Diabetes is a leading cause of vision loss in the United States. Diabetic retinopathy affects patients with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Annual exams are important to monitor for diabetes in the eye, and more frequent exams may be needed if disease is detected. Treatments for diabetic retinopathy currently include injection of medications and laser treatments. Careful management of diabetes with your primary care doctor is the most important factor in preventing diabetes in the eye.
Glaucoma is a common cause of vision loss, however it is often asymptomatic until late in the disease. Early detection and close monitoring are therefore key in managing glaucoma. While no definitive treatments exist, the progression of glaucoma can be slowed with the use of eye drops. Laser procedures or surgery may be indicated in more advanced disease.
Ophthalmology
Dr. Rebecca Sorenson Janik is a comprehensive ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon. She completed her residency training in 2016 at Penn State Eye Center, where she served as Chief Resident in her final year. She received her medical degree from University of Illinois College of Medicine and her bachelor’s degree from Stanford University. She is a diplomat of the American Board of Ophthalmology and a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. She also enjoys mentoring pre-medical undergraduate students at UC Berkeley. Dr. Janik is privileged to care for patients alongside her grandfather, father and uncle as a third-generation member of the Sorenson Vision practice.
Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible central vision loss in people over 50 years of age in the United States. Early signs of AMD may be detected on exam before the vision is affected. Most patients affected by AMD have the “dry” form, while approximately 10% will convert to the “wet” form. Management of AMD may include risk-factor modification, vitamin supplements, injection of medications or laser treatments.
Laser Eye Surgery
Dr. Andrew Sorenson has been performing LASIK, PRK and other vision correcting surgeries since 1998. The “all-laser LASIK” technique utilizing the femtosecond laser has made LASIK an incredibly reliable and successful way to improve your vision. People who choose LASIK generally heal quickly and require minimal medication.
Cataracts
A cataract is the natural clouding of the lens in the eye that blocks the path of light and makes vision blurry or hazy. Cataracts usually begin to form after age 50 and get gradually worse with time.
Cataract Surgery
Early on, the symptoms of a cataract may be minimal or may be overcome with glasses or contacts. However, as the cataract continues to grow, it may begin to interfere with daily tasks such as reading and driving. At this point, it is reasonable to discuss cataract surgery with your doctor.
Eye Exam
Determining if cataract surgery is right for you requires a complete evaluation in the office, including a dilated eye exam and additional testing. At the end of the evaluation, your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of surgery. If you and your doctor decide to proceed with surgery, you will meet with our surgical coordinator to discuss scheduling and other instructions prior to surgery.
A pioneer Bay Area ophthalmologist, Dr. Lionel Sorenson has fostered a tradition of service in the East Bay. He served as Assistant Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at UCSF, President of the Alta Bates Medical Center Staff, and participated actively in Berkeley Rotary for 45 years. Dr. Sorenson is one of the first regional ophthalmologists to offer Argon Laser therapy for Diabetic Retinopathy and other retinal diseases and was a pioneer in cataract surgical implants. Dr. Sorenson temporarily retired the day before the pandemic lock down, but plans to return to practice after a sabbatical.