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PRECEYES

Contents

Letter from the editor

How your lifestyle can affect ocular health

Common eye injuries and how to treat them

Computer Vision Syndrome

Incredible eye facts

Meet the Team - Freedom Vision CEO, Mr Anil Pitalia

Ophthalmic news

Smart glasses

What questions should I ask my laser eye surgeon

World’s first bionic eye implant takes place in Manchester

National Eye Health Week 2015

Scleral tattooing

How to choose glasses to suit your face shape

Focus on...Astigmatism

Enjoy fireworks safely this autumn

Enjoy crystal clear vision with Preceyes

Could eye drops replace surgery to end cataract misery for millions

Contact lens care

Freedom Vision at Old Trafford

Welcome to Focus, Freedom Vision’s online magazine for all things ophthalmic!

In this, our first edition, we bring you a fantastic mix of informative articles, news from the ophthalmic community, fun eye facts and more. Not only that, we also give an insight into the world of Freedom Vision, and a behind the scenes look at what goes in to making our Manchester hospital among the best in the area for private laser sight correction.Get to know our CEO and consultant ophthalmic surgeon, Mr Anil Pitalia, in our company Q&A. Read about the world’s first bionic eye implant which took place right here in Manchester, and discover the latest gruesome trend in body modification, scleral tattooing; it’s not for the squeamish! Plus, we bring you coverage of this year’s National Eye Health Week, which took place just days ago.

We hope you enjoy reading Focus as much as we enjoy creating it!

Do you have a comment or question for Freedom Vision? Visit our Facebook, Twitter or Google+ pages to get in touch. We’d love to hear from you!

Letter from the editor

www.freedom-vision.co.uk

1st Edition, October 2015

It’s estimated that 1 in 5 people in the UK has a tattoo, including 14 per cent of teachers. 1.5 million tattoos are drawn every year nationwide, and the tattoo trade is now an £18million industry.While tattoos in general have lost much of their shock factor, one kind still has the ability to draw gasps; scleral tattooing. Read more on page 19

Smart glasses: the future of eyewear?

Since Google launched their innovative eyewear Google Glass back in the spring of 2013, wearable technology has sky rocketed in popularity. Smart glasses are part of the wearable technology trend, which also includes watches and activity trackers. Read more on page 14

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How your lifestyle can affect ocular healthIt’s long between established that our lifestyle choices have a direct impact on our overall health, lowering or increasing our risk of disease and chronic illnesses. But did you know that your lifestyle can also affect the health of your eyes?

Poor diet, a sedentary existence and smoking are all directly linked to a number of eye conditions including AMD, glaucoma and cataract formation, and making better choices can lead to improved eye health.

Read on to discover the lifestyle choices that can affect your eyesight…

Excessive alcohol consumption

Consuming too much alcohol has both long and short-term effects on vision.

Excessive consumption (more than 3-4 units per day for men and 2-3 units for women), can increase the risk of cataract formation and developing AMD. Heavy drinking also affects the body’s ability to absorb vitamins and minerals, which can cause a vitamin deficiency resulting in impaired vision.

Smoking

Smoking causes our cells to age more quickly, as cigarettes introduce free radicals into the body. We all know that smoking increases the risk of cancer, but few people realise it can also contribute to vision loss. Smoking increases the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma, as well as causing uncomfortable dry eye syndrome. Stopping smoking is one of the single best things you can do to improve your overall health and the health of your eyes.

Eating too much sugar

It is well documented that eating too much sugar is bad for you, but it can also affect ocular health. Eating sugary foods can lead to an increase in blood sugar levels, which in turn,

can cause damage to the delicate blood vessels in the eyes. A diet that is low in sugary foods and rich in leafy green vegetables will lead to better eye health and reduce the risk of macular degeneration.

Working at a computer

When using a computer, most people blink around seven times per minute; that’s less than half the usual average! Working in front of a computer or watching television for extended periods can have a negative effect on the eyes, causing eye strain. Symptoms include headaches, dry or watery eyes and blurred vision. To avoid eye strain, take regular breaks from looking at the screen, and follow the 20:20:20 rule; look at an object 20 meters away, for 20 seconds, every 20 minutes.

Healthy eating You can help protect your sight and enjoy better eye health by eating a diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals and low in sugar, processed foods and fat. Health food shops and healthy restaurants are popping up throughout the UK, making it easier than ever to eat well. Here are some of our favourites from around the North West.

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Being stressed

Stress increases the amount of adrenaline produced by the body, which can lead to raised pressure in the eyes. Increased ocular pressure can cause glaucoma. Regular eye checks can determine whether the pressure in your eye is at a normal level, or potentially dangerous. If you are diagnosed with ocular hypertension (that is, above normal pressure in the eye) eye drops may be prescribed to help bring the pressure down. You will also be closely monitored to ensure any further increase in pressure, which could be a sign of glaucoma, is detected early.

Not wearing sunglasses

Many of us wear sunglasses during the summer, but the harmful rays of the sun can damage eyes all

year round. Long-term exposure to sunlight can increase the risk of cataract formation (clouding of the lens of the eye), and cause growths on the eyelid. It is also linked to cancer of the eyelids and the area around the eye. To avoid these issues, wear high-quality sunglasses whenever possible, and a wide brimmed hat to shield the eyes during the summer months. Never stare directly at the sun as this can permanently scar the retina and damage vision.

Missing eye tests

When did you last have an eye test? If it was more than a couple of years ago, or even worse, you can’t remember, it’s time to get your eyes checked. Eye tests are quick and inexpensive, and you may even be eligible for a free test on the NHS.

An eye test will check the health of your eyes and spot any refractive errors which can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses to help you see better. Eye tests are also a great way of checking your overall health, as serious conditions such as diabetes and even brain tumours can be spotted during an eye examination.

While our busy lives mean it’s sometimes difficult to make healthy lifestyle choices, even simple changes such as wearing sunglasses, eating more fruit and veg and cutting back on alcohol can all have a positive impact on the health of our eyes. What changes will you make?

Eighth Day, Manchester

This Manchester institution combines a health food shop with a café and has the largest selection of vegetarian, vegan, organic and Fairtrade foods in the North West. Their salads, stews and smoothies are also reasonably priced.

http://8thday.coop

111 Oxford Road, Manchester M1 7DU

Greens, Didsbury

TV chef Simon Rimmer’s Greens restaurant uses fruit and veg to create a delicious menu that’s entirely vegetarian. With dishes such as veggie black pudding with mustard mayo and Lancashire cheese and basil sausages on the menu, even the most avid meat eater will find something to like at this healthy eatery.

http://www.greensdidsbury.co.uk/menus/

04 www.freedom-vision.co.uk

At one time or another, nearly all of us sustain an eye injury of some description. Usually, it’s nothing more serious than a splash of shampoo or a minor irritation. Sometimes, however, an injury to the eye can pose a very real risk to sight.

Some of the most common and more serious eye injuries, which could damage vision irreparably, include foreign objects entering the eye, chemical splashes and corneal scratches.

If you sustain an injury such as this, you need to act quickly. Here, we tell you the best course of action for these types of eye injury and how you can avoid causing further damage.

Foreign objects

If a foreign object enters your eye, you should go straight to hospital. Although it might be tempting, do not try and remove the object yourself. Attempting this may cause more injury to the eye, or embed the object further. You can protect the eye on the way to hospital by loosely taping a paper cup over the affected eye.

Chemicals

It’s not unusual for the eyes to get splashed with liquid from time to time. Usually, eye splashes don’t result in serious injury; many substances can be flushed from the eye using water. However, if certain chemicals (namely acids and alkalis) enter the eye, it can result in significant damage.

In general, acid splashes will cause redness, burning and irritation to the eye. Alkali splashes are more serious, although they do not cause an immediate reaction like acids do. Substances which are alkali include most household and oven cleaners.

Most chemical products will have instructions on the label outlining what you should do in case of contact with the eyes. Consult these immediately following an eye splash. Each substance is different, but many times the label will advise rinsing with water and seeking medical attention. If you are going to the hospital, take the product bottle with you so that doctors can see the contents.

Common eye injuries and how to treat them

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Corneal scratch

It is surprisingly easy to scratch the cornea (the surface of the eye). Common causes of a corneal scratch include rubbing the eye when grit or sand is present, and getting poked in the eye by a tree branch or finger nail. Corneal scratches pose a threat to sight, as they leave the eye susceptible to infection from fungus and bacteria.

If you know you have sustained a corneal scratch, contact your doctor or go to the hospital. Do not patch the eye, as the dark environment can encourage bacteria to grow. Instead, tape a paper cup over it and head to the hospital.

Trauma to the eye

If you are hit in the eye with a bat, ball or other hard object, your eye and the socket may be bruised, swollen and puffy. In this instance, a simple ice pack will help relieve swelling and soothe soreness. You should find the bruising subsides in a few days to a week, but it is a good idea to have a check-up to ensure there is no internal damage to the eye itself.

Sight is so precious and it’s worth protecting. You can avoid injuries to the eye by taking the following steps…

Wear protective eyewear

* Wear protective eyewear when gardening and doing DIY, as flying debris could enter the eye. Times when you should wear protective eyewear include, but are not limited to, when drilling, mowing the lawn, sanding or using an angle grinder.

* Wear an eye shield when playing sports in which an eye injury is possible, for example, squash.

Use caution with household chemicals

* Always read the label carefully before using household cleaners and chemicals, such as bleach. It will have important safety messages and tell you what to do in the event of an eye splash.

* Wash hands thoroughly after use to avoid transferring chemicals from hands to eyes.

* Always ensure household cleaners and chemicals are kept safely out of the reach of children.

Safety in the sun

* Never look directly at the sun; this can cause permanent damage to the retina.

* Wear good quality sunglasses, even on cloudy days, to protect the eyes from harmful UV rays.

* When skiing or in snowy conditions, always wear goggles. The reflection of the sun off snow can burn the eyes.


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Computer Vision Syndrome: the factsWhether it’s a smart phone, tablet or computer at work, most of us spend the majority of the day staring at a digital screen of some sort. And while this is an almost unavoidable aspect of twenty-first century living, too much of this screen time can have an adverse effect on the health of your eyes.

Blurred vision, sore eyes and headaches can all be caused by looking at a digital screen for too long. In fact, these symptoms are so common among computer users, doctors have coined a term for the discomfort; Computer Vision Syndrome.

According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), Computer Vision Syndrome describes “a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet, e-reader and cell phone use”, and there are a number of reasons why looking at a digital screen puts strain on the eyes. Digital screens give off glare and reflection, and are often overly bright. Print is often less clearly defined on a digital screen than it is on paper, and the contrast between letters and the background “page” is reduced. Combined, these factors mean eyes must work harder to focus effectively.

“There are tiny muscles inside your eyeball that change the shape of your eye’s lens in order to bring whatever you’re seeing into focus” ophthalmologist Dr Joshua Dunaief from the University of Pennsylvania told the press. “In some cases, those muscles become so fatigued that your eyes can no longer focus.”

As well as blurred vision and headaches, other symptoms of CVS include dry eyes, tired eyes and neck and shoulder pain. These can be caused by the glare which comes off the digital screen, poor lighting, overly bright screen settings and improper viewing distances. Uncorrected vision problems, such as long or short-sightedness, can aggravate these symptoms further.

CVS is a common condition, although many people may not recognise they suffer with it. For most people, these symptoms cause only mild discomfort. They are usually temporary and subside quickly once a person moves away from the screen.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to avoid or lessen the negative effects digital screen use has on the eyes.

Take regular breaks from the looking at the screen and try to follow the 20:20:20 rule; that is, look at an object 20 feet away, for 20 seconds, every 20 minutes.

Position the screen at a comfortable distance from your face, and at a comfortable height. For a desktop computer, the monitor will ideally be positioned centrally, in front of your face, with the top of the screen level with your eyes.

The screen should be around an arm’s length away from your face and tilted slightly forward. Sitting too close or too far away can contribute to eye strain.

Finally, make sure your chair is comfortable and has adequate support for your neck and back.

Incredible eye facts!The eye is one of the most incredible organs in the body. Here are 15 of our favourite eye facts…

The human eye can distinguish around 10 million different colours

People with blue eyes have a higher alcohol tolerance

Blind people who were born with sight often “see” images in their dreams If the human eye was

a camera, it would be around 576 megapixels

All humans originally had brown eyes. Blue eyes are a mutation which appeared in humans around 6,000 years ago

Your eyes can get sunburned

Bees have five eyes … and the box jellyfish has 24

It impossible to sneeze with your eyes open

The average person blinks 17 times a minute – and you blink around 4,200,000 times a year!

Goats have rectangular pupils to give them a wide field of vision

The eyeball weighs around 28 grams

The average person spends 10 per cent of their waking hours with their eyes closed, blinking

The eye of a giant squid can be the same size as a volleyball!

An ostrich’s eye is bigger than its brain

Your peripheral vision is almost black and white


Meet the Team – Freedom Vision CEO, Mr Anil PitaliaBehind the scenes at Freedom Vision is a great team of people working together to make sure patients receive the best care, within seamless systems running like clockwork.

Leading the team is Freedom Vision founder, CEO and consultant surgeon, Anil Pitalia.

As part of our ‘Meet the Team’ series, we caught up with Anil to find out how he became an ophthalmic surgeon, his hopes for Freedom Vision and what he likes to do in his spare time…

How did you become a consultant ophthalmic surgeon? What training did you have?

My father was a doctor and my brother had gone into medicine, so admittedly there was an expectation that I would be a doctor too. I studied in Manchester and became a doctor in 1992, then worked all over the country before doing my ophthalmic training and becoming a ‘Mister’ in 1997. During that time, I was awarded the gold medal for the best candidate from the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh. I also took 18 months out of training at one stage to do an MBA degree. I became a consultant in 2007, but left the NHS in 2012.

Why did ophthalmology appeal to you over other areas of medicine?

Ophthalmology appealed because it is very scientific; there are a lot of lasers, lots of boys’ toys, and it’s microsurgical! I just thought it would be fascinating to operate on an eye. Ophthalmology is a very technologically-orientated speciality, which makes things interesting. It means it will always be at the leading edge of progression and development and it is massively advanced compared to lots of other specialities. Ophthalmology is also very competitive to get into, and I think in general, if something is competitive people want to do it.

Tell us about Freedom Vision; what did you hope to achieve when you set the company up?

Freedom Vision is a trading name of our parent company, SpaMedica, and it encompasses the private side of the work we do. Freedom Vision performs laser sight correction, lens exchange and private cataract surgery. The values behind it were to provide the highest possible level of customer care and service, with the most technologically advanced facilities. Some treatments such as laser sight correction aren’t available on the NHS, and the NHS doesn’t fund particular types of lenses after cataract surgery, like multifocal and toric lenses. That’s where Freedom Vision comes in. We allow patients who want to, to access that kind of technology. We are also able to introduce other technological advances in cataract surgery, like the femtosecond laser. This laser makes the surgery extremely precise, and because the lasers are very expensive, the NHS cannot fund that kind of treatment. Freedom Vision is able to offer this kind of treatment which has incremental benefits to patients for their visual outcomes.

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Describe your typical day...

Nowadays, a typical day for me involves either clinical or management work. I often see patients who have had previous surgery or are at a higher risk of complications because of the way their eye is made up, or I might be doing cataract surgery using the femtosecond laser, inserting multifocal and toric lenses on patients.

When I’m not doing surgery, a typical day will involve internal and external meetings. That could be meetings with the marketing department, HR, customer service; anything which helps people within the organisation formulate their strategy around those areas. I also have external meetings, with product specialists investigating new products, commercial agents and architects with a view to working on new up and coming Freedom Visions sites.

Which role do you prefer - CEO or surgeon?

I enjoy both sides. Whilst I enjoy operating with the latest technology and have many years of experience to offer patients, I feel I can have a wider impact with the management side, because I can impact the entire business in this role, bringing the best-in-class treatments to more patients. I have to ask the question “how can Freedom Vision provide the best services to the patients it looks after?”, and it takes a senior management view to do that. We have to ensure systems are in place for our patients to be properly cared for. I do enjoy the patient surgery side of my work and it’s important to retain a strong attachment to the clinical side to truly understand the business, and lead with clinical leadership. This is where we are different to other medical businesses, as they are often driven by managers and business people. At Freedom, the doctors are the managers. It gives me insight into the service being delivered to patients. I get to do both ends of the spectrum, and I think that’s important for someone in my position. I’m not just a manager detached from the delivery of care.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

The most challenging aspect used to be relinquishing control of areas of the business; invoicing, customer service, appointments…anything! I wasn’t used to letting go of that, but now I let people get on with their jobs. The reason I can do that is because we have the right people on board; people that I can let go of the job to. I work hard on trying not to micromanage but instead to empower.

Where do you envisage Freedom Vision being 5 years from now?

I would like us to be known within the ophthalmic and optometric community as an ethical provider of the highest quality eye surgery, specialising in refractive surgery; both laser sight correction and lens based surgery. I would like Freedom Vision to be multisite, with services available across the North West, and I’d like us to be known for our reputation as a clinical organisation rather than a sales one, where patients can feel safe.

What would you be doing if you weren’t a surgeon?

I always wanted to do aeronautical engineering, so I would probably be designing aeroplanes or rockets…something technology related!

What do you like to do outside work?

I spend time with my young children. Bedtime stories are my responsibility, largely because I get home just in time for that! I love going to the movies. You can put me in front of a good movie anytime! I love mountain biking too, but I probably only go about twice a year. I’m hoping to get out more in the future. I also love skiing, and playing football – I’m a big football fan! Lastly, I like technology, so I love reading tech magazines like ‘T3’. I love gadgets; 3D printers, radio control cars, drones. I love all that kind of stuff!


Lifestyle and genetic risk factors of AMDA new study funded by the National Institute of Health has found that a combination of diet, exercise, smoking status and genetics are all linked to the inflammation of the eye which leads to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

The study, which was carried out in the US, collected data from more than 1,500 women aged between 50 and 70. The study assessed the diet and exercise regimes of the women, along with their smoking status. The women also underwent genetic testing to establish whether they were carriers of the CFH gene; a known contributor to the eye inflammation which causes AMD.

It was found that women who smoked, had a poor diet and exercise regime, and who carried two copies of the CFH gene were four times more likely to develop AMD than those who were non-smokers, who didn’t carry the gene and who had a healthy diet and active lifestyle.

“The findings of both studies support the notion of biologic synergy”, Professor Julie A. Mares, senior author of the study told the press. “That is, that one’s genes, lifestyle factors and nutrition all come together in a synergistic way to mediate inflammation, which is a key mechanism involved in AMD.”

So, while carriers of the gene may be at an increased risk of developing AMD, lifestyle factors are also a key contributor.

“Unhealthy lifestyles increase AMD risk regardless of AMD risk genotype”, Mares continues.

The significance of vitamin D in the development of AMD was also identified, in a second study. Vitamin D is believed to supress the inflammation associated with AMD, meaning a diet rich in this vitamin could help protect against the condition.

So, while there is no failsafe plan to avoid developing AMD, a healthy diet full of eye-friendly fruit and veg, sufficient levels of vitamin D, not smoking and adopting an active lifestyle could all help lower the risk.

Scientific discovery could lead to new form of glaucoma treatmentA new study conducted by the University of California, San Diego, (UCSD), has discovered a genetic interaction associated with glaucoma which could lead to the development of new drugs to treat the condition.

Glaucoma is a condition which can significantly impair vision and is caused by excess pressure in the eyeball. The most common form is open-angle glaucoma, in which increased intraocular pressure gradually causes retinal cells to die. It’s thought that glaucoma affects around 500,000 people in the UK alone, although many do not know they have it as the condition causes few symptoms.

The recent study has established a direct link between two genes which cause the eventual death of the cells. People with a certain form of the gene SIX6 (which is required for normal eye development), had an increase in a second gene, p16INK4a. The latter gene causes cells (in various parts of the body) to stop growing. It has so far been identified as a contributory factor to certain cancers and heart disease, and is a known risk for primary open-angle glaucoma.

Using mice for the study, scientists were able to establish that increased expression of the p16INK4a gene was the result of increasing expression of a specific variation of the SIX6 gene.

As a result of the findings, scientists are now looking at ways to block the effects of p16INK4a with drugs. If successful, a whole new approach to glaucoma treatment could be created.

“At the moment, the clinician’s toolbox for treating glaucoma is pretty empty”, says Professor David Crabb of City University London. “These findings will generate excitement because inhibiting p16INK4a could, eventually, offer a new therapeutic approach”.

For more information on glaucoma, including symptoms and treatment, visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/glaucoma

Ophthalmic news

11

Children with disabilities are missing out on eye care New research from sight loss and disability charity SeeAbility has found that nearly four in ten pupils who attend a school for children with learning disabilities have no history of eye care.

In their ‘An Equal Right to Sight’ report published on 18 September, the charity found that children with disabilities were 28 times more likely to have serious sight problems than other children, making the findings especially alarming. The research also found that three quarters of children who had been under the care of an eye clinic at one time had no history of follow-up appointments once they had been discharged from the service.

The study began back in October 2013, when the charity began working with a number of optometrists to test the sight of nearly 400 children, all of whom have disabilities and attend specialists schools throughout London.

Since then, they have prescribed glasses to over 30 per cent of the children tested, many of whom had never had an eye test up to this point.

The findings of the study have been released to coincide with the launch of SeeAbility’s ‘Children in Focus’ campaign which hopes to raise awareness of the need for children with disabilities to receive ongoing eye care, and highlight the fact that no national programme is currently in place to provide this.

SeeAbility’s Chief Executive, David Scott-Ralphs, said of the report: “We are calling on the government to make sight tests available in every special school in England. Children with profound disabilities may not be able to tell someone they have a sight problem, or get to a high street optician, so we should bring the much-needed eye care to them instead.” The campaign is also urging members of the public to sign an online petition in support of their suggestion.

Mr Scott Ralph concludes, “making sight tests available in every special school in England would be a start in making the reforms needed and help thousands of children with disabilities.”

If you would like to support the Children in Focus campaign, visit SeeAbility’s website: www.seeability.org.

B CA


Can sweet potatoes help save sight?A nutrient- rich variety of sweet potato developed by researchers in South Africa could help save the sight of thousands of people in some of the world’s poorest regions.

Scientists at the Agricultural Research Council in Pretoria have used molecular techniques and selective breeding to increase levels of beta-carotene; the compound which gives the sweet potato its delightful orange hue and is converted into vitamin A by the body. As vitamin A deficiency is a leading cause of visual impairment –such as night blindness- in some parts of the world, it’s thought this super-charged vitamin variety could help combat this problem.

Of the varieties cultivated, two were found to have an acceptable dry mass and a good taste, plus, a 125g serving provided up to 261 per cent of a child’s daily vitamin A intake.

Of course, further research will need to be done before this variety can be grown and supplied to people as a means of bettering eye health; and this could take considerable time. But the development gives rise to the possibility that a cheap and effective remedy for vitamin A deficiency and its associated visual problems could be just around the corner.

National Eye Health Week campaign reminds drivers of visual requirements

Automotive services company the RAC teamed up with the Federation of Manufacturing Opticians (FMO) this National Eye Health Week, to remind motorists of the visual requirements for road safety.

Together, they companies have developed a 10-point check list that drivers should perform before getting in the car to ensure their vision is good enough for the road.

Points on the check list include carrying a spare pair of glasses in the car, making sure lenses are clean, and ensuring motorists have the correct prescription glasses or contact lenses with them for driving. The list also advises drivers to have an annual vision ‘MOT’, and remember that UK police are able to carry out vision tests at the roadside if it is deemed necessary.

“If your vision is not up to scratch you are putting other road users’ lives at risk”, says David Huggon, RAC European breakdown operations manager. “We therefore advise motorists to have regular eye examinations at least every two years, or sooner if

their sight changes.”

For more information about the campaign, visit www.fmo.co.uk.

Ophthalmic news continued...

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Since Google launched their innovative eyewear Google Glass back in the spring of 2013, wearable technology has sky rocketed in pop-ularity. Smart glasses are part of the wearable technology trend, which also includes watches and activity trackers.

Also known as digital eye glasses or personal imaging systems, smart glasses are, in essence, wearable computers. They add infor-mation to whatever the wearer is seeing, including breaking news, weather and email notifications, right before their eyes.

Combining the style of a pair of specs with cutting-edge technol-ogy, smart glasses boast a host of futuristic features, helping peo-ple keep informed and stay in touch. Here, we take a look at three smart glasses which stand out for all the right reasons…

Shima

Created by French optical company LaForge, Shima glasses are the most conventional looking of our picks. Similar in appearance to normal specs, these glasses don’t have any conspicuous compo-nents to reveal they are in fact, smart glasses. But, despite their streamlined appearance, Shima boasts a host of impressive fea-tures including camera, microphone and speakers.

The Shima interface frames the wearer’s vision with useful infor-mation including traffic and transport updates, local weather and notifications from your email and social media. It connects to the internet using Bluetooth, and is compatible with Android, iOS and Windows operating systems.

If you’re style-conscious but still want to take part in the gadget glasses trend, these are a perfect choice.

Website: www.laforgeoptical.com

Glassup

Glassup glasses have been designed with three key concepts in mind; wearable display, augmented reality and real-time informa-tion, with less emphasis on entertainment. Like the Shima lenses, these specs provide the wearer with driving directions, notifica-tions and emails, and have been designed to look like a normal pair of glasses.

Glassup frames are designed in Italy, so they have a chic and fash-ionable edge often lacking in wearable technology. Plus, they weigh just 20 grams. A great lightweight choice for wearing on the go!

Website: www.glassup.net

Castar

Castar’s “augmented reality glasses” are fun and futuristic specs which allow the wearer to “engage with a 3D world that springs from your table.”

A clever camera scans your surroundings and projects the images it captures through two micro-projectors which sit on the top of the frame. And, as if that wasn’t magical enough, the Castar lenses come with a magic wand which appears to actually ‘move’ objects!

Website: www.castar.com

www.freedom-vision.co.uk 14

Smart glasses: the future of eyewear?

If you’re considering laser eye surgery, no doubt you’ll be feeling a mixture of emotions; excitement at the prospect of living life free from glasses and contacts, and apprehension at the thought of someone ‘messing’ with your eyes.

Laser eye surgery can seem daunting, but this safe, quick and proven procedure has been performed for more than 20 years. Every year, around 15,000 people undergo laser eye surgery in the UK alone.

Despite its proven safety and effectiveness, it is important that you choose a reputable, reliable and recommended clinic and surgeon to perform your laser sight correction. You should undergo a detailed and thorough pre-operative assessment, and be given the opportunity to ask as many questions as you wish before committing to treatment; and you shouldn’t ever feel pressured to proceed.

Asking key questions can reveal a lot about your prospective surgeon and clinic, and help you decide whether you want to go ahead with the surgery. A reputable surgeon will welcome your questions and be happy to answer them.

Here are some vital questions to ask before you sign on the dotted line…

What are your qualifications?

Your surgeon should be willing to tell you their qualifications, along with institutions and dates of attendance if you so wish. Any surgeon can perform laser eye surgery, but some have had fellowship training in refractive surgery which makes them specialists in the procedure.

How many laser eye surgeries have you carried out in the past twelve months?

To get the best visual outcome, you will want an experienced surgeon to carry out the procedure. A minimum of 500 laser eye surgeries per year is a recommended figure, but it is the skill of the surgeon and their results that really count. Surgical results and outcomes (for the surgeon, not just the clinic) should be readily available if you ask for them. You can also enquire how many people have needed an ‘enhancement’ (further minor surgery on the eye) following treat-ment with your prospective surgeon.

What questions should I ask my laser eye surgeon?

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Which procedure is best suited to my eyes?

You should be given a comprehensive pre-operative assessment prior to laser sight correction which will determine the best course of treatment for your eyes. Your surgeon should discuss which is the best treatment option for you, and explain why this is the case. Every person’s eyes are unique, and a ‘one size fits all’ approach cannot be applied to laser eye surgery. If you feel this is being sold to you, look elsewhere.

Do you ever refuse people for laser eye surgery?

Not everybody is a suitable candidate for laser eye surgery, and there are various reasons for this. These people should not have laser sight correction performed, as the visual outcome cannot be guaranteed and they may experience per-manent side-effects. If your surgeon appears to approve everyone for laser eye surgery, either they are not correctly identifying unsuitable patients or they are not practicing ethically, both of which are cause for concern.

What results can I expect after laser eye surgery? Will I still need glasses?

Most patients achieve excellent spectacle-free vision following laser eye surgery. However, patients aged 45 and over will more than likely need reading glasses. There is a noticeable improvement in the vision immediately following surgery, and this continues to get better as the eyes recover from surgery. Visual outcomes do vary depending on the individual circumstances of the patient, and their original prescription. This should be explained to you prior to surgery.

Is laser sight correction permanent? If not, how long does it last?

Yes. Long-term studies indicate that after the healing process is complete, eyesight remains stable. Some patients may develop the need for reading glasses as they age due to presbyopia (the age-related need for reading glasses) but this happens to all adults regardless of whether they have undergone laser vision correction or not.

What are the risks associated with laser eye surgery?

Prior to surgery, the risks of the procedure should be carefully explained to you. They should also be given to you in writing, on a document known as an informed consent form. You will be asked to read and sign this document, and should be given ample time to digest the information it contains. Laser eye surgery is a very safe and common proce-dure. The risk of going blind is virtually non-existent, and most patients experience few if any side-effects following treatment. If you are in doubt, ask your surgeon to fully explain the risks.

Who can I contact if I have any problems after the procedure?

A reputable clinic will give patients access to a dedicated aftercare team. Freedom Vision, for example, operates a 24-hour clinical care line though which patients can access a registered nurse or surgeon, 365 days a year. Before commit-ting to surgery, ensure your chosen clinic has a reliable, professional and easily accessible aftercare service that you can contact if you have any concerns.


Described as a “revolutionary” advancement in the treatment of age-related macular degeneration, the world’s first bionic eye im-plant operation took place this summer, in Manchester.

The intrepid patient, 80-year old Ray Flynn, is one of millions of people worldwide suffering from age-related macular degener-ation. The condition is the leading cause of sight loss in the de-veloped world, and an estimated 500,000 people in the UK alone have AMD.

While it is not painful, AMD can lead to significant sight loss if left untreated. There are two types of AMD; wet and dry. In both cas-es, it is usually the central vision which is affected while peripheral vision remains intact. Often, a black circle forms in the central vi-sion which makes it difficult for AMD sufferers to recognise faces and carry out day-to-day tasks.

In dry AMD, the cells of the macular die off and are not regener-ated. In wet AMD, abnormal blood vessels grow into the macu-lar, which leak blood and fluid causing permanent scarring. Both forms lead to impaired vision, which, without treatment, becomes progressively worse over time.

The four-hour operation took place at the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital in June, and was performed by leading ophthalmologist and vitreoretinal surgeon, Professor Paulo Stanga. The procedure and technology behind it is, understandably, complex.

A tiny implant known as Argus II was inserted into the back of Mr Flynn’s eye, and a minute camera attached to a specially-devel-oped pair of glasses for Mr Flynn to wear. The camera records his surroundings.

The video images captured by the camera are sent to a processing unit which sits on Mr Flynn’s belt. This unit formats the informa-tion and sends it back to the glasses, where the video is then trans-mitted wirelessly to the Argus II implant in Mr Flynn’s eye.

Once the images have been transmitted to the implant, they are converted into small electrical impulses. These impulses are trans-mitted to electrodes on the surface of the retina.

The remaining cells of the retina are stimulated by the electrical impulses to replicate patterns of light for the brain. It is thought that, over time, Mr Flynn will learn to interpret these light patterns and regain his central vision.

Speaking to the press, Professor Stanga said the first results of the trial were “a total success” and that Mr Flynn was making “truly re-markable” progress. He added that the patient was already seeing the “outline of people and objects very effectively.”

Argus II has already been approved for use in the United States and Europe for other retinal diseases. This latest breakthrough is sure to give hope to millions of people across the world living with AMD.

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World s first

bionic

eye implant

takes place in

Manchester

National Eye Health Week 2015In public surveys, sight is consistently rated as the most precious of our senses, yet eye health is all too often over-looked. From missing eye tests to ignoring worrying symptoms, we often take healthy vision for granted, until it’s too late.

With this in mind, eye health charity Vision Matters created National Eye Health Week; an annual event which brings together eye care charities, organisations and health professionals from the ophthalmic community and beyond, in an attempt to highlight the need for regular eye tests and promote the importance of good eye health.

Now in its sixth year, the 2015 National Eye Health Week took place from 21 to 27 September. As predicted, the event was a great success, with optometrist and chair of the campaign, David Cartwright, telling the press that “a record number of practices and health organisations” signed up to take part.

In 2014, NEHW saw almost 2,000 supporters participate, and a survey conducted by OnePoll following the event re-vealed that more than 65 per cent of adults in the UK planned on taking better care of their eyes following National Eye Health Week.

Supporters of this year’s event include RNIB, the College of Optometrists, British Contact Lens Association and Fight for Sight, as well as independent and national opticians from around the UK. Eye health seminars were held across the country, while pop-up shops, information stands and Q&A coffee mornings with eye care professionals all helped make eye health information more accessible. Giving visitors a first-hand experience of living with sight loss, the Essex Vision Awareness event even featured a sensory tunnel which emulated the effects of visual impairment.

The health message was changed daily to maximise the impact of the seven-day long event, and was supported by eye health supplements in national newspapers The Times and The Guardian. Central themes of NEHW 2015 included the link between smoking, diet, nutrition and poor vision. A “vision van” was also deployed to stop at towns and cities across the UK identified as “hot spots” for poor eye health, including Cardiff, Hull and Manchester.

You don’t have to be an optometrist or health professional to be involved in next year’s National Eye Health Week. In-dividuals can get involved simply by talking to friends and family about the importance of maintaining good eye health, booking an eye test or even cooking a nutritious meal using ingredients which are good for the eyes. It really is that simple!

For more details on NEHW 2015 and information on the next event, visit www.visionmatters.org.uk.


World s first

bionic

eye implant

takes place in

Manchester

Once the domain of sailors and all manner of insalubrious characters, tattooing has become positively mainstream in recent years.

It’s estimated that 1 in 5 people in the UK has a tattoo, including 14 per cent of teachers. 1.5 million tattoos are drawn every year nationwide, and the tattoo trade is now an £18million industry.

While tattoos in general have lost much of their shock factor, one kind still has the ability to draw gasps; scleral tattooing.

By anyone’s standards, scleral tattooing pushes the boundaries of body modification. The process involves changing the colour of the ‘white’ of the eye -also known as the sclera- to permanently change its appearance. Some people opt for bright colours, while those seeking a more dramatic and daring look have opted to have the whites of their eyes coloured black.

Scleral tattooing was first practiced in 2007 by Canadian body modification pioneer and founder of the Body Modification Ezine (also known as BME), Shannon Larratt. While the process is referred to as tattooing, it is not a tattoo in the traditional sense. During scleral tattooing, the coloured ink is injected into a thin space between the cornea -the clear covering of the eye- and the sclera itself. The ink then spreads out to cover the white area of the eye, permanently changing its appearance.

Although scleral tattooing is slowly growing in popularity (it is estimated that several hundred people around the world have undergone the procedure since its inception eight years ago), the controversial modification is extremely high risk; so much so, that the US state of Oklahoma banned the procedure in 2009 and other states look set to follow. Add to this, the fact that very few tattoo artists are trained -or willing- to perform the procedure, and scleral tattooing remains an underground element of even the body-mod scene.

As you would expect, there are numerous risks associated with scleral tattooing. Infection is a distinct possibility, and some individuals are sensitive to the

slight pressure the ink applies to the eye resulting in a throbbing headache which never subsides. Other people experience light sensitivity following the procedure, a feeling that something is ‘stuck’ in the eye, and allergic reactions to the ink. As if all that wasn’t enough to put you off, in some individuals, the injection sites in the eyeball become sore and ulcerated. Meticulous hygiene and stringent aftercare is vital to minimise the risk of complications and ensure the best possible outcome.

While never-ending headaches and an ulcerated eyeball may sound like the stuff of nightmares, these are in fact common side-effects of scleral tattooing, evident in procedures that are deemed to have gone well. In tattoos where the ink is over-injected -that is, too much ink is used- the eyeball surface can be left lumpy and uneven, as well as excruciatingly painful. Over-injection of the ink can also damage the internal structure of the eye, which, in a worst-case scenario, could result in the loss of the eye.

Put simply, scleral tattooing is a drastic, permanent body modification with the potential to cause blindness and irreparable damage to the eye; and anyone considering the procedure should think long and hard before going ahead.

Although some of the immediate effects of scleral tattooing have been identified, the procedure is still in its infancy and those who perform it acknowledge that, at this stage, it is too early to predict what the long-term effects will be. Indeed, it is believed that many potentially blinding conditions -which form as a direct result of scleral tattooing- will develop slowly, perhaps over many years or decades. It is also known that even small amounts of ink in the eye can increase ocular pressure; a main risk factor for the sight-threatening condition, glaucoma.

Aside from the physical risks scleral tattooing presents, the procedure has serious implications for a person’s professional, personal and social life. After all, the eyes are deemed the window to the soul and for some people, their ability to interact positively with both humans and animals will be dramatically and irreversibly affected by scleral tattooing.

Scleral tattooing: daring or downright dangerous?

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Many professions are immediately -and permanently- ruled out for a person with a scleral tattoo, and they may experience discrimination, stereotyping and negative reactions from society as a whole.

Despite the negative associations, eyeball tattooing does serve a useful purpose in the field of ophthalmology. For years, eyeball tattooing has been used for cosmetic reasons to create a more aesthetically pleasing appearance in patients whose eyes have been damaged by accident or disease. Occasionally, it is used as a means of improving eyesight. Corneal opacities are the leading reason for medical eyeball tattooing.

When the eyeball is tattooed for medical reasons, it is the cornea as opposed to the sclera that is tattooed. Because of the risks associated with the procedure, corneal tattooing is usually only performed on patients who are already blind or seriously visually impaired. Today, corneal tattooing is becoming increasingly rare, with corneal grafting, keratoplasty techniques and specially-made tinted contact lenses replacing the practice.

So, what is the future of scleral tattooing as a form of body modification? Will it become ever-more mainstream in the same way as skin tattooing, or will it remain the preserve of hard-core body-modification enthusiasts intent on altering their appearance in the most extreme, drastic and permanent way possible? Only time will tell. One thing is certain, though; anybody considering undergoing this life-altering procedure should research thoroughly the risks associated and the impact it will have on almost every aspect of their life.

Cyan and magenta outline sclera tattoo by Max Yampolskly

Image from: https://www.youtube.com/user/KMnomokis


If your face shape is round it’s important to choose frames which create balance and don’t make the face appear any more circular; rectangular frames are a per-fect choice. These angular frames elongate the face and create a longer, slimmer look. Small frames with round lenses (think John Lennon) should be avoided, as these will merely emphasise the roundness of the face.

Heart face shapes

These pretty faces are very distinctive, with a wide forehead and prominent cheekbones. Often, the chin is pointed which, together with the wider forehead, cre-ates the heart shape it is likened to. Celebrities with a heart shaped face include actresses Scarlett Johann-son, Michelle Pfeiffer and perhaps most noticeably of all Reese Witherspoon.

Heart shapes should avoid drawing attention to the wid-er part of the face. Choosing frames which are wide at the bottom will create a more even and balanced look. Rimless frames are also a great choice for heart-shaped faces, as they create a barely-there look which doesn’t draw attention to either the wider or slimmer part of the face. Avoid styles which are wider at the top, such as retro “cat-style” specs.

Square face shapes

Typically, square faces are recognisable by their strong, wide jawline, square chin and broad forehead. Actress-es Gwyneth Paltrow, Sandra Bullock and Demi Moore are all owners of a square face.

Often, the aim of people with a square face is to soften the angular lines. To achieve this, choose oval frames which counteract the square jawline. Oval frames also mimic the shape of the eyes and draw attention away from the jaw, to the top half of the face. Square and rectangular frames will emphasise this face shape, so steer clear if you are hoping to achieve a gentler look.

How to choose glasses to suit your face shape

Whether you’ve recently been prescribed glasses or you are a seasoned spec-wearer looking for a change of style, it can be difficult to know which frames best suit your face.

Glasses are often the first thing we notice about a person, so it’s important to choose a style which em-phasises the best parts of your face, and that you feel comfortable in. Knowing and understanding your face shape is the starting point for choosing the most flatter-ing frames.

Most people fall into one of five categories when it comes to face shape. These are ‘heart’, ‘oval’, ‘square’, ‘long’ and ‘round’. You can determine which shape you are by looking in the mirror and drawing the outline of your face, using an erasable pen or lipstick, of course! Alternatively, you can take a photograph, ensuring it captures a clear image of your face, and trace around the outline. Using either of these methods, the overall shape of your face should be clear to see.

Once you have established which face shape you’ve been blessed with, it’s time to choose a style that suits…

Round face shapes

As the name suggests, round faces have a somewhat circular look to them, with lovely soft lines. A round face is usually short, with a rounded chin, wide forehead and full cheeks that are perfect for squeezing! Celebrities with a round face include actress Kirsten Dunst, and singers Kelly Clarkson and Adele.

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Long face shapes

Long face shapes (also known as oblong) are longer than they are wide. Long faces are sometimes mistak-en for oval, however, these faces are noticeably longer than an oval. A pointed chin may also be present. Fa-mous long faces include actresses Sarah Jessica Park-er and Liv Tyler.

These faces suit specs which help create a rounder look; think upswept styles or elegant round frames. A long face can also be made to look shorter by choosing frames with colourful or eye catching temples.

Oval face shapes

Oval faces are lucky, as nearly every style of spec suits this shape. Oval faces are balanced and often symmet-rical in nature, with a forehead that is just slightly wider than the jawline. The cheekbones are usually high. Ac-tresses Julia Roberts and Charlize Theron, and singer Beyonce are all blessed with oval face shapes.

If you have an oval face, the great news is almost any frame will look good. With that taken care of, you’re able to play around with design. Choose colours which complement or contrast with your hair, and have fun with interesting styles. The sky’s the limit!


Focus on…astigmatismAstigmatism is a very common eye condition which causes distorted or blurred vision. It occurs when the lens or cornea of a person’s eye is not shaped in a perfect curve. Instead of being shaped like a snooker ball, the eye is more of a rugby ball shape.

Astigmatism is what is known as a ‘refractive error’ (a group of eye conditions which are not harmful but can affect the eyesight, either mildly or significantly). Other refractive errors include long and short-sightedness.

Astigmatism is not usually serious, but if left untreated it can cause eye strain, headaches and tiredness, especially during tasks which require the eyes to concentrate for long periods, such as watching television or working at a computer.

It’s thought that around 9 in 10 people in the UK have some form of astigmatism, yet few know what it really means. If you’re one of these people, fear not. As part of our Focus on… series, we take a detailed look at astigmatism and tell you everything you need to know…

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by a misshapen cornea or lens. The cornea is the clear covering over the front of the eye. The cornea should be curved like a football, however, in people with astigmatism, the cornea has a more elongated shape, similar to a rugby ball. When the cornea is shaped like this, the rays of light entering the eye are distorted. This results in a blurred image which should be corrected with a visual aid such as glasses or contact lenses, or with laser eye surgery.

There are two main kinds of astigmatism; regular and irregular. In regular astigmatism, the cornea is more curved in one direction of the eye than the other. In irregular astigmatism, the cornea can be curved in multiple directions. Irregular astigmatism cannot be treated with glasses, but can be corrected with contact lenses.

Astigmatism is a very common condition, and most people who wear glasses have it to some degree.

Astigmatism

A phoropter is a common name for an ophthalmic testing device, also called a refractor. It is commonly used by eye care professionals during an eye examination, and contains different lenses used for refraction of the eye during sight testing. The device measures an individual’s refractive error and determines his or her eyeglass prescription.

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What are the causes of astigmatism?

Most people with astigmatism are born with it. It’s difficult to tell from looking at someone whether they have astigmatism or not, so it’s important that children have their eyes tested when they are young to identify problems such as this. If left untreated, astigmatism can result in a lazy eye.

There is research to suggest that astigmatism may be hereditary, however, in most cases there is no known cause for the condition. Other causes include injury to the cornea, infection of the cornea, conditions which affect the eyelids and other eye conditions which cause the cornea to bulge or change shape.

How is astigmatism treated?

Astigmatism can be easily detected during a routine eye test. A device called a keratometer can also be used to measure the level of astigmatism in a person’s eye.

For many people, the condition is so mild that no treatment is necessary. However, in more severe cases in which the vision is affected, glasses and contact lenses are prescribed. Visual aids such as these can correct a person’s vision, making it clear and crisp instead of blurry, but they do not alter the shape of the cornea itself. This can be done through laser eye surgery. In this procedure, a laser is used to reshape the curve of the cornea. Light can then enter the eye without being distorted.

Astigmatism


The days are getting shorter and winter is approaching, so it won’t be long before party season rolls around once again!

With Halloween, bonfire night and Christmas all coming in quick succession, from October onwards the night sky is often alight with spectacular fireworks. And, while most of us love to see a pretty, sparkling skyline, fireworks are a very real cause of accidents and injury every year; not least to the eyes.

According to statistics published by the Eyecare Trust, 10 people in the UK lose their sight each year, and 300 more suffer serious eye injuries caused by fireworks. Surprisingly, children are

E n j oy f i r e w o r k s s a f e l y t h i s a u t u m n

25

not the age group most at risk; 73 per cent of ocular injuries occur in adults, with the majority of accidents occurring at private bonfire parties.

While rockets are the number one culprit for causing eye injuries, the seemingly innocuous sparkler is a close second. Although many people believe sparklers to be harmless, they can in fact reach temperatures hotter than cooking oil.

If you are hosting a private firework party this autumn, there are things you can do to protect your eyes and your guests. Always wear protective eye wear when lighting fireworks, and never give sparklers to children under five years of age.

If an eye injury does occur, do not rinse, rub or apply ointment to the affected eye. This may worsen the injury and make treatment more difficult. Instead, head straight to hospital or call an ambulance.

Fireworks are an integral part of the party season, but they should be enjoyed responsibly so that you remember your display for all the right reasons.


Enjoy crystal clear vision with PreceyesIn recent years, cataract surgery has been revolutionised by the use of the femtosecond laser, which has replaced many manual aspects of the cataract removal procedure. Freedom Vision is delighted to utilise this state-of-the-art technology at our Manchester clinic, in the form of unique lens replacement solution, Preceyes.

Quite simply, Preceyes is one of the most advanced and complete methods of cataract removal and lens replacement available today.

A superior alternative to standard cataract removal, Preceyes combines extensive intraoperative aberrom-etry (measuring the inside of the eye to identify refractive errors) with the use of the femtosecond laser to perform the most intricate part of the procedure; the capsulorhexis.

In contrast to traditional cataract removal surgery, in which the surgeon uses a blade to enter the eye, Pre-ceyes uses the ultra-fast waves of the femtosecond laser to create the incisions in the lens capsule. The clouded lens (cataract) is then gently fragmented, removed from the eye and replaced with a multifocal lens, chosen to perfectly suit the patient’s needs and designed to give near-perfect vision for both near and distance.

Preceyes isn’t just a treatment for cataract removal; it is also one of the most advanced and effective meth-ods of refractive lens exchange available. Preceyes is ideal for patients in their mid-forties with long or short sight who want independence from glasses and contact lenses. The bespoke lens that is implanted in the eye also means that patients undergoing Preceyes treatment will never develop cataracts, as the natural lens has been replaced with an artificial one.

Preceyes treatment is performed in Freedom Vision’s modern hospital. No injections are required, and the procedure is quick and painless, taking around a minute per eye.

For more details about Preceyes, contact Freedom Vision today, on 0161 838 0880.

PRECEYES

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To learn more, book your comprehensive, no obligation consultation, on:

0161 838 0880

PRECEYES

“See the true beauty of the world.”


Could eye drops replace surgery to end cataract misery for millions?Affecting millions of people around the world, cataracts are the most common cause of sight loss in people over the age of 40, and the leading cause of blindness worldwide.

While cataracts are not painful or dangerous, they can affect vision to such a degree that everyday tasks can no longer be performed. Many people with cataracts find their independence is drastically compromised, and their confidence severely affected.

A cataract is the clouding of the lens of the eye, which occurs naturally in almost everybody as we age. For decades, cataracts have been surgically removed in an operation that is quick, painless and highly effective. The natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced with an artificial lens, restoring vision and ensuring a cataract cannot form again in the future.

Every year, around 300,000 cataract operations are performed in the UK making it the most commonly performed procedure in the country. But the findings of a recent scientific study could make this a thing of the past.

Researchers from the University of California, San Diego, have found that the naturally occurring steroid molecule lanosterol has the potential to ‘dissolve’ or ‘melt’ cloudy lens tissue in the eye. What’s more, the steroid could potentially be harnessed into easy-to-use eye drops, giving an effective alternative to surgical removal and making cataract treatment quicker and easier than ever before. It is also hoped that, if given early enough, these eye drops could actually prevent the formation of cataracts.

The study began with the case of three children from the same family, who were all born with severe cataracts. Genetic testing revealed that each of the children had a genetic mutation which interfered with production of lanosterol in the body. This led scientists leading the study to question the role of lanosterol in preventing cataract formation.

Tests were then performed on the lenses of dogs with cataracts, with surprising results. After being sedated, the dogs were given an injection of lanosterol into the eye, which, according to the researchers, “significantly decreased preform protein aggregates both in vitro and in cell-transfection experiments.”

Professor of ophthalmology at UCSD, Dr Kang Zhang, told the press he was “pleasantly surprised” the treatment worked. The discovery could revolutionise the way in which cataracts are treated, and save the sight of millions of people around the world who would otherwise go blind due to lack of access to proper healthcare.

Although lanosterol occurs naturally in the human body, its safety for this kind of use must be established before trials can begin in humans. Even so, it is hoped that clinical trials could begin in as little as one year, and the drops could be widely available within five years. Until then, cataracts will continue to be removed surgically by the NHS and private eye hospitals, such as Freedom Vision.

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?Visit your local optician


For millions of people around the world, contact lenses are a convenient and effective alternative to glasses. In the UK, more than 3 million people use contact lenses to help them see more clearly. While contact lenses are proven to be safe, wearing them can increase the risk of eye infections.

There are two main types of contact lens; soft and rigid gas permeable (GP). The instructions for use vary depending on the type of lens you use. Here, we give tips and advice on how to use and care for the three most common kinds of lenses –disposable, reusable and extended use- plus, we bring you the tips every contact lens wearer should follow.

Disposable contact lenses

Disposable contacts are single use lenses designed to be worn for one day only and then discarded. These lenses are easy to use and have the added convenience of not needing to be sterilised. It’s important not to reuse this type of lens, even if you find yourself without a fresh pair while away from home. You should also ensure you have regular check-ups with your optometrist to check the health of your eyes, even if you use disposable lenses.

Reusable contact lenses

As the name suggests, reusable contact lenses can be worn more than once, but they must be disinfected between wears to reduce the risk of infection. You may be required to rinse or rub the lenses, and the cleaning routine will usually involve leaving the lenses in a disinfecting solution for a specified amount of time. This destroys any bacteria and organisms which may have built up during the day, leaving the lenses safe to use again.

Because the disinfecting solution will become contaminated with bacteria, it should never be reused or topped up. Instead, pour the liquid away and replace it with fresh solution, every time you store your lenses. The storage case itself should also be rinsed and dried every day, and replaced once a month.

Extended wear lenses

Extended wear lenses can be worn continuously for a set period of time. Some lenses can be worn for a week, while others can be worn for up to a month. Many can also be worn overnight, although you should have this confirmed by your optometrist before you sleep in them.

This type of lens has the potential to infect the eyes more than others, as they remain in position in the eye for long periods of time, during which bacteria could grow. For this reason, you should take meticulous care when using extended wear lenses, and follow their instructions for use carefully. You should also have frequent appointments with your optometrist to check the health of your eyes. Your eye care professional will also instruct you on how to use your particular brand of lens.

C o n t a c t lens care

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Regardless of the type of lens you use, there are some rules that all contact lens wearers should follow:

· Always wash your hands thoroughly and dry them before handling your lenses.

· Replace lenses regularly and have regular check-ups with your optometrist or eye healthcare professional to assess the health of your eyes, and that contact lenses are still a good choice for you.

· Avoid sleeping in your lenses, unless they are extended wear lenses specifically designed for overnight use. If you are unsure whether your lenses can be slept in, consult your optometrist.

· If your eyes become sore, red and irritated during or after wearing contact lenses, seek medical advice immediately. This could be a sign of infection.

· Never bring your lenses into contact with tap water. Tap water contains potentially harmful bacteria which could cause a nasty infection should it enter the eye.

· Don’t wear lenses while swimming or having a shower.

· Never wet your contact lenses with saliva; like tap water, saliva contains bacteria which could cause infections.

If you find wearing contact lenses inconvenient and a hassle, there is a safe, effective and permanent alternative, in the form of laser sight correction.

Laser sight correction, also known as laser eye surgery, corrects refractive errors using a fine laser to reshape

C o n t a c t lens care

the cornea. It is a long-term, painless and highly effective procedure which is over in a matter of minutes.

Freedom Vision offes laser sight correction, along with refractive lens exchange, using industry-leading technology to ensure the best visual outcomes for patients. To learn more about the technique and technology we use, visit www.freedom-vision.co.uk.


Freedom Vision at Old TraffordThe new football season is well under way, and the fight to be crowned the champion of the Premier League is as fierce as ever.

This season, Freedom Vision is showing its support for the red side of Manchester, with season tickets in the Sir Alex Ferguson stand at Old Trafford. We’re also inviting optometrists from across the North West to come and enjoy a game with us.

Our hospitality tickets ensure match day is enjoyed in absolute luxury. On arrival, guests are greeted with a champagne reception and can enjoy a four course, five star meal and complimentary drinks, all before the game kicks off. Snacks and drinks are also served at the half-time break and after the final whistle has blown. And of course, our luxury seats have a great view of the pitch.

With four season tickets available, we are able to invite up to three optometrists to every game. The remaining ticket(s) are used by Freedom Vision representatives.

Through a shared love of the beautiful game and a common interest in ophthalmology, it’s our aim to get to know optometrists in the area better, and strengthen our presence in the ophthalmic community. It’s also a great way for optometrists from across the North West to connect and get to know one another, strengthening business bonds in the process.

If you are an optometrist and you would like to accompany Freedom Vision to a Manchester United home game this season, please email [email protected] for details of available games.

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The Science of Sight Correction

34www.freedom-vision.co.uk

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