Author Archive: NVI Staff

Optometrist vs. Ophthalmologist -Bonus-What is an optician?

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Here is the differences explained simply-If you are ever unsure of who you need to see, we are happy to help!

Optometrist (OD)

Think of an optometrist as the primary care doctor for your eyes.
They are highly trained to perform routine eye exams, check your vision, and determine prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses.They can also diagnose and treat common eye conditions and diseases (like pink eye, dry eyes, or glaucoma) and prescribe most medications. Many see patients for specialty contact lens wear for keratoconus and myopia control for kids. Optometrists may perform treatments for dry eye, such as Lipiflow, IPL, RF or DMSt, and prescribe long term therapies to control the underlying disease.

They are not medical doctors (M.D. or D.O.) and do not perform eye surgery. If you have a serious condition requiring surgery, your optometrist will refer you to an ophthalmologist. In our practice, that often just means seeing one the Dr Gilberts for a visit, and then generally, you can go back to your optometrist for regular annual and follow up visits. In many cases, you can even have your post-op exams with your optometrist.

Ophthalmologist (MD or DO)

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye and vision care.

They can perform all the same exams and testing as an optometrist, but their extensive medical training allows them to treat all eye diseases, including the most complex ones. Their training adds in surgical treatment such as cataract removal, LASIK, and laser and surgical care for glaucoma or retinal diseases. Most ophthalmologists do not prescribe contact lenses, but instead will refer to an optometrist who specializes in contacts.

Your doctors will work together to make sure you get the care you need in the most effective way. They may refer you to another provider for specialty care, but for general comprehensive eye care, you may see whomever you prefer.

The Role of the Optician

Opticians are eye care technicians who specialize in the design, fitting, and dispensing of eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other visual aids. They work closely with the prescriptions provided by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Opticians are not doctors—they do not perform eye exams, diagnose diseases, or write prescriptions, but they are essential for ensuring that your corrective lenses are manufactured accurately and fit your face and eyes properly for optimal comfort and vision correction.

Range of Dry Eye Treatment Options Expands for 2026

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Beyond the Drop: Targeting the Root Cause of Dry Eye at Northwest Vision Institute

If you suffer from dry eyes, you know the routine: a cabinet full of artificial tears that offer only minutes of relief. At Northwest Vision Institute, we believe you deserve better than a temporary fix.

The secret to lasting comfort isn’t more drops—it’s treating the root cause. Whether your dry eye is caused by inflammation, blocked oil glands, or eyelid laxity, our specialized team is here to restore your ocular health with the most advanced technology available in 2026.

Why Traditional Eye Drops Often Fail

Most chronic dry eye (approximately 86%) is caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). This happens when the tiny oil glands in your eyelids become clogged, preventing them from releasing the essential oils that keep your tears from evaporating. Drops only add water to the surface; they don’t fix the “oil pump” that protects your eyes.

Our 2026 Suite of Precision Treatments

We have invested in a comprehensive “dry eye toolbox” to customize a plan for your specific biology:

  • Lumenis OptiLight (IPL): The first and only FDA-approved light therapy for dry eye. It uses precise pulses of light to reduce inflammation, eliminate abnormal blood vessels, and “melt” hardened oils within the glands. Initial treatment typically includes 5 visits. 
  • Lumenis OptiPlus (RF): Utilizing Radio Frequency energy, this treatment delivers deep, gentle heat to the eyelids. It not only liquefies blockages but also stimulates collagen, which can improve both the function of the glands and the appearance of the skin around the eyes. Initial treatment typically includes 5 visits. 
  • LipiFlow: This device uses a “thermal pulsation” system to apply controlled heat and gentle massage directly to the inner eyelids, clearing out blockages and hardened oil in a single 12-minute session.
  • Blephex: Think of this as a deep cleaning for your lashes. It gently exfoliates the eyelid margins to remove biofilm and bacteria (blepharitis) that contribute to irritation and gland blockages.

NEW for 2026: Lumenis OptiLift

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of Lumenis OptiLift, the latest breakthrough in ocular surface rejuvenation.

While other treatments focus on the glands, OptiLift targets the muscles and structure of the eyelids. Using Dynamic Muscle Stimulation (DMSt), it tones the periorbital muscles to address “lower lid laxity.” When your eyelids are firm and close properly, your blink becomes more effective, naturally pumping oils onto the eye and preventing tear evaporation. It’s the final piece of the puzzle for many of our patients.

Expert Care You Can Trust

At Northwest Vision Institute, your care is in the hands of specialists. All of our advanced dry eye procedures are performed by our highly trained Optometry and Nurse Practitioner team. This collaborative approach ensures that your medical treatment is delivered with clinical precision and a gentle touch.

Ready for Lasting Relief?

Don’t just mask the symptoms—fix the foundation.

Maximize Your Eye Care Savings: Understanding Your FSA and HSA Plans

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At Northwest Vision, we want to ensure you get the best possible eye care while making the most of your health benefits. If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or a Health Savings Account (HSA), you have a powerful tool to pay for essential vision services, often with tax-free dollars!

What are FSA and HSA Plans?

These plans are tax-advantaged accounts that allow you to set aside money for qualified medical expenses. While both are excellent savings tools, they have key differences:

FeatureFlexible Spending Account (FSA)Health Savings Account (HSA)
EligibilityAvailable with most standard health plans.Must be paired with a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP).
RolloverUse-It-or-Lose-It: Most funds must be spent by year-end, though some plans allow a small rollover or grace period.Funds Roll Over: Money stays in the account year after year, even if you change jobs or health plans.
OwnershipOwned by your employer.Owned by you.

✅ Eligible Eye Care Services at Northwest Vision

The great news is that most of the services and products we offer qualify for both FSA and HSA use! This is a fantastic way to pay for necessary vision expenses, from routine care to advanced treatments.

Core Vision Services:

  • Comprehensive Eye Exams
  • Prescription Eyeglasses
  • Prescription Contact Lenses
  • Vision correction surgery, from ICL to RLE and premium intraocular lenses to decrease dependence on glasses after cataract surgery 

Advanced Dry Eye and Treatment Eligibility:

One of the best ways to use your pre-tax dollars is on advanced, non-routine treatments. If you suffer from dry eyes, the following eligible services are available at Northwest Vision:

  • Lipiflow: A thermal treatment for Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), a common cause of dry eye.
  • Blephex: An in-office cleaning procedure for blepharitis, frequently paired with Lipiflow.
  • Lumenis Optilight and Optiplus (IPL): Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments used to address inflammation and improve dry eye symptoms.

💡 Note: Cosmetic procedures are generally not covered. However, medically necessary treatments for chronic conditions like dry eye often are eligible. We recommend consulting your plan administrator for confirmation on specific treatment coverage.

We also offer Omega-3 supplementation and several products from Oasis Medical & We Love Eyes to assist with eyelid hygiene. 

🗓️ Don’t Lose Your FSA Funds!

If you have an FSA, be mindful of your plan’s deadline! Many plans require you to use your funds by December 31st or soon after. Schedule your annual exam, pick up a new pair of glasses, or finally treat your dry eyes before you lose the money you set aside.

Ready to use your benefits?

Call Northwest Vision today to schedule your appointment and discuss your eye care needs!

Might Over Mites: Everything You Need to Know About Demodex Blepharitis and Treatment

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Have you ever dealt with persistent itchy, red, or gritty eyes that just won’t clear up? The problem might not be just dry eye or allergies, but a microscopic guest: Demodex eye mites. Microscopic mites (specifically D. folliculorum and D. brevis) are naturally present on human skin but can overgrow and cause inflammation, a condition known as Demodex Blepharitis.

What are Demodex? They are microscopic arachnids that live in hair follicles and oil glands. Overgrowth is common, especially with age, weakened immune systems, or conditions like rosacea.

D. folliculorum
Crusting, know as collarettes can be seen by your provider with the slit lamp microscope.

Common Symptoms (Demodex Blepharitis):

  • Itching or burning eyes (often worse in the morning).
  • Red, inflamed eyelid margins.
  • Collarettes: Waxy, cylindrical dandruff-like crusting at the base of the eyelashes—this is a classic sign of Demodex.
  • Gritty, foreign body sensation.
  • Loss of eyelashes (madarosis).

These symptoms often look like other conditions (like dry eye) but don’t respond well to standard treatments. If you have tried hot compresses and every artificial tear under the sun and still experience redness and irritation, you need an evaluation with your doctor. 

Treatment and Home Care

Tea Tree Oil Products

Tea Tree oil , specifically its component Terpinen-4-ol, is a potent natural miticide (mite killer). Tea tree products are widely available in local retail and online. We carry Oasis lid wipes, plus a foaming cleanser and a cleaning oil, both from We Love Eyes. When used daily, these products can help decrease the mite population and decrease symptoms.
Caution is critical with tea tree products, it can be highly irritating. Use only commercial available products formulated specifically for eye lid hygiene.

General Eyelid Hygiene

  • Daily Warm Compresses: Helps unclog oil glands, but does not kill the mites. Our providers generally recommend 10 minutes twice a day to help with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and long term dry eye maintenance. You can use a hot washcloth, though it may need to be re-heated to get the full 10 minutes, or there are many types of dry eye hot compresses available online. We carry a product in the clinic that can be warmed in the microwave for fast application. There are also USB models, though they generally need to be pre-heated. 
  • Gentle Cleansing: Regular washing of the face and eyelids to remove excess sebum and debris. Over the counter tea tree cleaners like the We Love Eyes products can be used. 
  • Environmental Hygiene: Washing pillowcases and bedding frequently in hot water.

If home remedies are not enough, there is a new prescription medication that eradicates Demodex mites. XDEMVY is the first and only FDA-approved prescription eye drop.

Its active ingredient is lotilaner, an antiparasitic, and it is typically administered twice a day for 6 weeks.  Clinical trials showed it significantly reduced the crusting (collarettes) and successfully eradicated the mites in a large percentage of patients after the 6-week course.

The most common side effect reported is temporary stinging and burning upon application (in about 10% of patients). Other reported side effects include styes/chalazion and punctate keratitis. Xdemvy is only available by prescription, your doctor will be able to evaluate your eyelid and follicles to see if Demodex mites might be the source of your eye irritation. 

At Northwest Vision, we work to treat the underlying cause of dry eye symptoms, whether those symptoms are a result of demodex blepharitis, meibomian gland disease, or lid laxity resulting in incomplete blink. See any of our dry eye specialists today for a complete evaluation and begin to feel better now!

Curious of your symptoms might be related? Try the quiz @ https://xdemvy.com/demodex-blepharitis-quiz

Northwest Vision Consolidation

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Northwest Vision clinics consolidate to Bellevue campus

At Northwest Vision Institute, PLLC, our commitment has always been to provide the most advanced and compassionate care possible. To streamline your patient journey and enhance the quality of our services, we are thrilled to announce that we have successfully combined our two existing locations into one single, full service location, right here in Bellevue.

Our combined clinic allows for a  more comprehensive patient experience, uniting all aspects of your vision care, including your favorite eye doctors,  under one roof at:

Northwest Vision Institute, PLLC
12301 NE 10th Pl Ste 200
Bellevue, WA 98005

  • Comprehensive Eye Care Clinic: All routine eye exams, urgent care appointments, and consultations with our optometrists and ophthalmologists.
  • Cutting-Edge Optical: Our full retail optical shop featuring the latest in corrective lens technology and a curated selection of frames.
  • Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC): A dedicated, safe, and convenient surgical environment for procedures like cataract surgery, eliminating the need to visit an external hospital.

💧 Focus on Specialty: Northwest Vision Dry Eye Center

We understand how chronic dry eye can impact quality of life. By centralizing, we have been able to create a dedicated, Full Dry Eye Center equipped with the most advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies (like OptiLight and OptiPlus) available. This dedicated space ensures you receive specialized, focused care for your persistent dry eye symptoms.

🤝 Collaboration and Expertise

When our entire team—from optometrists, ophthalmologists, advanced practice nurses and surgical nurses to optical staff—works side-by-side, communication improves instantly. This integration fosters a level of seamless collaboration that results in faster, more accurate diagnoses and highly coordinated treatment plans for even the most complex conditions.

We know that leaving our Kirkland office means some patients will have to drive further to see our wonderful team of providers, and for that we are sorry. We will miss the Kirkland community we were part of for so long. We are proud to offer this comprehensive, accessible, and technologically advanced facility to the communities we serve.

Whether you need an updated prescription, a specialized dry eye treatment, or a consultation for cataract surgery, everything you need is now waiting for you in one convenient location.

Call Northwest Vision Institute today at (425) 450-2020 or schedule your appointment online at NWVision.com to experience the next level of personalized eye care!