Central Florida Eye Institute

Why would I need a corneal transplant? The cornea of your eye can be damaged through routine activities, sports or at work. Please contact Dr. Croley in Ocala, FL if you believe your cornea or eye has been damaged in any way. Corneal injury, disease or hereditary conditions can cause clouding, distortion and scarring on the cornea, the clear front window of the eye. Corneal clouding looks like frost on a windowpane and blocks the clear passage of light to the back of the eye, reducing sight. In addition, corneal injury and disease can be painful, sometimes the most intense pain experienced. If the cornea becomes cloudy and doesn’t respond to other treatment, the only way to restore sight is to replace (transplant) the cornea. Fortunately, corneal transplantation or keratoplasty is the most successful of all tissue transplants. How does the doctor get a new cornea for me? Corneal tissue for transplant comes from an eye bank. Names of patients needing corneal transplants are placed on a waiting list until tissue becomes available from corneal donors. Dr. Croley is then offered the corneal tissue and reviews all reports prior to accepting or rejecting a cornea for his patients. What should I understand about the surgery? The surgery consists of a transfer of the clear central part of the cornea from the donor’s eye to the patient’s eye. Soon after the operation, the patient can walk around and resume activity. The procedure takes about 1-2 hours. Dr. Croley performs this outpatient surgery at Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala. Your ability to drive and do other activities will be discussed at your pre-operative appointment prior to your surgery. You will be put on eye drops for several weeks. You will need to return to see Dr. Croley for several post operative appointments. How long until I can see well again? Return of best vision after corneal transplant may take up to a year after the surgery depending on the rate of healing and the health of the rest of the eye. Each patient if different, all your individual medical conditions and daily needs are unique and will be considered so that you are completely informed prior to your procedure.

Diabetes can cause visual problems as well as blindness. It’s actually one of the leading causes of blindness in people in their 50s and younger. As we have birthdays and live with diabetes we are more likely to develop Diabetic Retinopathy to the small blood vessels and arteries in the eye. We are also more likely to develop other eye problems.

In an effort to provide you with the finest quality medical eye service, Dr. Croley, Medical Director of Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala, FL recommend that adults have a comprehensive eye exam every year. Children who have no obvious problem should be seen prior to kindergarten. If all is healthy, they should return to Dr. Croley every 5 years.

Glaucoma is caused when the drainage system within the eye is blocked either by trauma, hemorrhage or a physiologic nature. An increase in pressure within the eye causes pressure to build around the sensitive optic nerve fibers thus destroying the nerve and one’s vision. This is usually a slow progressive loss of vision which goes unnoticed by the individual. What are the symptoms of glaucoma? Symptoms of glaucoma vary depending on the specific type. The types of glaucoma include Chronic Open-Angle Glaucoma, Congenital Glaucoma, Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma and Secondary Glaucoma. --Chronic Open-Angle Glaucoma is the most common type, and occurs primarily in persons over the age of 40. It develops as a result of aging and is symptomless, sometimes causing irreversible damage before it is discovered. --Congenital Glaucoma is present at birth and is caused by a defect in the eye’s drainage system. --Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma is caused when the colored portion of the eye presses against the drainage system causing blockage. Symptoms include severs pain in and around the eye, nausea, blurred vision and seeing rainbow-like halos. If not treated promptly, vision loss may be permanent. --Secondary Glaucoma results from other health problems of the body or trauma to the eye.

What is Laser eye surgery used for? There are many different lasers, used for many different treatments for many different conditions. The following is a list of the most common types of Laser surgeries done on an outpatient basis here at Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala. Retinal holes or tears If the retina tears, it can separate from the back of the eye. This is called retinal detachment and can cause loss of vision. Symptoms of retinal tears include: sudden flashes or light or floaters (specks) in your vision. Most retinal tears can be treated with laser surgery if they are found before the retina detaches. The laser helps bond the retina to the wall of the eye, preventing a retinal detachment. Diabetic retinopathy Laser surgery can be used to seal leaking blood vessels and prevent further vision loss or to slow or stop growth of abnormal blood vessels. Macular degeneration There are two common types of macular degeneration” “dry” and “wet”. The most common form is dry macular degeneration and cannot be treated with laser surgery. Fewer people have wet macular degeneration, which can sometimes be treated with a laser to seal off leaking blood vessels to prevent further vision loss. New technology brings us new treatment daily. One such treatment is Visudyne; a light-activated drug used in a procedure called ocular photodynamic therapy (PPT). OPT is a novel technology that involves the infusion of a photoactive drug, followed by a laser administered light that activates the drug and allows for treatment of the diseased tissue. Recent clinical studies have demonstrated that photodynamic therapy can treat ophthalmic diseases characterized by neovascularrization such as Age-Related Macular Degeneration. This treatment is rarely used anymore thanks to continued developing technology. Glaucoma Early detection of glaucoma is the key to successful treatment. Eye drops or pills may be used as the first form of treatment. However, laser surgery may be used to create tiny openings allowing fluids to drain and controlling pressure in the eye. Laser treatment may be used as a 1st line of treatment for patients who may have difficulties with eye drops, such as those with memory problems, arthritic hands or interaction issues with other medications. Each treatment plan is different. Dr. Croley will discuss your options for treatment. After Cataract Surgery After a cataract has been removed, the capsule of the lens sometimes becomes cloudy. Laser surgery can open up this cloudy membrane and restore clear vision. This condition often mimics the symptoms of cataract; however your cataract is not growing back. Refractive Surgery The Excimer laser can be used to correct vision either by PRK or Lasik Surgery. People who have been dependent on glasses all or most of their lives may enjoy many activities without the use of glasses or contacts. Refractive surgery can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.

For the convenience of our patients we have an onsite optical shop. We have a wide selection of prescription and non-prescription eyewear. Our Board Certified Licensed Optician is here to help you find the glasses that are right for you. Julia Poehlman, Board Certified Licensed Optician with over 30 years experience is a member of the American Board of Opticianry and the Ocala Business Leaders.

Three common problems of the retina are Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Retinal Detachment and Retinal Tears. Any of these retinal problems can cause legal or total blindness. Fortunately, technology available today along with early detection can help save or even restore vision. Most retinal holes and tears can be treated with laser surgery if they are found before the retina detaches. The laser helps bond the retina to the wall of the eye, preventing a retinal detachment. This procedure usually takes just minutes.

If you are between the ages of 52 & 64 years old, you have a 50% chance of developing cataracts. A cataract is the result of aging of the natural clear lens in your eye. Dr. Croley’s office is conveniently located in Ocala, FL and in your eye exam he will let you know if cataracts are an issue for you. The lens you were born with is usually crystal clear; the natural aging process kicks in with each passing year and causes that lens to become hardened and discolored (yellowish or yellow brown in color), even opaque. This change interferes with the light entering the eye which is necessary for seeing a clear image. The cataract diffuses the image, scattering the light rays and preventing the light from focusing on the retina so the image we see is not as good as it used to be. This is usually a gradual progression; usually different for each person and many people may not even notice a decrease in their vision.

What is Custom LASIK / PRK / Laser Vision Correction? The US Food & Drug administration recently approved a first of its kind technology for LASIK eye surgery known as Advanced Control Eyetracking (ACE) for the Technolas LASIK platform. Eyetracking allows lasers used during LASIK surgery to compensate for eye movements during the procedure, thus adding an important level of assurance. However, no eyetracker has been able to adjust for subtle rotations of the eye that can occur during the laser treatment …. until now. Click here for more information. What makes the Bausch & Lomb Zyoptix system so different from conventional LASIK / PRK surgery? That would be its use of innovative Wavefront technology. Your eyes and vision are unique – truly distinctive, with imperfections that are totally different from anyone else’s. The Zyoptix system is able to measure imperfections that are not able to be detected when measuring for glasses or contact lenses. Therefore, it provides a comprehensive analysis of your eye so we can plan a personalized laser vision correction procedure completely individualized for you. Because of this personalized treatment, many patients see better than they did even with glasses or contact lenses. What is Zyoptix? Built upon Bausch & Lomb’s years of experience perfecting LASIK / PRK surgery, the Zyoptix™ system is a proven state-of-the-art technology that works like this: The Bausch & Lomb Zyoptix™ system provides the most comprehensive analysis of the eye so Dr. Croley in Ocala can plan a personalized laser vision correction procedure completely individualized to you. This is how Zyoptix™ treatments can achieve vision that is clear and sharp; and why the Zyoptix™ system provides Dr. Croley with the ability to correct eye imperfections that could not be treated with conventional LASIK techniques. The US clinical trial showed that six months after surgery, the vast majority of patients treated with the Zyoptix™ system achieved or reported the following: • Extreme improvement in the quality of their vision • Vision better than 20/20 without glasses • Vision without glasses after surgery as good as, or even better than, with glasses before surgery • No increase in unwanted glare, halos or night driving difficulty and most had a decrease. • High satisfaction with their results • They would choose the procedure again Dr. Croley understands you are making a major decision. That’s why he and his highly trained staff will take you through the process simply and clearly to help you understand your options. From your first pre-operative exam to your final consultation, your questions and concerns will be addressed so that when you make your informed decision you will do so with complete comfort and confidence. But what if I move during the procedure? Dr. Croley uses his state-of-the-art laser with two eye trackers to assure you personal, accurate results. Prior to the beginning of the laser correction procedure, Dr. Croley locks in your needed prescription and your iris photo(which is as unique to you as your fingerprint) with ACE Tracker. If you have any further questions about this procedure, visit www.fda.gov to view clinical results or www.bausch.com. You may also call us at 352-237-8400 or 800-521-6028 to schedule a free complete consultation today.

Why should you have Dr. Croley perform your Lasik eye surgery in Ocala? Dr. Croley was the first to offer Lasik or laser vision correction to Ocala Florida in Marion County as well as many other counties in Central Florida. Imagine waking up in Ocala, the Horse Capital of the World, or anywhere in Marion, Alachua, or Citrus County and seeing clearly without glasses or contact lenses. Laser Vision Correction / LASIK / PRK is done by Dr. Croley at his state of the art facility in Ocala to help our patients who are dependent on their glasses whether nearsighted, farsighted or have astigmatism to see and function without glasses or contact lenses. The Excimer laser by Bausch and Lomb Zyoptix and ACE system is so different from conventional Lasik surgery in its use of innovative Wavefront technology. Your eyes, vision and lifestyle are unique – truly distinctive, with imperfections that are different from anyone else’s. The Zyoptix system provides a comprehensive analysis of your eyes so we can plan a personalized laser correction procedure completely individualized for you. What should I do before my lasik eye surgery? The decision to have Laser Vision Correction here in Ocala or anywhere in Central Florida is an important one. Dr. Croley believes that all individuals considering this procedure should be completely educated on it prior to having it done. Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala offers free evaluations so you may gain valuable information as it relates specifically to you. This comprehensive exam helps to insure you are a safe, healthy candidate for laser correction and are able to make an informed decision. You are also able to meet the qualified staff and see the facility before your laser procedure. Dr. Croley has been involved with the Excimer laser since 1989 and is the Area’s Leader in Laser Vision Correction since bringing it to Ocala and the surrounding areas in 1994. Dr. Croley lives and practices medicine here in Ocala and Marion County, but his education and involvement in excellent technology reaches far beyond this continent. He has had vast comprehensive training throughout the Untied States and Europe. Patients have come to Ocala from Alaska, Germany and France to have Dr. Croley perform their laser vision corrections procedures. Check out this price report on average LASIK surgery costs. There are several different laser vision correction procedures available here at Central Florida Eye Institute: LASIK, LASEK, Custom Cornea, and Surface Oblation PRK all with Wavefront technology. Dr. Croley and his staff are happy to go over any and all procedures that may be appropriate for you during your free initial evaluation. Come to our Ocala office today to see if you qualify for LASIK The procedure for lasik (Laser In-situ Keratomileusis) surgery takes only moments and the results are almost immediate! The eyeball is numbed with an “eye drop” anesthesia, and an instrument called a microkeratome folds back a thin flap of corneal tissue. A cool beam of light from the Excimer laser then removes a predetermined amount of tissue from the inner cornea to correct the patient’s refractive error. The corneal flap is placed back in its original position where it bonds without need for stitches. Most lasik patients have functional vision within 12 to 24 hours and full visual results usually take one to four weeks (results and healing times vary with each individual). 95-98% of patients have 20/40 vision within 12-24 hours! The surgery is done right at Central Florida Eye Institute and a follow-up visit is scheduled for the next day. Dr. Croley has been involved with the Excimer laser since 1989 and is the area’s leader in laser vision correction since 1994. He has had vast comprehensive training throughout the United States and Europe and uses the latest technology and optimal care in performing Lasik and Surface Oblation (PRK). The Excimer lasers Dr. Croley has are Bausch & Lomb and Summit Technology. These lasers are owned and operated solely by Dr. Croley. Your treatment and follow-up care is done at Central Florida Eye Institute. Because the Excimer is such a precise instrument, it is never handled by another doctor or technician, nor is it moved from our location. This ensures the most accurate calibration of the Laser.

Imagine waking up and seeing clearly without glasses or contact lenses! The latest technology and use of the Excimer laser now makes it possible for people who have been dependent on glasses for almost all of their activities to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses. Laser vision correction works by reshaping the cornea so that light rays focus more precisely on the retina, thereby reducing or eliminating refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, and reducing the need for glasses and contact lenses. The Excimer laser, now in its second decade of use, uses a “cool” or non-thermal beam of light to gently reshape the cornea and is a minimally invasive procedure. There are several different laser vision correction procedures available: LASIK, LASEK, Custom Cornea, Wavefront, and Surface Oblation. Here at Central Florida Eye Institute we will be happy to go over any and all procedures that may be appropriate for you during your free initial evaluation. The decision to have Laser Correction is an important one. Dr. Croley believes that all individuals considering this procedure should be completely educated on it prior to having it done. Central Florida Eye Institute offers free screenings so you may gain valuable information as it relates specifically to you. You are also able to meet the qualified staff and see the facility before your laser procedure.

Surface Ablation (PRK) uses the computer-controlled Excimer laser to reshape the surface of the cornea. The eyeball is numbed with an “eye drop” anesthesia. The outer skin, or epithelium is removed with the pulse of the laser. Next, a predetermined amount of tissue is removed with each pulse of the laser thereafter. The resulting shape of the surface of the cornea allows light to focus more directly on the retina. By adjusting the pattern of the Excimer laser beam the surface of the cornea can be made flatter to correct nearsightedness, steeper to correct farsightedness and/or spherical to correct astigmatism. Most PRK patients have functional vision in one to three days, and full visual results usually take three weeks to several months (results and healing times vary with each individual). The surgery is done right at Central Florida Eye Institute and a follow-up visit is scheduled for the next day. Dr. Croley has been involved with the Excimer laser since 1989 and is the area’s leader in laser vision correction since 1994. He has had vast comprehensive training throughout the United States and Europe and uses the latest technology and optimal care in performing Lasik and Surface Ablation (PRK). The Excimer laser, manufactured by Summit Technology, is owned and operated soley by Dr. Croley. Your treatment and follow-up care is done at Central Florida Eye Institute. Because the Excimer is such a precise instrument, it is never handled by another doctor or technician, nor is it moved from our location. This ensures the most accurate calibration of the Laser. The fee for the procedure includes your initial complete eye examination, laser surgery and follow-up visits for a full year. Payment options are available with no down payment.

Cusomized Cataract Surgery One of the challenges of modern cataract or refractive surgery is making the best choice for each patient in order to meet the individual needs or preferences in correcting both distance and near vision. It is important for a patient to determine their particular needs and preferences with the assistance of their ophthalmologist. Dr. Croley, in Ocala, FL specializes in eye treatments and will educate you so you are empowered to make the best choices in regards to your vision. Lens choice (can anyone have a Multifocal IOL)? Technological advancements have allowed us to offer our patients the opportunity to have a full range of vision, minimizing or possibly eliminating dependency on glasses for distance as well as reading. Dr. Croley, in Ocala, uses premium lenses in order to achieve the best possible results for our patients. A Multifocal IOL is designed with multiple powers so that you can see well at a variety of distances; be it near, mid-distance or far. For instance, when golfing you may be able to see where your drive lands, sink your putt, and write down the score all without the need for glasses. A Monofocal IOL provides vision at one focal point; usually distance. Patients will need glasses for reading, computer and close up work What is a Multifocal IOL? The Multifocal IOL is a clear, foldable lens, similar to a contact lens that is implanted inside the eye through a micro-incision. During the procedure, the natural lens of your eye is removed and the Multifocal IOL replaces it. The entire procedure takes approximately 15 minutes and vision is restored immediately in most cases; however vision usually continues to improve in the weeks following the procedure, as you adjust. Most patients have Multifocal IOLs in both eyes for best vision and function. Your brain may not adjust to a Multifocal IOL in only one eye. The lens is designed with multiple powers so that you can see well at a variety of distances. It allows most people to see well anywhere. For instance, when shopping, you may be able to read the aisle signs and the package labels, as well as count your change without glasses. In clinical studies, 80% – 92% of patients receiving the Multifocal IOL reported that they never wear glasses for any activity. With the Multifocal lens they can read a book, work on the computer, drive a car – day or night – and play golf or tennis all without glasses. Are Multifocal IOLs for me? This answer is different for everyone. Having a multifocal is not only dependent on your medical conditions and eye health. It is strongly dependent on your activities, individual needs and most importantly your personality. That is why it is vital that all patients be informed prior to this surgery as with any surgical procedure. Why choose Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala and Dr. Thomas L. Croley for your surgical procedure? Dr. Croley was one of the first to be involved in the FDA studies for multifocal implant lenses beginning in 1991. Dr. Croley provides the most advanced procedures and technology used to diagnose and treat eye disorders all here at one convenient location. Dr. Croley provides state-of-the-art equipment for safe, accurate procedures and is the only one to use this precision equipment. Dr. Croley is a board certified surgeon with over 25 years of experience. Dr. Croley is committed to bringing you the care you deserve and believes the patient is his #1 priority. Dr. Croley established Central Florida Eye Institute in 1989 to provide the best in eye care to our Ocala and Marion County community. Central Florida Eye Institute is a AAAHC accredited facility.

What is a Cataract? If you are between the ages of 52 & 64 years old, you have a 50% chance of developing cataracts. A cataract is the result of aging of the natural clear lens in your eye. Dr. Croley’s office is conveniently located in Ocala, FL and in your eye exam he will let you know if cataracts are an issue for you. The lens you were born with is usually crystal clear; the natural aging process kicks in with each passing year and causes that lens to become hardened and discolored (yellowish or yellow brown in color), even opaque. This change interferes with the light entering the eye which is necessary for seeing a clear image. The cataract diffuses the image, scattering the light rays and preventing the light from focusing on the retina so the image we see is not as good as it used to be. This is usually a gradual progression; usually different for each person and many people may not even notice a decrease in their vision. What are the symptoms of a Cataract? • Cloudy, fuzzy, foggy, or filmy vision • Changes in the way you see colors, ie. whites may look yellow • Problems driving at night because headlights seem too bright • Frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription • Feeling that your glasses are always dirty • Double vision • Better near vision for awhile These symptoms can also be signs of other eye problems. How is a Cataract diagnosed? Since many people may not notice their vision decrease gradually, a yearly, comprehensive eye exam with Dr. Croley, in Ocala, is all that is needed to find a cataract. This exam will also help diagnose other potential problems that when detected early may help prevent vision loss. How is a Cataract treated? A change in your glasses may temporarily improve vision. However, the only way to treat a cataract when glasses are no longer improving your vision is to surgically remove the cataract through a very small incision and replace it with an artificial intra-ocular lens (IOL). Dr. Croley performs this procedure at his onsite Accredited Ambulatory Surgical Center here in Ocala. The procedure usually takes around 10 minutes, although you should plan on being here approximately 2 hours. How do I decide? Just because you have a cataract does not necessarily mean it must be removed immediately. On occasion cataract surgery will need to be performed immediately; for example, Dr. Croley may need to see or treat an eye problem that is behind the cataract. Dr. Croley doesn’t make the decision for you, but will present you with the facts and help you determine the best course of action. Cataract surgery can almost always be put off until your vision begins to interfere with your Ocala lifestyle. Here are some things to consider: • I need to drive, but there is too much glare from the sun or lights. • I do not see well enough to do the things I need to do. • I’m afraid I will bump into something or fall. • My glasses do not help me see well enough. • My glasses seem dirty all the time. • I don’t see well enough to do the things I like to do (read, watch TV, sew, hike, play cards, and go out). • Because of my cataracts, I am not as independent as I would like to be. What results should I expect? Dr. Croley and his staff at Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala will discuss reasonable expectations with each patient prior to any procedure. Most patients do recover with no problems and have improved vision. In fact, serious complications are not common with modern cataract surgery. • You may return to normal activities in just a few days. • You will use eyedrops for a short period of time. • Most patients function without any glasses for their distance activities (driving, golf, swimming). • Glasses or OTC readers may be necessary for reading, sewing, or computer work unless you choose a Multifocal IOL/customized cataract surgery.

Cusomized Cataract Surgery One of the challenges of modern cataract or refractive surgery is making the best choice for each patient in order to meet the individual needs or preferences in correcting both distance and near vision. It is important for a patient to determine their particular needs and preferences with the assistance of their ophthalmologist. Dr. Croley, in Ocala, FL specializes in eye treatments and will educate you so you are empowered to make the best choices in regards to your vision. Lens choice (can anyone have a Multifocal IOL)? Technological advancements have allowed us to offer our patients the opportunity to have a full range of vision, minimizing or possibly eliminating dependency on glasses for distance as well as reading. Dr. Croley, in Ocala, uses premium lenses in order to achieve the best possible results for our patients. A Multifocal IOL is designed with multiple powers so that you can see well at a variety of distances; be it near, mid-distance or far. For instance, when golfing you may be able to see where your drive lands, sink your putt, and write down the score all without the need for glasses. A Monofocal IOL provides vision at one focal point; usually distance. Patients will need glasses for reading, computer and close up work What is a Multifocal IOL? The Multifocal IOL is a clear, foldable lens, similar to a contact lens that is implanted inside the eye through a micro-incision. During the procedure, the natural lens of your eye is removed and the Multifocal IOL replaces it. The entire procedure takes approximately 15 minutes and vision is restored immediately in most cases; however vision usually continues to improve in the weeks following the procedure, as you adjust. Most patients have Multifocal IOLs in both eyes for best vision and function. Your brain may not adjust to a Multifocal IOL in only one eye. The lens is designed with multiple powers so that you can see well at a variety of distances. It allows most people to see well anywhere. For instance, when shopping, you may be able to read the aisle signs and the package labels, as well as count your change without glasses. In clinical studies, 80% – 92% of patients receiving the Multifocal IOL reported that they never wear glasses for any activity. With the Multifocal lens they can read a book, work on the computer, drive a car – day or night – and play golf or tennis all without glasses. Are Multifocal IOLs for me? This answer is different for everyone. Having a multifocal is not only dependent on your medical conditions and eye health. It is strongly dependent on your activities, individual needs and most importantly your personality. That is why it is vital that all patients be informed prior to this surgery as with any surgical procedure. Why choose Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala and Dr. Thomas L. Croley for your surgical procedure? Dr. Croley was one of the first to be involved in the FDA studies for multifocal implant lenses beginning in 1991. Dr. Croley provides the most advanced procedures and technology used to diagnose and treat eye disorders all here at one convenient location. Dr. Croley provides state-of-the-art equipment for safe, accurate procedures and is the only one to use this precision equipment. Dr. Croley is a board certified surgeon with over 25 years of experience. Dr. Croley is committed to bringing you the care you deserve and believes the patient is his #1 priority. Dr. Croley established Central Florida Eye Institute in 1989 to provide the best in eye care to our Ocala and Marion County community. Central Florida Eye Institute is a AAAHC accredited facility.

What is Blepharoplasty? Blepharoplasty (pronounced blef’-a-ro-plas-tee) is a type of plastic surgery that Dr. Croley at Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala, FL can perform on the upper or lower eyelids to remove excessive skin and fat from around the eyes. Sagging brows or eyelids may be correct at the same time. What is the purpose of eyelid surgery done? Blepharoplasty is done to improve visual function and/or cosmetic appearance. Excessive upper eyelid tissue can block the upper part of the field of vision. This can be determined by lifting the upper lids with your fingers to see if your upper visual field improves or brightens. A formal computerized visual field test may be helpful in this situation. The weight of the excessive tissue may cause brow ache and fatigue, eyelid infections (blepharitis) and chronic dry eye. Occasionally, the excess skin can cause lashes to turn in and irritate the eye & cause infection. Will my insurance cover this procedure? If your eyelids are interfering with your vision and affecting your daily activities; driving, reading, etc. then your insurance will most likely cover this procedure. Pre-operative testing is always done and reviewed with your insurance company before the procedure is performed. An excessive number of wrinkled skin folds above the eyes can produce a sagging, tired look which detracts from ones general appearance. In this situation, blepharoplasty may be considered for cosmetic reasons even thought vision is not affected. Cosmetic eyelid surgery is one of the most common plastic surgeries performed by ophthalmologists. Cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance. Because blepharoplasty can affect the function and lubrication of the eye, a consultation with Dr. Croley in Ocala is important. Although other surgeons may perform blepharoplasty, an ophthalmologist is the only surgeon trained specifically to treat the eye and perform eyelid surgery. Therefore, he is uniquely qualified to help you decide whether you should consider this procedure.

BOTOX® is an injectable solution of a very small amount of botulism that is placed into the wrinkled area to smooth it. The treatment was approved by the FDA in December 1989 to treat eye muscle disorders. The newest approval for cosmetic BOTOX® established versatility of the product and procedures available. BOTOX® treatment is one of the safest procedures available for reducing wrinkles. Dr. Croley has been using BOTOX® safely since 1989 to treat blepharospasms of the eyelid in Ocala, FL. There have been no reports of permanent damage from treatment. The effects generally last for 3-6 months. The treatment has to be repeated as the wrinkles and frown lines reappear. With repeated treatment the effects may last longer. The results can be dramatic and last several months. The liquid BOTOX® is injected with a very tiny needle into the muscle that created the wrinkle. When BOTOX® is injected into a muscle, it blocks the nerve impulses from reaching that area and as a result, the muscle weakens. As the muscle weakens, the skin overlying the muscle relaxes and the wrinkles in the skin gradually soften and often disappear. BOTOX® treatment does not affect normal facial expressions when used properly by an experienced physician. While allergic reaction to any medication is possible, it is rare with BOTOX®. The most common complication of BOTOX® treatment for wrinkles is a small amount of drooping of the eyelid or brow. In the rare occasion that this happens, it will resolve on its own over several weeks. Most effects of the treatment are noticed in 3-5 days. You may return to your normal routine immediately after treatment. There is a small lump immediately after treatment. This usually goes away within the first hour. Small amounts of bruising should not be alarming. BOTOX® is a medicine and BOTOX® treatment is a medical procedure. In order to insure your safety and satisfaction, it must be administered properly. Since 1986 Dr. Croley has provided his Ocala, FL patients with the rare combination of advanced treatment and genuine concern for their well being. Ask Dr. Croley to determine if you are a candidate for BOTOX® injection. Since every individual is unique and has special needs, a personal consultation will be necessary. Together, you and Dr. Croley will determine the number and regularity of treatments best for you. Women who are pregnant or nursing are not candidates for this procedure. Additionally, patients with certain neuromuscular diseases or patients taking certain medications may not be suitable candidates. It is important that you disclose all relevant medical information to Dr. Croley and his staff during the consultation.

What is the Obagi Nu-Derm System? While the life experience gained as we age is a plus, the unwanted deterioration of our skin isn’t. Sun exposure, stress, other external factors such as smoking, and simply theprocess of aging can leave our skin wrinkled and saggy. At the Central Florida Eye Institute, Dr. Croley utilizes the Obagi Nu-Derm System to help his patients regain someof the youthfullness their skin has lost. Obagi Nu-Derm skincare products effectively penetrate the skin’s surface to correct underlying damage resulting in younger-looking skin. What can the Obagi Nu-Derm System treat? (The Obagi Nu-Derm System is an ideal solution for the following skin conditions) • Fine lines and wrinkles • Age spots • Rough skin • Erythema or redness • Loss of skin elasticity • Hyperpigmentation or discoloration of the skin • Sallowness or a yellowish complexion The Obagi Nu-Derm System can be used in conjunction with a special cream known as Isotretinoin to further enhance the treatment. The Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala Request a consultation with Dr. Croley at the Central Florida Eye Institute to address your skin issues. In addition to the Obagi Nu-Derm System, there are a variety of other cosmetic procedures that can be employed to help you regain the youthful skin that time has taken away.

What is Restylane®? Restylane® is a brand of dermal filler that is designed to reduce unwanted wrinkles and rejuvenate the skin. Restylane® is hyaluronic acid-based, which is a plus because hyaluronic acid is produced naturally in the body, so the body accepts it readily when injected under the skin. What benefits can I get from Restylane®? Restylane® rejuvenates your skin, giving you a healthier, younger appearance. A single treatment produces immediate results that can last up to a year. Plus, the results gained with Restylane® are natural looking and do not affect your facial expressions. Since its launch in 1996, the efficacy and safety of Restylane® has been studied extensively. What areas can Restylane® treat? Restylane® is an effective treatment for facial wrinkles and folds. It can also be used to create fuller lips and keep facial contours in shape. Here are the problems/areas Restylane® can treat: Smooth out nasolabial folds, the lines located between the nose and mouth Smooth out glabella lines, the lines between the eyebrows Give additional volume and shape to the lips Improve the shape and contour of the chin and cheeks Rejuvenate the face, neck, and back of the hands What can I expect during a Restylane® treatment? Restylane® gel is injected in small amounts with a very fine needle directly into the skin that needs treatment. The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes, is done in Dr. Croley’s office, and has no recovery time. Results are visible immediately after the procedure, and continue to improve over the next few days.

What is Age Defying Fusion? Fallene Cosmeceuticals’ revolutionary Age Defying Fusion line of skin care products with sunscreen is a breakthrough in skin protection. Fusion of multiple mineral particles with specialized skin conditioners produces a unique aesthetic and sensory combination that encourages frequent use. Age Defying Fusion feels as elegant as a typical high-quality beauty line, yet every product has sunscreen, so your skin in not only fortified, but protected. What are the benefits of TiZO Age Defying Fusion products? TiZO products are made with epidermal emollient conditioners, making skin softer. It does not contain any oils or fragrances. TiZO contains pharmaceutical-grade minerals that sit on top of the skin, deflecting the sun’s rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, these minerals are not absorbed by the skin, eliminating potential skin irritation. TiZO has titanium dioxide and zinc oxide particles that create a uniform layer of protection on the skin, preventing both UVA and UVB rays from reaching the skin, inhibiting premature skin aging and the formation of free radicals. TiZO uses only top-rated sunscreen ingredients, as recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency. Why don’t women wear sunscreens? Everyone knows the value of wearing sunscreen on a daily basic, but women, in particular, resist doing so. Why? Most women use several skin care products every day, and they choose those that feel good on their skin and make them feel more beautiful. Typical chemical sunscreens don’t fit either of those criteria. Fallene scientists decided to create a line of products that have a unique sensory and aesthetic appeal. They realized that creating sunscreens that feel like the finest skin care products would appeal to women and would be used more often, giving the user healthier, smoother skin. Now TiZO has become a top seller, available in more than 2,000 dermatologic practices. Who developed TiZo skin care products? TiZO was created by a triple board-certified facial plastic surgeon who is a current member of the American Academy of Dermatology. He understands the needs of doctors, aestheticians, and patients, giving him the insight to create products that are medically appropriate, feel good on the skin, and encourage daily use. Why are TiZO sunscreens effective? Typical sunscreens are chemical sunscreens. Those chemicals are absorbed by the skin and can cause irritation. TiZO Age Defying Fusion products use a proprietary manufacturing process to create a physical sunscreen using up to eight different types of mineral particles that sit gently and invisibly on top of the skin. These particles deflect UVA and UVB rays before they reach the skin. Where can I find TiZO? TiZO can only be found in professional practices. There are over 2,000 practices all over the United States and in 14 other countries that offer TiZO products.

Permanent makeup (micro pigment implantation) is a process where natural, mineral pigments are implanted under the skin’s surface. This procedure may benefit those who want to save time with their daily makeup routine or who are physically active and want their appearance to stay fresh. This procedure may also benefit those with very fair hair color, minimal hair, or hair loss in these areas.