expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Melissa Clare Oltz, O.D.

Optometrist

Dr. Melissa Clare Oltz O.D. is a top Optometrist in Ithaca, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Melissa Clare Oltz O.D. is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Melissa Clare Oltz O.D. is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. Melissa Clare Oltz O.D. is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Ithaca, NY, Dr. Melissa Clare Oltz O.D. is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
Dr. Melissa Clare Oltz, O.D.
  • Ithaca, NY
  • Accepting new patients

Can lack of sleep cause eye floaters?

Floaters are common at any age, but lack of sleep can make them more apparent. Eyes clean and heal themselves while you sleep so it is very important to get a good nights sleep. READ MORE
Floaters are common at any age, but lack of sleep can make them more apparent. Eyes clean and heal themselves while you sleep so it is very important to get a good nights sleep. Wearing sunglasses will help to minimize the formation of new floaters.

What type of doctor does eyelid surgery?

Your best option is an ophthalmologist who specializes in oculoplastic surgery. Another option is a plastic surgeon.

Eye problems?

It is called Primary Acquired Melanosis. Very common. It is basically a freckle. Like any freckle, if it starts to grow, gains elevation, feeder blood vessels pop up around it, READ MORE
It is called Primary Acquired Melanosis. Very common. It is basically a freckle. Like any freckle, if it starts to grow, gains elevation, feeder blood vessels pop up around it, then it has potentially turned into cancer and should be biopsied.

Do blue light glasses help headaches?

Yes, if the cause of the headaches is from prolonged exposure. Sources include sunlight and all light emitting devices such as cell phones and computer screens.

Do glasses help eye strain?

Yes. Talk to your doctor or optician to see what type(s) of lenses would be best for you and the specific tasks that are giving you problems.

Is it worth getting Lasik after 40?

You will need reading glasses for everything up close pretty much immediately, so you have to weigh what you do most into your decision. For example, if most of what you do involves READ MORE
You will need reading glasses for everything up close pretty much immediately, so you have to weigh what you do most into your decision. For example, if most of what you do involves looking at distances of 20 feet or greater (such as a truck driver), great! Get LASIK. If you are on the computer all day long in an office...you will need glasses for near work all day long, so it is not worth it.

Can I fly after having laser eye surgery?

Yes, unless it is laser surgery on the retina for a tear, hole, or detachment.

Why does my eye always burn after having LASIK?

Burning eyes can be a symptom of dry eye. LASIK uses a device that creates a flap in the cornea. When it makes a flap, it cuts through tissue and nerves, including nerves which READ MORE
Burning eyes can be a symptom of dry eye. LASIK uses a device that creates a flap in the cornea. When it makes a flap, it cuts through tissue and nerves, including nerves which are responsible for regulating basal tear production. These nerves typically do grow back within 6 months. You should use artificial tears 2-4x/day minimum daily until your eyes no longer burn. If you are needing to use them more than that, you should see your eye doctor for more tailored treatment.

Is it better to wear glasses or contacts while on the computer?

Most people are more comfortable on the computer in glasses but as long as your eyes aren’t prone to dryness, contacts are perfectly fine.

Is there an age limit for eye laser surgery?

There is no age limit, however in our forties, the focusing system of the eye starts to degrade to the point where reading glasses are needed after the laser surgery. Near sighted READ MORE
There is no age limit, however in our forties, the focusing system of the eye starts to degrade to the point where reading glasses are needed after the laser surgery. Near sighted people have a natural reading power that goes away after the distance vision is corrected.

What happens if you blink during laser eye surgery?

You can’t. No need to worry. Talk to your eye surgeon for specifics for your type of surgery.

What helps red eyes fast?

Lumify 1 drop 1-2x/day is very helpful for redness, but you should also find out the reason why they get red in the first place.

Is using eye drops every day bad for you?

No. Lubricating eye drops are safe. Make sure it is not a “get the red out” drop though. (Your eyes get addicted to all of them except Lumify, which has a different active ingredient) READ MORE
No. Lubricating eye drops are safe. Make sure it is not a “get the red out” drop though. (Your eyes get addicted to all of them except Lumify, which has a different active ingredient)

What are the best eye drops for dry eye?

There are several good eye drops for dry eye. Some work better for certain people and for certain types of dry eye. My favorites include but are not limited to: Theratears, SootheXP, READ MORE
There are several good eye drops for dry eye. Some work better for certain people and for certain types of dry eye. My favorites include but are not limited to: Theratears, SootheXP, Refresh Relieva, and Systane Complete

What is the best vision correction surgery?

There are several different types that have good results. The surgeon determines which type is the best depending on your eye shape, corneal thickness, current glasses prescription, READ MORE
There are several different types that have good results. The surgeon determines which type is the best depending on your eye shape, corneal thickness, current glasses prescription, etc. Getting a screening by a few different surgeons is a good place to start. Usually screenings are free.

Who is not suitable for laser eye surgery?

There are multiple factors to consider when deciding who is a good candidate for laser surgery. Most Centers that provide laser eye surgery have free screenings to determine if READ MORE
There are multiple factors to consider when deciding who is a good candidate for laser surgery. Most Centers that provide laser eye surgery have free screenings to determine if you are a good candidate. In general, you need to have a prescription that is stable for ~3 years. Degree of myopia/hyperopia, corneal structure and thickness, and tear film quality are all factors your doctor will take into consideration.

At what age does eyesight stabilize?

Most people slow down once they stop growing, but there is no guarantee.

What is the main cause of conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is commonly caused by infections (viral or bacterial), allergies, and dry eyes.

Why do I see spots when I wake up?

Sometimes you see your floaters more prominently in the morning, especially if you sleep on your back. Little specks can float around in your vitreous gel and settle close to your READ MORE
Sometimes you see your floaters more prominently in the morning, especially if you sleep on your back. Little specks can float around in your vitreous gel and settle close to your retina and cast shadows in your vision. These aren’t a problem, they are just annoying when you see them. Another cause of spots in your vision when first waking up is low blood pressure. If you are worried or neither of these apply to you, go get your eyes checked out.