Your vision is too important to leave to chance. For over 100 years, people across the Chicago area have trusted the University Ophthalmology Associates team to guide them through every step of their eye health journey—with clarity, confidence, and care.
University Ophthalmology Associates is a comprehensive practice of medical and surgical eye care, with over a 100-year history of excellence in Chicago and the Chicagoland area. Our dedicated doctors and staff are a team of experienced practitioners, providing the highest quality of care for our patients.
Established in the 1920s, University Ophthalmology Associates is one of the longest-standing eye care practices in Chicago. Our physicians and staff are proud to carry on an established tradition of practicing high-quality eye care. We provide personal and compassionate services for all of our patients.
Our board-certified physicians provide ophthalmology services and are proud to offer a wide range of advanced eye care procedures. No matter your condition, you can rely on our ophthalmologists to deliver the highest level of treatment and care.
The ophthalmologists at UOA Chicago perform cataract surgery using only the latest technologies. This includes laser-assisted cataract surgery and advanced lens technologies. In addition to the most current care in cataract treatment, our fellowship-trained corneal specialists perform corneal transplant surgery and LASIK surgery. Moreover, our corneal specialists are experts in dry eye treatment. UOA also has a fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist who provides medical and surgical
treatment of glaucoma.
At University Ophthalmology Associates, we offer advanced cataract surgery to restore clear vision and improve your quality of life. Cataracts, which cause clouding of the eye’s natural lens, can significantly impair daily activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces. Our skilled ophthalmologists utilize cutting-edge techniques, including laser-assisted cataract surgery and premium lens options, to ensure optimal outcomes tailored to your lifestyle and vision goals.
With a focus on personalized care, we guide you through every step of the process—from diagnosis to post-operative recovery—helping you achieve sharper, brighter vision and renewed independence.
Our comprehensive ophthalmology services are designed to address the full spectrum of eye health needs, from routine eye exams to the diagnosis and management of complex eye conditions. Whether you need corrective lenses, treatment for an eye disease, or surgical intervention, our board-certified ophthalmologists provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs.
By combining advanced diagnostic tools with the latest treatments, we ensure early detection and effective management of conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease. Our holistic approach prioritizes preserving and enhancing your vision, empowering you to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.
Our Cornea & External Disease services focus on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the cornea, conjunctiva, and other external parts of the eye. From dry eye syndrome and corneal infections to keratoconus and corneal scarring, our specialists utilize advanced diagnostic tools and innovative treatments to preserve and restore vision.
We offer a full range of care, including corneal cross-linking, corneal transplants and complex intraocular lens surgeries using the most cutting-edge techniques and technologies. By addressing these conditions promptly and effectively, we help patients achieve clearer vision, reduce discomfort, and improve overall eye health.
Our Glaucoma services focus on the early detection, treatment, and management of glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness that often develops without noticeable symptoms. Through regular eye exams and advanced diagnostic tools, we monitor intraocular pressure and evaluate the health of your optic nerve to catch glaucoma in its early stages.
Our experienced ophthalmologists offer both medical and surgical treatments, including cutting-edge laser therapies and microincisional surgical techniques, to help control eye pressure and preserve your vision. With personalized care and ongoing management, we aim to help patients live with glaucoma while maintaining their quality of life and protecting their vision.
Our Refractive Surgery services are designed to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses by reshaping the cornea to improve vision. We offer state-of-the-art procedures, including LASIK, PRK, and lens based procedures tailored to your unique vision needs.
By using advanced technology, our experienced surgeons correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, helping patients achieve clearer vision and greater independence from corrective eyewear. With personalized care and comprehensive evaluations, we ensure that you receive the best possible treatment for your vision goals.
Our specialty contact lens service provides comprehensive care ranging from daily soft contact lenses to personalized scleral lenses, including precise impression-molded and higher-order aberration correcting lenses.
Our residency trained optometrist has extensive experience and offers services including myopia management and complex contact lens fittings for conditions such as keratoconus, corneal ectasia, post-transplant, and severe ocular surface disease.
1725 West Harrison St Suite #918 Chicago, IL 60612
(312) 942-2734
Mon-Fri: 8am – 5pm
Sat. & Sun: Closed
5750 Old Orchard Road Suite 500 Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 677-8989
Mon-Fri: 8am – 5pm
Sat. & Sun: Closed
1800 Hollister Drive Suite #205 Libertyville, IL 60048
(847) 677-8989
Mon-Fri: 8am – 5pm
Sat. & Sun: Closed
1200 Harger Rd, Ste 800, Oak Brook, IL 60523
(630) 405-5084
Mon-Fri: 8am – 5pm
Sat. & Sun: Closed
Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed procedures in ophthalmology, and one of the reasons for its success is that it is typically not painful. Our goal at University Ophthalmology Associates is to make the entire process as comfortable and stress-free as possible for you.
Before the surgery, we will administer numbing eye drops to ensure that you do not feel any pain during the procedure. In most cases, a mild sedative is also given to help you relax. The surgery itself is quick—usually lasting around 15 minutes—and patients often report only feeling slight pressure or minor discomfort, but not pain.
After the procedure, it’s normal to experience mild irritation, itching, or a feeling of something in the eye, but these sensations typically subside within a few hours. We provide clear aftercare instructions and follow-up visits to monitor your recovery, and many patients return to normal activities within a few days.
Our team of experienced surgeons and staff are dedicated to providing compassionate care and ensuring that your experience is as smooth and pain-free as possible. If you have any concerns or questions before or after your surgery, we are here to support you every step of the way. You can trust that you’re in good hands with us.
At University Ophthalmology Associates, we understand that the recovery process is an important part of your overall experience with cataract surgery, and we aim to make it as smooth and efficient as possible. Fortunately, the recovery time after cataract surgery is typically quick, with many patients experiencing significant improvement in their vision within a day or two.
Most patients are able to resume normal activities—such as reading, watching TV, and walking—within 24 to 48 hours after surgery. However, we recommend avoiding strenuous activities like heavy lifting, swimming, or bending over for the first week to allow your eye to fully heal. You’ll also be asked to wear an eye shield or protective glasses while sleeping for the first few days to prevent any accidental pressure on the eye.
Your follow-up appointments are crucial during this recovery period, as our team will closely monitor your progress and address any questions or concerns. In general, it takes about 4 to 6 weeks for your eye to completely heal, and your final vision correction will be assessed during this time. It’s important to remember that while most patients experience rapid improvement, full recovery may take a few weeks, with vision continuing to stabilize over time.
Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized care throughout your recovery, and we’ll be with you every step of the way to ensure that your healing process goes smoothly. If you ever have any questions or need support, we’re just a phone call away. You can trust us to help you regain clear, bright vision and get back to your daily life as quickly as possible.
Cataract surgery is a highly successful and long-lasting procedure. After the surgery, most patients experience a significant improvement in vision that can last for many years, often decades. The lens implant used during cataract surgery is designed to last a lifetime, as it is made of durable, biocompatible materials that do not degrade over time.
However, while the lens itself remains stable, it is important to understand that cataracts generally develop as a result of natural aging, and the surgery removes the clouded natural lens. There is no risk of a cataract forming again in the same eye after surgery, but a condition called secondary cataract or posterior capsule opacification (PCO) can occur over time, typically several years after surgery. PCO can cause blurry vision similar to the symptoms of a cataract, but it can be easily treated with a quick, non-invasive laser procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy.
Most patients who undergo cataract surgery enjoy clear, sharp vision for many years following the procedure. To ensure the best long-term outcomes, regular eye exams are important for monitoring your overall eye health, especially as you age.
At University Ophthalmology Associates, we are dedicated to providing high-quality cataract surgery and follow-up care. Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the process, helping you achieve the best possible results. If you have any concerns about your eye health or the longevity of your cataract surgery results, we are here to answer your questions and provide the support you need for lasting vision improvement.
One of the most common corneal diseases is keratoconus, a condition where the cornea (the clear, dome-shaped surface of the eye) becomes thinner and bulges outward into a cone shape. This distortion can cause blurred or distorted vision, which may be difficult to correct with glasses or contact lenses. The condition typically begins in adolescence and can worsen over time if not properly managed.
At University Ophthalmology Associates, we specialize in diagnosing and treating corneal diseases like keratoconus. Our team of experienced ophthalmologists uses advanced diagnostic technology to detect conditions early, so that we can implement a treatment plan that may include specialty contact lenses, medications, or in some cases, surgical options like corneal cross-linking or a corneal transplant.
Keratoconus can be managed effectively with the right care, and early intervention is key to preserving your vision. If you experience symptoms such as blurred or distorted vision, frequent prescription changes, or glare and halos around lights, it’s important to seek an evaluation from a skilled ophthalmologist.
Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care for corneal conditions, offering personalized treatments that address your unique needs. We’ll guide you through your options and support you in achieving the best possible outcomes for your eye health and vision. If you have any concerns or questions about corneal disease or treatment options, we’re here to help.
The cornea, the clear, protective outer layer of the eye, plays a critical role in focusing light and protecting the inner structures of the eye. Damage to the cornea can lead to vision problems and discomfort. Several factors can cause corneal damage, and understanding these risks is essential for maintaining eye health.
At University Ophthalmology Associates, we are dedicated to diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the cornea. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to identify early signs of corneal damage and offer personalized treatment options to prevent further harm. Whether you’re dealing with an injury, infection, or a chronic condition like keratoconus, our experienced ophthalmologists provide expert care to help preserve your vision.
If you have concerns about your eye health or corneal conditions, we’re here to help. Our compassionate team will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs, ensuring the best possible outcome for your eye health.
Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that damages the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye. While glaucoma cannot be “cured” or fully stopped, it is highly treatable and manageable, especially when detected early. The goal of treatment is to slow the progression of the disease, preserve vision, and prevent further damage to the optic nerve.
At University Ophthalmology Associates, we focus on early detection and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Our team of experienced ophthalmologists uses advanced diagnostic tools to monitor intraocular pressure and assess the health of your optic nerve. By detecting glaucoma in its early stages, we can prevent significant vision loss and help you manage the condition effectively.
Treatment for glaucoma typically involves lowering the intraocular pressure (IOP) to reduce the risk of further damage to the optic nerve. This can be achieved through medications (eye drops or oral medications), laser therapy, or surgical interventions. In many cases, a combination of these treatments will be used to help control the pressure in the eye and slow the progression of the disease.
While we cannot reverse damage that has already occurred, maintaining regular eye exams and adhering to your treatment plan can help prevent or delay further vision loss. With proper management, many patients with glaucoma continue to lead active, fulfilling lives.
If you have a family history of glaucoma or experience symptoms such as vision changes, eye pain, or halos around lights, it’s important to schedule an eye exam as soon as possible. Our team is here to provide expert care, answer any questions you may have, and guide you through your treatment options. You can trust us to help you manage glaucoma and protect your vision for years to come.
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it typically develops gradually and without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. While it can affect individuals of all ages, the risk of developing glaucoma increases with age. Most people who develop glaucoma are over the age of 40, but certain forms of glaucoma can start earlier, especially in those with a family history of the disease.
Primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common type, usually develops slowly over time and often begins after the age of 40. For individuals who have risk factors such as a family history of glaucoma, high intraocular pressure, or certain medical conditions, the risk of developing glaucoma increases earlier in life.
Other types of glaucoma, such as angle-closure glaucoma and congenital glaucoma, can develop in younger individuals or even in childhood, though these are less common. Angle-closure glaucoma can occur suddenly and is a medical emergency, while congenital glaucoma is present at birth and is typically diagnosed in infancy.
At University Ophthalmology Associates, we recommend regular eye exams starting in your 20s or 30s, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of glaucoma, high blood pressure, or diabetes. After age 40, annual eye exams become even more critical to catch any signs of glaucoma early. Early detection and treatment are key to managing glaucoma and preventing significant vision loss.
If you’re concerned about glaucoma or would like more information on how to protect your vision, we’re here to help. Our team of experienced ophthalmologists will provide thorough eye exams, address any concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. You can trust us to be your partner in maintaining eye health and preventing vision loss from glaucoma.
Refractive surgery is a broad term that refers to any surgical procedure designed to correct refractive vision problems, such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is one of the most popular and well-known types of refractive surgery, but it is not the only option available.
LASIK works by using a laser to reshape the cornea, allowing light to enter the eye properly and focus on the retina, which improves vision. This procedure is quick, minimally painful, and has a high success rate. Most LASIK patients experience improved vision within a few days and can achieve 20/25 vision or better.
However, refractive surgery encompasses a variety of techniques beyond LASIK, tailored to meet individual needs. These include:
At University Ophthalmology Associates, our experienced team will evaluate your unique vision needs and determine which refractive surgery option is best for you. We take a personalized approach, ensuring that you understand all of your options and are fully informed before making a decision.
While LASIK is a highly effective solution for many, other refractive surgery options may offer better results depending on your eye health and lifestyle. If you’re considering refractive surgery, we’re here to provide expert guidance and support throughout the process, ensuring you make the best choice for your vision and overall eye health.
Refractive surgery, such as LASIK, PRK, or SMILE, offers long-lasting results for most patients, providing improved vision that can last many years, and in many cases, a lifetime. However, the longevity of the results can depend on several factors, including your age, eye health, and whether your prescription changes over time.
At University Ophthalmology Associates, we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible vision and maintaining it long-term. During your initial consultation, we will thoroughly assess your eye health and discuss the potential outcomes and expectations of refractive surgery, ensuring that you make an informed decision.
If you’re considering refractive surgery, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process. Our expert team will help determine the best surgical option for you, based on your eye health, lifestyle, and goals, ensuring that you enjoy lasting results and clear vision for many years to come
The best age for refractive eye surgery, such as LASIK, PRK, or SMILE, varies depending on individual circumstances, including your eye health and the stability of your vision. However, there are general age guidelines that can help determine when refractive surgery is most appropriate.
At University Ophthalmology Associates, we take a personalized approach to determine the best time for your refractive surgery. During your consultation, we will assess the health of your eyes, review your vision history, and discuss your goals. Our goal is to ensure that you fully understand the benefits and potential risks of refractive surgery, so you can make an informed decision about your vision.
Whether you’re in your 20s or beyond, we’re here to guide you through your refractive surgery journey with expert advice, cutting-edge technology, and personalized care.
Our team plays an active role in the academic community by teaching university-level courses, mentoring the next generation of ophthalmologists, and delivering impactful presentations at leading conferences, seminars, and industry events. Through these engagements, we stay at the forefront of the latest research and innovations, while also contributing to the ongoing development of best practices in patient care.
