Brighton Eye Center Correcting your view of the world with treatment of eye disease.

Brighton Eye Center Correcting your view of the world with treatment of eye disease.

About Us

DOCTORS

Dr. ALEXANDER TARNARIDER O.D.

Dr. Alexander Tarnarider is a highly skilled and experienced optometrist with affiliations at Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center and Staten Island University Hospital, currently serving as President and CEO of Brighton Eye Center.  

Services

complete contact lens services including all specialty lens products

co-management for laser and cataract surgeries

diagnosis and treatment of ocular disease and injury

Computer assisted eye exams

frame styling to complement your lifestyle

Types Of Eye Conditions

Myopia (nearsightedness)

Explanation: Myopia occurs when the eye focuses images in front of the retina instead of directly on it.

Hyperopia (farsightedness)

Explanation: Hyperopia occurs when the eye focuses images behind the retina instead of directly on it.

Astigmatism

Explanation: Astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, resulting in distorted vision at all distances.

Presbyopia

Explanation: Presbyopia is an age-related condition where the eye's lens loses flexibility, making it ...

Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

Explanation: Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane ...

Cataracts

Explanation: Cataracts occur when the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred or dimmed vision.

Glaucoma

Explanation: Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to abnormally ...

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

Explanation: AMD is a condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina...

Diabetic retinopathy

Explanation: Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina.

Dry eye syndrome

Explanation: Dry eye occurs when tears aren't able to provide adequate lubrication for the eyes.

Amblyopia (lazy eye)

Explanation: Amblyopia is reduced vision in one eye due to abnormal visual development in early childhood.

Retinal detachment

Explanation: Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye.

Keratoconus

Explanation: Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that causes the cornea to thin and bulge..

Strabismus (crossed eyes)

Explanation: Strabismus is a condition where the eyes are not aligned properly and point in different ...

Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)

Explanation: Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids, typically affecting the area where eyelashes grow..

Faq's

We are happy to offer a one-time exchange only on the return of any new and unused sunglasses or eyeglass frame within 30 days of original purchase date. 

All prescription lenses are considered special orders, and are therefore non-refundable. However, we understand there may be times you want to change the frame even though the prescription lenses are perfect. If, within 30 days of receipt of product, you wish to exchange a frame that we have made prescription lenses for, you will be charged or credited the difference of the new frame cost. A lens credit of 50% of the original lens cost will be applied to the cost of any new lenses ordered.  

We guarantee 100% accuracy on all prescriptions or they will be remade at no charge. All prescription eyeglasses pass a stringent quality control hand inspection. The lenses are checked for accuracy at four different stations. We pride ourselves in our workmanship – accurately filling your prescription is our number one priority. In the unlikely event that an error makes it through our system, we will promptly and courteously remake the lenses to our 100% accuracy standard.

Heading (Quality Eyewear at Affordable Prices)

Brighton Eye Center can provide almost any of the 116,000 different frames available in the United States for a fair market price over their actual cost.

We do not mark up prices just to mark them down again. We offer fair, money-saving prices directly to the consumer. Savings through us are as much as $150 or more on prescription eyewear and many designer sunglass lines.

Brighton Eye Center also supplies prescription lenses — at about half the price you would pay at most retail optical chains. We use no gimmicks or “add-ons,” just what is best for you at the best possible price.  

Myopia (nearsightedness)

Explanation: Myopia occurs when the eye focuses images in front of the retina instead of directly on it. • This causes distant objects to appear blurry while close objects remain clear. • It typically develops during childhood and can worsen until early adulthood. • Myopia can be caused by genetics, environmental factors, or a combination of both. • Symptoms include squinting, eye strain, and difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. • Treatment: Corrective lenses (eyeglasses or contact lenses) are the most common treatment. • For adults, refractive surgery like LASIK may be an option to reduce dependence on corrective lenses. • Regular eye exams are important to monitor progression and adjust prescriptions as needed.

Hyperopia (farsightedness)

Explanation: Hyperopia occurs when the eye focuses images behind the retina instead of directly on it. • This causes close objects to appear blurry while distant objects may be clearer. • It can be present from birth and may improve or worsen with age. • Hyperopia can cause eye strain, headaches, and difficulty with close-up tasks like reading. • In children, it can sometimes lead to crossed eyes (strabismus) if left untreated. • Treatment: Corrective lenses (eyeglasses or contact lenses) are typically prescribed to help focus light directly on the retina. • For adults, refractive surgery may be an option in some cases. • Regular eye exams are crucial, especially for children, to ensure proper visual development.

Astigmatism

Explanation: Astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, resulting in distorted vision at all distances. • It often occurs alongside myopia or hyperopia. • Symptoms include blurred or distorted vision, eye strain, and headaches. • Astigmatism can be present from birth or develop later in life. • It can be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam. • Treatment: Eyeglasses with cylindrical lenses are commonly prescribed to correct astigmatism. • Toric contact lenses are another option for those who prefer not to wear glasses. • In some cases, refractive surgery like LASIK can reshape the cornea to correct astigmatism.

Presbyopia

Explanation: Presbyopia is an age-related condition where the eye’s lens loses flexibility, making it difficult to focus on close objects. • It typically begins to develop around age 40 and continues to progress until about age 65. • Symptoms include difficulty reading small print, holding reading material at arm’s length, and eye strain when doing close-up work. • Presbyopia affects everyone eventually, regardless of previous vision status. • It’s a natural part of the aging process and not a disease. • Treatment: Reading glasses are often the simplest solution for presbyopia. • Bifocals or progressive lenses can correct both distance and near vision for those who already wear glasses. • Multifocal contact lenses or monovision (where one eye is corrected for distance and the other for near vision) are options for contact lens wearers.

Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

Explanation: Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and inner eyelid. • It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, or irritants. • Symptoms include redness, itching, burning, discharge, and a gritty feeling in the eye. • Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious and can spread easily. • Most cases clear up on their own within 1-2 weeks, but some may require treatment. • Treatment: For bacterial conjunctivitis, antibiotic eye drops or ointments are prescribed. • Viral conjunctivitis typically resolves on its own; artificial tears can help relieve symptoms. • Allergic conjunctivitis may be treated with antihistamine eye drops. • Good hygiene, including frequent hand washing, is crucial to prevent spread.

Cataracts

Explanation: Cataracts occur when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred or dimmed vision. • They typically develop slowly over time and are most common in older adults. • Symptoms include cloudy vision, difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to glare, and fading or yellowing of colors. • Cataracts can be caused by aging, injury, certain medications, or medical conditions like diabetes. • They are diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam. • Treatment: In early stages, stronger lighting and

magnification can help manage symptoms. • As cataracts progress, surgery becomes the only effective treatment. • Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). • The surgery is generally safe and highly successful in restoring vision

Glaucoma

Explanation: Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to abnormally high pressure inside the eye. • It’s one of the leading causes of blindness for people over 60, but can occur at any age. • Early-stage glaucoma often has no symptoms, earning it the nickname “the silent thief of sight.” • As it progresses, it can lead to gradual loss of peripheral vision and eventually central vision. • Risk factors include age, family history, high eye pressure, and certain medical conditions. • Treatment: The goal is to lower eye pressure to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. • Eye drops are often the first line of treatment, working to either reduce fluid production or improve drainage. • Laser treatments can be used to improve the eye’s drainage system. • In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to create a new drainage channel.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

Explanation: AMD is a condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. • It’s most common in people over 50 and is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. • There are two types: dry AMD (more common) and wet AMD (more severe). • Symptoms include blurry or distorted central vision, difficulty reading or recognizing faces, and a need for brighter light. • Risk factors include age, smoking, family history, and high blood pressure. • Treatment: For dry AMD, nutritional supplements (AREDS formula) may slow progression. • Wet AMD is treated with anti-VEGF injections into the eye to stop abnormal blood vessel growth. • Laser treatments may be used in some cases of wet AMD. • Regular monitoring is crucial as early detection of wet AMD can lead to more effective treatment.

Diabetic retinopathy

Explanation: Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina. • It can occur in anyone with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, especially if blood sugar levels are poorly controlled. • In early stages, there may be no symptoms, but as it progresses, it can cause vision loss. • Symptoms can include dark or empty areas in your vision, difficulty perceiving colors, and vision loss. • Regular eye exams are crucial for diabetics to detect retinopathy early. • Treatment: Controlling blood sugar and blood pressure is essential to slow progression. • Laser treatment (photocoagulation) can be used to seal leaking blood vessels or discourage new growth. • Anti-VEGF injections can help reduce swelling and improve vision in some cases. • In advanced cases, a vitrectomy (surgical removal of the vitreous gel) may be necessary.

Dry eye syndrome

Explanation: Dry eye occurs when tears aren’t able to provide adequate lubrication for the eyes. • It can be caused by decreased tear production or increased tear evaporation. • Symptoms include a stinging or burning sensation, stringy mucus in or around the eyes, light sensitivity, and difficulty wearing contact lenses. • Risk factors include age, certain medical conditions, some medications, and prolonged screen time. • Dry eye can be a chronic condition but is often manageable with treatment. • Treatment: Artificial tears and lubricating eye drops are often the first line of treatment. • Lifestyle changes, such as taking regular breaks from screen time, can help alleviate symptoms. • Prescription eye drops like Restasis or Xiidra can help increase tear production. • In some cases, tiny plugs can be inserted into tear ducts to prevent drainage and keep eyes moist.

Amblyopia (lazy eye)

Explanation: Amblyopia is reduced vision in one eye due to abnormal visual development in early childhood. • It occurs when the brain favors one eye over the other, often due to a significant difference in prescription or an eye turn. • Symptoms may not be obvious, but can include poor depth perception, head tilting, or an eye that wanders inward or outward. • Early detection and treatment are crucial for the best outcomes. • If left untreated, amblyopia can lead to permanent vision loss in the affected eye. • Treatment: The main goal is to force the brain to use the weaker eye. • This is often done by patching or blurring the vision of the stronger eye. • Corrective lenses may be prescribed to address any refractive errors. • Atropine eye drops can be used to blur vision in the stronger eye as an alternative to patching. • Vision therapy exercises may be recommended to improve eye coordination and visual processing.

Retinal detachment

Explanation: Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye. • It’s a medical emergency that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. • Risk factors include aging, severe nearsightedness, eye injuries, and a family history of retinal detachment. • Symptoms include sudden flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, and a curtain-like shadow over your visual field. • Retinal detachment is painless, which is why knowing the warning signs is crucial. • Treatment: The goal is to reattach the retina to the back of the eye. • Laser surgery or freezing treatment (cryopexy) can repair small tears if caught early. • For larger detachments, surgery is necessary. • Options include pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckle surgery, or vitrectomy. • After treatment, vision may take several months to improve, and full recovery is not always possible.

Keratoconus

Explanation: Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape. • It typically begins in the teenage years and progresses into the 20s or 30s. • The exact cause is unknown, but genetic and environmental factors may play a role. • Symptoms include blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light and glare, and frequent changes in eyeglass prescription. • In advanced stages, it can cause significant vision distortion and even scarring of the cornea. • Treatment: In early stages, eyeglasses or soft contact lenses may be sufficient. • As the condition progresses, rigid gas permeable contact lenses are often prescribed. • Corneal cross-linking is a procedure that can help stop the progression of keratoconus. • Intacs (tiny plastic inserts placed in the cornea) can help reshape the cornea in some cases. • In severe cases, a corneal transplant may be necessary.

Strabismus (crossed eyes)

Explanation: Strabismus is a condition where the eyes are not aligned properly and point in different directions. • It can be constant or occur intermittently, and may affect one or both eyes. • Strabismus can develop in infancy, childhood, or adulthood, and may be caused by problems with eye muscles or nerves. • Symptoms include misaligned eyes, double vision, and poor depth perception. • If left untreated in children, it can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye) and vision loss. • Treatment: The goal is to align the eyes and restore binocular vision. • Eyeglasses or contact lenses can sometimes correct mild strabismus. • Vision therapy exercises may help strengthen eye muscles and improve coordination. • In many cases, eye muscle surgery is necessary to realign the eyes.

Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)

Explanation: Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids, typically affecting the area where eyelashes grow. • It can be caused by bacterial overgrowth, skin conditions like rosacea, or dysfunction of oil glands in the eyelids. • Symptoms include red, swollen eyelids, itching, burning, flaky skin around the eyes, and crusty eyelashes upon waking. • Blepharitis is often chronic and may be associated with other conditions like dry eye syndrome. • While it can be uncomfortable and unsightly, it typically doesn’t cause permanent damage to eyesight. • Treatment: Regular eyelid hygiene is the cornerstone of managing blepharitis. • Warm compresses can help loosen crusts and oil buildup. • Gentle eyelid scrubs with diluted baby shampoo or commercial eyelid cleansers can help remove debris. • In some cases, antibiotic ointments or oral antibiotics may be prescribed.