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 […]
March is Save Your Vision Month—a perfect time to focus on maintaining and enhancing our eye health. Our eyes are our windows to the world, and keeping them in top shape is essential. Here are some tips to help you preserve your vision: 1. Schedule Regular Eye Exams Regular comprehensive eye exams are crucial for […]
If you’re considering LASIK eye surgery in St. Louis, you’re probably wondering what the recovery process looks like. The good news? It’s quick and relatively painless! Dr. Stephen Wexler from WashU Medicine LASIK Surgery Center breaks it down: Immediate Post-LASIK Experience Right after the procedure, expect your vision to be foggy and blurry. You may […]
For many individuals, contact lenses offering a convenient alternative to glasses, come with significant risks, especially when not used as directed. Sleeping in contact lenses, in particular, can expose you to a variety of eye health risks. There are increased chances of infections, corneal hypoxia, and various other complications associated with this habit. Considering these […]
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss among adults over 50, yet many people are unaware of its impact until they or a loved one experience symptoms. AMD Awareness Month is the perfect time to shed light on this condition, how it affects daily life, and the ways we […]
When considering laser eye surgery, it’s natural to have questions—maybe even concerns—about which procedure is right for you. LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) are both highly effective in correcting vision, reducing dependence on glasses or contact lenses, and helping people regain the freedom of clear sight. But while LASIK is well-known […]
Astigmatism is a common refractive error that occurs when the eye’s cornea or lens has an irregular shape. Under normal conditions, the cornea and lens are smooth and uniformly curved, like a ball, allowing light to focus properly on the retina at the back of the eye. However, when astigmatism is present, the cornea or lens […]
Glaucoma Awareness Month shines a light on this “silent thief of sight,” a condition that often progresses without symptoms but can lead to irreversible vision loss. Below, we address the top five questions patients frequently ask about glaucoma, with insights from leading researchers and clinicians at WashU Medicine. 1. What is glaucoma, and how does […]