As the leading eye health institute in the region, Dean McGee Eye Institute (DMEI) prides itself on offering premier services to patients. From LASIK to dry eye, we offer a spectrum of special services and treatments through our main Oklahoma Health Center location, satellite offices, Stephenson Refractive Surgery Center (SRSC), and McGee Eye Surgery Center (MESC).
The range of services DMEI offers enhances the quality of care for patients. DMEI’s dedication to constant improvement brings top of the line technology found at few other locations nationwide.
Our physicians have expertise in every subspecialty, meaning Oklahomans do not have to cross state lines to receive a high level of specialized care. Our large team of specialized doctors allows patients to receive all the care they need in one place.
One Surgery to Address Detached Retinas, Cataracts
Ed Brandt III, a retired lawyer and business owner, was at risk of losing his vision when a detached retina hindered his sight. He struggled to read book print, inhibiting his ability to read to his grandchildren.
Several surgical procedures would be required to help save his vision. Many patients with detached retinas develop a cataract issue within a short time. Brandt required procedures for both his detached retina and cataract, and DMEI surgeons Dr. Vinay A. Shah and Dr. Ralph B. Hester III could offer him both at the same time.
Dr. Hester removed Brandt’s cloudy cataract providing a clear view for Dr. Shah to work on the retina. Once Shah’s work on the retina was complete, Dr. Hester then implanted Brandt’s new lens. This combination surgery saved both time and money while increasing safety for the patient.
Brandt says he is thankful the surgery allowed him to return to living his normal life.
“There’s no way I could replace having a grandkid sitting on my lap and reading to them,” he says, “and I can do that now.”
What other services does DMEI offer? Take a look at the full spectrum.
Services at Dean McGee Eye Institute
LASIK
LASIK is a laser vision-correcting procedure that is commonly used to address near- and farsightedness. By reshaping the cornea, the procedure corrects vision-hindering irregularities. DMEI surgeons determine if a patient is a candidate for the procedure through a comprehensive exam.
Dry Eye
Dry eye is an irritating condition that’s caused by a lack of tears or the inability to produce tears. Common symptoms include discomfort, discharge, and problems with contact lenses.
For those with severe or chronic dry eye, LipiFlow® is a life-changing solution. DMEI was the first eye clinic in Oklahoma to offer the treatment to patients. LipiFlow is an in-patient procedure that uses specialized pressure and heat to unclog the oil glands of the eye.
Comprehensive Ophthalmology & Cataract Surgery
The Institute’s ophthalmologists provide comprehensive eye care and surgery services to address many eye conditions, including cataracts. Several cataract surgical packages can help correct the cloudy vision caused by cataracts.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. At the Institute, patients can receive diagnosis and treatment for this complex disease. DMEI is a national leader in glaucoma research. Our physicians have been influential implementers of advanced glaucoma procedures such as the Abinterno Canaloplasty (ABiCTM).
Low Vision Rehabilitation
Even with corrective lenses or medicine, low vision can be a hindering condition that affects everyday tasks like driving and reading. Caused by glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy, low vision may require rehabilitation to adapt to altered or remaining vision.
DMEI offers comprehensive low vision evaluations. After a review of vision goals and health, patients are prescribed vision aids that may improve their vision, and occupational therapists offer a series of vision-improving exercises.
Neuro-Ophthalmology
Neuro-ophthalmology eye conditions accompany, or are caused by, neurological diseases. DMEI neuro-ophthalmologists diagnose and treat eye conditions like optic nerve diseases, eye spasms, double vision, visual field loss, eye or headache pain, and visual eye disturbances.
Ocular Oncology
Our specialist in the Ocular Oncology Division uses compassion and expertise to diagnose and treat eye cancers that can result in altered or lost vision.
Ocular Prosthetics
An ocular prosthetic, or an artificial eye, is meant to replace a natural eye that has been removed. The prosthetic protects and covers the surgically eviscerated ocular area. At DMEI, a board-certified ocularist creates and fits custom ocular and scleral shell prosthesis for children and adults.
Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
The Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery team provides medically necessary and cosmetic surgical procedures on focused areas near the eye: eyelids, the mid-face, tear-drains, and orbital sockets. Oculoplastic surgeons perform procedures for both adults and children.
Optometry
While DMEI offers advanced eye care and procedures, basic eye exams and checkups are essential to preventative healthcare. Our optometrists prescribe corrective lenses and are the first step in diagnosis and referral of more serious eye conditions.
Pediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus
The Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus team make pediatric appointments comfortable for both children and parents. Treating a wide range of pediatric eye diseases and providing surgical care, the Institute offers some of the best pediatric eye care in the region.
The pediatric specialists often treat amblyopia (known as “lazy eye”), tear duct obstruction, and strabismus (poor eye alignment) in children.
Retina and Vitreous Diseases
Retinal and vitreous diseases affect vision. DMEI retina and vitreous services are bolstered by the Institute’s retina fellowship program. Specialists provide diagnosis, surgical services, and treatment of retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy.
Uveitis
Uveitis is any inflammation inside the eye that is typically the result of an autoimmune reaction. The cause can vary. If untreated, serious cases can lead to blindness. DMEI uveitis specialists work to find the cause in each patient and provide appropriate treatment.
