We are excited to offer our patients the latest technology in Dry Eye assessment.  Dry Eye disease is one of the most common conditions presenting to our office.  Symptoms include burning, grittiness, light sensitivity, excessive tearing, and/or fluctuating vision.  The Keratograph 5M provides a non-invasive test to accurately measure the quality and quantity of tears as well as the integrity of the oil secreting glands of the lids.   This remarkable technology can help diagnose the various types of dry eye conditions and then personalized treatment plans can be tailored to maximize outcomes.

The doctors of Eyes on Sheppard are pleased to announce that Macula Risk genetic testing is now being offered for patients with Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD).

Combined with a routine clinical eye examination, results of the Macula Risk® PGx test determine which patients are at the highest risk of vision loss from AMD, and guide our doctors in prescribing the safest, most effective eye vitamin formulations for our patients based on their genetics.

The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) has demonstrated that eye vitamins can protect a significant percentage of patients from developing advanced AMD. Recent data suggests, however, that ingredients within the commonly prescribed AREDS formulation, specifically antioxidants and zinc, may be helpful or harmful to some patients based on their genetics.

“Knowing this information is key to prescribing the right eye vitamin formulations to our patients and to ensuring that, as eye doctors, we are doing everything we can to protect our patients from vision loss”, states Dr. Kerry Salsberg.

In addition to making personalized eye vitamin recommendations to patients, the doctors of Eyes on Sheppard are also using the information provided in the Macula Risk PGx patient report to customize disease management programs for patients based on their risk.

Dr. Fiona Soong, comments, “The Macula Risk test allows our doctors to identify and better manage high-risk patients through disease education, at-home vision monitoring, lifestyle modifications and an increased frequency of eye examinations where necessary.” She adds, “If patients have been diagnosed with AMD, or have family members with the disease, we encourage them to come in for a consultation and eye examination to see if the Macula Risk test is right for them.”

The Macula Risk PGx test is a simple, painless cheek swab, performed in our office, for patients with a diagnosis of early or intermediate AMD.

To learn more about AMD genetic testing, or to schedule an appointment, please call (416) 733-4444. Additional information about the Macula Risk PGx test is available at http://www.eyesonsheppard.com/files/CDN_Patient_Information_Sheet.pdf

Eyes on Sheppard has been selected as the 2014 Consumer Choice Award winner in the category of Optometrists for the Greater Toronto Area. This is our second year winning this prestigious award and we are very honored to be recipients again.

On January 9th, 2014 Dr. Black and Dr. Salsberg participated in the Jays Care Foundation charity drive and raised over $4500. The money raised will fund athletic equipment and sports programs for kids in need.

Eyes on Sheppard is one of the first practices in North America to offer a new in-office treatment for blepharitis.  Blepharitis can be referred to as the grandfather of all eyelid diseases.  It is widely responsible for symptoms ranging from itching, a need to constantly rub the eyes, a film over vision, redness, and severe dry eye disease.  BlephEx is a new procedure to treat blepharitis by reducing the crusts and bacterial debris, the main causes of inflammatory lid disease, and improves the overall health of the eyelids.   If you suffer from symptoms of itchy or scratchy eyes, tearing, crusting around lids, redness, and dry eyes, you may be a candidate for the BlephEx treatment.  For more information go to www.rysurg.com

A visual experiment where common visual problems known to affect learning in kids are simulated in 4 adult teachers, and their experience and reaction are discussed. All children should have their eyes comprehensively examined by a Doctor of Optometry to ensure optimal functioning and health. Many common visual conditions can be missed on a 'school screening' and will only be found during a comprehensive eye examination.

HYLO lubricating eye drops are manufactured in Germany and contain hyaluronic acid, a substance found naturally in the eye and other parts of the body.  Due to its special physical property, HYLO forms a regular, stable, long lasting lubricating film on the eye surface.  This film is not easily rinsed off and does not cause blurred vision.  HYLO provides instant relief and moisture to dry eye sufferers and helps cellular regeneration after cataract and laser surgery.   HYLO comes in the world’s first preservative-free, multi-dose container designed to deliver 300 sterile doses- one drop at a time.    We have tested dozens of artificial tears on the market and we believe HYLO drops are one of the best.     

TORONTO, CA – Eyes On Sheppard announced that it is now offering ChromaGen lenses at its office in Toronto. ChromaGen is a life-changing aid for visual reading difficulties often associated with dyslexia and an optical corrective solution for color deficiency, which is also known as color blindness. The prescription-only lenses, which are available as eyeglasses or contacts, have been shown to dramatically improve symptoms of visual reading difficulties and color blindness in patients of all ages. Read More...

We are honoured to be one of only three Optometric practices in Ontario to carry the exclusive Oliver Peoples eyewear collection. Oliver People's distinctive eyewear designs are handcrafted of the finest materials, unrivaled in quality and available in limited quantities. Discreet branding means remaining recognizable only to those ‘in the know.’ Oliver Peoples is the choice of many Hollywood elite, framing such famous faces as Reese Witherspoon, Robert Downey Jr. and Katie Holmes. Visit Eyes On Sheppard to view the entire collection or click on www.oliverpeoples.com

Eyes On Sheppard continues to bring the most advanced technology to our patients.   We are one of the first practices in Canada to offer the new Daytona Optomap retinal exam.   Since 2003, the Optomap technology has been part of our comprehensive retinal exam.  The Daytona Optomap is the next generation of ultra-wide retinal imaging systems that non-invasively captures an instantaneous digital scan of the retina, revealing important information about the health of the eye.The new Daytona system offers superior resolution, wider-views, and an enhanced ability to detect early-stage macular degeneration.   To learn more go to www.optos.com

Eyes On Sheppard is proud to be the first in Canada to offer Cliradex lid and facial cleaner.  Cliradex is the next generation, preservative free lash, eyelid and facial cleanser derived from key constituents of Melaleuca Alternifolia, a special variety of tea tree oil. Cliradex is especially helpfull for patients suffering from blepharitis, ocular rosacea, dry eye, and chronic red eyes.To learn more, go to www.cliradex.com

Eyes On Sheppard is pleased to announce the arrival of MYKITA eyewear.  MYKITA has been supplying handcrafted eyewear since 2003 and has won dozens of design awards.  The creative use of modern materials and a wealth of experience in eyewear design are the defining elements behind MYKITA’s collections.   All frames are handmade in Berlin and offer some of the lightest and fashion forward eyewear in the world.   To view the entire line, please visit www.mykita.com

MacuHealth^® Eye Supplements for Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) are now available in Canada

An early intervention of patients at risk for AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) provides a new opportunity to protect vision

Toronto, Ontario (May 28^th, 2012) – Eyecare professionals across Canada will now have the opportunity to offer  their patients MacuHealth^® with LMZ3 – a triple carotenoid supplement designed to support eye health and to help replenish the carotenoids deemed critical for preventing, or potentially slowing or stopping the progression of, Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Read More

EYES ON SHEPPARD is proud to announce the arrival of the exclusive Lindberg eyewear collection.
Lindberg frames are known around the world for their minimalistic Danish design and extremely lightweight materials. The entire collection is handcrafted and is considered to be one of the most sought after brands. Lindberg produces extremely comfortable eyewear in an elegant and functional design. Their innovative use of high-end materials and sophisticated designs has won them numerous accolades and prestigious awards. To see the entire collection please go to www.lindberg.com

Eyes On Sheppard is the first centre in Canada to offer their patients the most advanced vision-assessment technology -- the OPD-Scan III.  This device analyzes a patient's unique 'optical fingerprint' to provide the most precise spectacle and contact lens prescription.  The OPD can detect even the most obscure vision errors based on the way light travels through the eye.  The data generated by the OPD can also be used to identify patients that require different prescriptions for day and night vision.  As part of our mission to provide our patients with the latest in eye care technology,  we are now incorporating the OPD III into our routine eye exams.

We now carry the latest and greatest from Tom Ford (2011 collection).  TOM FORD is a leading fashion designer best known for his designs in luxury clothing, accessories, fragrance and cosmetics.  The sunglasses and ophthalmic line is bold and beautiful with attention to detail.   We are excited to to debut this exclusive line of eyewear.  For more information go to www.tomford.com

Patients with a family history of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) or those that have early signs of AMD should make sure to increase their consumption of specific anti-oxidants called carotenoids.   There are three specific carotenoids found in the macula:  Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and Meso-Zeaxanthin.  These three carotenoids known as the Macular Protective Pigment (MPP) create a yellow shield over the delicate retinal cells that give us sight. The MPP filters out and absorbs cell damaging, high-energy, blue wavelengths of light. In addition, the MPP are among the strongest anti-oxidants in our bodies, which protect the central retina from free radicals that are plentiful in this highly active tissue. There is a growing and compelling body of evidence which concludes that an insufficient level of MPP substantially increases the risk for developing Macular Degeneration by as much as 40%.   The best ways to increase the MPP is through diet and nutritional supplementation.  Dietary sources include peppers, corn, green leafy vegetables and egg yolks.   While there are many ‘eye’ supplements on the market that contain Lutein and Zeaxanthin, there have been few to offer the most powerful macular anti-oxidant, Meso-Zeaxanthin.    There are now several supplements that contain all three carotenoids and provide the best defence against AMD.  If you have any questions please email eyeker@gmail.com