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

Corneal Healing After Transplant Surgery

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

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

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

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.

Doctor preparing an intraocular premium lens implant for cataract treatment

What Are Premium Lens Implants, and Are They Right for You?

If you’re tired of depending on glasses or contacts to see clearly, or you’re preparing for cataract surgery, premium lens implants could be the ideal solution for achieving clearer, more convenient vision. At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser, we specialize in advanced eye care, offering personalized treatments to help patients in Honolulu, HI, improve their eyesight and quality of life.

Founded over 30 years ago by Dr. Dennis Maehara, our practice continues to deliver exceptional care under the leadership of both Dr. Maehara and his son, Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, a board-certified specialist in advanced cataract and vision correction procedures. By combining state-of-the-art technology with compassionate care, we’re committed to helping you enjoy life with clearer vision through premium lens implants.

What Are Premium Lens Implants?

Premium lens implants are advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs) used during cataract surgery or as a vision correction option. Unlike standard lens implants, which typically restore only basic vision, premium lenses are designed to address a wider range of vision problems, such as astigmatism, nearsightedness, farsightedness, or even presbyopia (age-related difficulty focusing on near objects).

With options like multifocal and toric lenses, premium implants allow many patients to significantly reduce or even eliminate their need for glasses after surgery. They’re particularly beneficial for those who want the convenience of clearer vision at multiple distances.

Who Can Benefit from Premium Lens Implants?

Premium lens implants are a great option for people undergoing cataract surgery who want to address other vision issues. They’re ideal for individuals who:

  • Lead active lifestyles and prefer not to rely on glasses.
  • Have astigmatism or other refractive errors.
  • Desire a solution that addresses near, intermediate, and distance vision.

Your candidacy will depend on factors like your eye health, overall health, and lifestyle. At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser, we’re committed to finding the perfect solution for you through a detailed assessment and personalized recommendation.

Discover Your Vision’s Full Potential in Honolulu, HI

If you’re considering cataract surgery or want to learn more about premium lens implants, we invite you to schedule a consultation at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser in Honolulu, HI. Our experienced professionals are here to inform, support, and guide you on your journey to improved vision and confidence.

Take the first step toward clearer vision and greater independence today. Call us at 808-955-3937—we look forward to helping you see the world in a whole new way!

Woman with cataracts in Honolulu, HI

Understanding the Symptoms of Cataracts

Cataracts are a common eye condition that can significantly affect your vision and quality of life. If you’re noticing changes in your eyesight, it’s essential to seek care from a trusted and experienced eye specialist. At Dr. Jeffrey Maehara’s practice in Honolulu, patients receive expert care and personalized treatment options for various eye conditions, including cataracts. With a commitment to advanced techniques, including state-of-the-art cataract surgery, Dr. Maehara ensures optimal results tailored to your needs.

Common Symptoms of Cataracts

Cataracts develop gradually, often starting as minor vision changes that may worsen over time. Recognizing the symptoms early can help you take the necessary steps to address the issue effectively. Here are some of the most common signs:

  • Blurry or Cloudy Vision: A common early symptom, cataracts often cause your vision to appear foggy or hazy, making it challenging to see details.
  • Sensitivity to Light: Many people with cataracts experience discomfort or glare when exposed to bright light, such as sunlight or headlights.
  • Difficulty Seeing at Night: Cataracts can make it harder to see clearly in low-light conditions, which may impact activities like driving at night.
  • Fading or Yellowing of Colors: Colors may appear less vibrant or take on a yellowish tint.
  • Frequent Prescription Changes: If you find yourself needing updated glasses or contact lenses more often, it could be a sign of cataracts.
  • Double Vision in One Eye: Some individuals experience double vision or overlapping images in one eye due to cataracts.

If you notice these symptoms, scheduling a comprehensive eye exam with a specialist like Dr. Maehara can provide clarity and a tailored plan for treatment.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Cataracts left untreated can lead to significant vision impairment or even blindness. Advanced cataract surgery not only removes the cloudy lens but also replaces it with a clear, artificial lens, restoring sharpness and clarity to your vision. Dr. Maehara offers innovative surgical techniques to ensure minimal recovery time and optimal outcomes.

Take the First Step Toward Clearer Vision

Don’t let cataracts affect your independence or enjoyment of daily activities. Contact Dr. Jeffrey Maehara at his Honolulu, Hawaii office today to schedule a consultation. Call (808) 955-3937 to discuss how advanced cataract surgery can improve your vision and enhance your quality of life.

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

The Safety and Effectiveness of Bladeless LASIK

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

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?

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.

What Eye Conditions Can Medical Marijuana Assist With?

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.