During an initial neuro-ophthalmology evaluation, you should expect to spend three to six hours at the appointment. During this timeframe, we complete thorough testing and offer targeted treatment recommendations.

To diagnose neuro-ophthalmic disorders, we use techniques that look at how each eye works independently, including: 

• Ability to distinguish color and fine detail 

• Depth perception 

• Peripheral vision (seeing out of the corner of your eye) 

• Sight

One test, called perimetry, measures your visual field by projecting spots of light onto a flat, lighted surface. You are asked to fix your gaze on one spot but respond when you detect the presence of another spot approaching. This is a relatively complex test that gives your neuro-ophthalmologist extensive information about the nature and location of disease within your optic nerve or brain.

Neuro-ophthalmologic disorders, or neuro-ophthalmic diseases, are conditions that affect your nervous system and your vision. They typically occur when conditions such as a stroke, brain tumor or multiple sclerosis damage the optic nerve (nerve that connects the eye to the brain).

We diagnose and treat a range of these conditions, including: 

• Optic neuritis 

• Pseudotumor cerebri 

• Papilledema 

• Myasthenia gravis 

• Giant cell arteritis 

• Optic neuropathy 

• Strabismus 

Treatment depends on the underlying nature of the problem. Whenever possible, we use conservative techniques such as optical devices or prisms to eliminate double vision. We only turn to surgery when your symptoms don’t improve with other treatments.

Our specialists have extensive experience in injecting botulinum toxin to control blepharospasm (uncontrollable eye movements) and hemifacial spasm (twitching on one side of your face). These conditions cause involuntary closure of one or both eyes, and they can result in significant vision loss without treatment.