A woman with glaucoma rubbing her eyes

Is Glaucoma Hereditary?

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Glaucoma encompasses a collection of eye disorders that affect the optic nerve, which is essential for proper vision. This injury is frequently caused by very high pressure in your eye.

Heredity plays a role in the condition, making it important to know your family’s eye health history. Learn more about the genetic aspect of glaucoma below.

Understanding the Genetic Factors of Glaucoma

Research shows that genes are indeed a factor in many types of glaucoma. For example, primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common type, has been linked to several genetic mutations.

If you have a family member with glaucoma, especially a direct relative like a parent or sibling, your risk of developing the condition may be higher. Genetic tests are available to identify some of the genes associated with glaucoma, but they are not yet standard practice for everyone.

How to Manage Your Risk

Knowing that glaucoma can be hereditary, you might feel a need to take action. Start with regular eye check-ups, particularly if your family history suggests a higher risk.

These exams are essential as glaucoma often does not present any symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. Early detection through routine screenings can make a significant difference in outcomes.

In addition to monitoring your eye health, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage your risk. 

Regular exercise and a balanced diet benefit overall body health, including the eyes. Also, managing other health conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, is important, as these can increase the likelihood of developing glaucoma.

The Importance of Awareness and Regular Check-Ups

Awareness is your first line of defense. Knowing about the hereditary aspects of glaucoma empowers you to take proactive measures. Remember, early detection through regular eye exams plays a critical role in preventing significant vision loss from glaucoma.

If glaucoma is a concern for you, consider starting a conversation with your eye doctor during your next visit. They can help assess your risk and suggest preventive measures. 

By staying informed and vigilant about eye health, you can better manage the risk of glaucoma, whether or not it runs in your family.

Schedule Your Glaucoma Consultation in Waipahu & Honolulu, HI

Concerned about glaucoma and its hereditary aspects? Visit Jeffrey Maehara, MD, for a comprehensive consultation. Our team of experts is here to assess your risk and guide you through the best preventative measures.

Don’t wait until it’s too late — schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward protecting your vision. For more information or to make an appointment, call us at 808-955-3937 (Honolulu) or 808-671-3782 (Waipahu). Let us be your partner in better eye health.

Closeup of person’s eye with circles around it indicating clear vision after bladeless LASIK

The Safety and Effectiveness of Bladeless LASIK

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Bladeless LASIK is a significant advancement in corrective eye surgery. It uses laser technology to enhance precision and minimize discomfort. This method has gained popularity for its ability to correct vision while ensuring a high safety profile. 

If you’re considering vision correction options, understanding how bladeless LASIK works and its benefits can help you make an informed decision.

Safety of Bladeless LASIK

Bladeless LASIK is renowned for its high safety profile. The femtosecond laser allows precise control during the flap creation phase, which is crucial for the surgery’s success. 

Such precision significantly reduces the risks associated with manual methods. Most patients report minimal discomfort, and the procedure’s refined accuracy helps lower the chances of complications.

Extensive clinical studies have demonstrated that bladeless LASIK results in fewer flap-related complications than traditional LASIK. Issues like flap irregularities, which can arise from mechanical cutting devices, are substantially less common. Moreover, the laser technique can be adjusted to the individual’s specific eye structure, enhancing safety for each patient.

Effectiveness of Bladeless LASIK

The effectiveness of Bladeless LASIK is evident in its remarkable accuracy in correcting various vision problems. This method is particularly effective for patients with myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. After undergoing bladeless LASIK, many achieve 20/20 vision or better, which means they no longer need glasses or contact lenses for most activities.

Patients often notice an improvement in vision almost immediately after the procedure, although it can take a few weeks to stabilize fully. Long-term studies have shown that bladeless LASIK offers lasting results, with most patients maintaining excellent vision years after surgery.

Bladeless LASIK’s technology not only ensures vision correction but also a smoother recovery. The laser’s ability to fine-tune the procedure to each eye’s unique shape enhances the safety and effectiveness of the treatment, leading to high satisfaction rates among patients.

Schedule Your Bladeless LASIK Consultation in Honolulu, HI

Ready to enhance your vision with bladeless LASIK? Schedule a consultation today with Jeffrey Maehara, MD, at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser in Honolulu. Explore your options and discuss your vision goals with our experienced team. 

Call us at 808-955-3937 and discover how bladeless LASIK can change your view of the world!

Close up of crow’s feet fine lines around woman’s eye

How Dysport Can Help Smooth Crow’s Feet

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Crow’s feet — those fine lines that form around the corners of your eyes — are often one of the first signs of aging. If you’re looking for a way to smooth out these lines, Dysport is a popular, non-invasive treatment that can help. 

Dr. Jeffrey Maehara and his father, Dr. Dennis Maehara, offer expert eye care and cosmetic injections to patients in Honolulu, Hawaii. With over 30 years of experience in the local community, our team at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser can freshen up your look with Dysport.

What Causes Crow’s Feet?

Crow’s feet are mainly caused by repeated facial movements like squinting, laughing, and smiling. Over time, the muscles around the eyes contract, and as your skin loses elasticity, these repeated movements can start to form fine lines. Sun exposure and smoking can cause crow’s feet to develop faster than normal. While there’s nothing wrong with having crow’s feet, some people wish to reduce their appearance.

How Dysport Works for Crow’s Feet

Dysport is an FDA-approved injectable treatment that targets the muscles responsible for crow’s feet. When injected, Dysport temporarily relaxes these muscles, preventing them from contracting and deepening the wrinkles. This smooths out the lines to make your eyes look younger.

Results from Dysport usually appear within a few days and can last several months. It’s also a quick, minimally invasive procedure, so you can easily fit into your busy schedule. You can even choose Dysport to reduce other facial lines, such as laugh lines around the mouth, with equally great results.

A Family Legacy of Exceptional Eye and Aesthetic Care

At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser, you’re in trusted hands. Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained specialist, brings extensive knowledge and skill to each procedure. His father, Dr. Dennis Maehara, has built a legacy of high-quality care over the past 30 years, serving the Honolulu community with a focus on eye health and cosmetic treatments.

If you want to address your crow’s feet, contact Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser today. Call 808-955-3937 to schedule your consultation and learn more about how Dysport can help you look your best.

Who is a Candidate for Corneal Transplant Surgery?

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A corneal transplant replaces a damaged or diseased cornea with healthy tissue from a donor. The procedure aims to improve vision, relieve pain, and treat severe infections or damage.

During surgery, your eye surgeon removes and replaces the central part of your cornea with the donor cornea. This surgery may restore clear vision and enhance the quality of life for those with corneal conditions.

Recovery varies, but many patients experience significant improvements in vision over time. Your eye doctor will guide you through the post-surgery care process to ensure the best results.

Medical Conditions Requiring Corneal Transplant

Several conditions may necessitate a corneal transplant—keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, distorts vision. Corneal scarring from injury or infection can cloud vision, making daily activities difficult.

Fuchs’ dystrophy causes swelling and clouding of the cornea, leading to blurred vision and discomfort. Other conditions include corneal ulcers and severe corneal infections.

If you experience severe corneal damage, vision problems, or pain from these conditions, a corneal transplant might be recommended. Symptoms include blurred vision, sensitivity to light, eye pain, and distorted vision, all of which can impact your daily life.

Evaluating Candidacy for Corneal Transplant Surgery

Doctors consider several factors to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a corneal transplant. Overall health is crucial, as conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or infections can affect surgery outcomes.

Eye health, including the condition of other parts of the eye, plays a significant role. Your doctor may suggest other treatments or surgeries before recommending a corneal transplant.

Comprehensive eye exams and a medical history review will help make this decision. If a corneal transplant is advised, your doctor will guide you through the preparation and recovery process to achieve the best possible outcome.

Pre-surgery evaluations include assessing corneal thickness and overall eye health to ensure that a corneal transplant is the best option for you.

Schedule a Corneal Transplant Consultation in Honolulu, HI

Ready to explore if a corneal transplant is right for you? Schedule a consultation with Jeffrey Maehara, MD, at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser in Honolulu, HI, today. 

Dr. Maehara will provide personalized care to help restore your vision. Call us at 808-955-3937 to book your appointment. Let us guide you towards clearer vision and improved eye health.

A doctor examining a woman’s eyes for signs of cataracts

Early Warning Signs of Cataracts You Shouldn’t Ignore

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Cataracts are a common eye condition that involves the lens of the eye becoming cloudy, making your vision appear blurred or dim. This happens when proteins in the lens break down and clump together.

Since cataracts develop gradually, recognizing the early signs, such as subtle changes in your vision, is essential. This slow progression allows you time to seek treatment before your vision is significantly impacted, helping you maintain a better quality of life.

Discover some warning signs of cataracts below.

Recognizing the Early Warning Signs of Cataracts

Being aware of the early signs of cataracts can help you seek timely medical advice and maintain your vision health. If you notice any of these changes, it’s important to consult with an eye care professional right away:

  • Blurred Vision: You may notice that your sight isn’t as sharp as it used to be, and things appear blurry, no matter how much you squint.
  • Difficulty Seeing at Night: Cataracts can make it harder to see in low light, affecting your ability to drive safely after dark.
  • Halos Around Lights: Bright lights might begin to halo, making nighttime driving particularly challenging.
  • Frequent Changes in Prescription Glasses: If you find yourself needing a new glasses prescription more often than usual, it could be a sign of cataracts.
  • Fading or Yellowing of Colors: Colors might not seem as vivid as before, or they may have a brownish tint.

When to Consult a Professional

If you suspect you’re experiencing signs of cataracts, it’s important to consult an eye care professional. Scheduling a comprehensive eye exam is the first step in confirming if you have cataracts and discussing potential treatment options.

Early diagnosis can greatly benefit you, as treatments, including cataract surgery, are generally safe and highly effective. 

Additionally, maintaining regular eye check-ups is crucial, especially as you age or if you have risk factors linked to cataracts. These preventive measures can help preserve your vision and enhance your quality of life.

Schedule Your Cataract Consultation in Honolulu

If you’re noticing any signs of cataracts, don’t wait to seek professional advice. Jeffrey Maehara, MD, is committed to providing you with personalized care and effective treatment options.

Schedule a consultation with our experienced team in Honolulu, HI. You can also call us at 808.955.3937. Protect your vision and take the first step toward clearer sight today.

What Eye Conditions Can Medical Marijuana Assist With?

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Medical marijuanaMedical marijuana has been growing in popularity for treating a variety of physical and mental health concerns. Part of what makes it so beneficial for treatment is its versatility. Medical marijuana can be used to alleviate a range of symptoms, including anxiety, pain and discomfort, difficulty eating, and more.

Medical marijuana is legal in Hawaii with a State 329 Medical Marijuana license card. Any patient interested in using medical marijuana must have a 329 medical card. Thankfully, Jeffrey Maehara, MD, can perform consultations and complete applications for a medical marijuana card in Honolulu, HI.

If you’re interested in utilizing medical marijuana for an eye condition, keep reading to learn more about the qualifying conditions and how to apply for a license.

What Eye Conditions Can Medical Marijuana Assist in Treating?

Medical marijuana can be used to treat eye conditions that cause intraocular pressure (IOP), such as glaucoma, by reducing pressure and increasing comfort.

A medical marijuana license may also be granted to patients with cancer, lupus, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and mental health conditions such as PTSD and anxiety.

Medical marijuana is frequently used for these conditions to assist with nausea, pain, and appetite. However, it can also be useful for those who have debilitating medical conditions such as seizures and muscle spasms.

How to Register for a State 329 Medical Marijuana License

If you are interested in the State 329 Medical Marijuana license, the first step is to check to see if your condition or symptoms are on the list of qualifying medical conditions. Then, you can fill out and turn in your application. This may involve supplying medical records, doctor’s notes, and other documentation. Once the application has been submitted, Dr. Maehara will schedule a consultation with you. During this time, he’ll discuss your condition with you and determine if medical marijuana would be beneficial. If so, he can complete your application and submit it to the State for final approval. Your card should arrive in the mail shortly after.

Apply for a Medical Marijuana License Today

Learn more about the benefits of medical marijuana as well as how to apply for a license by contacting Jeffrey Maehard in Honolulu, HI. Call our office today at 808-955-3937 or request a consultation online.

photorefractive keratectomy

PRK: A LASIK Alternative for Patients

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Are you interested in improving your vision? LASIK isn’t the only option available. At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser, we offer photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, a laser vision correction procedure. PRK is a tried-and-true method that was widely used before the invention of LASIK. Learn more about how PRK works and when to opt for this alternative.

How Does PRK Work?

PRK surgeries involve using a laser to carefully change the shape of your cornea, the dome-shaped, transparent window at the front of your eyeball. By adjusting its shape, PRK changes how it refracts or bends light.

When Is PRK Used?

PRK is a surgery that corrects refractive vision errors, meaning it corrects vision problems where the eye cannot refract light correctly. It is mostly used for patients with large pupils or thin corneas.

Some examples of conditions Dr. Jeffrey Maehara may choose to correct with PRK include:

  • Myopia: Nearsightedness, or seeing well up-close while far-off objects become blurry.
  • Hyperopia: Farsightedness, or seeing distant objects well but having trouble focusing on nearby objects.
  • Astigmatism: An irregular curvature problem that causes blurry near and far vision.

What Kinds of Patients Make Good PRK Candidates?

On top of having one of the above conditions, PRK patients must satisfy a few basic criteria:

  • Age: It’s best to wait until your eyes have finished developing, so you should be at least 18 to 21 years old.
  • Health: Your eye and cornea health must be satisfactory.
  • Prescriptions: Your prescription should be stable — meaning it has been consistent over the past year.
  • Error type and level: PRK can correct refractive errors only within reason.

PRK isn’t recommended for certain individuals, including current cataract sufferers and those with severe glaucoma. It’s also not recommended for people with uncontrolled diabetes and women who are currently pregnant or nursing. If you have a history of scarring, you might not be a good candidate, especially if your scars affect your corneas.

How Does PRK Differ From LASIK?

LASIK is another type of laser vision correction procedure that works by changing the shape of your eye. The biggest difference is that LASIK creates a flap in the epithelium (the thin membrane covering the cornea) to access the cornea, whereas PRK removes the epithelium.

Learn More About PRK With Jeffrey Maehara, MD

Could PRK make a difference in how you view life? Talking to a physician is the best way to find out. Book your appointment in Honolulu, HI, with Jeffrey Maehara, MD, by calling 808-955-3937.

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. The key to managing this potentially blinding illness is early detection. Do you know the signs of glaucoma?

Glaucoma Awareness Month: Signs and Symptoms of Glaucoma

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January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating patients about glaucoma, the leading cause of blindness. Research has found about 10% of people with glaucoma fail to recognize the symptoms until it is too late to save their vision.

Glaucoma is a disease that does not discriminate. Everyone is at risk, and early detection is the key to effective treatment. It’s essential to know the signs and symptoms of glaucoma.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an umbrella term for eye conditions that affect the optic nerve, responsible for sending visual signals to the brain for interpretation. Glaucoma can affect anyone at any age, but it is the leading cause of blindness for people over 60.

What Causes Glaucoma?

Glaucoma describes a group of conditions that damage the optic nerve. The cause of that damage can vary. Elevated eye pressure is the most common cause. If fluid builds up in the eye, it can put too much pressure on the optic nerve, eventually damaging it and causing complete vision loss.

The most common form of glaucoma is open-angle, which occurs when the drainage system in the eye fails. The other forms include closed-angle glaucoma, congenital glaucoma, and secondary glaucoma.

What Are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?

There are several forms of glaucoma, some with no symptoms at all. You might have:

  • Patchy blind spots, especially in your side or peripheral vision
  • Severe headache
  • Eye pain
  • Blurred vision
  • Colored rings around lights
  • Eye redness and irritation

If you experience sudden changes in your vision, severe headaches, or eye pain, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor immediately.

What Can You Do To Reduce Your Risk of Glaucoma?

The most effective way to reduce your risk of vision loss from glaucoma is to see your eye doctor regularly. The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) recommends you make an appointment yearly for a comprehensive eye exam if you are over 65. However, if you are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma, you should schedule eye exams annually, regardless of age.

Schedule Glaucoma Testing From Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, MD

Dr. Jeffrey Maehara is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in eye care to support vision throughout your life. Call 808-955-3937 or go online to schedule your appointment today and stay ahead of glaucoma.

myopia treatment

Cure Myopia With Allegretto Wave®

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Myopia, or nearsightedness, is one of the most common eye conditions in the world. It can affect people at any age, but it’s becoming increasingly common among children, teens, and young adults due to excess screen exposure from an early age. Although it can be easily corrected with glasses or contact lenses, myopia has another treatment option: Allegretto Wave®, an advanced LASIK eye surgery laser.

What Is Allegretto Wave?

Allegretto Wave, also known as Wavefront LASIK, is an advanced excisor laser system used to treat a variety of eye problems, such as myopia and astigmatism. Excisor lasers use ultraviolet light to remove tissue from the cornea using a process called photoablative decomposition. In simple terms, this means that the laser reshapes the anterior cornea to improve vision without causing any damage to the eye itself.

How Is It Different From LASIK?

Allegretto Wave is a type of LASIK procedure; its greatest difference from the traditional method is its accuracy and speed. Because of its precision, we love to use it in our practice as a way to minimize side effects for our patients.

The FDA approved Allegretto Wave in 2003 for LASIK surgery, and it has been used around the world ever since. The wavefront technology helps Dr. Maehara shape your cornea with unmatched precision, reducing side effects like halo, poor night vision, and glare.

Benefits of Correcting Myopia With Eye Surgery

Undergoing eye surgery to correct myopia can help you in many ways, such as:

  • Enhanced vision
  • No need for glasses or contact lenses
  • Long-lasting results
  • Save money on glasses prescriptions and eye care

If you are interested in Allegretto Wave, schedule an appointment with us! We would love to help you find the perfect solution to treat your myopia in our office.

Explore LASIK in Honolulu, HI

Dr. Maehara is a board-certified ophthalmologist who runs our practice with his son, Dr. Dennis Maehara. Together, they offer patients the most specialized care to support their vision at every stage of life.

If you would like to discuss LASIK with Allegretto Wave for your nearsightedness, please visit our contact page or call 808-955-3937.

Glaucoma

5 Important Facts About Glaucoma

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Around 3 million people have glaucoma in the United States. As the second leading cause of blindness worldwide, early detection is key when it comes to taking the steps needed to slow the progression of the disease. There are five important facts that you should know about glaucoma.

5 Important Facts About Glaucoma

1. There Are No Symptoms of Glaucoma Until the Damage Is Irreversible

Early on, there are no symptoms of glaucoma. In fact, people do not typically experience any signs of the disease until it has resulted in irreversible damage. At this point, individuals may notice some problems with their vision.

2. There Is No Cure, but There Are Treatments

Even though the damage that has been done as a result of glaucoma is not able to be reversed, having the ability to treat the condition early can help slow the progression. Treatments can help to reduce the pressure on your eyes and resolve any drainage issues.

3. Some People Have a Higher Risk of Developing Glaucoma

There are certain people who may have a higher risk of developing glaucoma. In general, individuals who are over 60 and have a family history of glaucoma are at higher risk than others. Additionally, Mexican Americans and African Americans are also more likely to develop glaucoma than those in other ethnic groups. This makes it important for individuals of these ethnicities to schedule regular eye exams.

4. Glaucoma Is Caused by Excess Fluid Buildup

Glaucoma tends to develop as a result of fluid accumulating in the eye. This puts pressure on the eye and can cause damage to the optic nerve if it becomes compressed.

5. You Can Catch Glaucoma Early With Regular Eye Exams

Having regular eye exams can help you detect glaucoma early on. This provides you with the best chances of getting treatment before the damage progresses to impact your vision.

Schedule an Eye Exam Today

Living with glaucoma can be challenging. However, early detection is key to ensuring you can start treatment early. Contact Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser to schedule an appointment at their Honolulu, HI, office at 808-955-3937 or complete the form online.