About Stahl Eyecare Experts

For over 40 years, Stahl has been providing the highest level of eye care in the greater New York area. We are one of the nation's most comprehensive ophthalmic facilities offering a wide range of services from general preventive care to subspecialty care including retinal disorders, cataracts, glaucoma, corneal diseases, laser vision correction, and ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery. Our surgeons are board certified specialists who are distinguished in their field of ophthalmology as instructors, authors, research participants and award recipients. At Stahl, we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible eye care available today. We deliver on that commitment to excellence by combining our superior surgical skills with our investment in technology and our ability to bring leading ophthalmic discoveries to our patients.

vision correction
our speciality

Stahl has developed one of the nation's most experienced vision correction teams. Since 1981, the physicians at Stahl, leaders in vision correction procedures, have performed more than 30,000 laser and surgical vision correction procedures. Stahl offers an array of options to improve your vision. We perform a full spectrum of specialized laser and surgical vision correction procedures in a high tech environment utilizing state-of-the-art equipment. Whether you're nearsighted, farsighted or have astigmatism, Stahl can tailor the right vision correction procedure to reduce or eliminate your dependence on contact lenses or glasses.

the doctors

Thierry J. Hufnagel, MD

Dr. Hufnagel is a graduate of UCLA, Yale and Johns Hopkins Universities. He is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and the American Board of Pathology. Dr. Hufnagel has been recognized as a VISX STAR, an award granted only to the leading laser surgeons in the United States, and has participated in an FDA sponsored investigation for LASIK surgery. Dr. Hufnagel's pioneering involvement with excimer lasers dates back to 1987 with published studies on the pathological aspect of laser surgery applied to the cornea. He is an instructor involved in the training of surgeons in microkeratome, bladeless LASIK and laser courses. Dr. Hufnagel is licensed in the states of New York, California and Florida.

Benjamin Chang, MD

Dr. Chang received his bachelor's degree from Harvard University and his medical degree from UCLA. He is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. He completed his ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia, where he also served as Chief Resident. This was followed by a two-year fellowship at Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital. Dr. Chang has authored numerous articles and book chapters in ophthalmology, and he was also co-editor of the widely referenced Wills Eye Manual. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Marc S. Werner, MD

Dr. Werner received his undergraduate degree from Brown University and his medical degree from The Johns Hopkins University of Medicine. He is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Werner completed his ophthalmology residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago and followed this with fellowships at the University of Minnesota and Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital. He is on staff at Lenox Hill Hospital, Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital, Winthrop Hospital and North Shore University Hospital. Dr. Werner is a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

understanding
refractive
surgery

LVC is a surgical procedure that can permanently change the shape of the corneal (the delicate clear covering on the front of the eye). For clear vision, the eye's cornea and lens must properly bend or refract light which is then focused on the retina. If the light rays are not clearly focused on the retina then vision problems occur in which images you see are blurred. LVC is a proven laser procedure that corrects common vision problems such as myopia, astigmatism and hyperopia. An examination by your primary eye care provider is needed to determine if an individual's vision falls within operable parameters. LVC offers a precise, rapid, and virtually painless laser option in correcting some common eye conditions.

More than 70 million people in North America are nearsighted or have myopia. The term 'nearsighted' means that objects that are further in distance appear blurred but near objects can be seen clearly. There are varying degrees of myopia but generally contacts or glasses are worn to “adjust” so that objects that are farther away can be seen clearly. Nearsightedness occurs when the cornea is shaped too steeply or the eye's length is too long. Whether exists, a light ray entering the eye is not in sharp focus on the retina at the back of the eye. Instead, light is focused in front of the retina, producing a blurred image.

Farsightedness or hyperopia occurs when the cornea is too flat or when “the eye is too short” for the curvature. As a result, a light ray entering the eye is focused behind the retina and a blurred image is produced. Farsighted individuals have the ability to “pull” the blurred image forward onto the retina. In a young person, typically no problems are experienced. Once presbyopia sets in around age 45, near objects become blurred, and eventually with time even distant objects can no longer be focused.

Astigmatism is a condition that occurs when an irregular shaped cornea scatters the light as it enters the eye. The light strikes no single focal point and light is not brought into sharp focus. Therefore, multiple images instead of one single focused image is formed. Astigmatism affects both near and far vision. By eliminating or reducing the corneal irregularity, laser can eliminate or reduce astigmatism while also treating other refractive errors such as nearsightedness or farsightedness.

LVC is generally comprised of two separate and distinct procedures: LASIK (laser in-situ keratomileusis) and PRK (photorefractive keratectomy). Both of these procedures are performed with a laser, and have the same results. The difference is the preparation of the eye for the procedure and the healing process afterward. Your surgeon at Stahl will be able to recommend the procedure most suited for your needs. LASIK and PRK both treat myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism.

intralasik™

In LASIK, a thin hinged flap is first constructed in the outer layer of the corneal tissue.This flap can be made with either a bladed instrument called a microkeratome or a bladeless instrument called an Intralase Femtosecond Laser.The flap is then reflected and the excimer laser, using precise computer controlled pulses of laser light, reshapes the cornea. The corneal flap is then replaced and seals itself back into position.The eye heals without the need for sutures and the risk of infection is minimal.

The first step in LASIK is the creation of a corneal flap. This flap must be of precise dimensions and uniformity for any successful LASIK procedure. The original method of creating this flap involved the use of a microkeratome: a small, bladed instrument to make the incision. The development of the Intralase femtosecond laser provided our surgeons with a safer, minimally invasive, technology in creating this corneal flap. The results are unparalleled safety for the patient and unprecedented control for the surgeon. Each surgery is customized by the surgeon according to an individual's visual disorder and corneal anatomy. The combination of bladeless, all laser technology with state-of-the art excimer laser correction is what constitutes lntraLASlK™, also referred to as all-laser LASIK or bladeless LASIK. In addition to remarkable accuracy, lntraLASlK™ enables patients previously deemed poor LVC candidates to now safely and successfully undergo vision correction.

This level of precision reduces patient anxiety and significantly reduces or lessens the possibility for complications that may occur with the traditional microkeratome approach. This level of safety is a first in vision correction technology. Choosing lntraLASlK™ laser technology can help minimize the possibility of flap complications while maximizing comfort and safety.

ln PRK, instead of a hinged flap, your surgeon will gently remove the outermost layer of the cornea and then perform exactly the same laser procedure as is performed during LASIK. The difference is in the healing process. Because the outermost layer must heal back into position, most patients will experience mild discomfort and light sensitivity for a few days after the procedure. Once the surface is healed, the visual results are the same as in LASIK. Your surgeon, based on our experience of over 30,000 cases, will be able to appropriately counsel you as to the benefits of each procedure based on your individual needs. LVC is done while awake and anesthetic drops are used to numb the eye. After surgery, some patients may experience minor pain, temporary light sensitivity, initial problems with night vision, dry eyes and over correction. These side effects are usually mild and short lived. LVC is a safe and precise technique and most post-operative patients will not require further enhancement surgery.

customVue™

A personalized approach to laser vision correction. Our eyes are unique to each of us; no two are exactly alike - like our fingerprint and DNA. Now, laser vision correction can provide treatments that are also unique, like our eyes, with CustomVue™ surgery.In addition to having nearsightedness, farsightedness and/or astigmatism,

all eyes have other imperfections known as 'higher order aberrations'.Glasses, contact lenses and conventional laser treatments do not address these aberrations. Your surgeon can perform custom laser correction and eliminate or reduce these imperfections in one procedure.

By using wave-front sensing technology, such as the WaveScan analyzer, surgeons can now measure light waves as they travel through your eye. This method provides a more precise and detailed analysis of your vision, up to 25 times more than conventional means. Your surgeon can provide higher quality vision treatment by being able to diagnose, measure and treat a wider range of imperfections.

A large clinical study highlighted the unparalleled results achieved with CustomVue™ LASIK wave-front guided surgery. This study showed that 100% of the patients could pass a driver's license test without glasses or contact lenses. 98% of custom LASIK treated patients achieved 20/20 vision with 70% of them achieving better than 20/20 vision. All patients, however, are not ideal candidates for CustomVueTM technology. Using the experience derived from over 30,000 cases, the surgeons at Stahl can counsel you regarding your options.

the process:
what to expect?

The following pre-procedure protocols will need to occur before your specific service:

• You will need to book an appointment with our office for a complete examination.
• A thorough eye examination will be performed which includes obtaining precise measurements of your eye. This appointment typically lasts 45 minutes.
• If you currently use contact lenses you are required to stop wearing the lenses before the exam.
• For soft contact lens users - stop 72 hours prior to appointment.
• For hard or rigid gas permeable lenses - stop 2 weeks prior to appointment.

We ask that you clean your eyelids with diluted shampoo and water. This is most easily accomplished with a wash cloth (it does not have to be sterile) while in the shower.

• Do not wear any makeup, perfume, or hairspray.
• Do not wear tight-fitting clothing.
• Please arrive 45 minutes prior to your scheduled time.
• Transportation arrangements both to and from the facility should be arranged. If needed, Stahl can provide transportation; however, arrangements need to be made prior to the date of your procedure.
• Payment in full is required at this time unless arranged prior to appointment. A Stahl associate can discuss payment options prior to your service.
• On the day of the procedure, you may leave our office approximately 80 minutes after vision correction.

• You will need to return to Stahl for a post-operative exam by a doctor.

• On the day of the procedure, you may leave our office approximately 80 minutes after vision correction.
• Typically both an antibiotic drop and a steroid drop are prescribed.

Both the antibiotic and steroid drops should be administered until the doctor asks you to stop. They may be applied at the same time of day but you should wait 3-5 minutes between the two drops. lf alternate drops are prescribed, your doctor will advise on proper usage. Artificial tears will also be provided to help lubricate the eyes. Recommended usage is 2-4 times daily, but some patients may be asked to administer drops more frequently. If your eyes feel dry or scratchy, feel free to increase the usage of artificial tears.

commonly asked questions

Laser vision correction is the same term being used to describe a growing number of procedures that utilize the excimer laser and other types of lasers to reduce or eliminate ones dependence on glasses or contact lenses.Vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism can be successfully corrected by laser surgery. LASIK and PRK are currently the most widely performed laser vision correction procedures today.

Besides a more natural appearance, the most visible benefit of laser surgery is clear vision without the inconvenience of contact lenses or glasses. Laser vision correction also offers expanded career opportunities for people in active jobs such as police officers or firefighters. Additionally, the procedure offers the freedom to enjoy recreational sports - especially water and winter sports. In addition you will no longer have to worry about being incapacitated by losing your contact lenses or glasses.

If you have nearsightedness, farsightedness and/or Astigmatism, you may be a candidate. You should be 18 years of age or older, have healthy eyes and a stable, refractive error within the range of effective treatment. Your doctor will evaluate and determine if you are a suitable candidate tor laser vision correction.

There are many benefits to laser vision correction, but like any surgical procedure, Laser procedures come with some risks and possible side effects. Every candidate should keep in mind that a specific end result cannot be guaranteed. An accurate prediction of your outcome can be made based on data from thousands of previous laser correction procedures completed to date. Your doctor will evaluate and determine both the risks and benefits that apply to your particular situation.

The excimer laser is a 'cold' laser that does not burn. The laser works by gently breaking down molecular bonds between cells so that controlled amounts of tissue can be vaporized away, one microscopic layer at a time. This process reshapes the cornea. The result is a corneal curvature much like that of a contact lens used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. The tissue can be removed from the surface of the cornea

(PRK) or from the Interior of the canes after a thin flap of the surface tissue has been lifted (LASIK).

Although most patients describe LASIK and PRK as painless, you may experience some discomfort or pressure during certain steps of the procedure. Following the procedure, you may experience a mild burning or itching sensation, or a mild sensation as if something is in your eye.

After a night's rest. you should feel comfortable enough to resume your normal activities. Swimming and some other activities may be limited for a longer period. Any specific concerns should be discussed with your doctor. With PRK your recovery will be longer than is typically experienced with LASIK.

testimonials

After wearing glasses and contacts for over 20 years, I am still amazed at how simple it was for my vision to be corrected. I still find myself thinking about how a painless procedure can change my life. S.S., OD

It's like being reborn with new eyes. Lasik gives a sense of freedom I've never had before. A.H.

Thank you for the wonderful results I experienced. As a physician, my vision is extremely important. I was impressed by your impeccable credentials and experience. G.J., MD

Calming personality, steady hand, wonderful staff and magic, thank you for making the LASIK procedure so easy. B.K.

Thank you so much for your professionalism and calm demeanor during my eye surgery I am glad I had PRK. It's great to wake up and see someone, a clock, paper, and read instantaneously. D.S.

press

WN BC - TV

WABC - TV

Fox News - TV

WRTN - FM

New York Post

Newsday

Long Island Business News

Garden City News

The Journal News

Healthnewsdigest.com

7online.com

Longisland.com

Ophthalmology

American Journal of Ophthalmology

Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology

American Journal of Human Genetics

Journal of Clinical Neuro-Ophthalmology

Cornea-The Journal of Cornea and External Diseases

Journal Francis D’ Ophtalmologie

milestones

1981

Dr. Norman Stahl, founder of Stahl Eye Center, trained in Russia with Dr. Fyodorov, a pioneer in radial keratotomy (RK), the first vision correction procedure

1987

Stahl Eye Center opens its office in Garden City, New York

1993

Performs the automated Iamellar procedure, the predecessor of LASIK, which is the most common form of correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism today

1994

The center opens in Hauppauge, New York

1995

Performs laser vision correction with the excimer laser in New York, amongst first medical practices to do so nationwide

1995

The center opens a facility on Madison Avenue in New York City

1996

Stahl Eye Center surgeon Dr. Thierry Hufnagel first performs LASIK, the procedure that is now commonly performed over one million times annually in the United States for vision correction

Stahl Eye Center performs its 10,000th vision correction procedure

1998

Performs first multifocal lens implant used to correct presbyopia

1999

Completes the first lntacs TM procedure in New York State to correct mild nearsightedness

Designated as a national training center for surgeons learning to use the advanced MoriaTM micokeratome as part of the LASIK procedure

2000

Acquires Ladarvison 4000 flying spot-laser for laser vision correction

2001

Stahl Eye Center performs its 20,000th vision correction procedure

2003

Acquires Intralase femtosecond laser being amongst the nation's first medical practices to perform bladeless LASIK

2005

Stahl Eye Center performs its 30,000th vision correction procedure

2010

First practice in New York to acquire the IFS Femtosecond Laser.

location & contact