Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common condition affecting the macula—the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision. It is a leading cause of vision loss in people 50 years or older. Understanding the condition, recognizing early changes, and knowing what support is available can help patients maintain both vision and quality of […]
Stephen Wexler, MD, explains LASIK prescription limits and when other vision correction options may be a better fit for patients with high myopia. Many patients with strong glasses or contact lens prescriptions wonder whether laser vision correction is an option for them. In a recent video, Stephen Wexler, MD, refractive surgeon with the WashU Medicine […]
Carla Siegfried, MD, explains why glaucoma often goes unnoticed and how early screening can protect vision January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time to highlight a leading cause of irreversible vision loss that often progresses without warning. Glaucoma affects the optic nerve—the structure that carries visual information from the eye to the brain—and damage to […]
Stephen Wexler, MD, discusses evolving refractive surgery trends and emerging laser technologies The landscape of corneal refractive surgery continues to evolve rapidly in 2025, driven by advancements in laser technology, expanded treatment options, and shifting procedure volumes. In a recent presentation, Stephen Wexler, MD, refractive surgeon with the WashU Medicine John F. Hardesty, MD Department […]
Hands-on LASIK training prepares the next generation of refractive surgeons At the WashU Medicine John F. Hardesty, MD Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, refractive surgery education is built into the core of cornea fellowship training. Through direct supervision and structured surgical experience, fellows at the WashU Medicine LASIK Surgery Center gain valuable, hands-on exposure […]
New Stellest lenses offer an FDA-approved option to help manage childhood nearsightedness The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized marketing of the Essilor Stellest eyeglass lenses—the first spectacle lenses in the United States approved to slow the progression of myopia in children ages 6–12. The decision marks an important milestone for families seeking […]
Stephen Wexler, MD, explains limits of laser vision correction and when alternative options may be recommended Patients often ask how high a prescription can be safely treated with LASIK or PRK. In this video, Stephen Wexler, MD, refractive surgeon with the WashU Medicine John F. Hardesty, MD Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, explains the […]
Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of vision problems caused by diabetes, including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, people living with diabetes face a higher risk of developing serious eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts. However, recent studies show that awareness of […]
St. Louis, MO — October 13, 2025 — The WashU Medicine LASIK Surgery Center is proud to announce the arrival of Wavelight® Plus Ray-Tracing Technology, a breakthrough in vision correction now available for qualifying patients following recent FDA approval. Unlike traditional LASIK methods, which rely on averaged measurements, Wavelight® Plus Ray-Tracing builds a personalized model of each […]
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, many of us prepare for the cooler months by updating our wardrobes, switching up our skincare routines, and getting cozy. But have you considered that fall might be the perfect time to invest in your vision? LASIK surgery is a life-changing procedure that can […]
AUGUST 2025 – ST. LOUIS, MO — Brian Clark, PhD Assistant Professor, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, and colleagues have published a new study titled “Single-cell transcriptomics of ventral forebrain progenitors identifies Evf2 enhancer lncRNA–enhancer gene guidance through direct RNA binding and RNP recruitment domains”. This work provides new insights into how long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) […]
July isn’t just summer vacation—it’s also Children’s Eye Health & Safety Month! At WashU Medicine’s John F. Hardesty, MD, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, we’re highlighting the crucial role of sunshine and outdoor play in promoting healthy vision, particularly in preventing nearsightedness (myopia). Here’s a deep dive into the latest insights from the American […]
Click below to hear Eric Polk, OD from WashU Medicine LASIK Surgery Center explain why sleeping in your contacts can affect your LASIK candidacy: Why It Matters: Contacts, Sleep, and LASIK Risks Raise your hand if you’ve ever accidentally fallen asleep in your contacts. You’re definitely not alone! But as Eric Polk, OD explains in […]
Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision impairment, especially among older adults, affecting millions worldwide. By learning about what cataracts are, how they develop, and the warning signs to look out for, you can take important steps to protect your sight. What are Cataracts Cataracts occur when the natural lens of your […]
If you’re tired of the hassle of contact lenses and want the freedom to see clearly from the moment you wake up, you’re not alone. In this video, St. Louis LASIK surgeon Dr. Stephen Wexler explains why LASIK may be a safer, more convenient long-term solution for many patients. Here, he compares LASIK surgery vs. […]
Every May, Healthy Vision Month serves as a national reminder of how essential it is to care for our eyes — not just when problems arise, but every single day. In 2025, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) recommends everyone take simple, proactive steps to safeguard their vision and reduce their risk of eye disease. […]
When it comes to laser vision correction, LASIK is often the star of the show. But there’s another safe, effective option you should know about—PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy). At WashU Medicine LASIK Surgery Center, we’re not here to upsell one procedure over another. We’re here to help you choose the safest and most successful option for […]
The WashU Medicine Spring 2025 LASIK Optometry Continuing Education Dinner was an outstanding success! Held on April 15, 2025, at Westwood Country Club in St. Louis, brought together a dynamic group of local optometrists for an evening of clinical insight, collegial connection, and of course—great food. Over 60 attendees joined us to earn COPE-approved continuing […]
April is Sports Eye Safety Month, and while we typically think about eye protection in labs or construction zones, there’s another place where our eyes are unexpectedly at risk: the pickleball court. Yes, you read that right—pickleball, the fast-growing sport loved by grandparents, teens, and everyone in between. It’s fun, social, and easy to learn—but […]
If you’ve ever considered LASIK surgery, you may have wondered: Does the laser burn my eyes? It’s a common concern, and according to Dr. Stephen Wexler from the WashU Medicine LASIK Surgery Center, the answer is no. “One of the things I hear about from patients very often after their LASIK surgery is the smell […]