Neurolens is an innovative lens technology designed to address the symptoms of eye misalignment and digital eye strain. The prescription lenses have a contoured prism to help realign your eyes and alleviate eye strain. They’re designed to work with your eyes to optimize visual acuity and reduce discomfort, helping to restore the natural synchrony between your eyes, brain, and body. 

In addition to providing relief from digital eye strain, Neurolens technology is suitable for those suffering from general eye discomfort, binocular vision disorders, and headaches. Whether you’re a student, professional, or just someone who spends a lot of time in front of screens, Neurolens can help you stay productive and comfortable throughout the day.

Benefits of Neurolens

Neurolenses can benefit those with a variety of conditions related to eye misalignment, including digital eye strain and binocular vision dysfunction.

Digital Eye Strain

Digital eye strain is a group of issues that occur with prolonged screen time because of the unique characteristics of digital screens, such as reduced letter precision, contrast, and glare, which can exacerbate any uncorrected vision problems. By realigning the eyes and reducing pressure on the trigeminal nerve, Neurolens can help relieve blurry vision, eye fatigue, and the associated headaches and neck and shoulder pain that often result from eye misalignment from using digital devices.

Binocular Vision Dysfunction

Binocular vision dysfunction happens when eyes cannot align properly with each other. This misalignment causes the brain to work harder to compensate for the difference and forces the eye muscles to work harder to avoid double images, leading to a range of symptoms from dizziness and nausea to anxiety and trouble sleeping.

With the ability to consider individual dynamic eye alignment, Neurolens provides a customized solution to address and treat symptoms associated with binocular vision dysfunction. 

The lenses can improve visual acuity and help create a clear image in each eye that the brain can successfully fuse into a single, focused picture. 

Myopia Management

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is the inability to see distance objects clearly. For children, this can make it difficult to see the board in school or teammates on an outdoor field. Myopia is currently a common ocular condition and the rate of myopia in our population is increasing due to changes in environmental factors in combination with individual genetics.

Although many of us think of being nearsighted as needing glasses or contact lenses, there is much more to consider with a diagnosis of myopia in children. As myopia increases, the risk for several vision threatening conditions increases as well. These include maculopathy, glaucoma, retinal detachment, and cataracts. The risk of these conditions increases proportionally with the amount of nearsightedness a child develops.

Can it get worse?

For someone wearing glasses or contact lenses, we expect an increase in myopia throughout childhood, usually through the late teenage years. Increases in time spent doing near work (reading, computer work, time spent on phones) and lack of time spent outdoors are both associated with an increase in myopia progression. 

The prescriptions of parents and siblings can be helpful in predicting a child’s likelihood of myopia progression, but it is not exact. It is not possible to exactly predict how nearsighted someone will become.

Can we do something about it?

For a long time, all we could do to treat myopia was prescribe stronger glasses to maintain clear vision. 

Previously it was thought that undercorrection (not giving the full prescription to correct vision to 20/20) may help slow progression, however more recent studies have shown that this may actually increase the rate of myopia change. Eye exercises have also not been shown to be effective. 

Recently, intensive research has shown there are several methods effective for slowing myopia progression. Specialized contact lenses or prescription eye drops can be effective at treating myopia, specifically in children.

How do I start?

Your child needs an updated eye exam (within the last 6 months). Once this is completed, you will schedule a myopia management consultation, during which the doctor will take additional measurements. Based on this information, a recommendation for the best treatment modality will be made for your child’s specific needs.

Q: Why should I have my hearing tested? 

A: Having your hearing tested is important to ensure you maintain optimal auditory health and address any potential hearing loss early on. It enables early detection of hearing problems, allows for timely intervention and treatment, and helps you maintain a better quality of life by enhancing communication and reducing potential social and cognitive impacts associated with untreated hearing loss. 

Q: What is hearing loss?

A: Hearing loss refers to a partial or complete inability to hear sounds in one or both ears. It can vary in severity and can be temporary or permanent. Hearing loss can occur due to various factors, including age, noise exposure, genetic factors, certain medical conditions, infections, trauma, and ototoxic medications. It can affect one's ability to understand speech, engage in conversations, enjoy music, and participate in everyday activities.  

Q: What is Tinnitus?

A: Tinnitus is a condition characterized by the perception of sound in one or both ears or in the head without any external sound source. It often presents as a ringing, buzzing, hissing, clicking, or humming sound, although the specific sound experienced can vary from person to person. Tinnitus can be caused by various factors, such as age-related hearing loss, exposure to loud noise, earwax blockage, certain medications, ear infections, and underlying health conditions. It can be temporary or chronic and may have different impacts on individuals, ranging from a minor annoyance to significantly affecting their quality of life. 

Q: How to treat hearing loss?

A: The treatment for hearing loss depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Here are some common approaches to treating hearing loss: 

1. Hearing Aids: Hearing aids are electronic devices that amplify sounds, making them louder and clearer for individuals with hearing loss. They come in different styles and technologies to suit various types of hearing loss.
2. Cochlear Implants: Cochlear implants are surgically implanted devices that directly stimulate the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged parts of the ear. They are typically recommended for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss who do not benefit from hearing aids.
3. Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs): ALDs are devices designed to enhance sound in specific listening situations. They can be used in conjunction with hearing aids or independently to improve sound clarity in environments like classrooms, theaters, or telephones.
4. Communication Strategies and Speech Therapy: Learning effective communication strategies and undergoing speech therapy can help individuals with hearing loss improve their speech and language skills, as well as develop coping mechanisms to manage communication challenges.
5. Medical Intervention: In some cases, hearing loss may be caused by underlying medical conditions, such as ear infections, tumors, or earwax blockages. Treating these underlying conditions may alleviate or resolve the hearing loss.

It is essential to consult with an audiologist who can assess your hearing and recommend the most appropriate treatment options based on your specific needs and circumstances.

Q: What are the different types of hearing aids? 

A: There are several types of hearing aids available, each with its own design and functionality. Here are some common types: 

1. Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids: BTE hearing aids are worn behind the ear and are connected to a custom earpiece or earmold that fits inside the ear. They are suitable for a wide range of hearing loss and can accommodate various features and technologies.

2. In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids: ITE hearing aids are custom-made to fit within the outer portion of the ear.

3. In-the-Canal (ITC) and Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids: ITC and CIC hearing aids are smaller and fit partially or completely within the ear canal, making them less visible.

4. Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) or Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE) Hearing Aids: RIC or RITE hearing aids have a behind-the-ear component that houses the electronic parts and a thin wire with a speaker or receiver that goes into the ear canal. This design allows for a more natural sound and reduces the "plugged" feeling in the ear.

5. Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) Hearing Aids: IIC hearing aids are the smallest and most discreet type, as they fit deep within the ear canal, making them virtually invisible when worn. They are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss and have limited space for features and controls.

These are just a few examples, and there are variations and subtypes within each category. The best type of hearing aid for you will depend on factors such as your degree of hearing loss, lifestyle, personal preference, and the recommendation of your audiologist.  

Q: What are the effects of untreated hearing loss?

A: Untreated hearing loss can have various effects on an individual's life and well-being. Here are some common impacts of untreated hearing loss: 

1. Communication difficulties: Hearing loss can make it challenging to understand speech, especially in noisy environments or during conversations with multiple people. This can lead to misunderstandings, social withdrawal, and difficulties maintaining relationships.

2. Reduced quality of life: Hearing loss can diminish one's overall quality of life. It may lead to feelings of frustration, isolation, and depression. Individuals with untreated hearing loss may also experience a decline in cognitive abilities and have an increased risk of developing conditions like dementia.

3. Safety concerns: Hearing loss can impact one's ability to hear important sounds and warnings in their environment, such as sirens, alarms, or approaching vehicles. This can pose safety risks both at home and in public spaces.

4. Decreased job performance: Untreated hearing loss can hinder job performance, particularly in occupations that require effective communication and teamwork. Difficulties in hearing instructions, participating in meetings, and engaging in conversations with colleagues can limit professional growth and opportunities.

5. Impact on mental health: Hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal. Struggling to communicate effectively and feeling excluded from social interactions can take a toll on an individual's emotional well-being.

6. Cognitive strain: Individuals with untreated hearing loss may experience increased cognitive load due to the effort required to understand speech. This can lead to mental fatigue, reduced concentration, and difficulties in multitasking or remembering information.
   
   

Hearing Screenings –a quick check to identify individuals who may have hearing loss. It involves exposing individuals to different sounds and assessing their responses to determine if further evaluation by an audiologist is needed.

Comprehensive Hearing Evaluations - a thorough assessment performed by an audiologist to determine the nature, degree, and possible causes of hearing loss. It involves a series of tests such as pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, tympanometry, and may also include additional assessments to evaluate the specific aspects of hearing function and anatomy.

Cognitive Screenings (part of the comprehensive evaluation) – a brief assessment used to evaluate a person's cognitive abilities and detect any potential cognitive impairments or changes in brain function. The screening assesses memory, visuospatial, and executive functions to provide a snapshot of an individual's cognitive health.

Custom-made Hearing Protection – personalized devices designed to protect an individual's hearing in noisy environments. These devices are typically created from impressions or molds of the individual's ears to ensure a precise fit and offer effective noise reduction, preserving their hearing health. These can be used occupationally or recreationally for uses such as concerts, firearms use, construction, dentistry, etc.

Hearing Aid Consultation – During the consultation, the individual's hearing needs and preferences are assessed, hearing test results are reviewed, and appropriate hearing aid options are recommended based on the individual's hearing profile and lifestyle. A hearing aid demonstration may also be done during this appointment. 

Hearing Aid Fittings – the process of customizing and adjusting a hearing aid to an individual's specific hearing needs. During the fitting, the hearing healthcare professional programs the hearing aid settings based on the person's audiogram, conducts real-time tests to fine-tune the sound quality, and provides guidance on proper usage and maintenance of the device. 

Cerumen Removal – the process of removing excessive earwax or cerumen from the ear canal. It is performed using specialized tools or techniques, such as irrigation, suction, or manual removal, to ensure the safe and effective removal of the wax buildup and alleviate any associated symptoms or hearing difficulties. 

Your Experienced Audiologist, Dr. Kristen Handal

Dr. Handal, our audiology partner, is committed to providing her patients with excellent hearing care by following best practices and a patient first approach. She has a doctorate from Montclair State University and is licensed by the state of New Jersey to practice audiology and fit hearing aids.

She offers a range of the very latest technology in hearing devices, from the world’s leading manufacturers, and offers a full aftercare program for continued care for your hearing health, ensuring you get optimal performance from your hearing aids.

Dr. Handal is here Mondays and Tuesdays from 10am-5pm.

LOOK AFTER YOUR EARS AS WELL AS YOUR EYES

Hearing Checks in Florham Park

While aging is the most common natural cause of hearing loss, especially in patients over 55 years old, it can happen for many reasons. So, it is important to get your hearing checked if you suffer from any loss, to help identify the root cause which may be indicative of a more serious health condition.

We should look after our hearing in the same way as our vision, protecting ourselves from loud noises and seeking help for hearing loss at an early stage. If you find yourself struggling to join conversations in noisy group environments or you need the TV volume turned up, you may be suffering from hearing loss.

While receiving treatment for hearing loss rarely reverses the damage already done, it can slow it down. Hearing solutions can also help with mental sharpness and slow down the onset of dementia.

Your Experienced Audiologist, Dr. Kristen Handal

Dr. Handal, our audiology partner, is committed to providing her patients with excellent hearing care by following best practices and a patient first approach. She has a doctorate from Montclair State University and is licensed by the state of New Jersey to practice audiology and fit hearing aids.

She offers a range of the very latest technology in hearing devices, from the world’s leading manufacturers, and offers a full aftercare program for continued care for your hearing health, ensuring you get optimal performance from your hearing aids.

Book Your Hearing Check Today

It’s easy to put your mind at rest if you have concerns about your hearing. Book a hearing check with us today and we will test your hearing, examine your ears to ensure they are healthy, discuss any concerns you may have about your hearing health, and recommend a hearing solution, if needed.

Call us today at 973-301-0400 to book an appointment with Dr. Kristen Handal.

Kristen Handal, Au.D., CCC-A, graduated from Ithaca College with her Bachelors degree in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology. She then continued on to Montclair State University where she earned her Doctorate in Audiology.
Dr. Handal completed her residency at Columbia University Irving Medical Center in Manhattan. While at Columbia, she completed research evaluating sound localization and speech understanding in the operating room setting.

Dr. Handal is board certified through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), and specializes in evaluation and treatment of both adult and pediatric patients. She is committed to providing her patients with excellent hearing care by following best practices and a patient first approach. In her free time, Dr. Handal enjoys walks with her dog, Indie, and spending time with family and friends.

Dr. Handal’s clinical experience includes Morristown Medical Center; Hackensack University Medical Center; the Veterans Administration of East Orange; Weill Cornell Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, HearingLife - Westfield, and HearingLife - Edison.

From the Livingston Area:

● Travel West on Columbia Turnpike
● Pass over Ridgedale Avenue
● Continue past Trader Joes & McDonalds shopping complex
● Cross James St. & Park St
● We are third group of buildings on the right side
● Tan building with rust colored shutters
● Pull to the back of the building to Visitor Parking / North Entrance Parking
● Make sure to enter the North Tower
● We are located on the second floor of the North Tower: Suite 211

From the Madison Area:

● Take Ridgedale Avenue
● Make a Left onto Columbia Turnpike
● Travel West on Columbia Turnpike
● Continue past Trader Joes & McDonalds shopping complex
● Cross James St. & Park St
● We are third group of buildings on the right side
● Tan building with rust colored shutters
● Pull to the back of the building to Visitor Parking / North Entrance Parking
● Make sure to enter the North Tower
● We are located on the second floor of the North Tower: Suite 211

From the Morristown Area:

● Travel East on Columbia Turnpike from Park Ave / Rt. 24 you will drive about 1 mile
● You will pass the Morristown Airport on the left followed by a Cadillac dealership
● Drive up the hill & thru the light
● You’ll pass a large field/clearing on your left, after the clearing is our building located on the left side
● Tan building with rust colored shutters
● Pull to the back of the building to Visitor Parking / North Entrance Parking
● Make sure to enter the North Tower
● We are located on the second floor of the North Tower: Suite 211

At Ridgedale Family Eye Care, our team of professionals go the extra mile to make sure that you and your family receive the extraordinary level of care that you deserve.

Jerrold Fruchtman, OD

Optometric Physician

License #:00508400

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY Dr. Fruchtman graduated from The State University of New York in 1985. He then attended and graduated from the State University of New York College of Optometry with honors in contact lenses.

Upon graduation, Dr. Fruchtman went into practice with his father Dr. Jack Fruchtman from June 1990 until April 1997. After moving to New Jersey he opened Ridgedale Family Eye Care in April 1997 where he now practices full time. He has been a consultant for the Helen Keller Institute as well as University Hospital.

He is also an affiliate Optometric Physician for the TLC Laser Center. Dr. Fruchtman participates in many free health screenings throughout the community as well as the local school system.

The thing he enjoys most about his profession is be able to improve the quality life of his patients by providing superior eye care. When not treating patients Dr. Fruchtman can be found spending time with his wife Donna and daughters Hannah and Talia. He also enjoys golf, cycling and tennis.

Dr. Fruchtman attends over 30 class hours of continuing education courses per year to ensure he is up to date on the latest research and technology.

Rachel M. Beneski, OD

Optometric Physician

License #:00641200

Dr. Beneski joined Ridgedale Family Eye Care in December of 2014. She began her studies at Millersville University, attending through a volleyball scholarship and graduating in three years with a B.S. in Biology, with a Pre-Optometry concentration.  She went on to Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University, where she earned her second Bachelor’s degree in Visual Sciences and her Doctorate of Optometry.  During graduate school, Dr. Beneski studied across the nation, living in California, New Hampshire and Pennsylvania, before moving to Hoboken, NJ to complete a residency in Ocular Disease at Omni Eye services.

Dr.  Beneski is a member of the American Academy of Optometry and the New Jersey society of Optometric Physicians.  She has a special interest in the diagnosis and management of most eye diseases, including glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, and pediatric binocular conditions, including Myopia Management. Through the fitting of specialty contact lenses, Dr. Beneski manages keratoconus and other corneal disorders. 

Dr. Beneski enjoys living in Mount Olive with her husband, daughter, and dog, Pierogi.  She fills her free time crafting and cooking, and most of all spending time with the ones she loves.

Amy McHugh, OD

Optometric Physician

License #:00680600

Dr. Amy McHugh graduated cum laude from Rider University where she received honors distinction in her study of Biology. She received her Doctorate of Optometry degree from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University in 2018 with honors distinction for clinical care. During her studies, she worked with pediatrics, low vision and blind populations and in communities with significant ocular disease. In 2019, Dr. McHugh completed her Ocular Disease and Refractive Surgery Residency at OMNI Eye Services of New Jersey and New York. During her time there, she focused on treatment and management of eye disease, pediatrics and post-operative care.

Dr. McHugh is board certified by the National Board Examiners of Optometry and New Jersey State Board of Optometrists. She has been published in numerous scientific journals and has a patent for her scientific research. Dr. McHugh has lectured at local optometry society meetings focused on the continued education of optometrists in the area of ocular disease. She has also lectured at schools for young children and college students discussing ocular health and the importance of eye examinations.

In her free time, Dr. McHugh enjoys adventuring outdoors including visiting US national parks, hiking and camping. She also enjoys nature photography and cooking.

We are in network with the following insurances.

• Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Aetna
• United Healthcare
• Oxford
• Cigna
• Medicare
• Vision Service Plan (VSP)

Payments and copayments are due at the time of service.

 Here's a complete list of the frame lines we carry--

Click images to view videos

At Ridgedale Family Eye Care, our professional eye care staff will be happy to assist you with your vision needs. We have treatment options available for everyone. Whether you are interested in making an appointment for a LASIK consultation, have cataracts, need an annual eye exam, or just need glasses, we can help!

Contact us today to begin scheduling an appointment using the form below, or call us directly at (973) 301-0400.

Welcome to Ridgedale Family Eye Care

Providing quality vision care to Florham Park, NJ and the surrounding areas...

Eye doctors Dr. Fruchtman, Dr. Beneski, and Dr. McHugh take great pride in providing exceptional quality and service, while utilizing state-of-the-art technology and treatments. Whether you're in need of Contacts, want to be tested for Cataracts, Glaucoma, other eye diseases, vision conditions or have LASIK questions, we're here to help.  We are a practice that runs on time are available for appointments only.  We do not accept walk-ins.

When you visit our office, our goal is that you will leave satisfied and confident with our doctors, staff and services! Children are not only welcome at our office, they are encouraged. It helps to alleviate anxiety about their own eye care.

At Ridgedale Family Eye Care you will find a caring team of professionals dedicated to providing high-quality personalized eye care for the whole family. We value our patient relationships and strive to improve your quality of life and vision wellness through uncompromised service and state-of-the-art technology. Dr. Fruchtman, Dr. Beneski, and Dr. McHugh and their staff are a close-working team dedicated to meeting the vision care needs of the people of Florham Park, NJ and the surrounding areas.

Our friendly receptionist is the first smiling face you will see when you visit our office. To complement our modern facilities, our knowledgeable visual testing team work with the latest and greatest technologies to best assess the health of your eyes. Next you will meet your highly-skilled optometrist, who will complete the exam by inspecting your eyes, discussing eye care options, and answering your questions. When you visit our office, our goal is that you will leave completely satisfied and confident with your doctor, staff and services!

We invite you to refer your friends and family to our comprehensive website and our practice. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at our office at (973) 301-0400.

Few things affect the quality of your life more than your eyes--never put them at risk. Contact lenses are prescription medical devices. To make sure your eyes and vision stay healthy while wearing contact lenses, please follow these guidelines or the instructions recommended by your doctor.

Warning: Ocular complications and/or long-term corneal damage are the consequences of contact lenses that are worn longer than recommended. Oftentimes, your lenses will still feel fine even when you are over-wearing them. Do not wear your lenses overnight unless they are approved for extended wear and your doctor has discussed this with you. Overnight wear increases the risk of infection and other complications.

Contact Lens Insertion

Contact Lens Removal

Wearing Schedule

It will take at least a few days for your eyes to get used to wearing contact lenses. The best way to insure maximum visual comfort and keep your eyes healthy is to patiently and faithfully adhere to this wearing schedule.

• DON’T wear your lenses longer than 12 hours a day until your first follow-up visit with your doctor, unless the doctor has specifically told you otherwise.
• DON’T continue use of contact lenses if your eyes become red, irritated, painful, or if your vision gets worse while wearing lenses. Immediately take out the lenses and clean them. Let your eyes get back to normal and if the problem persists, contact our office.
• DON’T exceed the wearing times suggested, even if your lenses still feel comfortable. Studies have proven that the eye needs time to adapt to contact lenses, and your wearing schedule is based on those studies.
• DO always remove your contact lenses at least one hour before going to bed to allow for proper oxygen nourishment to the cornea.
• DO schedule and keep follow-up appointments with your eye doctor.
• DO wear your contact lenses for at least 4 hours the day of your follow-up appointment unless you are experiencing discomfort.

Please Note: If you complete your wearing schedule for a given day and take out your lenses for at least 2 hours, you can wear them the same day for another 2 to 3 hours after cleaning and disinfecting them.

Caring For Your Contacts

Deposits and infectious organisms, such as bacteria and viruses, can build up on the surface of all contact lenses. For this reason, it is very important to keep them clean and disinfected.

1. Cleaning removes dirt, mucous, and other debris that gets on the lenses during wear.
2. Disinfecting kills bacteria (germs) on the lenses. Disinfecting is essential to prevent serious eye infections.
3. Rinsing removes the other solutions from the lenses and prepares the lenses for wear.
4. Enzyming uses enzyme drops or tablets to remove protein and other deposits that build up over time on the lenses.

The best way to properly care for your lenses is to develop a care routine, then stick to that routine! Remember to:

1. Follow the directions outlined by your eye doctor. Oftentimes instructions are also listed on the packaging or the package insert for the contact lens solutions prescribed for you.
2. Multi-purpose solutions can be used for more than one step in contact lens care. Read the label to see which functions the solutions can be used for.
3. Many solutions can not be used together, and not all solutions are appropriate for all types of lenses. Only use solutions recommended by your eye doctor, and check with your eye doctor if you want to switch brands.
4. When you remove your lenses, they must be cleaned, rinsed, and disinfected before they are worn again.
5. Enzyming and cleaning are not a substitute for disinfecting.
6. Lenses that have been stored for more than 12 hours may need to be cleaned, disinfected, and rinsed again.
7. Make sure solution containers are kept closed tightly, stored upright, and kept in a clean, dry, cool place when you are not using them. Keep your case clean and replace it every 2-3 months to prevent bacterial growth.
8. Don’t touch container bottle tips to any surface to prevent them from becoming contaminated.
9. Throw away expired solutions. (Look on the bottle for the expiration date!)
10. Use new solution in your contact lenses case every day.
11. Discuss with your eye doctor the care for your lenses if you wear them while swimming in a pool or hot tub.
12. Only use approved rewetting drops for lubricating or wetting your lenses. Never place the lenses in your mouth.
13. Do not use tap water to rinse soft contact lenses.
14. Be careful with makeup, lotions, creams and sprays--consider putting on lenses before makeup and remove them before removing makeup. Also, water-based makeup is less likely to damage lenses than oil-based makeup.

Here’s what you need to watch for: redness, blurriness, light sensitivity. Remove your lenses if you are experiencing any of these 3 things. If your eyes have not returned to normal after 24 hours, please contact our office.  If you have any change in vision, comfort, or irritation, immediately remove your lenses. If there is no improvement within a couple of hours, please contact our office.

Welcome to the Ridgedale Family Eye Care video learning center! Please call our office at (973) 301-0400 if you have any questions about the conditions you see here.

At Ridgedale Family Eye Care, our professional eye care staff will be happy to assist you with your vision needs. We have treatment options available for everyone. Whether you are interested in making an appointment for a LASIK consultation, have cataracts, need an annual eye exam, or just need glasses, we can help!

Contact us today to begin scheduling an appointment using the form below, or call us directly at (973) 301-0400.

We'd like to welcome you to our newly minted website. We have taken great care to ensure this site keeps you better informed about Ridgedale Family Eye Care and to provide relevant information in an easy to understand way.

Please vist our page often as we will be updating with specials and promotions throughout the year. While you are here please take time to visit our Video Learning center, in the Eye Health drop down, where you can view our entire library of eye related videos.

Read more: Blog

DRIVING DIRECTIONS TO RIDGEDALE FAMILY EYE CARE

From the Livingston Area:

• Travel West on Columbia Turnpike
• Pass over Ridgedale Avenue
• Continue past Trader Joes & McDonalds shopping complex
• Cross James St. & Park St
• We are third group of buildings on the right side
• Tan building with rust colored shutters
• Pull to the back of the building to Visitor Parking / North Entrance Parking
• Make sure to enter the North Tower
• We are located on the second floor of the North Tower: Suite 211

From the Madison Area:

• Take Ridgedale Avenue
• Make a Left onto Columbia Turnpike
• Travel West on Columbia Turnpike
• Continue past Trader Joes & McDonalds shopping complex
• Cross James St. & Park St
• We are third group of buildings on the right side
• Tan building with rust colored shutters
• Pull to the back of the building to Visitor Parking / North Entrance Parking
• Make sure to enter the North Tower
• We are located on the second floor of the North Tower: Suite 211

From the Morristown Area:

• Travel East on Columbia Turnpike from Park Ave / Rt. 24 you will drive about 1 mile
• You will pass the Morristown Airport on the left followed by a Cadillac dealership
• Drive up the hill & thru the light
• You’ll pass a large field/clearing on your left, after the clearing is our building located on the left side
• Tan building with rust colored shutters
• Pull to the back of the building to Visitor Parking / North Entrance Parking
• Make sure to enter the North Tower
• We are located on the second floor of the North Tower: Suite 211

When it comes to vision care products, they are not all created equally! Across the eye care industry there is a large variance in quality and craftsmanship. We take pride in using a wide-range of top quality materials with great product support to provide you with the excellent eye care products. We meet regularly with manufacturer's representatives to make sure that we have the a great selection. Our value is in knowing what is available and what best meets your needs.

When considering where to purchase your eyeglasses, contact lenses, and sunwear, remember to consider the following. . .

Total Eye Health - Our office is part of this community. We want you to have sharp vision and great comfort with your glasses and contact lenses. The health of your eyes is our major concern. That is why we stand behind our products and services with great warranties, and a professional and well-educated team. Different prescriptions require certain frame styles and lens treatments in order for your glasses to perform well and look great. Our trained opticians can guide you through this process. Our dispensary has hundreds of frames from which to choose, including a large selection of children's frames. We can help you find the size, shape, and color of frame that is perfect for all family members. When it comes to contact lenses, we offer a full spectrum of products. Even if you have been told before that you cannot wear lenses, we may have a solution that is right for you.

Competitive Pricing - At Ridgedale Family Eye Care we offer competitive pricing, affordable eyewear packages, and multiple-pair savings. You are also welcome to take advantage of manufacturer rebate programs and special promotions through our office. Be sure to ask about our convenient contact lens direct shipping program.

Convenience - Your Ridgedale Family Eye Care offers a wide selection of products in our office as well as through custom orders. We use great quality materials and will courteously recommend eyewear and contact lenses that fit your lifestyle and fashion - all within your budget.  Plus, you get to try on your frames before ordering--instead of just ordering online and hoping they work for your face and your prescription!

Lenses & Coatings

Contacts & Solutions

Sport & Sunwear

For many people, different lenses are needed for seeing at different distances. Bifocal lenses allow the wearer to look through two areas of the lens. One area focuses on distant objects. The other is used for reading. A little-known fact is that bifocals were invented by Benjamin Franklin, and his style of bifocals are still available today.

Most of the time the “reading” area is smaller, shaped like a sideways “D”, and found in the lower hemisphere of the lens. These bifocals are called line bifocals or flat-tops. If you are focusing on distant objects, you look through the top half of the lenses. To read a book, magazine, or newspaper, you look through the “reading” area. The Franklin style lenses are less common, and are split horizontally down the middle of each lens. One thing that is difficult about using bifocals is dealing with the line between the two vision areas. Fortunately, recent technologies have developed a new type of lens, called the no-line, or progressive, lens.

One of the main problems with bifocal and trifocal lenses is the issue of eye fatigue. It can be difficult to switch from one focusing power to another. Your eyes can tire, which can even lead to a headache, sore neck and sore back.

A variation of bifocals and trifocals is the no-line lens or progressive lens. No-lines provide a smooth transition from focusing on nearby to distant objects because they do not have a distinct line separating the focusing powers. Instead, a gradual change in power allows the wearer to focus on objects at all distances. Distant objects are viewed through the upper portion of the lens, while near objects are viewed through the middle or lower portion of the lens. These are also great for computer users.

Bifocals allow the wearer to read through one area of the lens, and to focus on distant objects through another area of the lens. As the eyes age, though, a stronger prescription is often needed to read. This would be fine, but the stronger prescription that allows for reading makes it difficult to focus on objects at intermediate distances, such as grocery items on a shelf or your speedometer. Thus, trifocals are necessary for a third prescription for intermediate focusing.

Trifocals, also known as line trifocals, feature three areas of focusing power, each separated from the other by a distinct line. The three windows allow for focusing on distant objects, intermediately distanced objects, and for reading. The downside of trifocals is dealing with the lines between the different focusing powers. Fortunately, recent advances in technology have led to developments in no-line, or progressive lenses.

Previous to the last few years, the only materials available for use as lenses were glass and a hard resin called CR-39. But recently, high index lenses have become available. High index materials are named because they have a higher index of light refraction. Basically, they can do the same job that glass or CR-39 does, but high index lenses are much thinner and lighter. With high index lenses, you can avoid having “soda bottle” lenses.

When learning about high index lenses, you may hear many unfamiliar numbers and terms. Here are a few things to remember.

Polycarbonate

The first and still the most popular high index plastic is polycarbonate. Polycarbonate was originally developed for fighter jet cockpits. It is very strong, very light, and resistant to scratches and breaking. Most sports lenses are made of polycarbonate.

Mid-Index

Other high index materials are classified by numbers. The higher the number, the thinner and lighter the lens. The lower numbers are classified as mid-index lenses. Mid-index lenses, such as 1.54, 1.56, and 1.57, are thinner than glass, and nearly as strong as CR-39.

High-Index

High index lense are much thinner than regular glass or plastic. Talk with your doctor to decide which high index lens is right for you.

Normal eyewear often creates glare, reflections, and “ghost images.” Now all that can be eliminated with an anti-reflective coating.

What we see is a result of light being sensed by our eyes. With normal glasses, much of the light reflects off the lenses. This produces glare. It also reduces the wearer’s visual acuity. In other words, the light reflection is both a cosmetic and visual problem.

Anti-reflective coatings increase light transmission through the lenses to 99.5 percent. They make it easier to see and easier for others to see you. These coatings are especially useful for those viewing computer screens and driving at night.

Glare from wet roads, light reflecting off other vehicles, and glare from your own windshield can be annoying and dangerous. To eliminate this glare, we offer polarized lenses. Polarized lenses eliminate the majority of glare, reducing eye strain and increasing visibility. Polarized lenses are the most effective means to reduce glare.

Most glare comes from horizontal surfaces, so the light is “horizontally polarized.” Polarized lenses feature vertically-oriented “polarizers.” These polarizers block the horizontally-polarized light. The result is a glare-reduced view of the world. Polarized lenses can make a world of difference for any outdoor enthusiast. Fisherman can eliminate the bright reflections from the water and actually see into the water more easily than with other sunglasses, golfers can see the green easier, and joggers and bikers can enjoy reduced glare from the road. In addition, drivers can enjoy the safety and comfort that polarized lenses provide while driving.

If you have hard resin lenses (CR-39), you should consider getting a scratch-resistant coating. Resins and plastics are more susceptible to scratches than glass. Scratches damage the cosmetic look of the lenses and compromise their performance. With a scratch-resistant coating, you do not have to worry as much about minor scratches on your lenses.

Another advantage of scratch-resistant coatings is that most coatings come with a one-year warranty. They are a great investment to prevent minor scratches. However, it is important to remember that scratch-resistant does not mean scratch-proof. All lenses are susceptible to scratches.

If you have ever felt frustrated at needing both prescription glasses and prescription sunglasses to accommodate an outdoor lifestyle, you should consider photochromic lenses. Photochromic lenses darken when exposed to UV rays. The change is caused by photochromic molecules that are incorporated into the lens or into a coating on the lens. When the wearer goes outside when it's bright, the lenses darken automatically. When the wearer goes back inside, the glasses become clear.

There are a variety of photochromic options available. Depending on what you choose, you can customize the lenses to your needs. Some lenses darken only in direct sunlight, while others darken in little or no direct light. Some are designed to darken while you are in the car to reduce road glare while you are driving. You can even choose the color of the tint. Ask your doctor what options are available.

Your glasses do not have to be an eyesore to those around you. Eyeglasses can be a stylish accessory, a part of your personality, or a way for you to be unique. There are a variety of frames to choose from, but you may not know that there are also many ways to improve the appearance of the lenses. Cosmetic tints are now available. These tints offer a variety of colors and shades. You can choose light blue or any other color of the rainbow. Some lenses are clear at the bottom and gradually get more colored towards the top of the lenses. There are many ways to adjust your lenses to whatever style suits your personality. Some tints are also functional.

Recently there has been much attention on a condition called Computer Vision Syndrome, or CVS. A special tint for your glasses can reduce eyestrain associated with CVS.

We all have heard the phrase, “Different strokes for different folks.” Well, this also holds true when it comes to selecting glasses. There are different lenses for just about everybody. No matter what your particular need, there is probably a specialty lens designed for you.

For example, a specialty lens that is becoming increasingly common is one designed for computer users. Computer lenses have “windows” designed for viewing your computer screen, documents on your desk, and distant objects. The lenses are designed to reduce Computer Vision Syndrome, or CVS, which is characterized by headaches, eye strain, neck and back aches, dry eyes, blurred vision, and double vision.

Another example is called the double D-segment lens, also known as the double flat-top lens. If you look through most of the lens, you can focus on distant objects. But you can also look through a D-shaped segment near the top of the lens to see nearby overhead objects more clearly. This is very useful if you are involved in work where you are looking at nearby objects above your field of vision, as with carpenters and pilots. The D-shaped segment near the bottom of the lens allows for reading.

Contact lenses, when used properly, are very convenient, and with the latest advancements in technology, they are extremely comfortable. Most of the time, you will hardly know you are wearing them, though you will certainly notice how clear and accurate your vision is. Contact lenses are small lenses worn on the surface of the eye, or cornea, to correct vision. Lenses are sometimes worn for cosmetic purposes only. We recommend wearing contact lenses in conjunction with eye glasses. This allows you to best meet your overall lifestyle needs while protecting the integrity of your overall eye health.

We will discuss the option that is best for you. Many patients choose contact lenses for their primary vision correction and glasses as a backup option. Many patients who wear glasses have activities and events where they would rather not wear their glasses and they choose contact lenses for these times.

Contact Lens Types

The types of contact lenses available have exploded in the past few years. There are contact lenses available for almost everyone. Many or our patients were told in the past that they could not wear contacts, or they tried unsuccessfully to wear contact lenses. You owe it to yourself to see what is new. We carry many options, and promise to do our best in selecting contact lenses that you will love wearing. Choose from the following list for a brief look at some of the options available.

Soft lenses are very comfortable and come in a variety of types, depending on the wearer’s needs. Conventional soft lenses are worn during the day, and cleaned and stored at night. Usually once a week the lenses must be cleaned using an enzymatic cleaner, which removes protein deposits. These lenses can last for a year or more if you take good care of them and your prescription stays the same.

These lenses are similar to conventional soft lenses except that they are replaced more frequently. Oftentimes, they are worn for one-month periods and then replaced. Other frequent replacement soft lens types are worn two to three months before they are replaced. Like conventional soft lenses, they have to be cleaned and stored at night and cleaned once a week with an enzymatic cleaner to remove protein deposits.

Disposable soft lenses are much more popular than conventional soft lenses. These lenses are worn for a period of time and then, of course, thrown away. Disposables may be designed to last for one day or up to a couple weeks. These are perfect for many patients who were told they could not wear contact lenses because of allergies or mild dry eye conditions. They have a low cost per lens and are also popular for athletes and hobbyists who do not necessarily want to wear contact lenses every day.

Interested in a new look?  Then tinted lenses might be a good fit!  These soft lenses are available in conventional, disposable, or frequent replacement types. With tinted soft lenses, you can change or enhance your eye color. Even if you do not need corrective lenses, you can use “plano” colored contacts to change your eye color.  It is important to be fitted by an eye doctor for colored contact lenses even if you do not need a prescription; wearing the wrong style can damage your eyeball.

Recent technology has greatly improved bifocal soft lenses. Many patients past their 40s who need bifocals can now enjoy the comfort and benefits of soft contact lenses.  Ask your doctor to see if this would be a good fit for you.

Toric lenses are used to correct astigmatism. Astigmatism is a vision condition where an irregularly shaped cornea affects the vision. In the past, the only options for those with astigmatism were either glasses or hard gas permeable contact lenses. But toric lenses, which are lenses with a special shape, now offer an alternative. There are several types of toric lenses to choose from.

Extended wear lenses, the result of new technology in lens materials, transmit more oxygen to the cornea of the eye. Some of these lens materials can be worn up to 30 days, day and night, without removal. Extended wear lenses can last one week, two weeks, or one month, depending upon the lens material and your doctor’s recommendations.

As the name implies, these lenses are hard and gas permeable. If you’ve been told you cannot wear soft lenses, RGP lenses are often a great alternative. RGP lenses are available in specialized designs to correct just about any vision disorder.

There are a variety of solutions available from many different manufacturers. The important thing to remember is that not every solution is right for every type of contact lens. Some contact lenses require the use of multipurpose solutions, while others require separate solutions for the four steps in contact lens care: disinfecting, cleaning, rinsing, and enzyming. Use only the lens solutions that are recommended by the eye doctor. If you wish to change brands, check with our office first.

If you play sports, you should keep two things in mind related to your vision: protection and precision.

Sports lenses protect the wearer’s eyes. Sports such as tennis, baseball, softball, and racquetball may see ball speeds of 90 mph or more. In baseball alone, there are over 500,000 injuries per year! But that is not the most common cause of sports-related eye injuries. Most eye injuries occur in basketball, where an elbow or a finger jabbed into the eye can cause corneal abrasions, fractured bones, retinal detachments, or even blindness. Polycarbonate lenses are more resistant to impact than glass or plastic and offer protection for 90% of eye injuries. Protective eyewear fits well, features a padded bridge, has prescription or non-prescription lenses, and has deep-grooved eyewires to prevent the lens from falling out.

The specialized lenses also optimize your vision. Depending on your sport, certain lenses are more appropriate than others. Dark, UV protection lenses are great for baseball and other outdoor sports. Golfers can benefit from gray-brown colored lenses which make it easier to outline the course. Even if you do not normally wear glasses, non-prescription sports lenses can benefit your performance. Some people think that lenses prevent the wearer from seeing the action, but many sports lenses have anti-fog, glare reduction, and scratch resistant properties. Some are also designed to maximize peripheral vision.

To reduce exposure to UV rays and their effects, we recommend you invest in a set of sunglasses which can provide at least 98% protection from UVA and UVB rays. While cheaper sunglasses can range from poor to excellent UV protection, our sunwear lines provide top quality protection from the sun. We carry a large selection of styles and colors.

Another product to consider is a pair of polarized sunglasses. Polarized lenses block light reflected from surfaces such as a flat road or smooth water. If you are involved in activities such as water sports, skiing, golfing, biking, fishing, and even driving, polarized lenses can be very helpful in reducing glare and giving a clearer view.

Finally, if you have a youngster in the family, it is never too early to fit them with sunglasses. Children under the age of 20 are the most susceptible to the damaging effects of UV light. One concern of parents is that their child will scratch, break, or lose the sunglasses; we are here to help you make the best choice for your child.

Don’t remember the lessons on eye anatomy from your highschool biology class?  That’s OK—we have provided the following eyeball illustration and terms just to give you a refresher course.  And we won’t give you a pop quiz afterwards…

Select from the following list or scroll to learn more about the symptoms and treatments for:

When rays are focused correctly on the retina of a relaxed eye, the eye is said to be emmetropic. Emmetropia is the medical term for 20/20 vision, vision that needs no corrective lenses, contact lenses, or reading glasses. It occurs because the optical power of the eye can perfectly focus an image to the retina, giving it “perfect” vision.

The opposite of emmetropia is ametropia. With ametropia, the focal point of the eye is some distance in front of or behind the retina.  The following vision conditions are types of ametropia.

Hyperopia is more commonly known as farsightedness. As the name suggests, people with farsightedness are able to focus on objects that are further away, but have difficulty focusing on objects which are very close. This is because the eyeball is shorter than normal, which prevents the crystalline lens in the eye from focusing correctly on the retina. About a fourth of the population is farsighted. Hyperopia can lead to chronic glaucoma, a more serious condition, later in life.

A family history of hyperopia is a risk factor for developing hyperopia. Babies are often born with hyperopia but they can usually outgrow the condition as their eyes develop into the correct shape.

Hyperopia can be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses. There are also new surgical procedures that can correct hyperopia.

Myopia is the condition of being nearsighted. When it is an inherited condition, myopia begins early in life.  People with this condition can usually see near objects, but they struggle to see distant objects. Myopia is the opposite of hyperopia, or farsightedness.  In myopia, the anatomy of the eyeball, or globe, is longer than normal. This causes the light to focus in front of the retina, blurring the distance vision.  Myopia is corrected with glasses and contact lenses, or with laser vision correction. Laser vision correction is only recommended for people over 18 years old, when the eye has finished growing to adult size.

To correct the symptoms of myopia with glasses, lenses are used that are thicker on the edges and thinner in the middle. This is known as a concave lens, which can be cosmetically improved in higher prescriptions with a high index lens.

Myopes are also at increased risk for a retinal detachment. The signs and symptoms of a retinal detachment are flashing lights, black floaters, or a curtain over the vision. The risk of detachment is typically less than 3 percent.

Amblyopia defined

Amblyopia is also known as lazy eye. It is a condition, usually found in children, in which one or both eyes do not develop properly. An easy way to explain this is that the "eye-brain" connection does not communicate properly; therefore, the child does not know what clear vision is...or what 20/20 vision is. The eye anatomy itself is normal, but the neural pathway to the brain is not normal, causing decreased vision.

Prevalence of amblyopia

Amblyopia is one of the most common treatable forms of vision impairment in children. Its prevalence is as high as 3-5% in some studies. It is most common in infants and young children and it is imperative that this condition is caught early.  The chance of successful vision restoration goes down dramatically after age 8, therefore the earlier this condition is caught the better chance of successful treatment.

Causes of amblyopia

The causes of amblyopia are varied. A very common condition that can cause amblyopia is strabismus, a misalignment of the eyes. This occurs when one eye has an abnormal turning in or out, causing the brain to stop using the misaligned eye. Other causes may come from a high prescription such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. In the case of these conditions, the eye’s vision is out of focus and so the brain turns off that image. Eye disease processes can also cause amblyopia. One of these conditions is known as a cataract. A cataract is a condition of the lens of the eye developing an opacity so that light cannot pass through. Abnormal retinal conditions and hereditary factors can also cause amblyopia.

Treatment of amblyopia

In order to increase the chances for success, this condition must be detected early. The recommended ages for early eye examination are 6 months old, then 2-3 years of age, and then school age.

Patching, or occlusion therapy

One of the most common treatments for amblyopia is patching, also known as occluding, the better or stronger eye.  This forces the brain to use the weaker eye.  An adhesive eyepatch on the skin or a slip-on patch over glasses can be incorporated for occlusion therapy. A blurring contact lens or dilating eye drop can also be used to occlude the good eye.

Surgery

Cataract, eye muscle, or retinal surgery can be incorporated to help treat the underlying cause of amblyopia in some cases.

Vision therapy

Vision therapy has been proven to be successful in the treatment of amblyopia. Vision therapy, or VT, incorporates a series of vision training procedures that helps improve eye movement control, visual acuity, depth perception, and eye coordination. Vision therapy can be done in an office or home setting.

Signs and symptoms of Amblyopia

The most common way amblyopia is diagnosed is a detection of a decreased red reflex in the child's eye.  A diagnostic instrument used by the optometrist, ophthalmologist, or pediatrician, can pick up a bright reflection in the normal eye and a dim reflection in the amblyopic eye. Upon further examination, the eye is dilated to see if a refractive error of myopia, astigmatism, or hyperopia is the cause.

Another sign of amblyopia is an eye that turns in or out. A symptom that may be indicative for amblyopia is if the child prefers the vision out of one eye.  This can sometimes be detected when occluding the better eye--the child may become fussy and upset because she cannot see out of the lazy eye.

 Citations:
1. Amblyopia informational patient brochure. APOS.org. January 2013

As people get older, usually when they hit their 40s, a condition called presbyopia can set in. Presbyopia is the inability to focus on objects near the eye. One usually notices that it is harder to read or use the computer. Bifocals or reading glasses are a way to remedy this condition.

Presbyopia is a natural consequence of the aging process. There is no known cure, though researchers are constantly looking for one. Even if someone has never had vision problems before, he can still develop presbyopia. It may seem to occur suddenly, but it actually occurs over a long period of time. Symptoms include having to hold things at arm’s length to see them clearly, eye strain, fatigue, and headaches from near work.

Sometimes the cornea is irregularly shaped, causing the eye to focus an object on two different areas of the retina. This is known as astigmatism. For the cornea to bend light correctly, it should be dome-shaped, like a basketball. Astigmatic corneas are shaped more like a football. This causes a distorted view when looking at objects which are close-up and far away.

The cause of astigmatism is unknown. Astigmatism is often associated with myopia or hyperopia, and it usually is present from birth. It may be hereditary, or it may be caused by factors such as pressure on the cornea, incorrect posture, or increased use of the eyes for “near work.”

Mild astigmatism usually does not need to be corrected. Eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery can correct moderate to high degrees of astigmatism.

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) affects three out of four computer users. It is a series of symptoms related to extended periods of computer usage. Though it is no cause for panic, measures can be taken to relieve symptoms of CVS.

Symptoms

CVS can appear as a variety of symptoms. Headaches, eye strain, neck and back aches, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, double vision, and dry or irritated eyes are all possible problems related to CVS.

Risk Factors

Any computer user can develop CVS. Your vision, your computer, and the environment where you use your computer are all factors which can lead to CVS.

Our top priority is the care of your eyes. We want to keep your eyes healthy through regular eye health evaluations, communication, and education. This page lists a few of the most common eye diseases. Select from the following list of topics or scroll to learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for:

There are two types of blepharitis. Seborrheic blepharitis is often part of an overall skin condition called seborrhea, which may also affect the scalp, chest, back and the area behind the ears. The second form of blepharitis – staph blepharitis – is a more severe condition, caused by bacteria, that begins in childhood and may continue through adulthood.

Causes

Hormones, nutrition, general physical condition, and even stress may contribute to seborrheic blepharitis. Build-ups of naturally occurring bacteria contribute to staph blepharitis.

Symptoms

Blepharitis could be described as dandruff of the eyelids. Seborrheic blepharitis results in redness of the eyelids, flaking and scaling of eyelashes, and greasy, waxy scales caused by abnormal tear production. Staph blepharitis can cause small ulcers, loss of eyelashes, eyelid scarring, and even red eye.

Treatment

Careful cleaning of the eyelids can reduce seborrheic blepharitis. Application of hot packs to the eyes for 20 minutes a day can also help. Staph blepharitis may require antibiotic drops and ointments.

A cataract is an opacity of the lens of the eye. The body's natural lens is similar to an onion, with many layers. These layers contain protein and as the proteins clump together, they cover the lens and make it difficult to see clearly. Cataracts are generally seen in the older population, but they can occur at any age, even birth. By age 60, over half of the population has some symptoms of cataracts due to the natural aging process.

Cataracts are painless but if left untreated can lead to blindness. Cataract surgery is done on an outpatient basis with little or no downtime afterwards. The surgery is performed by a medical doctor known as an ophthalmologist, who specializes in surgery of the eye. The aftercare or postoperative care can be administered by an ophthalmologist or an optometrist.

Symptoms of Cataracts

There can be a myriad of symptoms when a person develops a cataract.  It is common for vision to be blurry, as though you are looking through a foggy window. Color vision changes occur in which the brightness of colors fade, especially blue and green. Patients with cataracts also experience difficulty in reading small print. They also feel like they need brighter light or possibly a new glasses prescription. Double vision or vision that seems like halos around the letters also occurs, as well as sensitivity to light.

Causes of Cataracts

The exact physiological cause of cataracts is unknown, but there are many risk factors. Aging and trauma are known to cause cataracts. A blunt trauma or injury to the eye can cause a cataract at any age. The effect of aging on the cells of the lens contributes to cataracts usually after age 60. There is also a direct correlation between the sun's UV rays and certain radiation exposures that contriibute to cataract growth. Smoking is a big risk factor for developing cataracts as well.

Poor nutrition can add to the risk of developing cataracts. Lack of vitamin C has been shown to increase the genesis of cataract formation. Some prescription medicines, especially prednisone, can cause cataracts. Diabetes and other chronic disease processes are also factors in cataract formation. Finally, there are genetic factors that contribute to a cataract.

Treatment of Cataracts

The standard of care for the treatment of cataracts is typically surgery. Cataract surgery, which is an outpatient procedure, removes the protein accumulation from the eye by replacing the cloudy natural lens with an artificial lens. This artificial lens, known as an IOL or intraocular lens, will have your prescription, which in most cases, makes you less dependent on glasses. Lens technology has evolved over the years to also accommodate prescriptions for astigmatism and bifocal prescriptions. Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the United States, and it has a success rate of over 98%.

There are many types of cataracts that form on the eye, with different levels of density. This can affect the post-operative care of cataract patients. After cataract surgery, it might be necessary to use a laser to clear an after-cataract membrane that can occur weeks to months after the procedure. This treatment uses a YAG laser and is a painless, low risk, in-office procedure. Most patients can return to work or normal activities within days after the procedure. Your doctor will likely prescribe eyedrops to prevent infection and swelling.

Recent Findings

New technology in cataract surgery includes a bladeless customized procedure that allows for faster healing and clearer vision after the procedure. This computer assisted surgery uses a laser to make the incisions. The laser also divides the cataract efficiently so that the surgeon can remove the old lens and replace it with a new state-of-the-art IOL ( Intraocular lens). This technology uses a femtosecond laser which emits cool pulses of energy. This technology has been used for decades in LASIK surgery for the correction of myopia or nearsightedness. This form of cataract surgery now allows the procedure to be more precise, and reproducible.

Citations
1. What is a cataract? Educational website release. Triadeye.com. January 13, 2013.
2.Bladeless cataract laser surgery. LenSX press release. October 4, 2012.

Conjunctivitis, commonly called pink eye, is a redness of the eye. It is often accompanied by a discharge (clear, yellow, or white) and itching in the eye.

Causes

Pink eye is most often a viral infection, but it can also be caused by bacteria or an allergic reaction. Viral pink eye is highly contagious.

Prevention and Treatment

To avoid spreading conjunctivitis, wash your hands often, do not touch the infected area with your hands, do not share washcloths or towels, and avoid using makeup which may become contaminated. A child with pink eye should be kept from school for a few days. Sometimes an eye doctor will need to prescribe antibiotic eye drops and ointments to clear up conjunctivitis.

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition associated with diabetes. High levels of blood sugar may damage tiny blood vessels in your eye. New vessels may form to replace the damaged vessels. The new vessels can burst, resulting in blurred vision or even blindness.

Symptoms

Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy include:

• "Floaters” – small specks that pass across your field of vision, made up of cells floating in the transparent gel of your eyeball
• Difficulty reading or seeing things close-up
• Sudden loss of vision
• Flashes
• Blurred or darkened vision

Risk Factors and Treatment

If you have diabetes, make sure you control your blood sugar level. This will reduce your risk of getting diabetic retinopathy. If you are experiencing some of the symptoms listed above, give us a call. If diagnosed properly, diabetic retinopathy can be treated with a laser procedure or a vitrectomy.

If your eyes are constantly itchy or dry, you may have dry eye syndrome, which affects many millions of Americans. Dry eye syndrome is caused by a lack of, or poor quality of, tears. Tears lubricate the outer layer of the eye called the cornea. If the tears are not adequate or are not composed of a proper balance of mucous, water, and oil, the eye becomes irritated.

Symptoms

Dry eye syndrome leads to a number of symptoms, including itchiness, irritation, burning, excessive tearing, redness, blurred vision that improves with blinking, and discomfort after long periods of watching television, using a computer, or reading.

Risk Factors

There are many factors that can contribute to dry eye syndrome. These include dry, hot, or windy climates; high altitudes; air-conditioned rooms; and cigarette smoke. Contact lens wearers, people with abnormally dry skin, and the elderly are more likely to develop dry eye syndrome. You may also be more at risk if you take certain medications, have a thyroid condition, a vitamin-A deficiency, Parkinson’s or Sjorgen’s disease, or if you are a woman going through menopause.

Glaucoma is a serious sight-threatening condition in which there is an abnormal pressure inside the eye. Typically, the pressure or IOP (intraocular pressure) is too high for the blood vessels and optic nerve to function normally, leading to loss of vision.

There are some forms of glaucoma that can occur with normal pressure in the eye. The average IOP for a healthy eye is 10 to 22 mm of Mercury. Just as a physician’s office tests your blood pressure annually, the eye doctor tests your IOP during annual eye examinations.

Types of Glaucoma

There are several varieties of the disease, with primary open-angle glaucoma being the most common. Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) occurs when the IOP is higher than normal. As the pressure increases, it destroys vital nerve tissue that is irreparable. POAG usually occurs over a long period of time, months to years, and slowly causes peripheral visual field loss.  If left untreated, a sufferer progresses to tunnel vision and then to total blindness.

A second type of glaucoma is acute-angle closure. This is considered a medical emergency because the interocular pressure spikes suddenly to anywhere from 30-70 mm or higher. This causes extremely sharp pain, nausea and vomiting, and cloudy vision. The IOP needs to be lowered within hours to prevent permanent vision loss.

Juvenile open-angle glaucoma, or JOAP, is similar to POAG, in that is causes a gradual visual field loss. The most common form is in children from ages 3 to 21. Infantile or congenital glaucoma is a type of glaucoma that manifests itself between birth to 3 years of age.  A typical sign is an enlarged bluish-gray cornea, the front dome of the eye.  Excessive tearing of the eye and sensitivity to light are also symptoms.  Finally, secondary glaucoma is caused from trauma, eye disease, or certain medications.

Causes of Glaucoma

Many theories on the cause of glaucoma exist, but the exact cause is unknown. Glaucoma can be a hereditary condition. It also can be caused by malformed anatomical structures in the eye. Certain risk factors such as hyperopia and cataracts cause a higher incidence of certain types of glaucoma.

One cause of glaucoma is an insufficient drainage system of the aqueous fluid. The aqueous imbalance causes a gradual buildup of pressure which destroys vision. Another cause is an insufficient flow of blood to the optic nerve. Ocular trauma or injury that damages the anterior segment for the lens and drainage mechanism of the eye can also lead to glaucoma. In the case of normal tension glaucoma, pressure readings are in the normal range. The cause of this is unknown.

Treatment

Even though in most cases there is no way to prevent glaucoma, there are many treatment options. Medications in the form of eyedrops are commonly prescribed. Different combinations of agents act on mechanisms of action to lower IOP or to slow the production of fluid.

Advanced surgical and laser procedures can also be viable options for the treatment of glaucoma.  An in-office procedure called laser trabeculoplasty can cause the meshwork in the eye to work more efficiently. This treatment has a temporary effect and may need to be done multiple times. Another effective surgery uses a drainage implant to facilitate better outflow and inflow of aqueous fluid in the eye. These procedures help keep the pressure stabilized. Conventional surgery for glaucoma is done in an operating room scenario. A flap in the eye is created to facilitate outflow of the pressure. This pressure-controlling surgery is known as a trabeculotomy.

Furthermore, some oral medications can also be used in the treatment of glaucoma.

Methods of Testing for Glaucoma

During a comprehensive eye examination, eye pressure can be tested through various methods. Tonometry gives a pressure reading of the eye. A tomometer has different methods such as a probe that gently touches the front of the eye after the eye doctor has administered anesthetic eyedrops. Another method of testing uses a puff of air. For children, there is a tonometer that is quick and does not require anesthesia.

A pachometer, which measures the thickness of the front of the eye called the cornea, can also aid in diagnosis. A visual field device can measure for early or late damage in the peripheral fields of vision. Lastly, newer technology called OCT, or optical coherence tomography, counts the nerve fibers, which can help detect early changes in the disease.

Prevalence of Glaucoma

There are approximately 3 million individuals in the United States with glaucoma. It is the second leading cause of blindness in the country. Most cases are found in the population over age 40, and more women than men have the disease. Two thirds of glaucoma cases are in the Caucasian population, approximately 20% are African-American, and 10% are Hispanic. Glaucoma continues to rise every year in the population.

The key to success in the treatment of glaucoma is early detection and progressive monitoring of the condition. Comprehensive eye examinations and diligent monitoring will help protect from vision loss with this disease.

Citations

1. Glaucoma. AOA pdf. AOA.org.
2. I Care Tonometry in Children. JAAPOS. Sciencedirect.com. April 2011
3. Glaucoma, open -angle. NEI source press release. 2010.

Macular degeneration is a disease which affects a small area of the retina known as the macula. The macula is a specialized spot on the retina that allows us to see the fine detail of whatever is directly in front of us. Macular degeneration occurs when the macula begins to deteriorate.

“Wet” vs. “Dry”

Most often, macular degeneration is accompanied by formation of yellow deposits, called “drusen,” under the macula, which dry out or thin the macula. This is called “dry” macular degeneration. In rare cases, abnormal blood vessels develop under the macula and leak fluid. This is called “wet” macular degeneration.

Causes

A number of uncontrollable factors contribute to macular degeneration, including age, sex, eye color, farsightedness, and race. Risk factors you can control include smoking, high blood pressure, exposure to harmful sunlight, and diet.

Symptoms

It is difficult to detect dry macular degeneration in its early stages. The most common symptoms, when detected, include a spot of blurry vision, dark vision, or distorted vision. Wet macular degeneration progresses much faster than the dry variety. Both forms of macular degeneration can cause blindness.

Treatment

Currently, there is no cure for macular degeneration, but treatment is available to slow the effects.

The part of the eye which collects light and transmits the light messages to the optic nerve and brain is the retina. It lines the inner back wall of the eye. When the retina separates from the back wall, it is known as retinal detachment. It is a serious condition which can cause permanent damage and vision loss if not treated quickly.

Symptoms

A retinal detachment often causes sudden defects in your vision. It may just cause a blind spot too small to notice, or it may cause a noticeable shadow which obscures your vision. An increase in “floaters,” which look like small particles or fine threads, may also be noticed. Finally, flashes of light are associated with retinal detachment.

Risk Factors

Eye injuries, tumors, and cataract surgery can cause retinal detachment. Nearsighted individuals and the elderly are at greater risk for spontaneous detachment. Also, diabetic retinopathy, a condition associated with diabetes, can cause bleeding which leads to retinal detachment.

Presbyopia is a Latin term for "old man eyes." This condition actually begins in your late 20s and slowly causes close vision loss. Most people develop symptoms after age 35--these symptoms include eyestrain and blurry vision while reading. Often presbyopia causes people to push objects further away to view them clearly. The treatment for presbyopia includes glasses and contact lenses, laser procedures, and other surgical procedures.

Reading glasses, bifocals, trifocals, or progressive multifocal blended lenses are all options to treat and correct presbyopia with glasses.

Soft, rigid, gas permeable, or a combination of these materials can treat presbyopia with contact lenses. Many surgical and laser techniques are used to treat presbyopia with new technology developing every year for this emerging population.

To reduce eye strain and fatigue, we carry specialized computer lenses. These lenses are perfect for computer users who spend a majority of their days working on computers. And since three out of four computer users will suffer from Computer Vision Syndrome, computer lenses are a great way to keep your eyesight healthy.

One of the first areas of your life where presbyopia becomes prominent is in your ability to read. There are a variety of styles available, with sleek designs that allow you to carry them anywhere.

For many presbyopes, bifocal lenses are a necessity. But it can be difficult to adjust to the harsh line that is found in many bifocal lenses. Fortunately, there are no-line lenses, which are also called progressive lenses. No more lines! Just a change in focusing power which allows you to comfortably focus on any distance. Just as with lined bifocals, distant objects are viewed through the top portion of the lenses, and near objects are viewed through the bottom portion of the lenses.

If you need bifocals but cannot stand wearing glasses, you may need bifocal contact lenses. Now you can have all of the benefits of bifocal lenses in the convenience of contact lenses. Talk with your doctor about bifocal contacts today.

For some of our emerging presbyopes we offer another option to glasses. Monovision is a method of fitting your dominant eye for distance vision and your non-dominant eye for near vision. Contacts are available in disposable, extended wear, and even daily disposable lenses to fit your lifestyle. Most patients require 2-4 weeks to make the adjustment from binocular vision to monovision.

Children with uncorrected vision conditions or eye health problems face many barriers in life, academically, socially, and athletically. High-quality eye care can break down these barriers and help enable your children to reach their highest potential. As a parent, make sure you are giving your children the eye care they need. Presented are guidelines from the American Optometric Association.

Your baby has a whole lifetime to see and learn. But did you know your baby also has to learn to see? As a parent, there are many things that you can do to help your baby’s vision develop.

When your baby is about six months, you should take him to your doctor of optometry for his first thorough eye examination. Things that the optometrist will test for include excessive or unequal amounts of nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, lack of eye movement ability, as well as other eye health problems. These problems are not common, but it is important to identify children who have them at this stage. Vision development and eye health problems can be more easily corrected if treatment is begun early.

Unless you notice a need, or your doctor of optometry advises you otherwise, your child’s next eye exam should be around age three, and then again before he or she enters school.

During the first four months of life, your baby should begin to follow moving objects with the eyes and to reach for things, first by chance and later more accurately, as hand-eye coordination and depth perception begin to develop.

To help, use a nightlight or other dim lamp in your baby’s room; change the crib’s position frequently and your child’s position in it; keep reach-and-touch toys within your baby’s focus, about eight to twelve inches from his eyes; talk to your baby as you walk around the room; alternate right and left sides with each feeding; and hang a mobile above and outside the crib.

Between four and eight months, your baby should begin to turn from side to side and use her arms and legs. Eye movement and eye/body coordination skills should develop further and both eyes should focus equally.

Enable your baby to explore different shapes and textures with his or her fingers; give your baby the freedom to crawl and explore; hang objects across the crib; and play “patty cake” and “peek-a-boo” with your baby.

From eight to twelve months, your baby should become mobile, crawling and pulling himself or herself up. He or she will begin to use both eyes together to judge distances and grasp and throw objects with greater precision. To support development do not encourage early walking – crawling is important in developing eye-hand-foot-body coordination; give your baby stacking and take-apart toys; and provide objects your baby can touch, hold and see at the same time.

From one to two years, your child’s eye-hand coordination and depth perception will continue to develop and he or she will begin to understand abstract terms. Things you can do are to encourage walking; to provide building blocks, simple puzzles and balls; and to provide opportunities to climb and explore indoors and out.

There are many other affectionate and loving ways in which you can aid your baby’s vision development. Use your creativity and imagination. Ask your doctor of optometry to suggest other specific activities.

During the infant and toddler years, your child has been developing many vision skills and has been learning how to see. In the preschool years, this process continues as your child develops visually guided eye-hand-body coordination, fine motor skills, and the visual motor skills necessary to learn to read.

As a parent, you should watch for signs that may indicate a vision development problem, including a short attention span for the child’s age; difficulty with eye-hand-body coordination in ball play and bike riding; avoidance of coloring and puzzles and other detailed activities.

There are everyday things that you can do at home to help your preschooler’s vision develop as it should.

These activities include reading aloud to your child and letting him or her see what you are reading; providing a chalkboard, finger paints and different shaped blocks and showing your child how to use them in imaginative play; providing safe opportunities to use playground equipment such as a jungle gym and balance beam; and allowing time for interacting with other children and for playing independently.

By age three, your child should have a thorough optometric eye examination to make sure your preschooler’s vision is developing properly and there is no evidence of eye disease. If needed, your doctor can prescribe treatment including glasses and/or vision therapy to correct a vision development problem.

Here are several tips to make your child’s optometric examination a positive experience:

1. Make an appointment early in the day. Allow about one hour.
2. Talk about the examination in advance and encourage your child’s questions.
3. Explain the examination in your child’s terms, comparing the E chart to a puzzle and the instruments to tiny flashlights and a kaleidoscope.

Unless recommended otherwise, your child’s next eye examination should be at age five. By comparing test results of the two examinations, your optometrist can tell how well your child’s vision is developing for the next major step. . .the school years.

A good education for your child means good schools, good teachers and good vision. Your child’s eyes are constantly in use in the classroom and at play. So when his or her vision is not functioning properly, learning and participation in recreational activities will suffer.

The basic vision skills needed for school use are:

• Near Vision. The ability to see clearly and comfortably at 10-13 inches.
• Distance Vision. The ability to see clearly and comfortably beyond arm’s reach.
• Binocular coordination. The ability to use both eyes together.
• Eye movement skills. The ability to aim the eyes accurately, move them smoothly across a page and shift them quickly and accurately from one object to another.
• Focusing skills. The ability to keep both eyes accurately focused at the proper distance to see clearly and the ability to change focus quickly.
• Peripheral awareness. The ability to be aware of things located to the side while looking straight ahead.
• Eye/hand coordination. The ability to use the eyes and hands together.

If any vision skills are lacking, your child will have to work harder. This can lead to headaches, fatigue, and other eyestrain problems. As a parent, be alert for symptoms that may indicate your child has a vision or visual processing problem. Be sure to tell your optometrist if your child frequently:

• Loses his place while reading.
• Avoids close work.
• Holds reading material closer than normal.
• Tends to rub his eyes.
• Has headaches.
• Turns or tilts head to use one eye only.
• Makes frequent reversals when reading or writing.
• Uses finger to maintain place when reading.
• Omits or confuses small words when reading.
• Consistently performs below potential.

Since vision changes can occur without you or your child noticing them, your child should visit the optometrist at least every two years, or more frequently if specific problems or risk factors exist. If needed, the doctor can prescribe treatment including eyeglasses, contact lenses, or vision therapy.

Remember, a school vision or pediatrician’s screening is not a substitute for a thorough eye examination.

Never overlook the importance of safety eyewear when playing sports. Every year, hundreds of men, women, and children are injured while playing sports. To help prevent sports-related eye injuries, athletes should use protective athletic eyewear whether or not prescription eyewear is needed. One choice is a sports frame with prescription or non-prescription polycarbonate lenses. Baseball or softball players who are hit in or near the eye, or suffer a blow to the head, should seek immediate care at a hospital emergency room or from an eye care professional.

The important thing to remember for parents of children who wear contact lenses is that contacts are prescribed medical devices. Contact lenses are not a cosmetic accessory. While the wearer may be happy about his or her new look, it is extremely important that the lenses be properly cleaned and worn according to the instructions of the optometrist.

• My Child Is Near-Sighted. Will Glasses Correct His/Her Learning Problem?
• What Is the Relationship between Eye Muscle Problems and Learning?
• My Child Loses His/Her Place. Is That Related to the Eyes?
• My Child Reverses Letters and Words. Does He See Backwards?
• What Are the Other Visual Components Necessary for Academic Achievement?

There is controversy over the exact relationship between vision and learning. For example there is a negative correlation between distance refractive error and reading ability. Myopic or nearsighted children who cannot see clearly at a distance without glasses are more commonly good readers. Children who spend tremendous amounts of time reading become nearsighted. Before Alaska became a state myopia was rare. After becoming a state, more than 50 percent of the children in Alaska developed nearsightedness. Thus, correlation is such that nearsightedness or poor distance vision is highly correlated with success in reading. Restated another way, poor distance vision is associated with better reading abilities.  Farsighted children statistically are poorer readers than myopic children.

Some of the mechanical visual skills which are related to reading include focusing or accommodation, and eye teaming, or convergence. Fatigue of one or both of these systems may interfere with reading. There is also a relationship between eye movements such as saccades (whereby we change fixation from one target to the next) and smooth following movements known as pursuits and reading. Children who cannot make accurate eye movements are often found to skip lines and words while reading.

The visual system was originally designed so that the peripheral vision was responsive to motion detection (danger from the jungles) with a central portion for fine discrimination (to identify the source of danger; e.g., a lion.) In the school environment the child is expected to ignore the peripheral portion of their visual system and pay attention with the central portion. If the child can not ignore the peripheral portion, he/she becomes distracted.  Improvement in eye movement skills often results in less distraction and fewer errors of skipping words while reading.

Reading requires very accurate saccadics, which are fixations from one spot to another.  Children who have poor eye movements are easily distracted and lose their place.  Remember, the eye movement system was designed so that peripheral vision detects motion and danger.  Imagine what happens when the system works correctly in the class room.  As soon as there is peripheral movement, the eyes move toward the source of movement. This results in the complaint of inattention.  Thus, reflexive eye movement skills must be socialized so that they do not respond reflexively to peripheral information.  In addition, speed and accuracy must be trained so that one does not lose one’s place.

The skills are easily improvable with vision therapy.  Once the information is brought into the eyes, it must be sent back to the brain for appropriate processing. The information must be utilized and integrated with the sensory and motor areas of the brain. Defects in the perceptual (interpretation of visual system) and motor (the integration with output, e.g., hand-eye coordination) may interfere with the reading process. Perceptual motor skills are key in the early acquisition of reading skills. A deficit is important to identify very early on-- i.e., five to seven years of age. Remediation of the skills at a later date, such as age 12, will be less effective for reading. Thus, early identification and treatment is essential. It is evident that there is more to good vision than 20/20.

It has been presumed that children who reverse letters or words see them backwards.  This is false.  They have directional confusion.  In the real world direction has no meaning.  For example, a chair is a chair no matter which way it is placed.  Changing direction does not change interpretation.  In the world of language direction changes meaning.  Connect the bottom of a chair and it looks like a "b".  Turn it 180 degrees it becomes a "d", flip it upside down and it becomes a "q" and flip it again it becomes a "p".  Thus, direction changes meaning.  The difference between "was" and "saw" is direction.

As mentioned previously, we should correct all optical errors of the eyes (glasses); eliminate eye muscle problems; and create smooth accurate eye movements.  In addition, we should make sure that we properly interpret what we see and use it appropriately.  These are known collectively as perceptual skills and include form perception, size and shape recognition, visual memory, and visual motor integration (hand-eye coordination.)

As a fully licensed and equipped optometric practice, Ridgedale Family Eye Care offers a complete range of eye care services to all our patients.

Whether the eye care issue involves correcting refractive errors with eyeglass or contact lenses, or helping a student find amazing frames, or diagnosing/treating eye conditions and diseases, our experienced team will identify and implement the best eye care solutions for you.

Eye Health Evaluation

With our years of experience in diagnosing and treating typical vision disorders such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, amblyopia, presbyopia, cataracts, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, Dr. Fruchtman, Dr. Beneski, and Dr. McHugh and their team are equipped to provide appropriate therapeutic medical eye care.

At the same time, the Ridgedale Family Eye Care team offers a wide array of high quality eye care products at reasonable prices. Our patients never pay too much for the best quality in eyeglasses, contact lenses, sunglasses, progressive and bifocal lenses, and outstanding service.

Treatment of Eye Disease

If you are diagnosed with an eye disease, you want the best treatment available to get your eyes healthy again. At Ridgedale Family Eye Care, we stay current with best treatment practices. Based on your diagnosis, we may recommend a wide variety of approaches, including improved nutrition, prescription medicines, therapy and vision exercises, or medical procedures.

Good Eyecare Begins With A Yearly Eye Exam!

Although many do not realize it, the best way to protect your vision is with a yearly eye checkup.  Even a basic eye exam can instantly detect many health-threatening conditions, such as tumors, vascular irregularities, and diabetes-related injury to the retina. At Ridgedale Family Eye Care, that basic checkup is brief and painless.

Ridgedale Family Eye Care is proud to offer the most technologically advanced instruments to ensure that you and your family are recceving the most up to date care.

LASIK, a form of refractive surgery, is an popular option for vision correction, often eliminating the need to wear glasses or contact lenses. Simply put, LASIK reshapes the cornea with a laser.

Other surgical alternatives have become available. Among these is a technique called phakic IOL implantation which involves implanting a lens behind the cornea, but in front of the iris. With this new option, many of those who were too highly nearsighted for LASIK are now candidates for refractive surgery.

If you are interested in refractive surgery, please let us know. Refractive surgery is not to be taken lightly. Detailed testing is necessary to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for the surgery.  If testing shows you to be a good candidate, we can help you choose the refractive surgeon who is most appropriate for your case. In addition, we provide post-operative care for refractive surgery. 

In our continued efforts to bring the most advanced technology available to our patients, Dr. Fruchtman, Dr. Beneski, and Dr. McHugh are proud to announce the inclusion of the Optomap Retinal Exam as an integral part of your eye exam.

Many eye problems can develop without warning and progress with no symptoms. Early on, you might not notice any change in your vision. However, diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal tears or detachments, as well as other health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure, can often be detected with a thorough exam of the retina. The retina is the part of your eye that catches the image of what you are looking at, similar to the film in a camera.

An Optomap Retinal Exam provides:

• A scan to confirm a healthy eye or detect the presence of disease.
• An overview or map of the retina, giving your eye doctor a more detailed view than he can achieve by other means.
• The opportunity for you to view and discuss the Optomap images of your eye with your doctor at the time of your exam.
• A permanent record for your medical file, enabling your optometrist to make important comparisons if potential problems show themselves at a future examination.

Melissa

Melissa started at Ridgedale Family Eye Care in May of 2017. Before joining our team, she was an administrative assistant at a fitness club for six years. She decided to become more involved in the medical field when her interest in Optometry peaked after having the LASIK procedure. Melissa enjoys expanding her optometric knowledge base, learning new skills, and finding new ways to run the day to day of our office in the most efficient way possible as Staff Manager. This most recently led her to becoming a Certified Paraoptometric with a record breaking examination score! Melissa enjoys visiting Florida and being near the ocean. In her spare time you can find her going to Yankees games, doing laundry, or petting all the dogs and cats she meets!

Heather

Heather joined Ridgedale Family Eye Care in June of 2017. Heather achieved her bachelor’s degree at Rider University, double majoring in Elementary Education and Psychology with a minor in Special Education. After graduation, she joined her father’s family run Optometry practice where she managed the office for 8 years before joining our practice. Heather is a Certified Paraoptometric and at the office you can find her in the Optical Department. Heather is our smiling face who is always ready to help each patient with their specific frame styling needs. Heather is very patient and makes the frame selection process easy and pleasant. She is very knowledgeable about lenses and helps educate patients on the different types of lenses and lens options. She will explain your vision insurance coverage and suggest the best lens options to fit each patient’s needs. Heather also helps patients with frame adjustments and repairs. In her free time, Heather loves spending time with her husband and 2 daughters.

Jennifer

Jenn joined the Optical field in 2013 and came to Ridgedale Family Eye Care in February 2018. As a Certified Paraoptometric and Optical Manager, she enjoys assisting patients in finding their perfect frame, frame adjustments, and repairs. You may occasionally catch a glimpse of Jenn around the office, but most of her time is spent behind the scenes in our Optical Lab making lenses, running quality control on each and every pair of glasses ordered in the office, communicating with insurance company labs, and troubleshooting issues. Together with the Optical Team, Jenn meets with brand representatives to hand pick every single frame you see in the office and is dedicated to making sure the glasses you buy at RFEC are of the highest quality. She is passionate about the optical industry and strives to learn all that she can about the latest and greatest lens technology and frame styles. When not at the office, Jenn enjoys checking National Parks off her bucket list, exploring new cities, getting lost in the woods, and taking too many pictures of her dog.

Robb

Robb joined Ridgedale Family Eye Care in March of 2019. Robb started his career at Ridgedale as the friendly face at the front desk. You can now find Robb in the Optical Department. Robb is very well versed at the office and can literally do it all from answering the phones, making appointments, pre-testing patients, and now addressing optical needs. Currently Robb is our charming face in the optical department where he helps patients with frame selections, lens options, eyeglass adjustments, and repairs. In his free time you can find him playing video games, watching anime, working out at the gym, and hanging out with his friends and family. 

Kim

Kim joined Ridgedale Family Eye Care in January of 2023. She graduated from Bergen Community College with an Associate of Applied Science degree in veterinary technology. She worked as a veterinary technician assisting veterinarians and providing patient care in animal health facilities. Kim is very excited to have now joined this wonderful team, creating new relationships with patients and staff members! In her free time, she loves hanging out with her friends and family, spending time with her two dogs and two cats, and binge watching some of her favorite shows.

Arielle

Arielle joined Ridgedale Family Eye Care in August of 2023. She graduated from Rutgers State University with a Bachelor's degree in English. Arielle has previously worked as a preschool teacher, music teacher, and yearbook photographer, and she is very excited to learn and grow now as a member of the Optical Team! In her free time, Arielle loves to crochet, play video games, and spend time with friends and family.