At Ackerson Eyecare, we work closely with trusted ophthalmologists and surgical specialists throughout Utah to help patients navigate every stage of the surgical process – from diagnosis and referral to post-operative care and long-term follow-up.

Our goal is to make the experience as smooth, informed, and convenient as possible while ensuring you receive the right surgeon and the right procedure for your specific needs.

What Is Surgical Co-Management?

Surgical co-management means your care is shared between your surgeon and your primary eye doctor.

When surgery is needed, we help:

• Diagnose and monitor the condition
• Determine when surgery is appropriate
• Refer you to the right specialist
• Educate you about your options
• Coordinate your care before and after surgery
• Provide much of your follow-up care locally

This allows patients to receive specialized surgical treatment while still maintaining ongoing care close to home with a doctor who already knows their eyes and medical history.

Cataract Surgery Co-Management

Cataracts are one of the most common reasons patients are referred for ocular surgery.

As cataracts gradually develop, patients often notice:

• Blurry or cloudy vision
• Increased glare at night
• Difficulty driving
• Faded colors
• Trouble reading or seeing details clearly

We carefully monitor cataract progression and help patients decide when surgery makes sense based on their symptoms, lifestyle, and visual goals.

When it is time for surgery, we help guide patients through the process and explain the different lens implant options available, including:

• Standard lens implants
• Astigmatism-correcting lenses
• Multifocal and extended-range implants
• Refractive lens exchange options

After surgery, many follow-up visits can often be completed locally at our office for added convenience.

LASIK & Refractive Surgery Co-Management

For patients interested in reducing their dependence on glasses or contact lenses, we also co-manage LASIK and other refractive surgery procedures.

Not every patient is a good candidate for LASIK, which is why careful screening and education are extremely important. We evaluate factors such as:

• Prescription stability
• Corneal thickness and shape
• Dry eye severity
• Overall eye health
• Lifestyle and visual needs

If refractive surgery is a good option, we help coordinate care with experienced surgeons and continue monitoring your vision and eye health after the procedure.

Retinal & Specialty Surgical Referrals

Some eye conditions require highly specialized surgical treatment.

We work closely with retinal specialists and other ophthalmic surgeons throughout Utah for conditions including:

• Retinal tears and detachments
• Wet macular degeneration
• Advanced glaucoma
• Complex corneal disease
• Other sight-threatening conditions

Because we already have your exam history and diagnostic imaging, we are often able to help coordinate referrals quickly and efficiently when urgent treatment is needed.

Personalized Guidance Throughout the Process

One of the most valuable parts of co-management is having a doctor you already know helping guide you through the process.

Eye surgery can feel overwhelming, especially when patients are trying to understand medical terminology, treatment options, recovery expectations, and costs. We take time to answer questions, explain recommendations clearly, and help patients feel comfortable and informed before moving forward.

Convenient Local Follow-Up Care

Traveling long distances for every surgical follow-up appointment can be difficult, especially for older patients or those recovering from surgery.

Whenever possible, we provide post-operative care locally so patients can continue receiving follow-up treatment close to home while still remaining connected with their surgeon when necessary.

Our goal is to make the entire process more convenient, coordinated, and comfortable while helping patients achieve the best possible visual outcome.