Medical and Surgical Eye Care

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Cataracts occur when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing blurry, dull, or hazy vision. Most cataracts develop slowly with age and are highly treatable with surgery. Learn more about Cataract Care.

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Corneal conditions involve damage or disease of the clear, outer surface of the eye. These include corneal ulcers, keratoconus, dystrophies, infections, and scarring, which can distort vision or cause pain.

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Glaucoma is not just one eye disease. It's a group of conditions that damage the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss or blindness if left untreated. At UTMB Health, our eye care specialists diagnose and treat all types of glaucoma, including the most common form, primary open-angle glaucoma. We also care for patients with angle-closure (narrow-angle) glaucoma, normal-tension glaucoma, and secondary glaucomas, which can result from trauma, inflammation, steroid use, or other underlying health issues.

Our team also has experience managing congenital glaucoma, a rare form present at birth, as well as more complex types like pigmentary and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma. No matter the type, we’re here to help protect your vision with personalized, expert care.

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Retinol disorders include conditions like retinal detachment, macular edema, and retinal vein occlusion, all of which can threaten vision if not treated promptly. The retina is essential for processing light and creating visual signals.

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Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye disease and a leading cause of vision loss in adults over 60. It affects the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision needed for tasks like reading and driving.

There are two types of AMD:

• Dry AMD: The most common form. Light-sensitive cells in the macula break down slowly, causing gradual vision loss. Early signs include straight lines appearing wavy.
• Wet AMD: Less common but more severe. Abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula and leak fluid or blood, leading to rapid vision loss.

AMD is painless and does not affect side (peripheral) vision. While it cannot be cured, early detection through regular eye exams can help slow its progression and preserve remaining vision.

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Blepharitis is a common condition that causes inflammation of the eyelids, usually along the edges where the eyelashes grow. It can affect one or both eyes and often comes and goes over time. This condition is typically caused by clogged oil glands near the base of the eyelashes, bacterial overgrowth on the eyelid margins, or skin conditions like rosacea or dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis).

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Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of vision problems caused by diabetes, with diabetic retinopathy being the most common. High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, which may lead to vision loss. Early warning signs can include floaters, blurry vision, or dark spots in your field of view.

Diabetes is the leading cause of new blindness in adults, but regular dilated eye exams can help catch problems early—often before any vision is lost.

People with diabetes receive specialized care from retina experts who use the latest imaging and treatment options. We also partner closely with primary care providers and the Stark Diabetes Center to support each patient's overall health journey.

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Dry eye happens when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. It can lead to discomfort and blurry vision, especially with screen use or in dry environments.

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Injuries from accidents, foreign objects, or chemical exposure can damage the eye’s surface or internal structures. Prompt care is essential to prevent long-term damage.

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This group of disorders includes conditions like drooping eyelids (ptosis), inward or outward turning lids (entropion, ectropion), and blocked tear ducts. These issues can affect both vision and comfort.

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Thyroid Eye Disease is an autoimmune condition often related to Graves’ disease that causes inflammation and swelling around the eyes. It can affect both appearance and vision.

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Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye, and can lead to serious complications if not managed properly. It may be linked to autoimmune or infectious conditions.