Most retinal tears need to be treated by sealing the retina to the back wall of the eye with laser surgery or cryotherapy (a freezing treatment). Both of these procedures create a scar that helps seal the retina to the back of the eye. This prevents fluid from traveling through the tear and under the retina, which usually prevents the retina from detaching. These treatments cause little or no discomfort and may be performed in your ophthalmologist’s office.
Family Practice
Dr. Reuther was the Ophthalmology Course Director for the University Family Practice Residency Training Program and an Associate Professor at MUSC, where he was awarded Clinical Instructor of the Year, an honor bestowed upon him by physicians-in-training at the university.
Emergency Care
His training at these locations emphasized the management of ocular disease, emergency care, referral care, pre/post-operative care, and specialty contact lens fitting.
Glaucoma requires early treatment to prevent further vision loss. At Carolina Eyecare Physicians, our knowledgeable team can identify and treat glaucoma with advanced technologies, including medication, surgery, and other treatments.
Ophthalmology
If you’ve ever dreamed of working in the medical field but you weren’t sure where to start, we have an opportunity for you! As a Carolina Eyecare Physicians team member, you will receive intensive classroom and hands on training that prepares you for a fulfilling career in ophthalmology. Our team works side by side with renowned ophthalmic surgeons and optometrists, improving our patients’ vision and changing lives. This is an exciting opportunity for those who have a passion for helping others, and enjoy working in a professional, team-oriented environment.
Macular Degeneration
Throughout his career, Dr. Brugger has been dedicated to a compassionate and patient-centered approach in the practice of medicine. He understands the impact that retinal disorders can have on a patient’s life and takes the time to listen to their concerns and develop personalized treatment plans to meet their individual needs. As a highly skilled surgeon with years of experience, Dr. Brugger’s expertise encompasses a multitude of conditions including retinal membranes, macular degeneration, macular holes, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears/detachments, and vitreous floaters.
Laser Eye Surgery
At Carolina Eyecare Physicians, we offer cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. Facial and eye surgery can change your life for the better, restoring a youthful appearance or repairing eye function. See more and feel confident with your rejuvenated appearance.
Cataracts
Cataracts can cause vision problems. Although a cataract typically develops slowly, it can affect a person’s ability to complete everyday tasks, like reading and driving. Some vision challenges caused by cataracts can’t be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Cataract Surgery
For more than 30 years, the pioneering surgeons at Carolina Eyecare Physicians have helped set the standard in cataract and lens replacement surgery. Our tradition of eye care excellence continues with our investment in Laser Cataract Surgery, a medical innovation perfectly suited for the unique complexities of the human eye.
Eye Exam
Eye exams are an essential component of overall wellness. During a comprehensive eye exam, your doctor will assess much more than your visual acuity. He or she will test for common eye diseases, assess how your eyes work together and evaluate the health of your retina, optic nerve and retinal blood vessels.
He completed medical school at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston and an internship in internal medicine at the University of North Carolina. He then completed medical and surgical training through his residency at the University of North Carolina.
CAROLINA EYECARE PHYSICIANS is required to comply with all applicable federal and state laws to maintain the privacy of your Protected Health Information (‘PHI’). PHI is defined as “any individually identifiable health information that relates to any physical or mental health or that can otherwise be used to identify the individual”.
Macular edema occurs when fluid buildup causes swelling and thickening of the macula. The swelling can damage the macula, causing vision impairment. Diabetic macular edema is typically caused by diabetic retinopathy.
From 1991 until 1995, Dr. Howard was an assistant professor at the Medical University of South Carolina ( MUSC ) in the departments of ophthalmology, dermatology, and otolaryngology. He later served as a professor of ophthalmology at MUSC and held the Stanley & Theodore Feldberg endowed chair.
Botox cosmetic injections can reduce the appearance of fine lines around the eyes and across the forehead. The treatment relaxes facial muscles without affecting normal facial expressions. The procedure is quick and painless (you might feel a quick pinch). Patients typically notice improvement within 24–48 hours and results can last up to 4 months.
Brow Lift
You may undergo blepharoplasty at the same time as another procedure, such as a brow lift, face-lift or skin resurfacing. Lower lid blepharoplasty is almost always done for cosmetic reasons.
Eyelid Surgery
Before eyelid surgery, be sure to tell your ophthalmologist about all the medicines you take. Include all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements. It is important for your eye surgeon to know if you take aspirin (or aspirin-containing drugs) or blood thinners, or if you have a bleeding problem.
Plastic Surgery
Discomfort is common after any surgical procedure and should be expected. Many patients report relatively little pain after their procedure, but Dr. Howard will prescribe pain medication that you can take after surgery, as needed. Some patients may be able to switch from prescription medication to Tylenol after only a few days.
Face Lift
Blepharoplasty
A blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can go home the same day. However, patients are given mild sedation and should make appropriate arrangements ahead of time, such as a driver or other assistance. Typically, the process (including aftercare) lasts a few hours.
Laser Resurfacing
If Dr. Howard performed laser resurfacing at the same time as your eyelid surgery, it may take longer for you to heal. You will receive special instructions for skincare. We can talk with you more in-depth about this at your appointment.
Cosmetic Surgery
The decision to use BOTOX and fillers is completely up to you. Our patients visit us to achieve a youthful, rested appearance that suits their facial structure. We strive to offer you a natural looking alternative to comprehensive facial cosmetic surgery through the use of BOTOX and fillers to help you achieve your goals.
Dermabrasion
Laser skin rejuvenation is a non-invasive surgical procedure that softens lines and wrinkles, removes surface imperfections, and tightens and rejuvenates the skin. The aesthetic treatment is long lasting and more effective than dermabrasion or chemical peels.
We are a proud partner of US Eye, a leading group of patient-centric, vertically integrated multi-specialty physician practices providing patients with care in ophthalmology, optometry, dermatology, audiology, and cosmetic facial surgery.
Ulcer
Keratitis is a condition where the cornea—the clear, round dome covering the eye’s iris and pupil—becomes swollen or inflamed, making the eye red and painful and affecting vision. Keratitis is also known as a corneal ulcer.
Chemical Peels
Skin Care
Carolina Eyecare Physicians provides patients worldwide with care in ophthalmology, optometry, cosmetic facial surgery, and skin care. With several locations throughout South Carolina, we are proud to offer our patients convenient access to nationally-renowned surgeons, compassionate staff members, and cutting-edge technology.