fatigue Lenses
If you aren't prescribing these, you should be!
Traditional single vision lenses are not adequate these days. If you are consistent about checking accommodation on your 15-39 year olds, you will discover that a majority will find a small add beneficial.
I have two favorites when it comes to these lenses.
I will prescribe a Shamir Relax or an Essilor Eyezen depending on the needed add. All patients have described the transition zone as easy and subtle, so one does not have to worry about adaptation.
4. Transition Lenses
- Are you familiar with all the advancements and changes in Transition lens technology?
- Did you know they have specific lenses for golf, running and cycling?
- Did you know they even darken behind car windows now?
- Did you know they can be polarized?
- Can you effectively convey to your patients the benefits of Transition lenses for blue light and UV?
If you aren't familiar with current Transitions lens options, visit Transitions Pro.
I recently had the opportunity to hear Tim Gunn of Project Runway talk about the fashion involved in eyewear and lens technology.
Hear what he has to say about the current technology involved in Transitions Lenses.
5. Bausch and Lomb Ultra Multifocal
I have a go-to daily multifocal in the Acuvue 1 Day Moist Multifocal, but for patients who can't financially invest in the premium daily, I have found the Ultra to be very successful.
It provides the comfort that has been missing from other monthly lens multifocal options. The lens contains the same MoistureSeal technology as the spherical Ultra lens. The multifocal design is the same as the Bausch and Lomb's Soflens design.
I was unfamiliar with the specifics of the Soflens design, but the fitting guide for the Ultra is extremely accurate. The add comes in two choices, high and low. The low add should be used for presbyopes with a refractive add up to +1.50, and the high add for refractions of +1.75 to +2.50. The only slight variance I have found, is that I need to over-minus the dominant eye by -0.25 for improved distance vision.
The lens is also UPP at a price of $85.00 and with the purchase of a year's supply, the patient may receive a $85.00 rebate.
See the list of my favorite products of 2015 here!
