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Category Archives: Eye Care

Categories Eye Care, Vision
Valeda light therapy devices and symptoms of Dry AMD, including central vision loss, now treated at Carolina Vision Center
Posted on Author cvcadmin

Breakthrough Treatment for Dry AMD Now Available at Carolina Vision Center

A Breakthrough in Preserving Vision: Carolina Vision Center Now Offering Valeda Light Therapy for Dry AMD

Carolina Vision Center is proud to announce a major advancement in eye care now available in Fayetteville. We are among the first ophthalmic practices in the country to offer the FDA-approved Valeda Light Delivery System — The first device for Dry AMD Treatment.

This new therapy utilizes Photo biomodulation Therapy (PBMT), marking the first light-based treatment of its kind for AMD. Our investment in this cutting-edge technology reflects our ongoing commitment to bringing the most effective vision-preserving options to our community.

What Is Dry AMD and Why Does It Matter?

Dry AMD is the most common form of macular degeneration and a leading cause of vision loss in people over 65. It damages the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed central vision. Over time, patients may lose the ability to read, drive, or recognize faces.

While vision loss from Dry AMD can be permanent, early diagnosis and intervention are key. That’s where Valeda comes in.

How Valeda Works for Dry AMD Treament

The Valeda Light Delivery System uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity in the retina. This helps address the underlying causes of Dry AMD at the cellular level — before major vision loss occurs.

“Dry AMD affects millions of Americans, and we’re proud to offer a safe, non-invasive treatment option that can help preserve vision before it’s permanently lost.”
– Dr. Michael Woodcock, Medical Director

Patients undergo a series of quick, comfortable light therapy sessions with no injections or surgery. Clinical studies show promising results, including improvements in visual acuity and reduced drusen deposits, which are key indicators of AMD progression.

Why Choose Carolina Vision Center?

As one of North Carolina’s premier full-service eye care providers, Carolina Vision Center offers advanced care from routine exams to specialized treatments for macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes-related eye conditions, and more.

With the introduction of Valeda, our team continues to lead in delivering exceptional, state-of-the-art care right here in Fayetteville.

“We’re thrilled to be among the first practices nationwide to offer Valeda,” Dr. Woodcock added. “This marks a new era in how we manage and treat Dry AMD in our patients.”

Schedule a Consultation

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Dry AMD, don’t wait. Early intervention makes all the difference.

Call or Text us today at (910) 485-EYES (3937) to schedule your consultation and learn if Valeda is right for you.

Schedule a Consultation Today!
Categories Eye Care, Vision, Vision Center
Amblyopia
Posted on Author cvcadmin

Amblyopia (“Lazy Eye”) – What You Should Know

Amblyopia (“Lazy Eye”) – What You Should Know

What Is Amblyopia?

Amblyopia, commonly known as “lazy eye,” is decreased vision in one or both eyes that persists despite wearing glasses and having otherwise normal eye anatomy. It’s the leading cause of vision loss in children, affecting approximately 5% of the pediatric population.

This condition arises when the brain and eyes don’t work together properly—typically during the first decade of life. Instead of processing visual information from both eyes equally, the brain begins to favor one eye over the other. Over time, the underused eye becomes weaker.

The most common causes of amblyopia include:

  • Refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism in one or both eyes

  • Strabismus (eye misalignment), where the brain shuts off input from one eye to avoid double vision

  • Obstructions like cataracts or a drooping eyelid (ptosis), which block visual stimulation

How Is Amblyopia Treated?

Treatment is most effective before age 8–10, while the visual system is still developing. The primary method is patching the stronger eye, which forces the brain to use and strengthen the weaker one.

Here’s how patching works:

  • Daily patching is required, with the number of hours based on the child’s age, severity of amblyopia, and its underlying cause.

  • Patching is done for a “cycle,” typically one week per year of age.

  • After each cycle, vision is re-evaluated and the plan is adjusted accordingly.

After age 10, patching usually becomes less effective—but early detection and intervention can lead to excellent outcomes.

Meet Dr. Keith McCormick

Dr. Keith McCormick is a board-certified pediatric ophthalmologist with over 25 years of experience. Based in Fayetteville, NC, he’s dedicated to the eye health of children from birth to 18 years, as well as adults with strabismus or double vision.

His specialties include:

  • Amblyopia

  • Strabismus

  • Tear duct obstruction

  • Refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism)

  • Retinopathy of prematurity

  • Congenital conditions (glaucoma, cataracts, and genetic anomalies)

We’re Here to Help

If your child has been diagnosed with amblyopia—or you’re concerned about their vision—early treatment is key.
📞 Call or text (910) 485-3937
💻 Schedule online
📩 Or contact us directly

Let us help your child see their world clearly.

Categories Eye Care, Lasik, Surgeries, Vision Center
Lasik - Set your eyes free
Posted on Author cvcadmin

LASIK Eye Surgery

Schedule a FREE Consultation
See more about LASIK

LASIK Services at Carolina Vision Center, Your Ophthalmology Office Serving Fayetteville and Clinton

At Carolina Vision Center, our goal is to provide you with the tools and resources you need to maintain the best vision possible. When you visit us, we’ll provide you with a thorough screening of your vision and always offer treatment that gives you the highest quality of life. One of the options our patients often inquire about is LASIK. Serving Fayetteville and Clinton, our ophthalmology office is happy to offer LASIK care to our patients.

We are proud to offer the WaveLight® PLUS system — the latest advancement in LASIK technology. This next-generation laser allows us to deliver even greater precision and improved outcomes, helping patients achieve exceptional vision, in some cases up to 12.5/20. Carolina Vision Center is one of only two locations in North Carolina equipped with this cutting-edge technology, reinforcing our commitment to providing state-of-the-art eye care.

What Is LASIK Eye Surgery?

LASIK is a type of refractive eye surgery that works to correct your vision. Many of our patients who have this procedure no longer need to wear contact lenses or eyeglasses because the procedure improves their vision to the highest level of possible.

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileuses or LASIK is the most common type of refractive surgery, though other procedures are available as well. This laser procedure is pain-free and generally only takes about 15 minutes to complete. Most people see improved vision right away, often within 24 hours.

What Happens During LASIK Surgery?

During this procedure, your doctor will use a laser to create a small, thin, and circular flap over the cornea of your eye. You will not feel pain or discomfort during the procedure. The procedure will fold back the hinged flap to expose the cornea. Then, we can reshape the cornea to improve vision. This is done using an excimer laser. This very powerful tool is also very safe to use. By reshaping the cornea, we create a more natural surface that allows vision to improve. For those who are nearsighted, the goal will be to flatten the cornea. For those who are farsighted, there’s the need to create a steeper cornea.

This procedure can also work with astigmatism. Once complete, your surgeon will place the flap back over the cornea. It heals naturally over time. Most often, you will only need anesthetic drops since no type of stitches or bandages is necessary. Your eye doctor will give you steps to take to care for your eyes in the days after treatment.

Are You a Candidate for Laser Eye Surgery?

Many of our patients are candidates for LASIK surgery. To find out, come in to see your ophthalmologist in our office for a free consultation and a thorough eye exam. We’ll talk about the ways in which this procedure can help you. We’ll also take to you about the risks. These risks include concerns with corneal infection, dry eyes, night driving problems, sensitivity to light, and some scarring. While these risks are rare, it is important for you to consider them before having this procedure.

Take our Candidacy Quiz!

Schedule an Exam and Consultation for LASIK with Your Ophthalmologist Today

To find out more about how well LASIK can work for you, schedule an exam with your ophthalmologist in our office. Our advanced care and tools ensure we can provide you with the results you need. Call Carolina Vision Center, serving Fayetteville, Elizabethtown, Clinton, and surrounding areas at 910-485-3937

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Categories Eye Care, Vision
Eye Exam
Posted on Author cpgcvc

The Importance of Annual Diabetic Eye Exams: Safeguarding Your Vision

The Importance of Annual Diabetic Eye Exams: Safeguarding Your Vision

Today, we’re delving into a crucial topic for individuals living with diabetes—the significance of annual diabetic eye exams. Your eye health plays a vital role in maintaining a high quality of life, and regular check-ups are key to detecting and managing potential issues. Join us as we explore the importance of these exams, incorporating insights from the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and the American Heart Association (AHA), reputable sources in the field.

  1. Understanding the Impact of Diabetes on Eye Health: According to the AAO, diabetes can affect various parts of the body, including the eyes. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to a condition called diabetic retinopathy. This retinal disease is the most common cause of vision loss among people with diabetes1. By familiarizing yourself with the impact of diabetes on eye health, you gain a better understanding of the importance of proactive measures such as annual eye exams.
  2. Detecting Silent Threats: Diabetic Retinopathy: One of the greatest challenges with diabetic eye complications is their often silent nature. Diabetic retinopathy may not present noticeable symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage, making early detection critical. The AAO emphasizes the importance of regular eye exams to detect diabetic retinopathy early when treatment options are most effective1. These exams allow eye care professionals to examine the retina and identify signs of diabetic retinopathy, enabling timely intervention and preventing irreversible vision loss.
  3. Comprehensive Eye Exams: More Than Just Diabetic Retinopathy: While the focus of annual diabetic eye exams is on diabetic retinopathy, they serve a broader purpose. The AAO notes that these exams also help identify other eye conditions that may be associated with diabetes, such as cataracts and glaucoma1. The AHA points out that people with diabetes have a higher risk of developing cataracts, clouding the lens of the eye. Additionally, diabetes increases the risk of glaucoma, a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve2. By addressing these issues early on, appropriate treatments and management strategies can be implemented to preserve your eye health.
  4. Tailored Treatment Plans: Maximizing Outcomes: Early detection of diabetic retinopathy and other eye conditions allows for the development of personalized treatment plans. The AAO explains that treatment options for diabetic retinopathy include laser therapy, injections, and surgery, depending on the stage and severity of the disease1. Timely interventions significantly increase the chances of preserving your vision. Through annual eye exams, healthcare providers can tailor treatment strategies specifically to your needs, maximizing the potential for positive outcomes.
  5. Embracing a Holistic Approach to Diabetes Management: Taking care of your eyes goes hand in hand with managing diabetes effectively. The AHA emphasizes that controlling blood sugar levels is crucial for preventing or delaying the onset of diabetic eye disease2. Alongside regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and monitoring blood sugar levels, annual diabetic eye exams form a vital part of a holistic approach to diabetes care. Prioritizing your eye health contributes to your overall well-being and enhances your ability to live a fulfilling life.

Conclusion: Your eyesight is a precious gift, and preserving it requires proactive steps. Annual diabetic eye exams are essential for individuals living with diabetes, providing early detection, tailored treatment plans, and the opportunity to address potential complications promptly. By making these exams a priority, you invest in your future well-being and ensure that you can enjoy the world through clear vision. We have specialists to help. Don’t wait—schedule your annual diabetic eye exam today! Call is at (910) 485-3937, We’re here to HELP

Book your Appointment Today

Footnotes

  1. American Academy of Ophthalmology. (n.d.). Diabetic Retinopathy. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/diabetic-retinopathy ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
  2. American Heart Association. (n.d.). Diabetes and Your Eyes. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/diabetes/why-diabetes-matters/eye-health-and-diabetes ↩ ↩2
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