Dr. J. Eric Downing, MD

Ophthalmologist

420 East 3rd Street Suite 603 Los Angeles CA, 90013 Show map

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About

Dr. Johnathon Downing is an ophthalmologist practicing in Los Angeles, CA. Dr. Downing specializes in eye and vision care. As an ophthalmologist, Dr. Downing can practice medicine as well as surgery. Opthalmologists can perform surgeries because they have their medical degrees along with at least eight years of additional training. Dr. Downing can diagnose and treat diseases, perform eye operations and prescribe eye glasses and contacts. Ophthalmologists can also specialize even further in a specific area of eye care.

Education and Training

University of Kentucky Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology 2005

University of Louisville MD 2011

Board Certification

American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO)

Provider Details

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Dr. J. Eric Downing, MD

Dr. J. Eric Downing, MD's Expert Contributions

My Answers

Does glaucoma come back after surgery?
Hello, and thank you for your question. Glaucoma is a chronic disease, so glaucoma surgery won’t cure it, and thus it can’t really come back. If you have glaucoma, you will always have it. Medication(drops) and/or surgery, is to halt any further worsening or progression (ie vision loss) due to glaucoma. If you are at the point where surgery is needed, it is likely you are on multiple medications, your eye pressure is still too high and/or you are still having to worsen of glaucoma despite taking the drops, and surgery is necessary to stop any further damage. Glaucoma surgery is generally quite safe with a good success rate. It should help to get your glaucoma under control so you can maintain good vision for a long time to come. Hope this helps. Hope all goes well. Take care, Eric Downing MD READ MORE
Do they put you to sleep for glaucoma surgery?
Thank you for your question. No, they usually just give you some light sedation and local anesthetic. The surgery usually only take about 20 minutes to complete, and shouldn’t be painful. Regards, Eric Downing MD READ MORE
What might I have? My doctor doesn't seem to take it seriously.
Hello. I’m sorry you’re having such bothersome symptoms. I am an ophthalmologist, though, and these symptoms are out of my expertise. I would recommend following up with a general physician so they can evaluate you and possibly send you to a specialist (if warranted). I hope you figure it out and feel better. Regards, Eric Downing MD READ MORE
What are the side effects of laser surgery for glaucoma?
Hello, and thank you for your question. Side effects from glaucoma laser, usually selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) or argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) are minimal. Complications are also rare, but can consist of: 1. A rise in pressure of the eye. This is usually mild and transient, but can be more marked and sometimes can be more permanent and require other treatment 2. It is effective in lowering the pressure sufficiently about 85% of the time, but that means that 15% of the time, it doesn't work as well as we hoped, and additional treatment is still needed. 3. Some mild inflammation in the eye. I have never seen this personally, but it's a reported side effect Otherwise, laser glaucoma surgery is a very common and safe procedure. I hope this helps in your decision on whether or not to consider it as a treatment option. READ MORE
Can I do without reading glasses when I am able to read with naked eyes
Yes, you can continue doing that. Most of my patients who are -2.25 prefer to take their glasses off once they get into their late 40s and beyond. If you’d like to be able to leave your glasses on, then you can upgrade to the progressive lens. Otherwise, I’d say, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. READ MORE
Can too much screen time damage your eyes?
Hello, and thank you for your question. Up to today, and to my knowledge, there is no evidence that screen time is harmful to your eyes in any way. In my experience, anyone who tells you that it is harmful has something to sell you. READ MORE
I'm smelling smoke constantly?
Hello, and thank you for your question. It sounds like you are experiencing a neurological phenomenon, and less likely an ophthalmologic one. I would recommend you talk to your primary care doctor and/or a neurologist to try and figure out the cause of your symptoms. If they also recommend a visit to an eye doctor, then I would do that also, but only after seeing one or both other of the other physicians. Hope this helps. Take care and hope you figure out the problem soon. READ MORE
I have a dark spot on the red fleshy part of the eye (conjunctiva i think its called?) is this something to worry about?
Hello, and thank you for your question and accompanying photo. While it is most often benign, there are a few more worrisome things it could be. I would recommend visiting an ophthalmologist so they can take a closer look and determine if anything further needs to be done (such as observing it closely, removing it, or taking a biopsy). Hope this helps. Regards, J. Eric Downing, MD READ MORE
How long does irritation last after cataract surgery?
Hello, and thank you for your question. The irritation and foreign body sensation stems from the small, roughly 2mm incision that is made during surgery. This heals over the the first 24-36 hours, and the irritation should subside after that time. I recommend my patients use artificial tears for the irritation and Tylenol or Advil for any pain. While everyone’s experience is a little different, I’ve never needed to prescribe anything stronger for any of my patients. Cataract surgery is a quick, safe, and successful surgery. The recovery time is minimal, and you should enjoy improved vision in no time. Hope this helps, J. Eric Downing, MD READ MORE
Blurry vision?
Hello, and thank you for your question. I think it is likely you may just need glasses to help correct your vision. Your complaints are common for people with uncorrected refractive error, or need for corrective lenses. This can’t be fixed with over-the-counter medicines, supplements, diet, or exercise as it’s just due to the size and shape of your eyes. However, there are a few other things which could be the cause of your symptoms, and I recommend you see an eye care provider to make sure it isn’t anything that needs treatment. Hope this helps. Take care, J. Eric Downing, MD READ MORE
What to do about a twitching eyelid?
Eyelid twitching, also known as myokymia, is almost always a harmless (although bothersome) condition. It is most frequently associated with stress, lack of sleep, or too much caffeine. In order to get it to stop, you could try to catch up on some sleep, cut back on the coffee, soda, and/or other caffeinated beverages, or try some meditation or stress-relief exercises. In the rare event that it doesn't go away, or if you develop any other symptoms which cause you any concern, I would recommend visiting your eye doctor or your primary care doctor to make sure it isn't anything else. Here is some further reading materials if you are interested: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/how-to-stop-eye-twitching https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/eye-twitching/basics/definition/sym-20050838 Hope this helps. Take care, Eric Downing, MD READ MORE
Is it ok to use eye drops with preservatives after Lasik?
Hello, and thank you for your question. Using drops with preservatives won’t cause any problems after LASIK. In fact, the antibiotic and steroid you used after your procedure both contained preservative. If you’re using artificial tears, then as long as you’re using them four times a day or less, it shouldn’t be a problem to use the regular formulation which contains a preservative. If, however, you’re using them more than four times a day, then it may be best to switch to the preservative-free one. If you don’t mind spending the extra money, then the preservative-free drops are a fine option. Hope this helps, and hope your LASIK experience was a good one. Eric Downing, MD READ MORE
How does blue light affect your eyes?
Hello, and thank you for your question. To my knowledge, there is no evidence that blue light has any adverse effects in relation to your eyes. It can affect your circadian rhythms, but it won’t hurt your eyes. Anyone that tells you it does, usually has something to sell you, in my experience. READ MORE
How long should you rest after cataract surgery?
Hello, and thank you for your question. Cataract surgery is a relatively minor procedure, and the the recovery time is pretty minimal. I tell my patients they should be able to drive the next day or the day after surgery. I also tell them they can do normal activities around the house—bending over, minor cleaning and/or cooking, but no heavy lifting and no vigorous exercise for at least 4-5 days. Just use common sense and take it easy for a few days. After about a week, with a few exceptions which you can discuss with your doctor, you can resume all normal activities. Hope this helps. Thanks, take care, and good luck with your surgery. Regards, J. Eric Downing, MD READ MORE
I have a foreign body in my eye and a burning eyebrow?
If you have a foreign body in the eye, especially from vegetation, I would strongly encourage you to see an eye care professional such as an ophthalmologist. Without proper treatment, your foreign body can cause an infection and potentially cause permanent vision problems. Warm regards, Eric Downing, MD READ MORE
How bad do your eyes have to be to get Lasik?
Hello, thank you for your question. In general, LASIK is indicated for anyone who has a prescription from -12.0D to +5.0D with no more than 5 diopters of astigmatism. Your prescription needs to have been stable for at least one year, and you need to be evaluated with some testing to make sure you’re a good candidate, and aren’t prone to any complications or bad side effects after. As long as you meet those requirements, and are unhappy with your vision and would like to make it better, then you’re likely to benefit from laser correction surgery. Thanks, and hope that helps. Regards, Eric Downing, MD READ MORE
Can Lasik make you go blind?
Hello, Thank you for your question. LASIK surgery is a very common and very safe procedure. Although the risks are minimal, they aren’t zero. Complications are very rare, and usually minor, but rarely they can be more severe. Even in the event of a severe infection or complication, blindness or even significant permanent vision loss is very rare. I had LASIK surgery myself, and couldn’t be more pleased with the results. Whether or not LASIK or another form of corneal refractive surgery is right for you, is only something you, in consultation with you eye care provider, can assess and answer. All in all though, it is a safe, well-tolerated procedure for the vast majority of people, with excellent success rates. I hope this helps. I wish you all the best. Thanks, J. Eric Downing, MD READ MORE
What is a good vitamin for dry eyes?
To my knowledge, there is no vitamin supplement which helps with dry eye. The mainstay of treatment for dry eye is lubrication with artificial tears. They are over-the-counter, and can generally be used 2-4 times/day as needed for dryness, burning, or irritation. The only oral supplement that has shown any benefit are omega-3 fish oil tablets, which are usually taken twice a day. Another thing you can do to help with dryness is to be sure and drink enough water. Finally, I recommend using the 20/20/20 rule, which means that every 20 minutes of screen time/near work, you should take a 20 second break and stare at least 20 feet off in the distance. These strategies should help with your dry eye. If you try these, but are still experiencing symptoms, I recommend seeing your eye care specialist to explore other possible causes and/or therapies. Hope that helps. Warm regards, Eric Downing, MD READ MORE
I have eye pain?
Hello, I’m sorry you’re feeling uncomfortable with extended screen time. The most common reason for this is dry eye. I would start with an over-the-counter artificial tear such as Refreah, Systane, or Thera Tears. Use one drop in each eye when you first sit down to work at the computer, and anytime you have any symptoms or discomfort throughout the day. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, I recommend following up with an eye specialist to explore other reasons you could be having problems. Hope this helps. Take care. Regards, Eric Downing, MD READ MORE
How do I stop constant eye blinking while wearing contacts?
The blinking is most likely one of two things: 1) Dryness, which sometimes can be exacerbated by the contact lenses, or 2) poor fitting contacts. I would first try purchasing some artificial tears (formulated for contacts) at the pharmacy (no prescription necessary). Put one drop in each eye anytime you feel dryness or irritation, up to 4 times/day, just as you’d use chapstick for your lips. If this doesn’t solve the problem, I would seek out an evaluation to make sure your lenses are fitting correctly. Hope that helps. Take care. Regards, Eric Downing, MD READ MORE

Expert Publications

Data provided by the National Library of Medicine

Choroidal neovascularization after intraocular foreign body injury.

Areas of expertise and specialization

eye conditions, including cataracts, diabetes, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and pterygium

Professional Memberships

Kentucky Medical Association

Charities and Philanthropic Endeavors

He has actively participated in medical missions to underserved areas, including Haiti and Peru, with SEE International.
His altruistic endeavors were highlighted in the Bowling Green Daily News, where he was recognized for his impactful contributions to eye care in these regions.

Dr. J. Eric Downing, MD's Practice location

420 East 3rd Street Suite 603 -
Los Angeles, CA 90013

Get Direction

New patients: 213-680-1551

Mon:09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Tue:09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Wed:09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Thu:09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Fri:09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Sat:Closed
Sun:Closed

1724 ROCKINGHAM AVE -
BOWLING GREEN, KY 42104

Get Direction

New patients: 270-799-2259

Fax: 270-495-1310

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Media Releases

Get to know Ophthalmologist Dr. J. Eric Downing, who serves patients throughout the State of California.

A respected ophthalmologist, Dr. Downing is affiliated with East West Eye Institute, with 4 offices in the Greater Los Angeles area. He specializes in the treatment of various eye conditions, including cataracts, diabetes, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and pterygium.

Throughout his academic career, he attended the University of Kentucky, where he graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology in 2005. Eager to pursue his calling, he then completed both medical school and his residency in ophthalmology at the prestigious University of Louisville in 2011 and 2016.

Passionate about his profession, the doctor is board-certified in ophthalmology by the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO). The ABO is an independent, non-profit organization responsible for certifying ophthalmologists in the United States of America.

Beyond his clinical expertise, Dr. Downing has demonstrated a heartfelt commitment to global health initiatives. He has actively participated in medical missions to underserved areas, including Haiti and Peru, with SEE International. His altruistic endeavors were highlighted in the Bowling Green Daily News, where he was recognized for his impactful contributions to eye care in these regions.

Moreover, he is actively involved in organized medicine and served as a delegate to the Kentucky Medical Association general assembly in 2016. His participation in these forums underscores his commitment to staying at the forefront of medical advancements and contributing to the betterment of healthcare policies.

Ophthalmology is a branch of medicine and surgery, which deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. Ophthalmologists are experts in the diseases, functions, and anatomy of the eye. They may provide routine care such as vision testing, as well as prescribe and fit eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, ophthalmologists are also surgeons. They repair traumatic injuries to the eye and perform cataract, glaucoma, and corneal surgery.