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Cataract Awareness Month: Restoring Clear Vision at ilumin Eye Care Center

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Every June, we observe Cataract Awareness Month to spotlight cataracts , one of the leading causes of vision impairment—and one of the most successful surgeries performed today. At ilumin Eye Care Center in Omaha, NE, our renowned surgeons Brandon Menke , MD and Peter Simone , MD, PhD, help patients see clearly again using the latest cataract removal techniques and advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs). Here’s what you need to know about cataracts, why they form, and how we treat them. What Is a Cataract? A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural crystalline lens, which sits behind the iris and helps focus light onto the retina. As proteins in the lens break down over time, they clump together and create a veil-like opacity. Early on, you may notice: Blurred or dim vision Increased glare around headlights or in bright sunlight Faded or yellowed colors Frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription If left untreated, cataracts can progress to significant vision loss. Why a...

What is Refractive Error?

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Clear vision is essential for daily life, but refractive errors can make it difficult to see objects at various distances. At ilumin, Omaha’s leader in medical and surgical eye care, we specialize in advanced solutions for vision correction. This guide explains what refractive errors are, their causes, symptoms, and the best treatment options available. If you’re struggling with blurry vision, schedule a consultation with ilumin to explore your options. What is Refractive Error? Refractive error occurs when the eye cannot properly bend (or refract) light to focus it on the retina, causing blurred vision. Normally, light should focus directly on the retina at the back of the eye. When this doesn’t happen, objects may appear blurry at certain distances. What Are the Four Main Types of Refractive Errors? There are four primary types of refractive errors: myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. Each affects vision differently and requires unique correction methods. Myopia (Ne...

Meet a Modern Visionary: Nicole Petersen

For over 26 years, Nicole Petersen has been an integral part of the ilumin team, bringing a unique combination of clinical expertise and business acumen to her current role as Modern Vision Billing Manager. With 30 years of experience in eye care, Nicole’s journey has been one of growth, learning, and unwavering dedication to patient care and team leadership. Nicole’s career in eye care began while she was in college, working as a receptionist in an optical department. She quickly transitioned to being an optician and later joined ilumin, where she spent 18 years as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) in a bustling retina clinic. Reflecting on her time in clinic, Nicole shared, “I thoroughly enjoyed learning the amazing world of ophthalmology, helping patients, developing relationships with them, and the camaraderie with fellow staff and physicians.” Over the years, Nicole has worn many hats, from managing medical supply orders to serving as the point of contact for drug represen...

Clear Vision, Healthy Eyes: Top Reasons to See an Ophthalmologist

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Learn the key reasons to visit an ophthalmologist, from routine eye exams to detecting serious vision problems. Keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear! Introduction Have you ever thought about how much your eyes do for you every day? From reading a favorite book to watching sunsets, your eyes work hard. But, when was the last time you showed them some love? That’s where an ophthalmologist comes in! These eye doctors don’t just prescribe glasses—they’re the go-to experts for all things vision and eye health. Let’s dive into the top reasons to see an ophthalmologist and why it’s worth your time. What’s an Ophthalmologist, Anyway? An ophthalmologist isn’t your average eye doctor. They’re medical doctors trained to treat eye diseases, perform surgeries, and help you maintain good vision. While optometrists handle glasses and basic eye care, ophthalmologists go the extra mile—they tackle the serious stuff. Reasons to See an Ophthalmologist 1. Routine Eye Exams Even if your v...