As we age, our eyes change both externally and internally, and most of the changes are not for the better. The experts at Magruder Laser Vision are familiar with age-related optic changes and are more than happy to discuss any of our procedures with you to correct your vision and keep your eyes healthy. What can you expect as you age?

  • You may note several external changes to your eyes, such as a yellow or brown tint to the cornea (white portion of your eye) caused by decades of wind, ultraviolet light exposure, and dust. This is irreversible, but can be decreased with good outdoor practices, such as wearing a hat and sunglasses.
  • Many people note a thin, light blue ring encircling their irises. This is due to the sclera becoming more transparent.
  • The conjunctiva lining the eyelids thins as we age, which decreases the number of available mucus cells. These cells produce tears, and many elderly patients report dry eyes as an eye condition.

While these changes do not affect your vision, several other anomalies have the ability to impede your vision.

  • Cataracts: Your lens is much more flexible when you are young. Aging increases lens stiffness and patients are unable to focus as rapidly or as sharply.
  • Diabetic retinopathy: Tiny capillaries burst and leak blood in the retina.
  • Floaters: The gel-like substance inside your eye is vitreous humour. It is usually thick, but can break down and float around inside your eye, sometimes crossing the path of light as it moves to the retina. We perceive these shadows as floaters.
  • Macular degeneration: Vision is sharpest at the macula, a small spot on the retina. If this area deteriorates, central vision is lost.
  • Retinal detachment: Occurring more frequently with myopic patients whose retinas are stretched along with their eyeballs, retinal detachment is a medical emergency that can lead to permanent loss of vision.

Ensure your eyes are as healthy as possible by scheduling yearly eye exams with your Orlando ophthalmology team at Magruder Laser Vision. Call us at 407-843-5665 and visit our blog page to read about the latest in vision care and procedures.

In 1996, Dr. Magruder, opened his practice and introduced locals to Central Florida’s first refractive surgery center. Since then, he has continued to innovate by introducing game-changing technology and pursuing ongoing education to master the latest techniques. To learn more about the Orlando ophthalmologists at Magruder Laser Vision can do for you, call us at (407) 843-5665 or read our blog for more information!