Close up of a patient's cornea fully healed after receiving a corneal transplant

Corneal Healing After Transplant Surgery

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A cornea transplant can restore clear vision and relieve discomfort when the natural cornea becomes damaged or diseased. Healing properly after surgery is key to long-term success and avoiding complications. 

At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser in Honolulu, patients benefit from decades of trusted care. Dr. Jeffrey Maehara is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained Anterior Segment–Glaucoma Specialist, with advanced training in corneal transplants, LASIK, and cataract procedures. He brings experience from Tulane Medical School and leadership in surgical innovation across Hawaii. 

Knowing what to expect during recovery can help patients feel more prepared and confident as they recover and return to their daily lives.

What to Expect in the Healing Timeline

Healing from a cornea transplant typically takes several weeks to months. During the first few days after surgery, patients may experience:

  • Mild discomfort or irritation
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurry or fluctuating vision

It is normal for vision to take time to stabilize. In some cases, vision may continue to improve for up to a year following the procedure. Regular follow-up visits are crucial to monitor progress and adjust medications as needed.

Supporting Healthy Corneal Healing

Healing well after a cornea transplant begins with closely following your post-surgery instructions. Using your prescribed eye drops on schedule helps prevent infection and keeps inflammation down, which are both important for a smooth recovery. Be gentle with your eye and avoid rubbing or applying pressure to it, even if it feels itchy or irritated.

If your doctor recommends it, wearing an eye shield while you sleep can help protect your eye from accidental bumps. It’s also a good idea to hold off on strenuous physical activity and avoid swimming until your surgeon says it’s safe.

Protecting your eyes from things like wind, dust, and smoke can also play a big role in how well you heal. When you’re outside, wearing sunglasses helps reduce sensitivity to light and shields your eyes from irritants while they recover.

When to Contact Your Eye Surgeon

While mild symptoms are expected, certain signs may indicate a complication. Contact the surgeon promptly if any of the following occur:

  • Severe or increasing eye pain
  • Sudden vision loss or decrease
  • Redness that worsens over time
  • Swelling around the eye
  • Discharge or unusual fluid

Prompt attention to these symptoms helps prevent further damage and supports long-term transplant success.

Corneal Transplant Recovery in Honolulu, HI

Healing after a cornea transplant takes time, but with the right care and guidance, most patients see real improvements in both vision and comfort. Support, monitoring, and personalized treatment plans all help protect your results for the long term.

If you are preparing for a cornea transplant or currently recovering and have questions, scheduling a consultation is an important next step. To speak with a team member, contact us at 808-955-3937. Getting expert care early can make a lasting difference in how well your eye heals and how soon you feel like yourself again.

Older man holding a surfboard and walking on the beach after getting PRK treatment for his active lifestyle

Why More Patients Are Choosing PRK for Active Lifestyles

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In Honolulu, where outdoor living is part of daily life, many residents are choosing PRK as a long-term solution for clear, reliable vision. From ocean sports to mountain trails, active individuals find that PRK offers lasting freedom from glasses and contacts. 

Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser was founded over 30 years ago by Dr. Dennis Maehara and is now led by his son, Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist. With advanced training in both ophthalmology and regenerative medicine, Dr. Maehara offers expert care that makes PRK a trusted choice for individuals with active lifestyles.

What is PRK?

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a proven laser procedure that adjusts the surface of the cornea to correct common vision issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve creating a flap in the cornea, making it an ideal option for individuals with thin corneas or concerns about eye trauma during high-impact activities.

This procedure has been FDA-approved for decades and remains a safe and effective alternative to LASIK for many patients.

Key Benefits of PRK for Active Individuals

People who lead highly active lives often face challenges with glasses fogging up or contacts drying out. PRK offers a permanent solution that integrates seamlessly into a lifestyle characterized by motion and exposure to the elements.

Benefits of PRK include:

  • No corneal flap, reducing the risk of flap-related complications during contact sports or outdoor activities
  • Better long-term stability for individuals who may be prone to eye injuries
  • Lower risk of post-surgery dry eye compared to LASIK
  • Freedom from corrective lenses, improving convenience during exercise, swimming, or travel

These advantages make PRK especially appealing for athletes, military personnel, and those who spend significant time in water or wind.

Addressing Recovery Concerns

One of the main differences between PRK and LASIK is the recovery period. PRK typically involves a longer healing process, with visual improvement occurring gradually over several days to weeks. However, the final results are comparable to LASIK in terms of clarity and long-term vision quality.

With proper care, most patients return to normal activities within a week. Pain and discomfort can be managed with prescribed medications and lubricating eye drops. Follow-up visits ensure healing is on track and that vision continues to improve.

Discover Clearer Vision with PRK in Honolulu, HI

If you live in Honolulu and want lasting freedom from glasses or contacts, PRK can give you the clear, reliable vision to match your active lifestyle. Whether you’re on the beach, in the ocean, or out on the trails, this procedure offers the stability and comfort many people need.

To find out if PRK is right for you, schedule a consultation with a trusted eye care specialist today. Call 808-955-3937 to take the next step toward clearer vision and greater confidence.

Close up of a older woman in need of Xeomin to tighten the skin around her eyes

Cosmetic and Functional Benefits of Xeomin for Eye Conditions

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If you’ve noticed frequent eye twitching, eyelid discomfort, or are bothered by frown lines and drooping skin, you’re not alone. These concerns impact both comfort and confidence. Xeomin offers a modern treatment that addresses cosmetic and functional issues for lasting relief and a refreshed look. 

Dr. Dennis Maehara founded Maehara Eye Clinic over 30 years ago, earning a strong reputation in Honolulu. His son, Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist who also practices anti-aging and regenerative medicine. With advanced expertise and a personalized approach, the Maehara team provides comprehensive care for your eye health and appearance.

What Is Xeomin?

Xeomin is an FDA-approved injectable treatment made from botulinum toxin type A. Similar to Botox, it works by temporarily relaxing targeted muscles. However, Xeomin has a purified formulation that contains no additives, which may reduce the risk of developing resistance over time.

This makes it a trusted choice for both aesthetic enhancements and medical eye conditions.

Functional Benefits of Xeomin for Eye Health

Beyond cosmetic improvements, Xeomin is widely used in ophthalmology for treating various eye conditions caused by muscle overactivity or tension. Some of the most common include:

  • Blepharospasm (uncontrollable blinking or eyelid twitching)
  • Strabismus (eye misalignment)
  • Facial spasms affecting the eye area

By relaxing the muscles responsible for these conditions, Xeomin helps reduce discomfort, improve visual function, and enhance overall quality of life.

Aesthetic Advantages of Xeomin

The eyes are one of the first areas to show signs of aging. Whether it’s from sun exposure, frequent squinting, or natural changes in skin elasticity, many people experience:

  • Crow’s feet
  • Frown lines between the eyebrows
  • Drooping eyelids that create a tired appearance

Xeomin can soften these lines and lift the eye area slightly, creating a more alert and youthful look without surgery. Because its formula lacks additives, it also tends to be well-tolerated by patients sensitive to other injectables.

What to Expect from Treatment

Xeomin treatment is a quick and minimally invasive procedure that is usually completed in-office with little to no downtime. Most patients find the injection process to be relatively comfortable, with only minor discomfort. The initial effects of the treatment typically begin to appear within three to four days, and results continue to improve over the following week. 

On average, the benefits of Xeomin last between three to four months. Patients often appreciate that it provides a refreshed and natural look, avoiding the overly tight or “frozen” appearance sometimes associated with other treatments.

A Closer Look at Xeomin Therapy in Honolulu, HI

Whether you’re dealing with persistent twitching or looking to smooth fine lines, this treatment may be the solution you’ve been searching for. The Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser team is ready to walk you through every step of the process and provide expert care tailored to your needs.

To speak with a team member or to schedule your consultation, call us at 808-955-3937.

Close up of a woman's eye with cornea thinning, in need of a transplant or DSAEK partial cornea transplant

How DSAEK Improves Vision Without Full Corneal Transplantation

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If you’re exploring options for a corneal transplant, you may be surprised to learn that full transplantation isn’t always necessary. At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser in Honolulu, we offer DSAEK, an advanced procedure that restores vision without needing a full corneal transplant. Dr. Dennis Maehara founded the clinic over 30 years ago, and his son, Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, now leads with specialized training in anterior segment and glaucoma surgery. Board-certified and fellowship-trained, Dr. Maehara also brings a preventive approach through his expertise in anti-aging and regenerative medicine. 

With DSAEK, patients can experience clearer vision, a faster recovery, and fewer complications—making it a life-changing solution for many corneal conditions.

What is DSAEK?

DSAEK stands for Descemet’s Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty. It involves replacing only the innermost, damaged layer of the cornea—called the endothelium—rather than the entire cornea.

In a traditional full corneal transplant, the entire thickness of the cornea is removed and replaced. In contrast, DSAEK involves removing just the unhealthy endothelial layer and inserting a thin donor tissue layer. This makes the procedure less invasive and allows for faster healing.

The DSAEK Procedure

DSAEK is typically performed as an outpatient procedure and takes less than an hour. The surgeon removes the damaged endothelial layer through a small incision and replaces it with a thin layer of healthy donor tissue. An air bubble is used to hold the graft in place. Recovery is generally smooth, with most patients noticing improved vision within a few weeks.

Benefits of DSAEK

Many Honolulu patients choose DSAEK because of its advantages over traditional corneal transplants. Some of the key benefits include:

  • Faster visual recovery compared to full-thickness corneal surgery
  • Smaller surgical entry point, means less trauma and reduced risk of post-op issues
  • Better structural integrity of the eye
  • Lower chance of tissue rejection
  • Improved comfort and cosmetic appearance of the eye

Patients often notice clearer, sharper vision within weeks, rather than the months it may take to recover from a full corneal transplant.

Who is a Candidate for DSAEK?

DSAEK is typically recommended for patients with diseases affecting the corneal endothelium. Common conditions include:

  • Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy
  • Corneal edema following cataract surgery
  • Certain types of corneal damage from injury or disease

If you are experiencing blurred vision, light sensitivity, or swelling in the cornea, DSAEK may be a treatment worth exploring. Every eye is different, so a consultation with an experienced ophthalmologist is the best way to determine if you’re a candidate.

Exploring Vision Correction Options in Honolulu, HI

If you’re struggling with vision changes and considering corneal transplant options, DSAEK might be the solution you need. The team at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser has extensive experience helping patients regain clear vision with modern, minimally invasive procedures.

Contact us today at 808-955-3937 to schedule your consultation and learn how DSAEK can improve your sight and confidence without needing a full corneal transplant.

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.

Protecting your eyes from the sun year-round

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So much attention is given to protecting your skin in the sun, but it’s just as important to protect your eyes from the sun. Dangerous ultraviolet radiation from the sun can damage your eyes and delicate skin surrounding them. Read on to learn more about eye health and sun exposure and what you can do to protect your eyes.

Eye conditions related to sun exposure

UV radiation is a cause of several serious eye conditions. At least 10 percent of cataract cases can be attributed to UV exposure, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Cataracts cloud and yellow the lens of your eye, leading to progressive vision loss and blindness. Macular degeneration is a common cause of vision loss for people over the age of 60. It’s due to cumulative UV damage to the central portion of the retina.

Did you know you can sunburn your eye? UV exposure can cause a corneal sunburn, called keratitis. The cornea is the clear surface that admits light and images to the retina. This condition occurs in skiers and hikers because of how the sun reflects off of water, snow and ice.

Conjunctival eye cancers were once rare but are increasing, especially in older people.

Damage to the eyelids

UVA and UVB rays from the sun and indoor tanning produce DNA changes that can cause premature aging on the skin around your eyes and can lead to skin cancer on the eyelids. Eyelid skin cancer most often occurs on the lower lid because it receives the most sun exposure. Eyelid cancers usually respond well to surgery and post-surgical care when diagnosed and treated early. Left untreated, eyelid cancers can cause tissue damage and blindness.

How to protect your eyes in the sun

There are simple things you can do to protect your eyes and skin every day while also enjoying the outdoors:

  • First and foremost, wear sunglasses that block 99-100 percent of UVA and UVB light. Make sure you wear them anytime you are out in the sun and year-round as sun damage can occur any time of year. Also, be aware that the sun’s harmful rays can pass through clouds, so wear sunglasses even when there’s cloud cover.
  • Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and the top of your head.
  • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Select one that is safe and for your face and eyes.
  • Seek shade whenever possible. The sun is most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

If you’re experiencing problems with your eyes, call 808.955.3937 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Maehara at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser.

Honolulu Eye Doctor

Why You Should Get Your Eyes Checked on a Regular Basis

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Taking good care of your vision involves more than just wearing sunglasses outside. In fact, here at our office, Dr. Jeffrey Maehara likes to see most of his patients every two years for regular eye exams. But, why is it important to get your eyes checked so frequently? Let’s take a closer look and see.

  • A Change In Prescription

Your glasses and contact lens prescription can change pretty significantly over a two-year period which can leave you seeing things pretty blurry,  even with your lenses on or in. However, by having your eyes examined every couple of years, we can help you stay up to date on your prescription so that you don’t spend another day with blurry vision.

  • Change In Health

Your eyes are your opening into the world— okay, that was a bit cheesy, but you get the gist. During your eye exam, we will take a closer look at your eyes to also check for any other health issues. For instance, the health of your blood vessels inside of your retina are indicative of the health of the blood vessels throughout your body, so if we see a change in those blood vessels, we may order some other tests for you.

  • 3. Check for Eye Disease

Another thing that Dr. Maehara will check your eyes for is eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. The good thing about all of these eye diseases is that typically when they are caught early on, they can be easily treated.

Are you ready to schedule your next eye exam? If so, contact our Honolulu office today and call us at 808.955.3937.

ete services Honolulu, HI

3 Easy Resolutions to Make in 2019 For Better Vision

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With the eggnog gone and the Christmas tree in the dumpster, it’s now time to take a look at the fresh year we have ahead of us and make some resolutions that are worth keeping. Even though you may have some lofty resolutions to lose some weight and eat better, here at Dr. Maehara’s office we have created a few easy resolutions that will actually help you see better this year.

Wash Your Face Every Night

This may sound like a really easy goal but you’d be surprised by how many people actually go to bed with eye makeup still on. Even though you may think that eye makeup is fine to sleep in, it can actually lead to a bacterial infection. By washing your eye makeup off every night with a gentle cleanser or remover, you can cut down on the chances of you getting some sort of bacterial or viral eye infection.

Use Clean Contact Lens Solution

Did you know that your contact lens case may be filled with bacteria and dirt? To avoid getting an eye infection, make sure that you fill your contact lens case with clean solution every night before you go to bed.

As an extra tip, make sure to rinse out your case with some hot water before you put some contact lens solution back in it

Get Regular Eye Exams

Did you know that you should be getting your eyes examined every year? If you can’t remember the last time that you had an eye exam, then make sure that you contact our office today and schedule your next appointment.

It can be hard to get into the habit of good habits; especially when it involves your vision. If you want to learn a little bit more about how you can see better in 2019, contact our office today and call us at 808.955.3937.

Corneal Transplant Honolulu, HI

Are You Seeing Stars Around Your Christmas Lights? What That Could Mean About Your Vision

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Christmas lights are one of the things that really set the entire Christmas mood or holiday spirit. Whether you are religious or not, driving down a street filled with houses adorned in Christmas lights can make you feel some sort of magic. One problem that we see in patients during this time of year is a complaint about seeing starbursts around Christmas lights. If you have started to notice that you see starbursts when you look at Christmas lights, then it may be time to come in for an eye examination. Typically, starbursts mean that you either need to change your prescription or that you have glaucoma or cataracts.

Your Prescription

If you wear the wrong prescription of contacts or glasses, you may see starbursts not just   Christmas lights but around stop lights as well when you are driving at night. By making a few minor adjustments and getting you a stronger precision, however, we can usually help you see a lot better.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye disease that causes intraocular pressure which can lead to blindness if it’s left untreated. In its early stages, glaucoma in things like seeing starbursts around Christmas lights. When you schedule your appointment with Dr. Maehara, he will check you for glaucoma.

Cataracts

Cataracts are another eye condition that cause starbursts. Even though the biggest symptoms of cataracts are a clouding of the vision, it usually starts out smaller with things like seeing starbursts around lights.

If you notice that your vision seems a bit off, don’t hesitate to give our office a call. To schedule your next eye exam, contact our Honolulu office at 808.955.3937.

Eye Treatment Honolulu, HI

3 Basic Ways to Prevent an Eye Infection

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Taking good care of your vision doesn’t have to be hard and preventing eye infections is even that much more simple. With a few basic tips, you can keep your eyes free from bacteria and infection for the rest of spring and into summer— giving you more time to enjoy what you love doing, comfortably.

Tip #1: Wash Your Hands

One of the best things you can do to prevent the spread of bacteria to your eyes is to wash your hands before you do anything like touch your face, put on eye makeup, take off eye makeup, put in contacts, take out contacts, or try to get something out of your eye. Germs and bacteria from your hands can quickly spread across your eyes and cause an infection.

Tip #2: Get Rid of Old Mascara

You should replace your mascara every three months. Research says that after about three months of use, mascara starts to grow harmful bacteria on it which can lead to eye infections and more.

As another side tip, never share mascara with anyone— even if you’re related.

Tip #3: Wash Eye Makeup Brushes

Just like mascara, makeup brushes are also a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Luckily, real animal hair makeup brushes and even many synthetic brushes can be washed with hot water and soap. Try to wash your brushes every few weeks. To wash them, run them under hot water until they are damp. Then take a small amount of antibacterial soap and gently rub it into your brushes. Rinse and repeat until the water runs clear, and all of the makeup is off the brushes. Lay flat to air dry.

Another way to protect your eyes? Schedule regular eye exams with Dr. Jeffrey Mahara. Ready to schedule your next eye exam? Call us today: 808.955.3937.