Blog News! New Home for the VEC Blog

We've MOVED the blog to our new website!!!

Check out the Virginia Eye Consultants blog here.  We are excited about the new features and user interface of our new site and  new blog. Consider RSS feeding the blog to your favorite reader so you don't miss a beat.

ASCRS 2012

Dr. Stephen Scoper during a ALCON lecture: April 2012

Our very own Dr. Stephen Scoper spoke to a international audience this afternoon at the Alcon pharmaceutical booth during ASCRS in Chicago, IL. The lecture wooed the audience as Dr. Scoper discussed both Toberdex ST: a anti-inflammatory& anti-infective prescription medication, a inflammatory ocular condition known as Blepharitis.

GROUPON, GROUPON, GET YOUR GROUPON!

Been thinking about Lasik? The TIME IS NOW!

Buy your Groupon for $100 and received a $1,200 Discount...that's a  92% savings! There is 6 days left to purchase your Groupon coupon! The deal is on.

In a Nutshell: All-laser LASIK corrects poor vision by reshaping corneas in quick, in-office procedure.
 The Fine Print Expires Aug 29, 2012 Limit 1 per person, may buy 1 additional as a gift. Limit 1 per visit. Consultation required; non-candidates will be refunded. See the rules that apply to all deals.

When used for good, lasers can correct vision, but when used for evil, they can undermine superheroes during important PowerPoint presentations. Fight the villainy of poor eyesight with this Groupon. $100 for $1,200 Toward LASIK Eye Procedure Dr. Scoper reshapes corneas so that eyes may see clearer with the all-laser LASIK procedure. After numbing the eyeballs, he creates a small flap in the ocular surface then uses an Allegretto Wave laser to whittle away sight-inhibiting tissue. The flap lowers to protect newly corrected corneas and patients will notice crisper vision right away and, more dramatically, the next day. The average price of the LASIK procedure for both eyes is $4,400–$4,800.

Virginia Eye Consultants has been home to ophthalmic specialists since its 1963 founding by Dr. John W. Dickerson. Over time, the practice has grown to a staff of seven MDs, each board certified in their medical or surgical area of expertise. Current president Dr. John Sheppard and vice president Dr. Stephen Scoper hold extensive knowledge on the topics of corneal transplants and clinical research knowledge on the topics of corneal transplants and clinical research.


If your thinking about Lasik and are interested in setting up your FREE evaluation, give us a call at Virginia Eye Consultants, where every patient is a V.I.P! 1.800.321.3937

Baking for a better cause

This past Tuesday several of us employees at Virginia Eye Consultants put our culinary skills to the test as we baked our hearts out to help fight against blindness!

Thank you to everyone who baked and donated, helping us raise over $450.00 to Vision Walk!
Absolutely astounding!

 For those of you who aren't familiar with the Vision Walk, its a campaigned fundraising event of the Foundation Fighting Blindness, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. This campaign ads in the research of retinal disease. Over 10 Million Americans are affected by blinding retinal diseases including macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa and Usher syndrome. The Foundation Fighting Blindness is working to find treatments and cures for these devastating diseases. By funding leading edge research in area such as genetics, gene therapy, transplantation, artificial retinal implants and pharmaceutical and nutritional therapies. The Foundation Fighting Blindness is making a difference today to make the world a brighter place for those suffering with retinal degenerative diseases.

 Over 40 devoted employees of Virginia Eye Consultants are dedicating their hearts...and feet!...to the Vision Walk taking place on May the 6th, starting at noon. For more information on the Vision Walk campaign, check out their website at: http://www.fightblindness.org/site/PageNavigator/VisionWalk_Homepage and help join us in walking for a cause!

Patient Testimonial

Over the weekend we received a wonderful praise to Dr. Scoper and the Staff here at Virginia Eye Consultants. Below is a testimonial from a delightful couple, Mr. and Mrs. Henney:

"We just want to COMPLIMENT all the staff at VIRGINIA EYE CONSULTANTS for an OUTSTANDING JOB, AND HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Dr. Scoper did my Lasik in 2007, now I am 20/20, before i was 7.75 on both eyes. My husband did the monovision, he is also 20/20.

Dr. Scoper does a complete top to bottom exam. Michael, Karen, Bonnie...and all the staff at the different departments have done an OUTSTANDING JOB...not just the first time, every check up.

VIRGINIA EYE CONSULTANTS is number one and 5 STAR!! Thank you for a WELL DONE JOB TO ALL!" -James and Larraine Henning

Thank you again to James and Larraine Henning for sharing their experience! In the wise words of James: "So many people are quick to say the negative while Larraine and I find it imporatnt to share the positive."

It is the wonderful patients that we have that make everyday possible!
If you are interested in sharing your experience, email Sara Peterson at: speterson@vec2020.com

World Glaucoma Day Interview

Listen to Constance O. Okeke, MD being interiewed on World Glaucoma Day.

Press Release--VEC Named 2012 Blue Ribbon Finalist

The official press release from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on Virginia Eye Consultants being named a 2012 Blue Ribbon Award finalist.

Virginia Eye Consultants Named BLUE RIBBON Finalist by US Chamber

Virginia Eye Consultants One of Seven Small Business Finalists Named U.S. Chamber of Commerce Blue Ribbon Award Winners

Washington D.C—March 15, 2012 —Virginia Eye Consultants, a leading vision care center headquartered in Norfolk, VA, was selected as one of seven companies across the country named BLUE RIBBON SMALL BUSINESS AWARD® winners by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Virginia Eye Consultants and other recipients were recognized for their dedication to the principles of free enterprise and their contributions to restoring jobs and prosperity.

“The recipients of this year’s Blue Ribbon Award excelled in business amid great uncertainty and thrived despite difficult economic times,” said Thomas J. Donohue, U.S. Chamber president and CEO. “More important than profits, their successes have provided much-needed jobs and hope to the people in their communities.”

The awards program, sponsored by Sam’s Club®, honors companies, like Virginia Eye Consultants, that demonstrate excellent business practices in several areas, including strategy, employee development, community involvement, and customer service.

Originally selected as part of 2012's 75 Blue Ribbon winners from a record number of nationwide applicants, Virginia Eye Consultants was named one of the seven award finalists.

Blue Ribbon businesses are also eligible for the COMMUNITY EXCELLENCE AWARD, which will be decided in March through online public voting.

Bob Barton Testimonial

Bob Barton, of Beach Ford, in Virginia Beach, provides a testimonial of his incredible experience at Virginia Eye Consultants.



Audio Testimonial "Everyone Told Me" from Bob Barton



Audio Testimonial "Comparison" from Bob Barton

Virginia Eye Consultants Testimonial

We have had the pleasure of having one of Virginia's most talented contemporary pianist's serve as both patient and fan here at Virginia Eye Consultants. A very special thank you goes out to Keith Nesbit for his kind words, and sharing his experience. In the spirit of sharing, check out Keith's newest album entitled: Other Italians. Other Italians can be sampled and purchased at http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/keithnesbit

My first album An Evening at The Painted Lady may also be obtained from CD Baby http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/keithnesbit2 and, for those who attended the Royal Canadian Navy's HMCS VENTURE training establishment,Venture - the Album  is still available from Foreman Ballast Studio. Either can be obtained as a CD by contacting me directly

Walter O. Whitley, OD EyeTube OD Filming and Lectures in Boston, MA

Dr. Walter Whitley, our Director of Optometric Services here at Virginia Eye Consultants, is currently in Boston, MA filming a variety of lectures for EyeTube OD

Some of the lectures included key speaking points on:

1.) A Special session with an expert panel reviewing the latest from the contact lens world-with emphasis on various age groups
2.) A course that will help explore the benefits of electronic health records/ case studies/ and the differences between vision and medical insurance
3.) Patient satisfaction and practice success, helping identify inter office processes.

We wish Dr. Whitley safe travels and are looking forward to seeing his videos posted at:

http://eyetubeod.com

*EyeTube OD is a Optometrist's video resource dedicated to all discussions on eye care.

Blue Ribbon Small Business Award

We are excited, honored, and extremely proud to announce that Virginia Eye Consultants has been presented the Blue Ribbon Small Business Award! This award pays homage to the top 75 small businesses, nationwide! As we celebrate this recognition, it warms our heart and we are all so appreciative and humbled by this. Virginia Eye Consultants realizes this is quiet an honor; for the US Chamber of Commerce represents well over 3 million businesses through out the country!


"Today, the Chamber celebrates the positive impact made by these companies and is proud to recognize them for their outstanding achievements," said Thomas J. Donohue, U.S. Chamber president and CEO.

All Blue Ribbon recipients will be recognized during America's Small Business Summit, where an overall winner will be announced Tuesday the 22nd of May.

Currently,Virginia Eye Consultants is entered into the running for the COMMUNITY EXCELLENCE AWARD. This award showcases a company who displays outstanding achievements by demonstrating community excellence. What an honor!

You are given an opportunity to show your support by voting for us at: http://www.uschambersummit.com/

Employee Recognition

Jack Kress, a long time patient of Dr. Stephen Scoper and Virginia Eye Consultants, shares his appreciation not only for the Doctors, but also for our staff! A special recognition goes to Kelly Wittwer:



"If all the employees here were like Kelly Wittwer, the parking lots would be full just to meet her! She makes you feel good and appreciated. Kelly Wittwer is refreshing!"- Jack Kress


Thank you very much to Jack for sharing such kind words. Kelly, along with many members of our Virginia Eye Consultants staff, is a elite group of people who love what they do and the difference they make doing it!

Interested in sharing your story or special thanks? Email Sara Peterson at: Speterson@vec2020.com

Patient Testimonial: Kristen Gurekovich

Imagine viewing life every day as if you were looking through a foggy window. The figures are blurred and nearly impossible to make out. You squint as you strain to focus in on the image. With 20/400 vision, this perception was a reality for Kristen. For as long as she can remember, Kristen has had poor, unclear vision.

Fortunately for Kristen, she was able to wear contacts throughout her youth so she wasn't often troubled from the problems that arise from wearing glasses during sports and other physical activities. "To be honest," she claims, "LASIK or PRK was something I wouldn’t have thought to have if I had not been interested in becoming a pilot." In high school, Kristen first became interested in aviation. She continued to pursue this interest in college, graduating with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering.

Kristen quickly learned that designing and constructing aircraft was never going to fully satisfy her true passion. "I have the kind of personality that likes to 'do'. I found myself craving more action and even more involvement." It was around this time that she became determined to make her dream a reality. "At this point, I had made up my mind. I was going to be a pilot, and I wouldn’t let my poor vision be an obstacle."

She set out to clear her largest hurdle by researching vision correction practices along the East Coast. "Ultimately," she claims, "I chose to fly from New London, CT, to Norfolk, VA, because of the level of comfort I felt with Virginia Eye Consultants. Your sight is so important. You never want to take any risk with your vision."


Upon arrival, the first thing she noticed was the friendliness of the staff. "I’m from the North, so I really noticed a sense of southern hospitality. The staff even offered me food on several occasions!" Kristen says.



Kristen recalls her PRK experience on December 9, 2010. "Dr. Scoper did my PRK procedure and walked me through each step. It took about ten to fifteen minutes per eye, and I felt no pain."


Fast-forward a little over a year and Kristen is thrilled to report that she has maintained 20/15 vision since the procedure, is now completely free of contacts and glasses and has recently been recommended as a Student Naval Aviator and will attend Officer Candidate School this spring. "My favorite thing about my new vision, besides the fact that I am now able to become a pilot, is that my daily routine is much quicker. I literally don't have to sweat the small stuff. Oh, and it's much less expensive!"

Congratulations, Kristen, and may you soar to new heights in all that you do.

Dr. Stephen V. Scoper, MD: ToberDexⓇST Guest Lecturer in Long Island, New York.

This past Thursday, February the 16^th, 2012, Dr. Stephen Scoper was a guest lecturer at a Physician’s meeting in Long Island, New York that discussed therapeutic strategies for blepharitis. Dr. Stephen Scoper discussed his experience in both diagnosing and treating interior and posterior blepharitis.

A majority of the lecture revolved around the scientific paper entitled: Ocular Distribution, Bactericidal Activity and Settling Characteristics of TobraDexⓇST Ophthalmic Suspension Compared with TobraDexⓇ Ophthalmic Suspension. Dr. Scoper was the lead author of this publishing that was responsible for gaining FDA approval for TobraDexⓇST.

Dr. Stephen Scoper walked the other Physicians through the details of the paper with the following conclusions:

• Suspension settling characteristics of ToberDexⓇST are outstanding, resulting in dose uniformity, because of the Xanthan gun vehicle with more bioavailbility.
• In-Vitro studies showed improved bactericidal activity leading to longer retention time and faster bacterial eradication.
• Human pharmacokinetic clinical studies showed equivalent concentrations of drug in the aqueous, despite ToberDexST having only half the dexamethasone.

In conclusion, these finding show that ToberDexⓇST is an excellent treatment for acute blepharitis.

Patient Testimonial: Barbara Cobb

Barbara Cobb suffered from an extreme form of dry eyes- a condition that can leave many of us feeling uncomfortable, frustrated, and helpless. Barbara, thrilled with her results by Virginia Eye Consultant's Dr. Lago, has this to say about her experience:

"Suffering from dry eyes for longer than I can remember, I began to think there was no hope-no relief. I had been going to a Physician for many years that made my dry eye condition manageable, but not better. My Physician tried everything from tear duct surgeries to numerous drops, still there was no relief. I figured this was it; this was as good as my vision would get.

As fate had it, I came to Virginia Eye Consultants to get my cataracts removed by Dr. Stephen Scoper, but was unable to move forward until my dry eyes were under control. Dr. Scoper had referred me in-house to Dr. Dayna Lago, who in my opinion is the greatest! I just can't tell you how much I appreciate her and all she has done for me! My eyes feel better than they have in many years: there is no more discomfort...my eyes shine! I can see so well, my eyes feel so good...this is truly magical! By Dr. Lago controlling my dry eyes, I was able to undergo my cataract surgery with Dr. Scoper. The whole experience is worth mentioning to everyone! Dr. Lago has improved my life greatly. Virginia Eye Consultants come highly recommended."

Here at Virginia Eye Consultants, we pride ourselves on making a difference and providing quality care that changes lives. A special thanks to Barbara Cobb, for sharing her story! Interested in sharing yours? Email Sara Peterson at: speterson@vec2020.com

The Virginia Opera's Little Red

Funded by the Virginia Opera's Board of Directors and our very own Dr. Stephen Scoper; the Virginia Opera show cased an amazing rendition of a childhood classic: Little Red. The Performance was held Tuesday morning at the Lower Norfolk Academy by the Virginia Opera's in school touring Opera.

As the children flooded the auditorium, you could see the uncertainty as to what they were going to expect. However, as soon as the big bad wolf came on stage and started to sing, you could see a change in the children's faces. Immediately they began to light up, and as the performance progressed, laughter filled the rooms. At the end of Little Red, the children were encouraged to ask the performers questions...hands shot up, waving, flagging, and asking great questions. Mission accomplished, the children were both entertained and inspired! Mrs. Nancy Scoper, wife of Dr. Stephen Scoper, shared her enthusiasm and support as she was amongst the audience during Tuesdays viewing.

Dr. Scoper, being a fan of the fine arts himself, believed it was important to share and expose our youth to the complex and riveting culture we know as the Opera. Sharing the same mission was Educational Program Director, Laura Wigginton. Laura explained to the audience that each performance is carefully selected with consideration on a number of things: entertainment, morals & lessons, and most importantly: stories our children know, love and can relate to.

Per Laura, the artists are all apart of the Virginia Opera's Emerging Artists Program, who are responsible for memorizing their parts before collectively coming together for rehearsal just prior to their opening shows. The nature of the play, whilst educational and entertaining, also displayed wonderful team support, compassion and excitement for each performers craft.

I think it's safe to say the children and adults in the audience, myself included, were given a refreshed image to the fine arts. On behalf of Dr. Stephen and Nancy Scoper, and Virginia Eye Consultants, we would like to give a special thank you to the Virginia Opera for making in school touring performances possible!

For more information on the Virginia Opera and upcoming performances, be sure to check out their web page at: Vaopera.org

The Virginia Opera's: Little Red

John Arida: Pianist/Tour Music Director

Julia Ebner: Little Red

Megan Marino: Mother/Grandmother

Cairan Ryan: Wolf/Woodsman

Meet the Staff Monday's

Each Monday we will be high lighting a staff member of our Facility, it'll be a friendly face to look forward to at your appointment!

We are proud to introduce: Kelly Wittwer, an employee of Virginia Eye Consultants for over half a decade. Enthusiastic, upbeat, and dedicated to the best quality care, Kelly paves the way as a COMT and Clinical lead.

Make sure you check back next Monday to meet another staff member here at Virginia Eye Consultants!

Testimonials “I’ve had two corneal transplants, one in each eye. Prior to these transplants; I couldn’t see at night, I couldn’t drive, or see the head lights and street signs. I didn’t know where to go, unless it was a memorized path...and even then driving was scary. Dr. Sheppard gave me my sight, vision, and life back. I don’t even need glasses to watch the television! Dr. Sheppard has worked with me, until I could see again. It’s amazing, what he does is a blessing. No one knows how valuable something is, until it’s gone. I lost my vision, and Dr. Sheppard gave it back to me.” -Perry Williams Your voice counts... Share it. Good morning ladies and gentlemen! With the New Year quickly in motion, we are starting new traditions here at Virginia Eye Consultants. I, Sara Peterson, am reaching out to those interested in sharing your story! We can either set up a time to meet, or conduct the interview over phone or email: 757.622.2200 // Speterson@vec2020.com For those whom are new to our practice, we are an elite group of Physicians and staff who love what we do, and most importantly, make a difference doing it. We treat a wide range of eye conditions such as: Glaucoma Cataracts Infections Keratitis Keratoconus Macular degeneration Retinal degeneration Diabetic health of the eye exams Plaquenil screenings LASIK evaluations Corneal Dystrophy Corneal transplant evaluations Lid/ brow lift evaluations And many more. We also do in house operations and procedures such as: Botox LASIK Injections for retinal/macula Cataract surgery YAG procedures SLT procedures Trabectome surgery LenSX Cataract surgery And many more. Our surgical suite, Virginia Surgery Center, is equipped with state of the art technology, and is conveniently located upstairs.

One large step for Dr. Okeke, one giant leap for Virginia Eye Consultants!

We are celebrating yet another advancement and achievement by our very own Glaucoma specialist, Dr. Constance Okeke, MD, MSCE. Dr. Okeke, being no stranger to both LenSx laser cataract surgeries and Trabectome glaucoma surgeries, has made new head way in combining the best of both technological advancements into one.

The ground breaking news started upon Dr. Okeke's arrival to Virginia Eye Consultants, when Dr. Okeke became the first certified Trabectome Surgeon to provide the surgical technique. The Trabectome is a manually invasive procedure for glaucoma, in which the eye's natural fluid balance is being restored. Dr. Okeke has secured the position as the only doctor in the area to take on the know-how and challenge of this advanced procedure.

Since then, Virginia Eye Consultants has obtained the newest technology in cataract surgeries with the LenSx laser- assisted cataract procedure. Our LenSx laser provides unparalleled precision and safety, redefining cataract surgery in its entirety!

Dr. Okeke has taken the initiative to integrate both technology and technique by combining a LenSx Laser cataract procedure along with a Trabectome glaucoma procedure, and the results speak for themselves! But rather than taking my word for it, take Dr. Okeke's:

"With the Trabectome, this advanced glaucoma procedure gives patients the opportunity to lower pressure using the newest technology. Combined with LenSx laser, the patients can improve their vision and treat glaucoma. The benefits of combining both glaucoma and cataract surgery with LenSx and the Trabectome offers more precision, improves the sealing ability, efficiency of the incision, and over all quality combined in one surgical procedure."

Often, we fear that once we commit to the newest technology, another 'newer or better' version appears. In the case of traditional cataract surgery combined with Trabectome vs. LenSx Laser cataract surgery, this is not the case! Both are effective, efficient, performed by a skilled physician, and prosper great results. In this progressive day and age, Dr. Okeke and Virginia Eye consultants never miss a beat.

"Even glaucoma and cataract procedures can continue to have new advances in technology that can allow for better outcomes." -Dr. Constance O. Okeke, MD, MSCE