Eye surgeon Nancy Balin, MD, FACS, In Western Massachusetts
Can Treat Vision Disorders
The Balin Eye & Laser Center run by eye surgeon Nancy Balin, MD, FACS, in Western Massachusetts is a complete eye care facility offering a full range of services. In addition to PRK, LASIK, and CustomVue™ refractive eye surgery, the Balin Eye & Laser Center offers our patients the following. Click on a service below to find out more details:
No-Stitch Cataract
Glaucoma Treatment
Eye Exams
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
Optical Shop
Diabetic Retinopathy
BOTOX® Cosmetic
Crystalens™
ReSTOR® Lens
ReZoom™ Lens
No-Stitch Cataract
A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye, which interferes with light passing through to the retina. This clouding results in blurred and lost vision. Many people suffering from cataracts describe the visual distortion as being similar to looking through a waterfall or a piece of wax paper. They may also complain of night halos, excessive glare or double vision. Cataracts are most commonly found in people age 60 and over. They are often the result of the natural aging process of the lens in the eye. However, cataracts can also be diagnosed in much younger individuals. They can be the result of a previous eye injury, chronic use of steroid drops or they can be inherited.
Because a cataract cannot be seen by the naked eye, an ophthalmologist must dilate the pupil and examine the lens under a special microscope to see if a cataract is present. Once a cataract has been diagnosed, it must be surgically removed in order to restore clear vision. To date there is no known treatment to prevent the development of cataracts.
Eye surgeon Nancy Balin, MD, FACS, performs the most advanced cataract surgery available today, implementing a method known as phacoemulsification. The eye surgery is performed in West Springfield, Massachusetts at the cataract and laser center on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. A complete physical examination is required prior to the surgical procedure to ensure the patients overall health. During the surgery an ultra sound emitting probe is directed at the cataract. These high-energy sound waves break the cataract into tiny, microscopic pieces, which are gently suctioned, from the eye. The procedure is performed through a small incision which is self sealing, requiring no sutures. Most people report improved vision immediately following the surgery and are able to return to their normal activities within two days.
Because the eye surgeon removes the natural lens of the eye during surgery, it is necessary to substitute an artificial lens known as an intraocular lens into the eye. The intraocular lens functions in the same manner as the natural lens, focusing light rays directly onto the retina to produce clear, sharp images.
Eye surgeon Dr. Balin of Western, Massachusetts performs cataract surgery using the monofocal, multifocal and Crystalens™ Intraocular lens.
Patients who want only to correct their distance vision will select a monofocal lens. This type of lens will provide good vision at a single focal point. Most patients who choose a monofocal lens will require a pair of reading glasses following the surgery for correcting their near vision.
For patients who want to correct distance, intermediate and reading vision, Dr. Balin can implant a multifocal lens or the Crystalens™. Each of these Intraocular lenses provides different ranges of correction, but in a different way.
The Crystalens™ is the first and only fully accommodating Intraocular lens in the United States. The lens provides a continuous range of vision at all distances. The Crystalens™ has a unique design which incorporates a hinge on each side of the lens. The hinge allows the lens to move forward and backward in conjunction with the eye’s natural ciliary muscle. As the muscle moves to focus at different distances the lens is moved to bring the objects into focus in the same way that the eye focuses in youth. Patients who choose the Crystalens™ will usually not need reading glasses for mid-range or up-close work following their procedure. Dr. Balin also performs cataract surgery using the new multifocal IOLs – ReSTOR® and ReZoom™. These new lens implants provide both distance and reading vision. In most cases patients who choose a multifocal lens implant will not need glasses to read following their procedure.
To find out if you are a candidate for cataract surgery, you will need a complete eye exam by Dr. Balin. Please contact the office at 800-436-3937 to schedule an appointment.
For those individuals with astigmatism, a cornea that is shaped like a football, Dr. Balin can perform a procedure known as Astigmatic Keratotomy during cataract surgery to reshape the cornea into a sphere. This will reduce the individuals need for glasses after the surgery.
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Glaucoma Treatment
Glaucoma is a term that encompasses a variety of eye diseases, which cause a build up of pressure within the eye. This fluid pressure builds until it eventually pushes the optic nerve back into a concave shape. If the pressure remains too high for too long permanent damage will occur to the optic nerve. Although glaucoma may start in one eye, it usually progresses affecting both eyes equally.
In many cases the disease advances without causing any discomfort or pain. Visual changes are subtle and limited to the peripheral field as opposed to the central field of vision. If left untreated glaucoma can result in a total loss of vision.
Dr. Balin performs comprehensive eye exams, which include a series of diagnostic tests for glaucoma. If glaucoma is suspected, Dr. Balin uses the state-of-the-art laser scanning system known as the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph (HRT II) to thoroughly evaluate the size, depth and shape of the patient's optic nerve. The HRT II is capable of detecting minor changes in the optic nerve over time thus enabling the doctor to diagnose glaucoma years before a patient actually exhibits symptoms. The earlier glaucoma is detected the less likely there will be any permanent loss of vision.
Although glaucoma is most common in individuals over 60, it can occur at any age. Certain factors such as extreme nearsightedness or diabetes have been associated with the disease. It is recommended that all individuals be tested for glaucoma at the age of 35 and then again at age 40 with regular checkups every two years thereafter. Although there is no cure for glaucoma, the disease can be controlled with a series of treatments including eye drops, oral medications, laser surgery, and microsurgery.
Dr. Balin offers a progressive new laser treatment for glaucoma called Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty or SLT. This laser treatment reduces intraocular pressure in the eye. SLT is performed on an out-patient basis using anesthetic drops to numb your eye. The procedure takes only a few minutes. The laser targets specific cells in the eye leaving surrounding tissue unaffected. The process stimulates the body’s own healing response to lower the pressure in the eye.
Eye Exams
It takes at least one hour to perform a comprehensive eye examination. The exam begins with a complete assessment of the patient's current range of vision and any recommendations for corrections.
 Then a series of diagnostic tests are performed including an assessment of eye movements, glaucoma testing, evaluation of conjunctival as well as cornea or cataract disorders and a thorough examination of the retina and optic nerves.
In order to perform these tests eye drops will be used which may blur your vision or make you sensitive to light. We recommend that you bring sunglasses to wear after the exam. Optional reversing drops are available to help clear your vision sooner.
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
 The Balin Eye & Laser Center is a full service eye treatment facility, specializing in conditions of the eye as well as the eyelid. Dr. Balin performs cosmetic eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) to treat eyelid abnormalities caused by disease, injury or natural aging. These eyelid conditions often cause pain as well as limit the field of vision. Surgery can reduce painful symptoms and improve the eye's appearance. Prior to the surgery, the eye and the eyelid are thoroughly examined. The surgery is performed by eye surgeon Dr. Balin at our surgical suite in Western Massachusetts at the Balin Eye & Laser Center on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia.
Ptosis - Upper eyelid drooping
Ptosis is a condition in which the upper eyelid droops substantially over the eye, thus limiting the field of vision. This condition may be apparent at birth (congenital), or may develop with aging (involutional).
All children with Congenital Ptosis should be examined by an ophthalmologist or eye surgeon to ensure that no other eye disease is present. It is recommended that surgery be performed in the preschool years to make it easier for the child to see and to improve the child's appearance. The actual surgery performed is dependent upon the severity of the condition.
Involutional Ptosis develops with aging and may worsen with eye surgery or eyelid swelling. The drooping in the eyelid can limit the field of vision and give the eyes an uneven look. An eye surgeon can shorten the muscle that opens the eyelid in order to treat this condition.
Excess eyelid skin
As we naturally age our skin loses its elasticity. Because the eyelid skin is the thinnest skin of the body it is very susceptible to stretching creating drooping in the upper eyelid and bags in the lower eyelid. This excess skin affects our overall appearance as well as limits our field of vision. Dr. Balin can perform eye surgery near Springfield, Massachusetts in our Northampton office. Excess skin is removed, as well as any fatty tissue that may be present to restore the eyelids to their normal position.
Ectropion - Outward turning of the lower eyelid
Excessive stretching of the lower eyelid skin can cause the eyelid to droop down and turn outward. This may also occur from eyelid burns or some skin diseases. This condition can cause dryness of the eyes, excessive tearing, redness and sensitivity to light and wind. These symptoms can be reduced by surgically restoring the lower eyelid to its original position.
Entropion - Inward turning of the lower eyelid
Excessive stretching of the lower eyelid can cause the eyelid to droop down and turn inward. This condition can also be caused by infection and scarring inside the eyelid. When the eyelid turns inward the eyelashes and skin irritate the eye by constantly rubbing against it. This results in making the eye red and sensitive to light and wind. If left untreated Entropion may result in the formation of an eye ulcer. Surgery is necessary to return the eyelid to its normal position.
Optical Shop
Visit our full service optical shop located within our Northampton office. Here you will find a full line of designer frames available in sizes to accommodate everyone in the family. We offer over 700 frames including the popular Titanium Autoflex and Acuflex by Marchan.
Our sunglass collection features the latest styles from the best designers including Revo, Maui Jim, Serengetti and many others.
Our optician is available Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to assist you
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Diabetic Retinopathy
 Diabetes is a disease, which occurs when the body does not generate enough insulin to properly regulate the individual's blood sugar level. The disease, which can occur in both adults and children, poses many threats to the individual's vision. The deteriorating effect that diabetes has on the eye is called Diabetic Retinopathy. Patients who have been diagnosed with Diabetes need to undergo regular comprehensive eye exams by an ophthalmologist to monitor and properly treat their Diabetic Retinopathy.
There are two types of Diabetic Retinopathy. The earliest or initial phase is referred to as Background Diabetic Retinopathy. In this earliest stage the disease begins to weaken the arteries in the eye causing them to leak fluid and swell. Most patients do not experience any significant symptoms at this time. The second type of diabetic Retinopathy is known as proliferate diabetic retinopathy. In this stage the retina experiences a lack of oxygen due to the inability of the weakened arteries to effectively circulate blood through the retina. In a sense the retina becomes starved for oxygen. To compensated small fragile blood vessels begin to form in an attempt to bring more oxygen to the retina. These tiny vessels break easily leaking blood into the retina. This causes floaters to form and the patient to experience a significant decrease in overall vision. If left untreated the vessels will continue to grow and break forming scar tissue, which may result in more serious conditions such as retinal detachment or glaucoma.
It is important for patients who have been diagnosed with diabetes to be carefully evaluated yearly by an ophthalmologist or eye surgeon. Dr. Balin performs a special diagnostic test known as a fluorescein angiography to properly evaluate and monitor the progression of the disease in the retina. The test is administered by eye surgeon Nancy A. Balin, MD, FACS, at the Balin Eye & Laser Center in Western Massachusetts. A small amount of dye (fluorescein) is injected into the patients arm. The dye travels through the body to the blood vessels of the eye. A special camera is used to photograph the dye as it circulates through the blood vessels illuminating areas in the eye where vessels are swollen or leaking. Dr. Balin will analyze the fluorescein angiogram to accurately diagnose the condition of the retina and identify the degree of treatment needed.
If laser surgery is required, eye surgeon Nancy Balin, MD, FACS, will perform eye surgery near Springfield in Western Massachusetts at the Balin Eye & Laser Center in Northampton to help prevent further loss of vision.
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BOTOX® Cosmetic
BOTOX® Cosmetic has been used to temporarily reduce facial lines in over 1 million people. Since its approval by the FDA in 2002 BOTOX® Cosmetic has become extremely popular as a non surgical treatment for frown lines and wrinkles. These facial lines are caused by repeated muscle movement. As we frown or smile, muscles contract and pull the skin. As we age our skin becomes less elastic. Repeated pulling of the skin results in the formation of lines and wrinkles. BOTOX® Cosmetic is a purified protein that when injected into a muscle will block the nerve impulses that cause that muscle to move. The doctor injects small amounts of BOTOX® Cosmetic into the facial muscles responsible for the frown lines and wrinkles. By reducing the movement of the muscle the lines begin to diminish and the face appears much smoother.
The BOTOX® injections are minimally invasive and are administered in the doctor’s office The entire process usually takes less than 15 minutes. Most patients resume normal activities immediately following the treatment. Patients will usually see results within a few days. The treatment lasts approximately 4 months.
As with all cosmetic procedures there are risks. You should be properly evaluated by a qualified doctor to determine if BOTOX® Cosmetic is right for you. Call our office at 1-800-436-3937 or 413-584-6666 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Balin.
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Crystalens™
If you need cataract surgery or if you are over 50 years old and are experiencing difficulty with your up-close or intermediate vision, the Crystalens™ may be ideal for you.
The Crystalens™ is the first and only fully accommodating Intraocular lens in the U.S. The lens is designed with a flexible hinge that works with the eye’s natural ciliary muscle to move forward and backward in the eye bringing vision into focus at all distances. In most cases patients who have the Crystalens™ implanted will not need reading glasses after the surgery for up-close and computer work.
During surgery the eye’s natural lens is removed and the Crystalens™ is implanted. The surgery is performed at the Cataract & Laser Center in West Springfield on an out-patient basis under local anesthesia. The procedure is performed on one eye at a time and takes approximately 30 minutes. In order to know if you are a good candidate for the Crystalens™, Dr. Balin will need to perform a complete eye exam.
As with all surgery there are potential risk. It is important to be carefully evaluated for the procedure and educated regarding the benefits and risks to you. Patients who want to be evaluated for the Crystalens™ can call the office at 413-584-6666 or 1-800-436-3937 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Balin.
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ReSTOR® Lens
The ReSTOR® lens implant is used to correct the vision of patients who have cataracts or those patients who are experiencing difficulty with up-close vision. The ReSTOR® multifocal IOL provides patients with distance and reading vision within the lens. During an outpatient surgery, the patient’s natural lens is removed and replaced with the ReSTOR® lens. This revolutionary lens is designed to allow patients to see clearly at all distances. In fact clinical studies show that 80% of those patients receiving the lens did not need glasses for any activities following the procedure. Patients must undergo a complete eye exam with Dr. Balin to determine if they are a good candidate for the ReSTOR® lens. Please contact the office at 413-584-6666 or 800-436-3937 to learn more about the ReSTOR® lens or schedule a complete eye exam.
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ReZoom™ Lens
The ReZoom™ lens implant is used to correct the vision of patients who have cataracts or those patient’s who are experiencing difficulty with up-close or intermediate vision. The ReZoom™ multifocal IOL has multiple focal points within the lens so patients can see well at all distances (near, far and intermediate). Clinical studies show that 92% of patients receiving the lens never or only occasionally needed glasses after receiving the lens. Patients would need a complete eye exam with Dr. Balin to determine if they are good candidates for the ReZoom™ lens. Please contact the office at 413-584-6666 or 800-436-3937 to learn more about ReZoom™ or to schedule your eye exam.
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