Mercy's Ophthalmologists are leaders in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of eye diseases and disorders. Several of the ophthalmologists and sub-specialists are also involved in research projects that are helping to set the standards for diagnosing and treating patients with eye disorders and visual system diseases. Ophthalmologists typically perform eye exams and, if needed, prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses for patients. Ophthalmologists also treat injuries to the eye and perform various surgical procedures, including those to treat cataracts and glaucoma. Like an ophthalmologist, an optometrist can conduct certain visual tests and prescribe corrective lenses for the eye.
Opticians are technicians who fill prescriptions written by ophthalmologists and optometrists.
More than 3,500 cataract surgeries are performed at Mercy facilities each year, making it the most commonly treated eye condition at Mercy. Characterized by a clouding of the eye's normally clear lens, cataracts are surgically removed and replaced with an artificial plastic lens. This safe, nearly painless procedure often results in excellent restored vision. The surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, with most patients returning home within a few hours. Back to menu Glaucoma Mercy's glaucoma specialists offer the latest medication treatments and laser surgery techniques for the treatment of glaucoma, an eye disorder caused by increased pressure in the eyeball.