Spring 2025 Update

Dear colleagues, friends, patients and family,

 

I recently returned from the annual meeting of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. It is always exciting to learn about new technologies and how they will benefit our patients. 

 

The first session I always attend is the retinal update. Among many topics, the most fascinating was about learning of new gene therapies that are currently being investigated. Some of them would apply to patients with diabetic macular edema and wet age-related macular degeneration. As you may know, patients with these conditions require injections of anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) medications in the office as frequently as once per month which is quite a burden. New gene therapies currently in phase 3 clinical studies involve injecting into the eye a vector-based subretinal gene therapy that allows the eye’s own cells to produce the anti-VEGF. Earlier studies showed good tolerance and an 80% reduction in number of injections required. Stay tuned to hear more about this gene therapy as the study results are published. 

 

I am also pleased to introduce the EVO ICL – a new option for patients who may not be candidates for LASIK. This is a short procedure where a customized ultra-thin contact lens is placed inside the eye to correct your prescription. The ideal candidate is 21-45 years old with moderate to severe nearsightedness with or without astigmatism and healthy eyes. We are offering special introductory pricing for the next 6 months! Please call the office if you have questions or would like to schedule a complimentary screening to see if you are a candidate.

 

We look forward to seeing you and your family at the office!

 

Warmly,

 

Dr. Michelle Akler

 

**Source ASCRS 2025 Retina in 2025 and Beyond Symposium