https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog daily 0.75 2025-10-08 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/what-is-a-scotoma monthly 0.5 2025-10-08 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/icl-vs-lasik-surgery monthly 0.5 2025-03-12 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/what-to-expect-lasik-surgery-consultation monthly 0.5 2025-03-12 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/how-long-does-lasik-last monthly 0.5 2024-10-09 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/why-does-my-eye-hurt-when-i-blink monthly 0.5 2024-09-11 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/what-is-perfect-vision monthly 0.5 2024-09-11 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/early-onset-cataracts monthly 0.5 2024-03-13 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/dry-eyes-lasik monthly 0.5 2024-02-08 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/peripheral-vision-loss monthly 0.5 2024-01-11 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/can-you-get-lasik-with-cataracts monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/9539dba8-09f8-48f6-98ec-340a23fe35e0/Can+You+Get+LASIK+with+Cataracts+%281%29.jpg Our Blog - Can You Get LASIK with Cataracts? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/who-should-not-have-laser-eye-surgery monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/cb67ebf9-b839-4a58-9a9f-16857dc7789b/Who+Should+Not+Have+Laser+Eye+Surgery+%282%29.jpg Our Blog - Who Should Not Have Laser Eye Surgery? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/can-dry-eyes-cause-blurry-vision monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/4abf13bb-958f-4de5-995e-b8a0038fd76e/Can+Dry+Eyes+Cause+Blurry+Vision%29.jpg Our Blog - Can Dry Eyes Cause Blurry Vision? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/prk-vs-lasik-eye-surgery monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/e0b75015-4f5c-47ed-b13b-e54732158a38/PRK+vs.+LASIK+Eye+Surgery+%281%29.jpg Our Blog - PRK vs. LASIK Eye Surgery - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/stages-of-diabetic-retinopathy monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/b9cecb81-cd5b-45e4-81be-a38ac186164e/What+are+the+Stages+of+Diabetic+Retinopathy+%281%29.jpeg Our Blog - The 4 Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/is-macular-degeneration-hereditary monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/40fa37df-8124-4b9e-8ca6-1980a3f137af/Is+Macular+Degeneration+Hereditary+%281%29.jpg Our Blog - Is Macular Degeneration Hereditary? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/chalazion-vs-stye monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/ced5ecb1-1d6d-424c-832b-be24b62a93a7/Chalazion+vs+Stye+%281%29.jpg Our Blog - Chalazion vs. Stye: What’s the Difference? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/keratoconus-treatment-and-surgery monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/33a9c93d-2937-4621-9da8-a4cf863e930d/Keratoconus+Treatment+and+Surgery+%281%29.jpg Our Blog - Keratoconus Treatment and Surgery - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/can-exercise-improve-eyesight monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/171f8e65-141a-42e2-ba98-94fb398d4f12/Can+Exercising+Improve+Eyesight.jpg Our Blog - Can Exercising Improve Eyesight? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/how-to-prevent-sun-damage-to-eyes monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/76dbd5ae-aa22-4036-9f25-6fe254f44867/How+to+Prevent+Sun+Damage+to+Eyes.jpg Our Blog - How to Prevent Sun Damage to Eyes - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/how-to-relieve-eye-strain monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/55c88eb4-f78c-49a4-b5d0-6996d56f914f/How+to+Relieve+Eye+Strain.jpg Our Blog - How to Relieve Eye Strain - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/deciding-when-to-have-cataract-surgery monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/db29e08d-f9da-4cd5-a323-00a04fcdea7a/When+to+Have+Cataract+Surgery.jpg Our Blog - Deciding When to Have Cataract Surgery - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/what-causes-bad-eyesight monthly 0.5 2023-03-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/cc7f5874-d9be-44b8-9489-7e614573a362/bad-eyesight.jpg Our Blog - What Causes Bad Eyesight? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/pediatric-eye-exams monthly 0.5 2023-03-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/2bbfab34-85e6-4836-bfcb-9c9ab64d57fe/pediatric-eye-exams.jpg Our Blog - Pediatric Eye Exams: What to Expect - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/myopia-vs-hyperopia monthly 0.5 2023-03-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/cf011b6b-2487-4cd2-a26f-ea77819957c4/myopia-hyperopia.jpg Our Blog - Myopia vs. Hyperopia: What’s the Difference? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/what-does-glaucoma-vision-look-like monthly 0.5 2023-03-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/098a33d5-cd82-4221-824e-c83580733a88/glaucoma-vision.jpg Our Blog - What Does Glaucoma Vision Look Like? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/04cf793d-515b-48e3-9268-57880ffe9616/image1.jpg Our Blog - What Does Glaucoma Vision Look Like? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/how-long-does-botox-last monthly 0.5 2023-03-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/fdc819c3-8ed4-4e08-a05f-0b64298b7703/botox-last.jpg Our Blog - How Long Does Botox Last? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/differences-between-optometrist-and-ophthalmologist monthly 0.5 2023-03-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/982c229d-769c-430b-88b3-86b5b2fb3723/optometrist-difference.jpg Our Blog - The Differences Between an Optometrist and an Ophthalmologist - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/what-to-expect-after-cataract-surgery monthly 0.5 2023-03-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1909b1c3-9e72-4f59-8412-a552eaabe790/cataract+surgery.jpg Our Blog - What to Expect After Cataract Surgery - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/how-long-does-lasik-eye-surgery-take monthly 0.5 2024-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/3f5c2d3f-910a-4793-9f8f-cf925ecac129/how+long+lasik.jpg Our Blog - How Long Does Lasik Eye Surgery Take? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/why-does-the-eye-doctor-dilate-eye monthly 0.5 2023-03-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/9958f4da-2d4e-459e-8091-9faaf69714c4/dilate-eye.jpeg Our Blog - Why Does the Eye Doctor Dilate Your Eyes? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/blog/how-often-should-you-get-eyes-checked monthly 0.5 2023-03-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/f33f1efc-eb72-4213-a03b-900fa9b75bb0/how-often-eye.jpg Our Blog - How Often Should You Get Your Eyes Checked? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/home daily 1.0 2024-06-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/2fe91c49-33a0-4d31-96c6-4ddef522aa00/unsplash-image-suj3od1uMv8.jpg Home “Dr. Pennington is one of those rare healthcare providers that makes you feel like a human that matters. He asked me about my previous medical history, took time to talk through my diagnoses and treatment, showed empathy for my experience and offered to support in navigating my insurance as a follow up. Awesome visit, I’m really grateful I stumbled on his office.” -Chelsea T. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/873b017c-3d94-4e02-8b8e-9df37fed2e77/unsplash-image-90uVYog2FKE.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1627574059322-S1P6KF3OQHLDOB8S8LCS/unsplash-image-k86HbvIIsmg.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/b6a01b9b-f147-4fee-b0ec-3a405f557b02/AdobeStock_258726216-mini.jpg Home https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/about daily 0.75 2021-08-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626119967265-AONEGRO02ZDKWM8M12PO/unsplash-image-k86HbvIIsmg.jpg About - Background and Mission Dr. Pennington has been providing ophthalmologic care since 2015. Colorado Eye Surgeons was formed in 2021, when Dr. Pennington felt he could better serve the Denver community with a modern approach to ophthalmology. In the setting of a trend of clinics that are owned by private-equity and corporations, he feels that a patient-first, doctor-owned clinic provides the opportunity for more compassionate and effective care. The mission of Colorado Eye Surgeons is to make patients feel welcome, comfortable, and well taken care of when visiting our office. Our staff wants to be a partner in maintaining your health, and putting you at ease and well informed during your visit. Colorado Eye Surgeons believes that staff should be helpful, friendly, and accommodating, and that our office should be a respectful environment that is inclusive for everyone. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/our-doctors daily 0.75 2025-10-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1625696812007-VZKFHB85GLPJ9SY12CSH/Professional+Photo.png Our Doctors - Clayton Pennington, MD Tobias Keene, D.D.S. Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, Dr. Tobias Keene brings a bit of unabashed Southern hospitality to all his patients. He moved to Washington, D.C. over thirty years ago as a freshman at Ivy College. Right after graduation, he attended World University’s School of Dentistry. Before opening Keene Dental in 1994, he worked for free clinics and some of the finest practices in the District. He is part of the 123 Dental Association and stays up-to-date on the latest dental discoveries. When not striving to keep his patients happy and healthy, he’s enjoys hiking with his family in Rock Creek Park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/3e1790cc-36a8-4dea-8a0c-37c3f50433e6/IMG_2708.png https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/understanding-refractive-surgery daily 0.75 2025-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626391799461-6QOJ5SZ1AHIY2ME6EZVI/unsplash-image-QRawWgV6gmo.jpg Understanding Refractive Surgery - Understanding Laser Vision Correction When it comes to laser vision correction (LVC) surgery, it’s important to know what your options are. An LVC procedure is usually performed to correct one of three vision problems: myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. In nearsightedness, laser surgery is used to flatten the cornea. In farsightedness, laser surgery is used to steepen the cornea. If you have astigmatism, then your cornea has both areas that need to be steepened and flattened. LVC surgeries include PRK, LASIK. Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) PRK involves the use of an excimer laser to shave the corneal surface, changing its shape and thereby correcting myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. It is very accurate and the success rate is extremely high. This is especially true for patients with low to moderate levels of myopia (nearsightedness). Some patients experience discomfort or pain for a day or two after PRK, but this can be controlled with medication. Good vision is usually achieved between one and three weeks. Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) (LASIK) also utilizes an excimer laser to flatten or steepen the cornea. However, with LASIK the flattening is accomplished within the cornea (not on the corneal surface.) In order to do this, Dr. Pennington first creates a corneal flap, lifts the flap, and applies laser treatment to the inner layers of the cornea. The flap is then replaced in its previous location and recovery of vision is usually very rapid and painless. The recovery of vision after LASIK is truly remarkable. The vast majority of patients whom we have treated have been able to see so clearly that they could drive without glasses and return to normal activities, including work, in less than 24 hours. In fact, most of our patients achieve 20/20 vision, or so close to it that they cannot tell the difference, within a few days after LASIK. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1589847904871-IJY33BXSJQA0OIFROI1H/image-asset.jpeg Understanding Refractive Surgery - Before Laser Vision Correction One of the most important factors in obtaining an excellent result from laser vision correction is the accurate measurement of your prescription before laser treatment. Since the lens within the eye has the ability to change its shape and therefore focus light to a different extent from moment to moment, it is not always possible to accurately measure the eyeglass prescription required by a patient unless this focusing mechanism is inactivated. This is readily accomplished by the administration of a special eye drop that simultaneously dilates the pupil and paralyzes the focusing muscle of the lens. With the lens unable to change its focus, an accurate refraction can be achieved. We need to determine the size of the pupil. Using a telescopic lens system, the diameter of the pupil can be accurately measured. Once we know the size, we can accurately predict who is most at risk to develop glare after LVC and thereby make the best decision as to whether or not the procedure should be performed. The corneal curvature must also be determined. This is because there are limits to the steepening that can be safely induced to correct farsightedness. Similarly, the corneal thickness must be determined in order to be certain that it will be adequate for laser surgery of the cornea. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/understanding-botox daily 0.75 2023-07-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626395518907-I5CTPQJT1IYEJOOX6T28/women-1487825_1920.jpg Understanding Botox - Understanding Botox Botox® has a long record for being safe, effective and providing high patient satisfaction. The discovery of Botox® to improve facial wrinkles was, like many breakthrough medicines, an accident. Botulinium toxin is a powerful neurotoxin that was originally used by ophthalmologists to treat crossed eyes. These patients have frequent and uncontrollable forceful closure of the eyelids. When patients were injected with small amounts of the toxin their blepharospam improved and serendipitously their forehead wrinkles started disappearing. A few years later Botox® cosmetic was born. The current Botox® formulation is a highly purified form of botulinum toxin. This medicine inhibits the transmission of information from nerves to muscles, essentially blocking the ability of muscles to function. The effects of the toxin are not permanent and resolve within 3 months. How do you use Botox? When used in the face, particularly around the eyes and in the forehead, Botox® can eliminate facial wrinkles. These “dynamic wrinkles” are the result of contraction of the muscles over many years creating wrinkles in the overlying skin. When we scrunch up our forehead, squint or narrow our eyes we are continually adding to the deepness of the wrinkles. When Botox® is used to weaken the contraction of the muscles in these areas the wrinkles start to disappear. Botox® is most frequently used in the glabella (the area above the nose between the eyebrows), the forehead, and around the outside of the eyes (the crows feet). Weakening of the muscles in these areas can be accomplished with little risk of complication or over treatment. Unfortunately Botox® doesn’t last forever and patients will need to be retreated at intervals of 3-6 months to get the best effect but most patients find the procedure easy to tolerate and very effective. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/understanding-dry-eye daily 0.75 2023-07-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626396090551-YWYCZ3T9SCMQ91YSVBP3/unsplash-image-9bd6LStI8ug.jpg Understanding Dry Eye - What is Dry Eye? Dry eye syndrome is a condition that affects millions of people around the world, especially in dryer environments like Colorado. Dr. Pennington has specialized in dry eye disease and has many state of the art options for treatment. Dry eye is more common in women and can worsen with age. Dry eye can range from a mild condition to a debilitating vision-threatening condition. Dry eye can also be associated with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogren’s syndrome. Computer use can worsen symptoms because we all blink much less when we are concentrating on the computer or reading. Other causes of dry eye include contact lenses, allergies, heating, air-conditioning, air pollution, cigarette smoking, Bell’s palsy, infections like ocular shingles and medications. What are the symptoms of Dry Eye? Foreign body sensation Stinging and burning Light sensitivity Glare Blurred vision Tearing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626396074483-7ND90KS9OR36GGGZOQKR/unsplash-image-iq8x4Ik8mi8.jpg Understanding Dry Eye - What are the treatments for Dry Eye? There are a variety of treatment options and many new therapies we can use. We can use eye drops, oral medications or even in-office procedures depending on your situation. In some cases of dry eye, your tear duct system (lacrimal system) might make too many tears to relieve the irritation, called reflex tearing or lacrimation, leading to overflowing tears, called epiphora. If your lacrimal system is involved, you may need a device that unclogs blocked glands on your eyelids in office. You may need temporary punctal plugs to block the punctum, which is the opening of the tear drainage system. Or the cause of your dry eyes may be nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO), canalicular stenosis or unctal stenosis. The cause could be an infection in the drainage system like canaliculitis or dacryocystitis. Each condition warrants its own distinct treatment, and Dr. Pennington will help decide what will best address each individual patient’s needs. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/general-eye-care daily 0.75 2025-09-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626896683443-A600F74SRLKXUXRQIHI6/unsplash-image-90uVYog2FKE.jpg General Eye Care - Understanding General Eye Care Correcting Myopia Myopic (nearsighted) patients are diagnosed as such because their focusing system is too strong for the length of their eye. Myopic, or nearsighted, patients experience blurred vision at far distances, but they are able to view near objects with ease. In the past, myopia was corrected with glasses or contacts that would allow a person to focus on objects that were far away. Now, laser vision correction procedures, like LASIK and PRK, can be performed to correct myopia. Dr. Pennington can measure a patient’s eye prescription and recommend glasses, contacts, or discuss surgical options. Correcting Hyperopia Hyperopic (farsighted) patients are diagnosed as such because their eyes are shorter than they should be. Hyperopic, or farsighted, patients experience blurred vision at near distances, but they are able to view far objects with ease at younger ages. In the past, hyperopia was corrected with glasses or contacts that would allow a person to focus on objects, improving vision at 20 feet as well as near vision in younger patients. Now, laser vision correction procedures, like LASIK and PRK, can be performed to correct hyperopia. Dr. Pennington can measure a patient’s eye prescription and recommend glasses, contacts, or discuss surgical options. Correcting Astigmatism Astigmatic patients are diagnosed as such because their corneas possess an oblong shape rather than a rounded one. Astigmatic patients experience blurred vision because light rays are refracted improperly from the odd-shaped cornea. Astigmatism can also accompany hyperopia (farsightedness) or myopia (nearsightedness). Astigmatism is a refractive error that used to be corrected with glasses or contacts, but now can also be corrected with laser vision correction. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/understanding-glaucoma daily 0.75 2023-07-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626397754974-G7N7TDOIDL8UDUNMCQL7/unsplash-image-cKT0oJL9vMI.jpg Understanding Glaucoma - Understanding Glaucoma What is Glaucoma? Glaucoma, an eye disease most commonly affecting older people, occurs when the pressure inside the eye becomes too high due to a buildup of fluid inside the eyeball. This can occur as a side effect of some drugs, as a hereditary condition, or for reasons not entirely known. If not detected early and treated right away, it can result in severely impaired vision and even blindness. By seeing Dr. Pennington on a regular basis and having regular tests for glaucoma will greatly increase your chances of discovering any irregularities before the condition becomes serious. If treatment is begun early, long-term damage to your vision can be prevented. How do you test for Glaucoma? There are a number of different ways to test for glaucoma. Colorado Eye Surgeons has state of the art technology that assist in early detection that are a compliment to regular eye exams. Dr. Pennington will perform an exam on your eyes and let you know if any further diagnostic test are right for you. How do you treat Glaucoma? The most common and least invasive way to treat glaucoma is through drug therapies that help normalize the pressure of fluid in the eyes. Other treatment options include in office laser treatment (SLT), or surgery. SLT allows the laser to be used at a very low level, treating select cells in the trabecular meshwork and leaving others untouched. Because the procedure is more highly focused than traditional laser surgery, it can be repeated more than once, offering additional options for those whose condition proves resistant to drug treatments or other surgical approaches. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/understanding-macular-degeneration daily 0.75 2023-07-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626399170320-CRGV9SBSGW3I37SI1ZNL/unsplash-image-VMGAbeeJTKo.jpg Understanding Macular Degeneration - Understanding Age Related Macular Degeneration Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative condition of the macula, which is the portion of the retina responsible for central vision. It is the most common cause of irreversible vision loss in the United States in those 60 or older, and its prevalence increases with age. Scientists believe that AMD is caused by the degradation of the arteries that nourish the retina. This deprives the sensitive retinal tissue of oxygen and nutrients that it needs to function and thrive. As a result, the central vision deteriorates gradually and painlessly. No one knows the cause of AMD. Causes are likely to be genetically inherited, but environmental factors may also contribute. Macular degeneration often runs in families. Women have a higher risk of developing AMD than men. There may be a wide variety of different genes and proteins associated with dry and wet macular degeneration. Many risk factors have been found to be associated with AMD. These include age, family history, light-skin, light-colored iris, poor nutrition, obesity, smoking, and exposure to sunlight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626398905470-KXEN7SE2YHO0EUPP7IOV/diabetic-2-1.jpg Understanding Macular Degeneration What is the difference between dry and wet macular degeneration? AMD is classified as either wet (neovascular) or dry (non-neovascular). About 10% of patients who suffer from macular degeneration have wet AMD. This type occurs when new vessels form to improve the blood supply to oxygen-deprived retinal tissue. However, the new vessels are very delicate and break easily, causing bleeding and damage to surrounding tissue. The resulting vision loss is often abrupt and rapid. The dry type is much more common and is characterized by drusen and loss of pigment in the retina. This causes a gradual loss of vision. Drusen are yellow deposits under the retina. As the number and size of the drusen grow, your risk for developing worsening AMD grows. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626400407181-O5UOIZK4X4K2AYCNDEQJ/blogpost04.jpg Understanding Macular Degeneration What are the signs and symptoms of macular degeneration? Loss of central vision. AMD can cause a central blind spot, sparing peripheral vision (see photograph) In dry AMD, the loss is gradual In wet AMD, the loss is rapid Difficulty reading or performing tasks that require the ability to see detail Needing more light to see Distorted Vision Straight lines such as a doorway or the edge of a window may appear wavy or bent How do you detect and diagnose macular degeneration? The detection involves checking your vision and eyes with a dilated eye exam with Dr. Pennington who can look at the retina with special lenses. If you think you have macular degeneration, please contact us. Colorado Eye Surgeons has new technology that allows advanced viewing and diagnosis of macular degeneration. An Amsler grid is often used to see if there are any distortions like wavy lines in your vision. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626400358748-RZ4DV6VRTP4IH5S63YPB/unsplash-image-_ZO2obWfpFQ.jpg Understanding Macular Degeneration How do you treat macular degeneration? Dry AMD With the dry form of AMD, we recommend the use of UV protective sunglasses when outside, good nutrition and diet including the use of green leafy vegetables, and vitamins meeting the requirements of the AREDS-2 Study (Age-Related Eye Disease Study). These measures can help slow down the progression. They do not cure the disease. Wet AMD Wet AMD is treated with injections into the eye, laser surgery, and photodynamic therapy. None of these treatments is a cure for wet AMD. Dr. Pennington has completed over 10,000 injections into the eye. With injections of anti-VEGF agents that help get rid of the abnormal blood vessels, there is a good chance that some of your lost vision is regained. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/understanding-diabetic-eye-disease daily 0.75 2023-07-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626400787661-XDY1DY9UVANURUIPNHEU/Diabetic-Retinopathy.jpg Understanding Diabetic Eye Disease - Understanding Diabetic Eye Disease Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the eye's retina that occurs with long-term diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to the blood vessels of the retina. This can eventually lead to blindness. Up to 80% of all patients with diabetes for 20 years or more can be affected. All patients with diabetes are at risk. With close monitoring for diabetic retinopathy with annual eye exams, the disease can be prevented and controlled. Signs and Symptoms of Diabetic Eye Disease Often, diabetic eye disease will have no symptoms. However, as the disease progresses blurred vision ranging from mild to total vision loss can occur. Other symptoms include transient vision changes and “floaters” that give the appearance of looking through a haze or cloud. Diagnosis of Diabetic Retinopathy Dr. Pennington can make the diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy. This requires a dilated eye exam to examine the retina is detail. The doctor will look for specific signs of diabetic retinopathy such as damaged blood vessels, hemorrhages, swelling, and abnormal growth of blood vessels. Sometimes an ocular coherence tomography (OCT) or a fluorescein angiogram (FA) is used to visualize the retina. All patients with diabetes should be examined regularly to detect any signs of diabetic retinopathy. If caught early, the disease is reversible. In later stages, various types of treatment become necessary and significant vision can be lost if not treated. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626406370605-6ENZ3Y4W7FFPVTZUASDH/unsplash-image-AeVemaUw7NM.jpg Understanding Diabetic Eye Disease - Understanding Diabetic Eye Disease Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy There are many ways to treat diabetic retinopathy. The treatment will depend upon the type of diabetic retinopathy and the level of retinal damage. The different ways are: injections into the eye laser surgery vitrectomy surgery retinal detachment surgery There is no cure for diabetic retinopathy. Dr. Pennington has performed over 10,000 injections as well as numerous surgeries to help manage diabetic retinopathy. It is also very important to control your blood sugars and blood pressures with the help of your primary doctor and/or endocrinologist. A good diet and regular exercise will be recommended to you. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/dilated-eye-exams-without-drops daily 0.75 2023-07-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626812576855-A9AQJRSBLOV1VAY5WSAT/GettyImages-308783-003-e6958f3f1e50487c93b25596348056cd.jpg Dilated Eye Exams without drops https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/testimonials daily 0.75 2021-07-29 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/understanding-keratoconus daily 0.75 2023-07-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626817808062-2D03L34GSJC640X3CZ69/keratoconus-with-labels-1200x630.jpg Understanding Keratoconus - Understanding Keratoconus What is keratoconus? Keratoconus (also known as corneal ectasia) is a disease of the cornea, the clear front outer surface of the eye. Keratoconus affects 1 in 500 to 1 in 2,000 people in the general population. Its cause is unknown. What happens in keratoconus? Physiologically there is a breakdown of the inner tissue or layers of the cornea, called stroma, which weakens the corneal structure and due to one’s normal eye pressure, begins to push outward creating a cone or bulge on the cornea. The cone or bulge causes the light entering the eye to become scattered, distorting the way you see images. In advanced stages, seeing becomes extremely difficult Keratoconus often starts during one’s teenage years, although there have been cases reported starting both earlier in life and later. Biological changes such as puberty or pregnancy can trigger the disease. It is most often affects both eyes and there can be a delay of up to five years before the second eye begins to show symptoms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626818165797-RA5IBDDI0GCDRARUGCXD/Fig6-LRG.jpg Understanding Keratoconus - What are the symptoms of keratoconus? The most common symptom of keratoconus is fluctuating vision. A new set of contact lenses or glasses may provide crisp, clear vision but only for a short period of time. Within three months to one year your vision is no longer acceptable and a visit to your doctor is again required. Because of the irregular surface of the cornea, glasses and standard contact lenses only work for mild cases of keratoconus. If the disease progresses, custom made hard contact lenses, known as RGP or rigid gas permeable lens, are often used. Other symptoms include Double vision Light sensitivity Glare at night How do you diagnose keratoconus? Dr. Pennington perform a complete eye exam and will review a topographical map of the cornea (as pictured), along with other refractive measurements, which will confirm you have keratoconus. How do you treat keratoconus? Corneal Cross-linking Corneal cross-linking (CXL) is an FDA approved treatment for mild to moderate keratoconus. It is a minimally invasive procedure that helps flatten and strengthen the cornea which allows for both improved tolerance of contacts and glasses as well as potentially the ability to have further laser vision correction. Additionally corneal cross linking will help stop the progression of keratoconus. If you suffer from keratoconus and want to learn more about CXL, please book a consultation with Dr. Pennington. Intacs Intacs are small half ring segments that can be implanted into the cornea. They help to flatten the corneal steepness, provide a strong, peripheral foundation for the cornea and reduce the glasses or contact prescription. This reversible procedure takes about 10 minutes per eye and is painless. After the surgery vision without correction improves and ideally a patient would be able to tolerate glasses or soft contact lenses. Corneal Transplant Corneal transplant is the most invasive correction of keratoconus, it involves removing the unhealthy cornea and replacing with a healthy donor cornea. It is the oldest treatment for keratoconus. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/understanding-evo-icl daily 0.75 2024-01-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/9af46991-0ef9-4686-929b-1cff1e782e4f/STAAR_EVO_Illu_7.jpg Understanding EVO ICL - Understanding EVO ICL Placement In Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery, a biocompatible lens is placed inside the eye behind the colored iris to correct vision. The contact lens is made of a material naturally found in the body that does not elicit inflammation or rejection. Corneal procedures, such as LASIK and SMILE, correct vision through corneal tissue removal. In contrast, ICL placement occurs inside of the eye (rather than the exterior cornea) and does not alter the eye’s natural shape. What are the advantages of EVO ICL? Biocompatible lens that is in natural harmony with your eyes. Great option for people with thin corneas or predisposed to dry eye syndrome who may not be candidates for laser vision correction (PRK or LASIK) Excellent night vision Designed to be permanent, yet is removable for future vision flexibility, especially after cataract surgery Provides UV protection Over 99% of patients are satisfied with the ICL How does EVO ICL placement work? ICL surgery is an “addition” surgery in which a lens is placed inside the eye. Varying degrees of nearsightedness is corrected by changing the lens’s power. In laser vision correction, treatment of higher correction requires more tissue removal and greater alteration of the eye’s shape. On the contrary, ICL surgery leaves the eye in its natural shape regardless of the correction amount. This feature allows surgeons to fix a high degree of nearsightedness and astigmatism with much greater precision and safety. If interested in learning more about ICL placement, book an appointment with Dr. Pennington today. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/chalazion daily 0.75 2023-07-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626878935781-7VEIAELLP1NB01FI4EDL/Chalazion_AdobeStock_185336477.jpg Chalazion Treatment - Understanding Chalazion A chalazion is a cyst in the eyelid that is caused by inflammation of a blocked oil gland. They are usually painless, but tend to demonstrate redness, swelling and mild discomfort. They usually disappear on their own after several days or weeks, but sometimes, treatment is necessary. What are the symptoms of a chalazion? The most common manifestation of a chalazion is swelling of the eyelid. Frequently, redness will develop and may become severe if the oil gland becomes infected. The swelling can spread to the entire eyelid, typically causing some tearing, and eventually will begin to involve the eye. In this case, the infection can become sight-threatening and very dangerous. How do you treat a chalazion? The primary treatment is application of warm compresses for 10 – 20 minutes at least four times a day. This may soften the oils that are blocking the duct and promote drainage and healing. Warm compresses may be applied with a towel. Sometimes taking a long hot shower and allowing the water to hit the eyelid is helpful. Topical antibiotic eye drops and ointments are sometimes used to treat the initial infection, but they are of little value in treating a lesion which has been present for more than several days. Usually, a chalazion will disappear without further treatment in a few weeks. If chalazia continue to enlarge or fail to disappear within an acceptable time frame, then medical treatment is necessary. Injection of the lesion with a steroid medication is one of the best options. Sometimes oral antibiotics are used to treat lesions, particularly when there is an infection present. Treatment with oral or intraveneous antibiotics is necessary if the infection has begun to spread and encompass the whole eyelid, the eye, or deeper structures of the face. Finally, surgical excision is sometimes performed. This involves an office procedure in which local anesthesia is injected into the skin around the lesion, and not into the eye. The lesion can then be drained and removed by making a small incision on the inside of the eyelid. Removal of the chalazion can usually be accomplished without the need to place sutures, therefore eliminating a scar. Healing after surgical excision is rapid and the patient usually returns to normal activity within one or two days. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/appointments daily 0.75 2026-02-26 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/resources daily 0.75 2022-12-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1618497259178-6XJGK9GR6YAVBQL5L519/20140301_Trade-151_012-2.jpg Resources https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1607694583486-2PQT0LQ193RL7MCB6DX4/20140228_Trade+151_0046.jpg Resources https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/services daily 0.75 2026-03-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1625788779401-WUMAVNAIMXY5DP8YEOZR/unsplash-image-k86HbvIIsmg.jpg Services - Laser Vision Correction https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1625788734633-UHV0HH0AJTQQ9YTESYL6/unsplash-image-iq8x4Ik8mi8.jpg Services - Dry Eye https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1625788910851-1BJRD8H4PWEQ417MPNZA/unsplash-image-3WZ3VnXvVJ4.jpg Services - Cataract Surgery & Lens Exchange https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1625788647351-MS7X8IOQNG4IHR0MG8JD/unsplash-image-vTL_qy03D1I.jpg Services - Botox https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626812689323-9B17XZR3200T2S2T255H/GettyImages-308783-003-e6958f3f1e50487c93b25596348056cd.jpg Services - Dilated Eye Exams without Drops https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626897237369-DUM1911LYA64V5CD5DTT/unsplash-image-VMGAbeeJTKo.jpg Services - Age Related Macular Degeneration https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1625788779401-WUMAVNAIMXY5DP8YEOZR/unsplash-image-k86HbvIIsmg.jpg Services - Keratoconus Treatment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626407078116-J3X2H8Y20E78K50F0DF8/unsplash-image-qaytmS07jfo.jpg Services - EVO Visian ICL Placement https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1625789465182-XJA5X4VCHNYBS5QQ8N0B/unsplash-image-90uVYog2FKE.jpg Services - General Eye Care https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626897275666-3ICJ3IV1AK340B814PUM/unsplash-image-eXHeq48Z-Q4.jpg Services - Chalazion and Styes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1627572784332-URNMQ73SYR0X9LPDT7T8/unsplash-image-cKT0oJL9vMI.jpg Services - Glaucoma https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1625789259416-SEPMNX5S5HDAISLKRDVO/cataract.png Services - Diabetic Eye Disease https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/ad5fd292-1258-4435-a3db-96523c6bdb8a/man-holding-eye-contact+%281%29.jpg Services - Contact Lens Fitting https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1625715631847-P7F728OB5KNXEDOG15TV/unsplash-image-suj3od1uMv8.jpg Services “Dr. Pennington is one of those rare healthcare providers that makes you feel like a human that matters. He asked me about my previous medical history, took time to talk through my diagnoses and treatment, showed empathy for my experience and offered to support in navigating my insurance as a follow up. Awesome visit, I’m really grateful I stumbled on his office.” -Chelsea T. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/lvc daily 0.75 2023-06-10 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/locations/highlands-ranch daily 0.75 2025-05-15 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/locations/denver daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/contact-fitting daily 0.75 2025-09-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/ad5fd292-1258-4435-a3db-96523c6bdb8a/man-holding-eye-contact+%281%29.jpg Specialty Contact Fitting and Scleral Contact Fitting - Contact Lens Services Our optometrist provides expert contact lens care for patients of all ages and visual needs. In addition to standard contact lens fittings, she specializes in fitting custom and specialty contact lenses for patients who require advanced solutions. Specialty contact lens options include: Custom Soft Lenses – Designed for patients with unique prescriptions or corneal conditions not well-corrected with standard lenses. Scleral Lenses – Larger, vaulting lenses that rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera), offering exceptional comfort and vision quality. These specialty lenses can be life-changing for patients with: Irregular corneas from disease, trauma, or infection Keratoconus Severe dry eyes High or complex prescriptions not easily corrected with glasses With a personalized fitting process and advanced technology, she ensures patients achieve the best possible vision and comfort, even in the most complex cases. https://www.coeyesurgeons.com/services/cataract-surgery daily 0.75 2026-03-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1626384656427-DNNXCXRUPALGKB2IJPWE/unsplash-image-gA7w5kzs5UU.jpg Cataract Surgery - Types of Cataract Lens Implants There are many types of cataract lens implants, or intraocular lens implants (IOL) that we can use in order to provide you with the best results to match your lifestyle and activities after cataract surgery. These different types of lens implants include monofocal lens implants which are the most basic type of lens implant and only correct for one focal distance; toric lens implants for those patients with astigmatism; and near vision presbyopia correcting lens implants lens that will correct for distance, intermediate and near vision allow a patient to live a glasses free life. Laser-assisted cataract surgery Should you consider laser cataract surgery? Its greatest value is for the many patients with complex cataracts. Additionally, the femto-second laser (FSL) can simultaneously create small incisions in the cornea that reduce preexisting astigmatism, which permits patients to achieve better vision with less dependence on glasses. Amazingly enough, the FSL can do all of these things painlessly and in approximately one minute! At Colorado Eye Surgeons, patients receiving FSL treatment undergo the brief laser procedure, with completion of the cataract removal process and insertion of the intraocular lens implant shortly thereafter. Patients are then able to return home, and resume most activities immediately. More information is available here: https://roboticlcs.com/?practice=true Recovering from cataract surgery If you’re considering cataract surgery but are worried about the procedure or the length of recovery, you can rest assured. After cataract surgery, our patients recover quickly and report little pain. In fact, many don’t even find that they need any rest period following surgery. Dr. Pennington has developed advanced instrumentation and methods that have greatly increased the safety and decreased the pain of cataract surgery. With these types of advanced instrumentation and methods, the vast majority of our patients are able to have their cataracts removed in a brief and painless operation, requiring no stitches. Healing is extremely rapid, and patients are able to return to normal activity immediately. Most patients have improved vision within 10 minutes after surgery. Do you still need glasses after cataract surgery? It all depends… The human lens loses its ability to focus or change shape as we get older. Similarly, an artificial lens implant has no ability to change shape. Therefore, some implants provide clear vision only at a distance. For this reason, normal types of eyeglasses are often worn after surgery in order to correct astigmatism or to improve vision for reading or driving. However, even with these implants, vision without glasses is often better than it was with glasses before surgery. That being said, at Colorado Eye Surgeons we often use special implants to allow for a glasses free life after cataract surgery. These lenses are not right for every patient, but over 98% of patients are happy with the special implants. Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Pennington to learn more about your options. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/1625696812007-VZKFHB85GLPJ9SY12CSH/Professional+Photo.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/60df45538e05361413e67a8d/ed67c251-445a-4034-90ed-d34da85be2e5/Claire+Rocken