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How is Your Focus?
Do you like the way you see when reading, at the computer, or at a distance (e.g. driving)? Poor vision can get in the way of everyday activities. Clear vision gives focus to life.
Beyond glasses and contacts, today's advanced refractive vision corrective options such as LASIK, Implantable Collamer Lens (ICLs) and Refractive Lens Exchange are safe and effective options to help you give focus to life and seeing clearly what matters.
There has never been a better time to lessen your dependence on glasses and corrective lens. With technologies now available for the diagnosis and correction of cataract, cornea, and refractive related conditions, we're able to provide the highest level of care to our patients in the most efficient and rewarding way possible. From consult to postop, you will see that details make a difference, resulting in a Chao Vision experience we hope will be memorable in and of itself.
Excellence is in the Details | The Chao Vision Difference
With a reputation Orange County has come to trust for LASIK, cataract, cornea, and refractive vision corrective surgery, Dr. Chao established Chao Vision Institute on the principles of being accountable not only for the results we are able to achieve but in how we achieve them - with commitment, expertise, and integrity. Conservative measures are always presented first; surgical procedures are offered only when appropriate.
Normal Vision

Normal vision occurs when incoming light projects through the cornea and lens, onto the retina. This signal then travels via the optic nerve to the brain to form the images we see.
Many vision conditions exist due to eye anatomy, changes to your general health, or aging of your eyes. Often one is required to wear glasses or corrective lenses to see near, intermediate and/ or distance.
Astigmatism
Astigmatism is caused by light falling onto more than a single focal point. Most often this is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea. Correction with corrective lenses may be difficult. It may occur either in conjunction with myopia or hyperopia, or on its own.
Those with astigmatism have difficulties in seeing fine detail. Refractive vision corrective option for astigmatism include: LASIK | PRK| Toric IOLs
Myopia | Nearsightedness
Myopia or nearsightedness describes the condition whereby light falls short of the intended target and the resulting image is blurred. It often occurs when cornea is too steep or when the eye is too long.
Those with myopia see nearby objects clearly but distant objects appear blurred. Refractive vision corrective option for nearsightedness (myopia) include: LASIK | PRK | Custom IOLs | ICLs
Hyperopia | Farsightedness
With hyperopia or farsightedness, light is focused past the retina and the resulting image is blurred. It often occurs when the cornea's curvature is too flat or when the eyeball is too short.
Those with hyperopia experience more difficulty focusing on near objects than on far objects. Refractive vision corrective option for nearsightedness (hyperopia) include: LASIK
Presbyopia | Age-related Vision Condition
Presbyopia describes a condition whereby the eye exhibits a progressively diminished ability to focus on near objects with age. First noticeable between the ages of 40-50, it occurs when the natural lens hardens and the focusing muscles weaken.
Those with presbyopia may experience difficulty reading fine print (e.g. low light conditions, restaurant menus, telephone books); eye strain when reading for long periods; blur at near or momentarily blurred vision when transitioning between viewing distances.
It has been observed that nearsighted individuals may be able to see up close well past their forties, but those who've had perfect vision all their lives may need to wear reading glasses, use magnifiers, or need to hold objects further and further away (e.g. develop "long arms") in order to read. Refractive vision corrective options for presbyopia include: Custom IOLs | LASIK
Monovision - This is a vision condition intentionally created to compensate for presbyopia. It occurs when one eye is selected to be used to provide reading vision and the other eye is to provide distance vision. This can be achieved with contact lenses or surgery. Most patients may adjust to their new monovision within weeks after surgery; while some patients are not able to adjust due to a feeling of being off-balanced.
Chao Vision Institute specializes in cataract, cornea, LASIK, and refractive vision correction, providing patients with university-level expertise and personalized care. See Dr. Lawrence Chao for a consult or second opinion if you are considering eye surgery, including Crystalens ™, ReStor™, Visian ICL™, and LASIK surgery in Irvine, Orange County, or the Los Angeles , Riverside, and San Diego areas.
Call us at 888.OCEYEMD in our Irvine, Orange County office in the Los Angeles area to make an appointment or get more information.
Cataract surgery | CRYSTALENS | Refractive Lens Exchange | ReSTOR | Toric IOL
Dr. Lawrence C. Chao, MD - Corneal Refractive Subspecialist | Your Focus | Experience CVI
Custom LASIK | Visian ICL | Wavefront Technology | Corneal Care & Surgery
Privacy Policy | LEGAL DISCLAIMER Copyright © 2009 CHAO Vision Institute, Inc., All rights reserved.
Considering Eye Surgery?
If you are considering LASIK, ICLs, cataract, or corneal refractive vision correction eye surgery, make an appointment with Dr. Chao at Chao Vision Institute in Irvine, CA to explore your options for seeing clearly.
When you email us, please let us know if you'd like to get access to 3D-animated topics including Conditions Overview and Surgical Treatment options.
"Dry eyes - couldn't wear contacts - glasses were not an option! I was new to the area, so I researched online - I did not want a clinic so large that it was impersonal. Very impressive - I LOVE my new 'eyes.' My only regret is that I waited so long! Dr. Chao is very professional, but still personable. No dry eyes!! I can see when I swim & ski. The wind also doesn't bother me." - Kay H, Retired, San Clemente, CA.
"It is like I have a new lease on life!! Everything is so bright, clear, and I can see as I once did...when I took it for granted." - Carolyn J, Teacher, Anaheim, CA.
"My vision was gradually deteriorating. I found it frustrating and more and more stressful to read. I realized that my visual quality of life was going to decrease, unless I did something about it. The Consultations with Dr. Chao were enlightening and impressive. Dr. Chao took the necessary personal time and concern that few doctors give today." - Ray P, Author, Irvine, CA.
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CHAO VISION INSTITUTE
2500 Alton Pkwy Ste 102
Irvine, CA 92606
949.679.2426
toll fee 1.888.OCEYEMD
Premiere eye care provider specializing in LASIK, ICLs, Cataract, Cornea, and Refractive Vision Correction Consult, Second Opinions, and Surgery.