Join us for a Summer Soiree – Free Frame Event – Thursday, August 22nd 1:00 – 6:30 PM

Space is limited! Call 828.254.6757 or register here today to reserve your private viewing to receive 5 additional raffle tickets!

We are beyond thrilled to feature DITA at our Summer Soriee Frame Event! With over 25 years of heritage, this high-end, luxury eyewear brand is known for its quality craftsmanship and innovative designs.

We want to clue you in on the BIGGEST, exclusive, day-of event specials!*

Exclusive Day-of Savings

• 20% off first pair (Dita frames only)
• 30-50% off additional pairs (Any style frame)
• Free Tote with any additional pair

Food & Beverages Provided*
Giveaway Door Prizes
Premium Vendors

Drawings for raffle prizes happen at 3 PM & 6 PM. You could win dry eye therapy packages, free lenses, a DITA frame, gift cards to local businesses, and more!

*Restrictions & limitations apply – see store for details

The Benefits of Quality Sunglass Lenses: Enhance Your Safety and Comfort

Summer is such a great time of year, and what matches better with summer than a great pair of sunglasses?! One of the most crucial accessories to your day-to-day comfort and health is a good pair of polarized, UV and HEV filtering sunglasses. Unfortunately, sunglasses are not regulated, so these important filters are not automatically included in all sunglasses. 

High-quality lenses are designed to reduce glare and eyestrain, making you safer and more comfortable in your world.  And summer is not the only time to wear your sunnies… Year-round protection is so important! 

Read more to understand the benefits of quality sunglasses and how they protect your eyes. 

Understanding Sunglass Lenses

Polarized lenses contain a special filter that blocks intense reflected light, which reduces glare. Glare occurs when light waves reflect off flat surfaces like water, snow, roads, or car hoods, causing a significant amount of horizontal light to reach your eyes. This can be blinding and uncomfortable, leading to squinting and eye strain. Polarized lenses work by allowing only vertical light waves to pass through, effectively cutting out the harsh horizontal reflections. The result is a clearer, more comfortable vision with improved contrast and reduced eye strain.

Enhanced Safety on the Road

One of the most notable benefits of polarized lenses is the increased safety they provide while driving. Glare from the sun can be a major hazard on the road, especially during sunrise and sunset when the sun is low in the sky. Reflections off the road, other vehicles, and buildings can create blinding conditions that compromise your ability to see clearly and react promptly. In fact, 1 in 3 car accidents are caused by blinding glare!

Polarized sunglasses mitigate these risks by reducing glare, allowing you to see the road more clearly. This can help you better judge distances, notice road signs and signals, and identify potential hazards in your path. 

Improved Comfort for Outdoor Activities

For all you nature lovers who enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, skiing, or golfing, polarized lenses offer significant comfort advantages. When fishing, for example, glare from the water surface can make it difficult to see below the waterline, hindering your ability to spot fish. Polarized lenses cut through this glare, allowing for a clearer view into the water.

Similarly, hikers and skiers benefit from reduced glare off of snow and other reflective surfaces, leading to better visibility and less eye fatigue. Golfers can enjoy improved contrast and color perception on the course, helping them read greens and follow the flight of the ball more easily.

Protection Against UV & HEV Rays

In addition to reducing glare, ensuring protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) and high-energy visible (HEV) rays is a critical aspect of proper sunglass lenses. Prolonged exposure to UV/HEV rays can cause serious eye conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye). 

Reduced Eye Strain and Better Visual Comfort

Eye strain is an issue for many people, especially those who spend a lot of time outdoors or driving. Symptoms of eye strain include headaches, blurred vision, and discomfort around the eyes. By filtering out intense reflected light, proper sunglass lenses help maintain natural eye movement and reduce the need for squinting and can even improve your night vision by protecting your eyes from the intense harmful light of the sun!

Let Us Help You Choose the Right Sunglass Lenses

Our Doctors and Optical team know the proper sun lens options that will best care for your eyes and of course, we want you looking your best in your sunglasses. That’s why our expert  team is here for you! Being fit for a pair of singlasses gives you peace of mind that not only are you walking out in style, but your eyes are protected for the long-haul. Welcome summer!

Each year, The Mountain Xpress hosts a community-wide contest where residents vote for the ‘BEST OF’ businesses in all of Western North Carolina. Eyecare became a new category in the year 2011 and it was the first year Envision Eyecare won their place in the hearts of the locals in Asheville, NC. Since then, Envision Eyecare has won in this category each and every year. Thank you to all of our patients and community for your continued support.

With so many options out there, we want to make sure you know why we are a great choice for all of your eyecare and eyewear needs!

• We love and value building community relationships!

At Envision Eyecare, our patients aren’t just numbers. We love getting to know and connect with you on a personal level. Year after year, we remember YOU. We genuinely care about how you’ve been and what you’ve been up to since we last saw you. Life is a wonderful and wild ride, and we’re here for all of it! Your personal values for how you’re living your best quality of life matter to us!

• We strive to deliver personalized and one-on-one care. 

We delve deep into your eye care needs to make sure you are given the utmost care and attention to address your biggest health concerns. We focus on creating a customized treatment plan that fits your needs and works for you! We will take every necessary step and precaution to enhance, protect, and preserve your sense of sight for a lifetime. With over ten decades of combined team experience, we have the knowledge and resources to make sure you are seeing and looking your best for years to come. Your sense of sight is precious, so let’s keep it that way!

• We promise to listen attentively to your concerns and anticipate your preferences. 

At our office, we prioritize personalized care. We listen closely to your needs and tailor our services accordingly. Whether it’s selecting the perfect pair of glasses or addressing specific eye health concerns, we’re here to provide solutions that fit your lifestyle. Our commitment extends to offering a curated selection of eyewear that reflects your unique style. You’re not just a patient to us, you’re part of our community, and we’re dedicated to helping you see clearly and confidently.

• We prioritize sustained value and trust through every interaction. 

We believe in fostering loyalty through honest and open communication, ensuring that you feel heard and respected. We continuously strive to improve our services, keeping our promise to deliver the highest standard of care. You can rely on us to provide transparent and dependable eye care that exceeds your expectations, backed by our commitment to deliver consistent, quality communication from start to finish.

We can't wait to take great care of you, your family, and friends!

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One of the frequently asked question that we hear from patients is, “Why do I need retinal images?” Read on for some key points from Dr. Cameron Steflik.

The Importance of Retinal Images

In the realm of healthcare, prevention often takes a backseat to urgent treatment. However, in the case of eye health, “prevention is better than cure”. Our eyes are windows to the world, and ensuring their health is paramount. 

The Silent Threat of Eye Diseases

Many eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration, manifest silently in their initial stages. Patients may not experience noticeable symptoms until irreversible damage has occurred. This stealthy progression underscores the necessity of early detection through comprehensive exams.

The Power of Early Intervention

Retinal images empower your eye doctor to detect abnormalities at their earliest stages. By capturing high-resolution images of the retina, these screenings enable the identification of subtle changes over time indicative of various eye conditions. Early intervention facilitated by such screenings can halt or slow disease progression, preserving vision and improving patient outcomes.

Diabetes and Beyond

For individuals with diabetes, retinal image screenings are particularly crucial. Diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes, ranks among the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Regular screenings allow healthcare providers to monitor diabetic patients’ eye health, mitigating the risk of vision loss through timely interventions.

Beyond Diagnostics: Empowering Patients

Retinal images are a powerful yet non-invasive tool for early disease detection. Retinal images empower patients to take proactive measures in safeguarding their vision. By providing visual evidence of eye health, these screenings facilitate informed discussions between patients and healthcare providers. Armed with knowledge, patients can adopt lifestyle modifications and adhere to treatment regimens, fostering a collaborative approach to eye care.

Clear Vision Ahead: 5 Important Reasons to Schedule (and keep) Your Yearly Eye Health Exam

By Dr. Cameron Steflik

Are you finding yourself squinting at road signs or holding your smartphone at arm’s length just to read a text message? Are your eyes watering persistently, or do you have a sensation of grit in your eyes or strain at the end of a long work day? Perhaps you have a family history of Macular Degeneration or Glaucoma. 

Eye health and proper care and correction is vital to experiencing life to the fullest. 

Read on to learn five compelling reasons why prioritizing your yearly eye health exam with an experienced expert team is essential:

• 1.) Changes in Vision: One of the most obvious signs that you need an eye exam is a noticeable change in your vision. Whether you’re experiencing blurred vision, difficulty seeing objects up close or at a distance, or frequent headaches or eye strain, these could be indicators of refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. An eye exam will help determine the cause of these changes and whether corrective lenses are needed for you.
• 2.) Eye Health Screening: Your eyes are not only the windows to your soul but also to your overall health. An eye exam can detect early signs of various eye diseases and conditions, including glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. Detecting these conditions early can prevent vision loss and potentially save your sight.
• 3.) Digital Eye Strain: In today’s digital age, many of us spend a significant amount of time staring at screens, whether it’s a computer, smartphone, or tablet. Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, characterized by symptoms such as eye fatigue, dryness, blurred vision, and headaches. An eye exam can help identify factors contributing to digital eye strain and provide recommendations to alleviate discomfort, such as specialized computer glasses or ergonomic adjustments.
• 4.) Eye Coordination and Focus: Your eyes are incredibly complex organs that work together seamlessly to provide clear vision. However, issues with eye coordination and focus can arise, especially in children. An eye exam can assess binocular vision, depth perception, and eye teaming skills, which are essential for activities such as reading, sports, and driving. Early detection of these issues can prevent learning difficulties and improve overall visual performance.
• 5.) Systemic Health Conditions: Believe it or not, your eyes can provide valuable insights into your overall health. During an eye exam, your eye doctor may detect signs of systemic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, and certain cancers. For example, diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina and can lead to vision loss if left untreated. By monitoring changes in the retina, your eye doctor can help manage your diabetes and prevent vision-threatening complications.

Scheduling regular eye health exams is crucial for maintaining optimal eye health and overall well-being. Whether you’re experiencing changes in vision, or simply due for a routine check-up, don’t delay in prioritizing your eye health. 

Your Team at Envision takes great pride in providing the best care in your eye health journey, from start to finish. 

Top 5 Reasons to Purchase Your Next Pair of Glasses with Envision Eyecare! 

1. QUALITY- Unlike items purchased throughout the year, it can be difficult for you to judge quality in a pair of glasses. At Envision Eyecare, we use only the finest materials, so your glasses will be dependable and attractive long after they’ve been purchased. We have chosen to partner with one of the finest, state-of-the-art optical labs in the nation to custom craft your eyewear because of their quality workmanship and our access to the very best advancements in lens designs. 
2. SELECTION- Regardless of your budget or insurance allowance, everyone deserves to look fabulous! That’s why our optical boutique offers a wide range of eyewear options and styles at various price points – from exclusive, high-end designer frames to fashionable values for the entire family. All of our collections are unique and consciously hand-selected.
3. VALUE PROMISE- We promise to provide you the best value – quality eyewear at a fair price. We do not carry cheaply made frames that easily break, outdated designer styles, and inferior lens products that can distort vision so we can offer you a cheap price. Nor do we advertise low prices so we can “up-sell” you once you arrive at our optical boutique. Our fees reflect the quality of our workmanship – and when comparing glasses of similar quality – are often lower than many “one-hour” stores and (online) optical chains. 
4. TEAM OF EXPERTS- Our knowledgeable and courteous optical team will expertly help you select the frame and lens package that’s right for your lifestyle and budget, and support you to understand your lens options, frame materials, warranties, etc. We want to ensure you are completely happy with your new pair of glasses and are committed to your care and experience in fitting your fabulous new eyewear.
5. SATISFACTION GUARANTEE- When you purchase a pair of frames and lenses from the optical boutique at Envision Eye Care, you have our commitment to your satisfaction. We guarantee our workmanship and the accuracy of your prescription lenses (within 45 days) and offer free adjustments, minor repairs, and cleanings for the life of your eyewear with our Complete Care Coverage. 

What 30,000 Consumer Reports’- survey respondents had to say: A recent Consumer Reports study confirms independent eye care practices score higher for quality, frame selection, the care taken to fit glasses, staff expertise, and follow-up service. 

“ … you might do better getting your specs at a doctor’s office or independent optical boutique; those typically scored high marks across the board, particularly when it came to employee know-how, service, and the quality of the finished glasses. You might even spend less than you would at some high-profile chains.” Consumer Reports, December 2010 

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Welcome, fellow wanderers of the ocular desert! It’s a parched land where blinking feels like treading sand dunes and eye drops are your canteens. That’s right, we’re diving into the fascinating (and often frustrating) world of Dry Eye Disease! So, grab your virtual camel and let’s explore this condition. 

What Exactly is Dry Eye Disease?

Picture this: you’re staring at your computer screen, your favorite book, or perhaps the majestic outdoors. Suddenly, your eyes start to sting, itch, or feel gritty. Contrary to what the name might suggest, it’s not just about a lack of tears. It’s a complex condition where your eyes might be flooded with tears but lack the proper balance of oils, water, mucus, or nutrients that create the perfect tear cocktail for eye comfort.

Journey Through the Symptoms

Any one of the following symptoms, or combination thereof, can be a sign of Dry Eye Disease:

Sandy Sensation: It feels like your eyes are tiny sandboxes filled with irritation.

Red Eyes: Your eyes look like they’ve partied all night, and the result? Bloodshot eyes that might take some explaining to coworkers.

Blurry Boundaries: Suddenly, you’re Monet without the talent. 

Watery Mirage: Counterintuitive as it may sound, dry eyes can provoke a river of tears. It’s like your eyes are trying to turn the desert into a waterpark.

Navigating to the Oasis of Relief

Not to worry! There are options to relieve these irritating symptoms, including:

Hydration: Stay hydrated! Drinking enough water helps your overall health and can also maintain the moisture in your eyes.

Blinking Pilates: Be conscious of your blinking. Staring at screens for extended periods can lead to reduced blinking, contributing to dryness.

Omega-3s: Including foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts in your diet can boost tear production and eye comfort. Consider supplementation. 

Artificial Tears: Just like a cold beverage at the beach, your eyes deserve some relief. 

Humidify the Desert Air: Adding a humidifier to your living or working space can infuse much-needed moisture into the air and your eyes. 

Send a Signal Flare for Help: Relief is just as unique as the desert’s shifting sands. What works for one might not work for another. If you’re stranded in the Dry Eye Desert, give us a call for a consultation! We will cater your care to meet your specific needs. 

Discovering Your Personal Dry Eye Oasis

Remember, in this journey, you’re never alone – there’s a whole caravan of fellow travelers with dry eyes, all hoping to find their own bit of relief. So, here’s to happy, hydrated eyes and the hope of banishing that desert-like discomfort for good!

Why Are More People Wearing Glasses These Days?

By Dr. Cameron Steflik, OD

More and more children are needing glasses at younger ages. In the U.S. in the 1970s, a quarter of the population was nearsighted. In the early 2000s, 42 percent of the population was nearsighted. In East and Southeast Asia, where this shift is most dramatic, the proportion of teenagers and young adults with myopia has jumped from roughly a quarter to more than 80 percent in just over half a century. More recent surveys have not been performed in the U.S., but from personal experience and after consulting with other optometrists, it is clear there are more nearsighted kids today than previous generations. 

Why is This Happening?

This sudden increase in nearsightedness is baffling since poor vision was originally thought to be impacted primarily by genetics. Genetics is a factor, but there’s more to it. Just look around and you’ll see countless kids absorbed in phones, tablets, and laptops. Who would have thought that looking at something 4 inches from your face for hours at a time could be bad for you? Our ancestors needed excellent distance vision to survive, while most of our daily activities involve looking at screens indoors. Perhaps the motherly admonition to not sit so close to the TV had some merit.

Another theory involves the reduction of time spent outdoors. This theory suggests that natural light exposure aids developmental modulators that form the eyeball. Children today spend far more time indoors than previous generations. Both theories are 2 sides of the same coin. Whichever theory is true, you can draw the same practical conclusion for children’s visual development: less time hunched over a screen, and more time playing outside. 

The majority of babies are born farsighted. Our eyes start slightly too short, and they grow in childhood to the right length, then stop. This process has been finely calibrated over millions of years of evolution. But when the environmental signals don’t match what the eye has evolved to expect the eye just keeps growing.

So Why Does This Matter?

So what if more children need to wear glasses? Glasses, contact lenses, and laser surgeries all help people see better, but they do not treat the underlying problem. Patients with severe myopia have elongated eyeballs- they look more like olives than spheres. This stretching of the eye increases risks of developing ocular disease including retinal detachments and glaucoma later in life which can lead to debilitating blindness. Nearsightedness also can lead to a reduced quality of life, affecting daily activities such as driving, sports, and social interactions.

Can We Do Anything? 

Once the eye has grown it doesn’t ungrow. Prevention is key. Children need more time outdoors, but unfortunately this likely is not enough due to the increasing demands on near vision. Special contact lenses called multifocal lenses alter the way light enters the eye.This sends the signal for the eye to stop lengthening.  

In November 2019, the FDA green-lighted the first-and currently only-treatment specifically designed to slow the progression of myopia, a soft contact lens from CooperVision called MiSight. It has been shown to slow progression up to 50%.

For more information on myopia control- the American Optometric Association’s evidence-based committee published a report advising its members on how to use myopia control.

By adopting a holistic approach that emphasizes education, lifestyle modifications, and the latest lens technology, we can work towards reducing the prevalence of myopia and safeguarding the vision of the next generation. Together, let’s focus on a future with clearer vision and improved eye health.

For more information about mitigating the effects of the myopia epidemic reach out to your eye doctor today! Schedule an appointment with us at Envision Eyecare at (828) 254-6757.