by Dr. M | Nov 19, 2018 | Fun Stuff
Congratulations to the Newlyweds Shaun & Caitlin Handwerk
Wedding bells were ringing for the October 13th wedding of Beth’s son, Shaun and her new daughter-in-law, Caitlin. The wedding was held at the beautiful Belhurst Castle overlooking Seneca Lake in New York.
After a fun-filled wedding weekend, Shaun and Caitlin headed for a dream honeymoon in Italy. We thought you might enjoy some of the special wedding photos!
-
-
Parents of the groom look on.
-
-
Beautiful in black & white
-
-
A thank you for mom & dad
-
-
Belhurst Castle
-
-
Beth & the bride
-
-
The flower girl with Beth’s daughter Stephanie
-
-
Beth & Shaun
-
-
The new Mr. & Mrs.!
by Dr. M | Oct 23, 2018 | Cataracts, Cost, Education, Exam, Glaucoma, Mark Moran, Medical Eye Care, Procedure, Surgery
The iStent Inject: This procedure may eliminate the need for daily glaucoma drops!
Size of the iStent Inject
Dr. Mark Moran is now offering Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) with the iStent Inject. This option is currently available for glaucoma patients who are having cataract surgery.
Clinical studies have shown a significant decrease in eye pressure in mild-to-moderate glaucoma with this implant. It is interesting to note that the iStent Inject is the smallest medical device known to be implanted in the human body. The picture to the right shows the actual iStent as a tiny speck on the face of a penny!
An Alternative to Glaucoma Drop Therapy
If using drops to control your glaucoma poses problems for you, this procedure may be a great alternative. Ask yourself if you have these issues with your glaucoma medication:
- Do you have problems putting drops in your eyes?
- Do you forget to use your drops as prescribed?
- Do you have financial concerns with the cost of prescription drops?
iStent Inject in place
How the iStent works: During cataract surgery, Dr. Moran inserts these tiny stents to create two openings between the front part of the eye and the eye’s natural drainage pathway. This improved flow decreases the pressure in the eye.
Insertion of this FDA approved device is painless. You won’t be able to see or feel these microscopic devices. They are so small that you won’t have to worry about going through an airport metal detector or having an MRI.
This combined cataract/stent procedure does not significantly increase the amount of time that you will spend in the operating room. The recovery time from this procedure is the same as with cataract surgery alone.
Dr. Moran explains the results: “I’ve seen a decrease in pressure in the patients who have had the stents inserted. Many have stopped using their drops altogether. We remind patients that this stent procedure is a treatment, NOT a cure for glaucoma. You still need to follow up with regular appointments to monitor your glaucoma, and maintain the health of your eyes.”
If you have questions about glaucoma, cataracts, or any other vision concern, call to make an appointment at 610-628-2022. Dr. Moran and Dr. Tang would be happy to review your history and discuss if this procedure is right for you.
by Dr. M | Sep 19, 2018 | Dry Eye, Education, Exam, Experience, Glaucoma, Low Vision, Mark Moran, Medical Eye Care, Patient Care, Vision
The certificate has arrived, so now it is official!
Bobbi Spain has received her COA designation from the International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAPHO). Bobbi is our surgical coordinator, who works with LASIK and cataract patients. She was surprised to see that the package from JCAPHO also included an official COA card, pin and patch!
Official Certification
To provide the best care for our patients, the staff at Moran Eye Associates makes learning a priority. Every member of the team takes part in monthly compliance training, as well as taking on additional programs of study in general ophthalmology, low vision, dry eye management, regulations and billing. They also attend industry conferences each year to keep up with advances in technology and and patient care.
In 2017, Mandy, Beth and Dr. Moran attended the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) conference in New Orleans. In April of this year, Bobbi and Cindy accompanied Dr. Moran to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ASCRS) in Washington, D.C.
Bobbi joins Mandy and Cindy, who already have their COA certificates on display. Mandy received her COA in 2017. Cindy has been a COA since 2004. In order to maintain certification, a total of 18 credits in continuing education must be completed every three years. Eighteen credits is an easy to complete at Moran Eye Associates, where continuing education plays a key role in our success!
by Dr. M | Sep 13, 2018 | Appointment, Fun Stuff, Mark Moran, News, Office, Vision
Our favorite artist has created new paintings for our office collection. They are so beautiful, we just had to share!
You might notice that the paintings are signed Moran…but it’s not Dr. Moran’s talent on display. All of the paintings in our office have been created by his very talented mother, Jeanne Moran. Dr. Moran said that his mother has been painting as long as he can remember. She paints still life, landscapes as well as other nature scenes. Her vibrant use of colors is especially stunning in person!
Purple Mountain Majesty
This colorful bird greets you in the reception area.
Moran Eye Associates Bergen Street View
You might recognize this painting to the right. It is the Moran Eye Associates office, as seen from Bergen Street. You will see this painting in our waiting room. If you park in our parking lot, it is the view of our office as you cross the street.
Vibrant colors accent a country scene
Patients often comment about the beautiful artwork that we have on display. We feel very fortunate to have her work to share with our patients. It seems appropriate to have paintings in an ophthalmologist’s office, where we help patients achieve their best vision.
We have included some of her artwork her, but to see the full collection, you’ll have to come in to our office at 1204 Delaware Avenue for an appointment!
-
-
Vibrant colors accent a country scene
-
-
Purple Mountain Majesty
-
-
This colorful bird greets you in the reception area.
by Dr. M | Aug 30, 2018 | Dry Eye, Education, Exam, Floaters, Medical Eye Care, News, Procedure
Dr. Moran leads continuing education session on new technology and treatments.
This past month, Moran Eye Associates held an educational event for local optometrists in the Lehigh Valley. Dr. Moran presented two lectures one on dry eye heat therapy, and the other on laser treatment for floaters. These sessions were approved by the Council on Optometric Practitioner Education (COPE) for continuing education credits for the doctors who attended.
Dr. Moran Presents
During our lecture, the visiting doctors enjoyed a Summer-y spread of barbecue, salad, and snacks while listening to Dr. Moran’s lectures. Everyone in the office pitched in to make this homemade buffet. Beth made her famous barbecue (the secret is bacon!), Dr. Tang provided a chocolate fountain, Cindy brought her mom’s special recipe potato salad, Bobbi made the tossed salad, Mandy made the drinks and decorated the office for the occasion.
A Homemade Buffet Dinner
Back to the topic at hand! Dr. Moran explained the advantages and benefits of the novel treatments we offer in the office: “Dry eye treatment has become more sophisticated as the tools for analyzing tear film have developed. Now that we can image the tear film and the oil producing glands in the eye, we can more accurately diagnose the cause of dry eye. A more accurate diagnosis allows for more effective treatment.”
Heat Therapy for Dry Eye & Laser Floater Treatment now available.
Until recently, doctors had limited options to offer their patients who experienced discomfort from dry eye, or whose vision was obstructed by bothersome floaters. Moran Eye Associates has been successfully implementing these new treatment options for the past six months with great feedback from our patients!
“I feel that I had an extremely positive experience with the laser surgery on both eyes performed by Dr.Moran. I would recommend it highly.” Trudy S.
A Hands-on Opportunity
After the lecture, each optometrist had the opportunity to experience the heat therapy firsthand. They relaxed in our comfortable heat therapy room for 15-minutes, which is the same treatment that we provide our patients.
Our lids are lined with small Meibomian glands that secrete oil, which is an integral component of our tears. The oil prevents our tears from evaporating too quickly. Oftentimes, the glands become clogged, and the lack of oil flow leads to dryness, discomfort, and blurred vision. The focused heat treatment helps to improve the flow of oils. After the treatment, either Dr. Moran or Dr. Tang help to further improve oil flow by manually manipulating the glands.
After a 15-minute heat therapy treatment, they could see (and feel!) how this process improved the quality of their tear film. Dr. Dan Klinger, who practices in Schnecksville, remarked “The treatment was soothing and comfortable. I could feel the difference after just one session.”
The Science Behind Laser Floater Treatment
Dr. Moran showed a video that showed the YAG laser in action as it targeted floaters. This painless treatment uses laser energy to transform the solid floater into a gas bubble, which then dissolves on its own. Moran Eye Associates is one of a few practices in the area that offers this unique in-office treatment.
Educating patients and professionals is key to offering the best care to our patients. If you have any questions about Heat Therapy Treatment or Laser Floater Treatment , contact our office for more information or to schedule an appointment.
by Dr. M | Aug 23, 2018 | Fun Stuff, Office
Opal’s New Family
Rescue Me!
Mandy Bolton and her family were looking to welcome a new dog into their home. They visited the Logan’s Heroes website to find a rescue dog. When they saw Opal, they fell in love with this mixed-breed puppy with beautiful eyes, one blue and one brown!
Happy at Home
Opal came to Logan’s Heroes from a shelter in Alabama along with her brothers. We are happy to say that all seven puppies in Opal’s litter have found their forever home!
Mandy, her husband John, and her mom Renee (Gam) brought Opal home on August 4th. She quickly became part of Mandy’s family! When you come into the office, ask Mandy how Opal’s doing, she is sure to have pictures!
Moran Eye Associates and Logan’s Heroes have had a great connection over the past few years. We will make a donation to the rescue in our patient’s name when they refer a new LASIK patient. In the past, our LASIK patients have accounted for over $4500 in donations to Logan’s Heroes to help them continue their mission to rescue animals in need.
Check out the Logan’s Heroes Website
Logan’s Heroes Animal Rescue Inc. has many dogs available for adoption. Please check their site for updates to their list of adoptable dogs. All of their dogs are currently in foster homes which provides them with more information on how they will adjust to life in a new home. After you have been approved as an adopter. Visits are by appointment only.
If you are interested in adopting a pet, or supporting their efforts, visit the Logan’s Heroes website at http://lharinc.org/
by Dr. M | Aug 13, 2018 | Uncategorized
Cindy’s birthday treat!
August is Birthday Month at Moran Eye Associates, with four birthdays to celebrate!
When you come into our office in August, say “Happy Birthday!”. You will be sure to make someone’s day even more special, since it’s a month-long birthday celebration!
- Beth kicks off the month on August 1st.
- Dr. Tang follows on August 8th.
- Cindy celebrates on August 12th.
- Mandy ends the month-long celebration on August 21st.
Wishing everyone a happy birthday and a year filled with good health and happiness to follow.
by Dr. M | Aug 4, 2018 | Education, Exam, Eye Protection, Eye Safety, Eyeglasses, Glasses, Low Vision, Macula, Office, Sun Damage, Sunglasses
Cocoons Fit-Over Eyewear
Cocoons Fit Over Your Glasses
Moran Eye Associates now offers Cocoons Eyewear, our doctors’ choice for professional-grade fitover sunglasses. Designed specifically to fit over your prescription glasses, these lightweight sunglasses come in a variety of tints, styles and sizes to fit your vision needs. Stop in our office to see for yourself!
The unique design of Cocoons isolates your eyes from the elements, keeping you free from glare, harmful UV rays, and fluctuating light conditions. These lenses and the frames work together to keep your eyes protected.
Eliminates glare for people with normal vision and low vision.
Frames come in multiple colors
These polarized glasses offer UV400 protection, scratch resistant technology, and a one-year warranty. If glare is a problem, polarized lenses provide a significant reduction in glare compared to regular tinted sunglasses. Most sunglasses sold at the store are not polarized unless specifically indicated.
Cocoons are designed to reduce glare and to enhance vision. The specialized color options were developed to target different issues. We recommend that you try on the different lens types to see what works best for you.
- Gray: for natural color definition and general daily use. Reduces light sensitivity while eliminating reflected surface glare.
- Amber: filters scattered blue light to increase contrast and provide improved depth perception in varying lights conditions. Amber is the preferred color for driving.
- Copper: filters scattered blue light and minimizes color distortion to deliver enhanced contrast and color definition
- Yellow: ideal for low light conditions. Maximizes contrast for improved definition and depth perception while eliminating glare. Best in dusk and dawn light, but not the best option for general daily use.
- Blue Mirror: maximizes glare elimination and filters additional blue light for improved contrast while delivering true color definition.
Recommended for Nighttime Driving – Twilight Lenses
Nighttime driving has unique vision issues, due to glare from headlights and reduced available light. Cocoons have developed a special Twilight lens that we recommend. These specialty Twilight lenses help to solve night driving issues because of their anti-reflective coating.
Dr. Moran explains the benefits of the Twilight lenses, “The key to better nighttime vision is anti-reflective coating. Although yellow and amber lenses help with contrast and clarity, they reduce the available light, which can make it hard to see well when you are driving. You have to balance the benefit of increased contrast with the reduction in brightness. Polarized lenses work well in the natural daylight, but don’t help with artificial lights from headlights and streetlights at night. Additionally, polarized lenses cut out 50% of light, which is counterproductive in the dark.”
The Twilight lens system blocks 100% of harmful UV light and 60% or more of harmful High Energy Visible (HEV) blue light while providing 93% overall visible light transmission. The unique filtering properties of these HEV filters effectively reduce scattered blue light and improve contrast without compromising overall light transmission. The lens system is protected by a one-year scratch resistance warranty and includes an anti-reflective coating to minimize glare and halos created by artificial light sources.
Help for patients who have heightened photophobia (light sensitivity).
Low-vision patients may benefit from a different colored tints to give them the best acuity. Sometimes, the tint correlates with specific medical conditions, but most of the time, it is a matter of personal preference. All of these lenses reduce glare and heighten contrast, which is important for low-vision patients. Additional color options include.
Cocoons Offer Color Options for Best Vision
- Boysenberry (pink): reduces glare and heightens contrast. Blocks 90% of blue light.
- Hazelnut (brown:) reduces glare and heightens contrast. Blocks 98% of blue light.
- Orange: enhances contrast by intensifying the background to improve object definition and clarity. Blocks 100% of blue light.
- Lemon (yellow): enhances contrast and visual acuity in low light conditions. Blocks 40% of blue light.
Whatever your vision needs, we can help you to see your best. We offer the latest technology to help keep your eyes healthy and to protect your vision for years to come.
Call or text us at 610-628-2022 for more information on enhancing your vision. If you’d like to schedule a visit, just click to request an appointment.
by Dr. M | Jul 25, 2018 | Cataracts, Diabetes, Dilation, Exam, Experience, Eyeglasses, Glasses, LASIK, Macula, Mark Moran, Medical Eye Care, Patient Care, Retina
Are you Seeing your Best?
How Vision is Measured
The distance vision of a normal human eye is defined at 20/20. This number illustrates what a person with normal vision can see at twenty feet. Your visual acuity is measured on how it relates to vision at 20 feet.
- If your vision is 20/40, you can see at 20 feet, what a normal eye can see at 40 feet.
- If your vision is 20/100, you can see at 20 feet, what a normal eye can see at 100 feet.
- If your vision is 20/400, you can see at 20 feet, what a normal eye can see at 400 feet.
When you read an eye chart, chances are that person testing you is paying attention to what you say, as well as how you say it. They will know if you are seeing clearly or are struggling and making guesses. It never pays to cheat on your eye test!
Driving requirements
How well do I need to see to drive?
Although each state determines their specific requirements, generally 20/40 vision is needed to pass the driving test. If you need glasses to see 20/40, it will be indicated on your driver’s license. While your distance vision is key to passing the driving test, there are other factors that are considered as well. For complete information on what is required in Pennsylvania, click on the link.
Pennsylvania Drivers Visual Standards
After vision correction surgery, like LASIK or cataract surgery, you may be able to see well enough to have the vision correction restriction removed from your license.
What is legally blind?
If you cannot see any letters below the 20/200 line, even when wearing glasses or contacts, you are considered legally blind. If your vision can be corrected by putting on a pair of glasses, you may have poor vision, but you are not legally blind.
I see 20/20, do I need an eye exam?
Absolutely! Measuring your vision is an important part of your comprehensive exam, but there is so much more that we check at your visit. We will check your pupils, eye pressure and field of vision. We will record your visual history, health history and medications. The doctor will examine the health of your eyes using a slit lamp microscope, checking for eye disease, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and cataracts.
Early detection of eye disease is your best defense against vision loss. So even if you don’t need a new pair of glasses, make sure to schedule your regular check-up, so you can keep seeing your best!
by Dr. M | Jul 10, 2018 | Appointment, Cataracts, Contact Lenses, Education, Glasses, Mark Moran, Office, Patient Care, Uncategorized
Your child’s vision is very important to his or her success in school…
which is why Moran Eye Associates is offering:
FREE Vision Screenings
for School-Aged Children
Saturday, Aug 4th from 8 am-12 noon
1204 Delaware Avenue, Bethlehem, PA 18015
No Appointment is Necessary!
Vision screenings will be conducted by Dr. Mark Moran and Dr. Bianca Tang. Our expert doctors and staff will evaluate your child’s vision to see if he or she may have any issues that should be addressed BEFORE school starts.
No appointment is necessary, this is a walk-in event. Parking is available in our lot on Bergen Street.
Mark E. Moran, D.O., M.S.H.I., F.A.O.C.O is a board-certified ophthalmologist and Fellow of the American Osteopathic College of Ophthalmology. He has been practicing in the Lehigh Valley for 25 years. Dr. Moran specializes in LASIK vision correction, cataract surgery, medical eye care, and comprehensive eye examinations.
Bianca Tang, O.D. Dr. Tang is a Summa cum laude graduate of Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University. She earned her undergraduate degree, also Summa cum laude, in Biological Sciences and Health Professions at Penn State University. She specializes in comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings as well as low-vision solutions for children and adults.
