- GlaucomaGlaucoma is a condition that affects 1 in 75 Americans. Glaucoma is usually associated with high pressure in the eyeball (unrelated to blood pressure) that causes damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is the “cable line” that connects the eyeball to the brain. If left untreated, glaucoma will eventually lead to blindness.
- OphthalmologyRichard Stangler, M.D., is an Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at Fox Eye. Originally from Minnesota, Dr. Stangler graduated from the University of Notre Dame with Highest Honors. From there, he proceeded to complete both medical school and ophthalmology residency at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Stangler then completed a highly competitive fellowship in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeries at the William Beaumont Hospital in Michigan.
- Macular DegenerationAvastin is used to treat several eye and retina diseases, like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is the leading cause of blindness in people over 50 years of age in the United States. AMD is caused by the breakdown of the central portion of the retina, called the macula (the highly sensitive part of your eye that works like the film in a camera).
- Laser Eye SurgeryIt is likely that Epi-LASIK is the most desirable choice for laser eye surgery. Dr. Birchansky at Fox Eye Laser & Cosmetic Institute was the first to introduce this advanced technology to Iowa, making him one of the most experienced Epi-LASIK surgeons in the state.
- CataractsOver a million people in the United States undergo surgery each year to remove cataracts. These people suffer from poor vision and may experience a number of symptoms that interfere with everyday life.
- Cataract SurgeryFox Eye Laser & Cosmetic Institue offers many services outside of laser eye correction, cataract surgery, and cosmetic procedures, including treatments for...
- Eye ExamThe following information is to help educate you on the difference between two excellent refractive surgical procedures that Dr. Birchansky offers to help you to “lose the glasses” or reduce your dependency on glasses and contact lenses. The ideal procedure for you is customized and determined after a thorough comprehensive eye exam.
- Pregnancy
- Internal MedicineDr. Birchansky completed his internal medicine internship in Orlando, Florida. In 1986, he moved to Iowa, where he completed his residency at the world-renowned Department of Ophthalmology at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. He enjoyed the quality of life and the genuine people of Iowa so much that he stayed here to practice.
- Mental HealthYour medical information includes information about your physical and mental health. We understand that information about your physical and mental health is personal. We are committed to protecting medical information about you. We create a record of the care and services you receive from us. We need this record to provide you with quality care and to comply with certain legal requirements. This notice applies to any and all of the records of your care generated by us.
- Diabetes Care
- Diabetic RetinopathyDiabetes affects the circulatory system of the retina. The earliest phase of the disease is known as background diabetic retinopathy. This is when the arteries in the retina become weakened and leak, forming small, dot-like hemorrhages. These leaking vessels often lead to swelling or edema in the retina and decreased vision. Laser treatment may be offered by your doctor at this point to preserve vision.
- ChemotherapyAvastin was not initially developed to treat eye conditions. Based upon the results of clinical trials that demonstrated its safety and effectiveness, Avastin was approved as a chemotherapy drug by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. As a condition of approval, the manufacturer produced a “label” explaining the indications, risks, and benefits. The label explains that Avastin works by blocking a substance known as vascular endothelial growth factor or VEGF. Blocking or slowing VEGF helps prevent further growth of the blood vessels that the cancer needs to continue growing.
- Reconstructive SurgeryDr. Stangler served as a USAF Medical Center Staff Ophthalmologist at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and received commendation for his outstanding medical service. He also served as a Clinical Instructor of Ophthalmology at Wright State University in Ohio. He then practiced in a private setting in Sycamore and Downer’s Grove, Illinois before coming to Fox Eye Laser & Cosmetic Institute to establish the Department of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
- BotoxBOTOX® is a protein that weakens and inactivates muscles that wrinkle the skin. When BOTOX® is injected in extremely small doses directly into a specific muscle, it blocks the signals from the brain from reaching the muscle. As the muscle weakens, the skin overlying the muscle relaxes and the wrinkles caused by muscle contractions soften and often disappear. The effect can last initially from 3 to 4 months and perhaps longer with additional treatment.
- Eyelid Surgery
- Plastic SurgeryWhen considering your facial aesthetic options, you’ll find that BOTOX® is quite affordable. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery’s 2000 survey, BOTOX® is one of the least expensive facial aesthetic procedures, ranking 7th in the 9 most widely-used procedures in the United States. Like other appearance-related investments, such as hair coloring and cuts, teeth whitening, and chemical peels, the cost must be weighed relative to your expectations. Dr. Stangler will discuss pricing during your individual consultation. Since injections are customized to each patient’s needs, prices may vary between patients.
- Face LiftThrough modern techniques and advances in an eyelid rejuvenation procedure called blepharoplasty, Dr. Stangler can help restore a more youthful, alert and healthy look to your droopy eyes. Sometimes referred to as a “mini facelift,” blepharoplasty has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for both men and women because of its high level of patient satisfaction. Blepharoplasty can be performed on both the upper and lower eyelids.
- Blepharoplasty
- Cosmetic Surgery
- Chemical PeelsChemical Peeling is a technique used to enhance the appearance of the skin and is effective in the treatment of wrinkles, skin discoloration and age spots, as well as dull skin texture and mild acne scars. During this treatment we apply a chemical solution to the skin, which causes dead skin cells to separate and peel off. A chemical peel produces younger-looking skin by stripping away old, sun damaged skin, which the body replaces with new, healthy skin. The new, regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. The new skin is also more even in color.