IN Millcreek Winter 2017 | Page 50

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

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Seeing the Difference Clearly

When it comes to your eyes , having an experienced doctor who can provide the cutting-edge technology necessary to diagnose you correctly is imperative .

That ’ s why Ophthalmologist Dr . Scott Griffith has been giving his patients the latest in eye care medicine and technology since he opened his practice in 1997 . Patients sought out his expertise , the practice grew and , in 2004 , Griffith Eye Center added an optical shop so that patients could have the convenience of getting their eyeglass prescriptions filled onsite . Soon after , Optometrist Dr . Allison Benacci joined the practice to help with the patient load and provide family eye care , kids ’ exams and contact lens fittings . And while the practice is as vibrant as ever , Dr . Griffith and Dr . Benacci still give patients the one-on-one time they need for a full exam and to build a lasting relationship .
“ We ’ ve grown because our patients referred us to their friends and family over the years ,” Dr . Griffith said . “ They appreciate the fact that we take time with them . I could see twice as many patients in a day if I wanted to , but that doesn ’ t give patients the attention they need to open up and fully discuss the problems they may be experiencing . Building a rapport with your patients is every bit as important as the treatment they receive .”
While Griffith Eye Center is still small enough to provide individual attention to patients , it is big on keeping up with the latest technology . In fact , Griffith Eye Center is the first practice in the area offering access to a system that addresses the cause of evaporative eye disease for patients who suffer from dry eyes , for example .
“ We strive to keep up with the newest technology so that we can provide the best possible care for our patients ,” Dr . Griffith said . “ We recently purchased the TearScience LipiFlow System . This revolutionary treatment applies a combination of direct heat and pulsation pressure through a disposable activator that is inserted under the lower and upper eyelids . Once in place , it is a 12-minute therapy . It basically unclogs your miebomian
glands in your eyelids , which can provide dry eye relief .”
Patients who have had the treatment are reporting excellent results . The benefits of the treatment last for one to two years , depending on the patient and the severity of the dry-eye symptoms .
In addition to the LipiFlow treatment for dry eyes , Griffith Eye Center also offers allergy testing for patients who suffer from red , itchy , watery eyes . It ’ s not something commonly found at eye care clinics , but makes perfect sense .
“ A lot of patients complain of really itchy eyes throughout the year , so we want patients to know what causes their reaction ,” Dr . Griffith said . “ We do allergy testing similar to what they do at a dermatologist ’ s office , but for eye allergies . Applicators are applied to the patient ’ s arm , reactions are evaluated , and patients are given a comprehensive packet explaining the allergy and what they can do to avoid it .”
The allergy test also helps the doctor rule out ocular allergies when differentiating between surface diseases such as dry eyes , ocular allergies and blepharitis , which can have similar signs and symptoms . The results of the test help the doctor identify the offending allergens and aid in developing a customized treatment protocol .
For more information on the LipiFlow procedure , allergy testing or to schedule your regular eye exam , call 814.835.8258 . Griffith Eye Center is located at 2640 West 38th Street , 16506 , and 41 South Lake Street , 16428 . It accepts most major insurances , accepts Care Credit and has various payment options for patient convenience .
814-835-8258 Two Convenient Locations : 2640 West 38th St ., Erie , PA | 41 South Lake St ., North East , PA www . griffitheyecenter . com /
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