Frame Materials: When and how they matter (Part 1: Titanium)

You may have heard a few terms thrown around about the kind of metal used in wire-rimmed eyeglass frames. Monel, you may or may not be familiar with, but Stainless Steel and Titanium are sure to ring a bell. Stainless Steel and Titanium are higher quality metals and do make the price of a frame go up, but you may wonder what the actual quantified difference between these materials is. Does it actually affect how your glasses feel or function?

In some cases, material will matter more than others. Titanium will hold up the best, and is the lightest weight metal that eyeglasses are made of. This makes it ideal for the customer who demands the lightest weight and requires high durability at the same time. Titanium is 40% lighter than Stainless Steel and 50% lighter than Monel, featuring the highest strength-to weight ratio of any eyeglass metal. It is highly corrosion-resistant and is biocompatible, meaning it is not harmful to living tissue and is hypoallergenic. It is often used in medical implants because of its biocompatibility, which also makes it a fantastic material for those with metal allergies. There are also a few alloys of Titanium that you may see printed on the non-prescription demo lens or inside the temple on some frames.

There are numerous places Titanium can be sourced from, but the very purest and highest quality Titanium comes from Japan, which is why it is a favorite source for some of the independent frame lines we carry, such as Orgreen and State. Titanium can produce the lightest weight frames due to the minimal amount that is necessary to create a durable frame, and for this reason it is also the best choice for a drill-mounted rimless frame. It is an exceptionally solid material which retains its shape exceedingly well and holds its adjustment longer than other metals for this reason. A titanium frame is a fantastic choice that can be reused for many years due to its durability and resistance to corrosion. While Titanium is naturally a silver or gray color, it can be wrapped in vibrant colors to create a look that will stand out from the crowd.

There is one Titanium alloy that became quite popular over the last few decades, especially among people who demand their eyewear withstand nearly any amount of punishment. It goes by a couple of names with some minor differences in the composition but very similar properties. We are talking about Memory Metal, also referred to by the name brand of Flexon. Sometimes this material is used only in one part of a frame, sometimes most of the frame is made of it. One of the properties this material has is the ability to “remember” its original shape. In other words, smush it underneath a helmet, step on it, twist it 180 degrees, and see it pop right back to its original shape. Memory Metal and Flexon are practically impossible to adjust, so it is not generally used for every part of the frame to ensure a good fit on the wearer. The temple tips, which are designed to curve behind your ear, are usually made of standard Titanium or another metal so they may be adjusted to provide a good fit. Nose pad arms are also usually made of standard Titanium or another metal for the same reason.

Most typically, frames that contain Flexon or Memory Metal will have it in the bridge of the frame, often distinguishable by the thinner cylinder of metal going into a larger cylinder before it attaches to the eyewire of the frame. Another common location of these materials is in the temples of your frame. Flexon or Memory Metal in either or both of these locations will negate the need for a spring hinge, as the material is naturally flexible, providing greater comfort and further reducing the weight of your frame. Flexon or Memory Metal are typically thin, round cylinders when used in frame construction, though they occasionally are made into more unique shapes.

Beta Titanium is different in that it does retain plenty of flexibility, but it is actually adjustable as well. Beta Titanium typically requires a solid amount of steady pressure over a longer period of time than other frame materials in order to get the desired result. Because they require more pressure to adjust, they hold that adjustment very well, which means you won’t have to visit your Optician as frequently for realignment of your frames. Because it can be adjusted, Beta Titanium can provide a more customizable fit than Flexon or Memory metal if used in the temples, and it is also more commonly made into a variety of temple shapes, including plate temples. Plate temples are generally flat, though some have a little texture or other design elements, and can be cut into any shape for a variety of styles. When properly cared for, it can outlast Flexon and Memory Metal frames, though it does not have the ability to be twisted and stepped on without needing to be adjusted back to shape.

To condense everything  above, Titanium is a fantastic frame material which offers the best balance between weight and durability, is hypoallergenic, and corrosion resistant. All varieties of Titanium are incredibly durable and frames made from any of them will last for quite a long time. A couple of Titanium alloys have specific properties that lend themselves to be especially suitable for particular needs. When a frame that can handle being smashed and thrown around is needed, Memory Metal or Flexon will handle it extremely well. If more flexibility than standard titanium is desired along with a higher degree of adjustability than the previous choice, then Beta Titanium is your material. For the highest stability in shape, Standard Titanium is an excellent choice. Standard Titanium frame fronts can also be joined with Beta Titanium temples in order to get the maximum benefit from both materials, as can be experienced with our Orgreen Titanium line of frames.

Come in to experience the difference of our Titanium frames for yourself at First Sight Eye Care, located at 2126 1st Ave S in St. Pete. ​

There is currently a lot of talk about blue light, blue light blocking glasses, and apps that reduce blue light from digital devices. Some push blue-light blocking lenses as “absolutely necessary.” Some think people just want to make money selling something that people don’t really need. I’ve reached a conclusion using a combination of feedback I’ve received from the numerous patients I’ve helped over the years, as well as information from continuing education classes and articles I’ve simply been interested in reading. In my opinion, there is a certain amount of credit to give to both perspectives, with the truth on whether a person would benefit from lenses that block blue light based mostly on their work environment and subjective experience. 


Before we get any further, I should clarify exactly what blue light is, what the effect on us is, and where it comes from. Blue-violet light is the highest energy wavelength of light that we can see, ranging from around 380 to 450 nanometers. This is the wavelength that blue light filtering glasses are generally designed to reduce, and the primary advertised sources of blue light are digital devices, LEDs, and fluorescent lights. Blue light can be irritating to our eyes, particularly when we’re exposed to it constantly for a long period of time. It is also worth mentioning that the single biggest source of blue light is the sun. It emits around 30 times more blue light than our LED phone, computer, and television screens. Sunglasses block blue light very effectively, but it’s still good to confirm that your sunglasses also block 100% of UV light, as some do not.


Some people or companies seek to make blue light seem terribly detrimental to your eye health in order to make money selling a product. For all we’ve heard on blue light and the associated dangers, there isn’t yet enough quality clinical evidence of serious danger from blue light to draw a solid conclusion from, despite the many studies that have been done. Put simply, we don’t know for sure whether blue light exposure causes any kind of permanent damage to the eye. It’s possible that it is harmful, or it could simply be an irritation with no long-term harm.


Some people are more sensitive to blue light and would notice a substantial increase in comfort by reducing it. I’ve heard a lot of people say they notice a big difference in their ocular comfort while using lenses designed to limit blue light exposure. I’ve also heard some say they notice no difference. I am, like many others, somewhere in the middle. I notice my eyes are a little less tired at the end of the day when I’m wearing lenses that block some blue light, so I like them.


The reduced eye strain that blue light blocking lenses offer many people is reason enough for me to offer this as a comfort product. If you were to come into our office with questions about blue light and lens options, I’d be more than happy to go over them with you, whether you’re asking simply out of curiosity or so you can make an informed decision as to the best product to meet your needs.

On February 2, 2023, Global Pharma Healthcare recalled two artificial tear products. This came about after EzriCare and Delsam Artificial Tears—over-the-counter eye drops for dry eye relief—were linked to severe side effects.

On February 24, the pharmaceutical company also recalled its Delsam eye ointment for similar reasons.


What Really Happened?
The recall came after the FDA and CDC linked EzriCare with an outbreak of eye infections in several states. The other two products were recalled after the FDA cited them for the risk of microbial contamination.

Some of the Delsam ointment packages were also found leaking, which was already a risk factor. The source of the contamination remains unknown, according to the pharmaceutical giant.
 What Are The Risks Of Using EzriCare Artificial Tears?
The main risk of this brand of artificial tears is the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, also known as VIM-GES-CRPA, found in open medication bottles. This bacterium strain has not been seen in the U.S. before. It is also a very rare form of it. The bacterium is even more dangerous because it can get past the eye and affect other body parts.

According to the latest report on March 21, 2023, the bacteria had caused three deaths, and eight people lost their vision. The artificial tears have been noted for their side effects; even before this saga happened, users reported allergic reactions, blurry vision, and eye pain.
 What Does The FDA Say About EzriCare Artificial Tears?
The FDA is working with the CDC in an interagency effort to test unopened bottles of the drug to ascertain when the contamination happened. There have yet to be any testing results as of March 21, but the FDA is still warning people not to use the recalled products.

However, the FDA reported that Global Pharma Healthcare was not compliant with good CGMP or marketing practices. They neither used a good preservative nor tested for bacteria, and their manufacturing controls for tamper-evident packaging were less than ideal.
 
What Are The Symptoms Of Using The Recalled EzriCare Artificial Tears?
 

• Eyelid or eye redness
  
• Feeling of sand or a foreign body in the eye
  
• Blurry vision
  
• Eye discomfort or pain
  
• Yellow or green discharge from the eye
  
• Increased sensitivity to light
  
  
  
  

What Should You Do When You Have Dry Eyes?
Usually, artificial tears that you can get over the counter never require a doctor’s intervention or recommendation. You could just get a bottle and use it whenever you have dry eyes. In the face of the saga, it may be prudent to ask your eye doctor about relief from your dry eye. They may be more informed about which artificial tears are good for you.
 When Should You See A Doctor For Dry Eyes?
You may need to see your doctor if you notice that you need to use artificial tears more often than prescribed. Also, if you have any side effects or reactions that the doctor or the manufacturer did not warn about, see a doctor immediately. 

For more on the recall saga of artificial tears, visit First Sight Eye Care at our office in St. Petersburg, Florida. Call (727) 592-2000 to book an appointment today.

​When it comes to your vision, maintaining clarity and health is paramount. However, sometimes age or other factors can lead to changes in your eyes that affect your sight. One such change is the formation of a cataract, a condition that can blur and diminish your vision over time. Understanding what this condition entails is the first step towards preserving your eye health.


How Do Cataracts Develop?The most common cause of cataract development is the natural aging process. As you age, the proteins in the lens of your eye can begin to break down and clump together, forming the cloudiness characteristic of a cataract. This process usually begins around the age of 40, with the symptoms often appearing later in life.


In addition to aging, genetic factors can play a role. Some individuals may be more predisposed to cataracts due to their family history. Medical conditions, such as diabetes, can also accelerate the development of cataracts. In diabetics, high blood sugar levels can alter the metabolism of the eye's lens, leading to the accumulation of sorbitol, a sugar that can contribute to lens opacity.
How cataracts develop can also be influenced by environmental factors and lifestyle choices. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet sunlight, smoking, and the use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids, can all increase your risk of cataract formation. Additionally, injuries to the eye can lead to secondary cataracts, even if the injury occurred many years before the cataract becomes noticeable.


Common Symptoms Of CataractsOne of the early signs of a cataract is a subtle change in your vision. You might notice that colors are not as bright as they used to be or that your vision has a brownish or yellowish tinge. This discoloration can make it difficult to distinguish between shades of color, and blues and purples may appear less vibrant to you.


Another common symptom is a general blurring of vision. You might find that your glasses or contact lenses no longer seem to give you the clear vision they once did. Glare from lamps or the sun can become particularly bothersome, and you might see halos around lights, making night driving especially challenging.


In some cases, you may experience double vision or see multiple images in one eye, which is not corrected by closing the other eye. Additionally, you might discover that you need frequent changes in your prescription glasses or contact lenses. These frequent adjustments can be a sign that the lens of your eye is changing due to the progression of a cataract.


The Importance Of Regular Eye ExaminationsRegular eye exams are the cornerstone of maintaining good eye health and vision. They allow for the early detection of cataracts, often before you even notice any symptoms. When cataracts are found early, your eye care provider can monitor their progression and plan for treatment at the appropriate time.


During an eye exam, your optometrist doesn't just check for cataracts; they also assess your overall eye health. They can detect other eye conditions, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, which may have no noticeable symptoms in their early stages. By keeping up with regular eye exams, you ensure that any potential issues are caught and treated early, preserving your vision.


As part of your regular eye exams, your optometrist will also ensure that your vision correction prescriptions are up to date. This is crucial since wearing the correct prescription can help you see more clearly and reduce the risk of eye strain. Additionally, your eye doctor can provide you with guidance on how to protect your eye health, such as wearing sunglasses with UV protection and managing health conditions that could affect your eyes.


Maintaining Your Optimal Vision And Eye HealthAwareness and education are your first line of defense against cataracts and other eye conditions that can impair your vision. By recognizing the signs and symptoms and acting promptly, you can help preserve your sight and maintain your quality of life.

At First Sight Eye Care, we choose to carry brands that tell a story. Allow me to introduce you to some of our favorite glasses brands.


Krewe- “Started in the Quarter, now we’re here” – The French Quarter that is. Krewe Eye Wear is a brand that was started out of a pull behind cart in New Orleans by founder Stirling Barrett in 2013. While the glasses are no longer sold out of a cart, they still carry their New Orleans inspiration with them. “The St. Louis,” named after the street in New Orleans, is the sunglass frame that put the company on the map. This iconic frame is inspired by the wrought iron balconies in the French Quarter.


Like a small batch barrel of bourbon, these frames are not mass produced, but meticulously crafted. Each frame is handmade and goes through a 100-point inspection before it is allowed to ship out. The company also gives back to their community by providing free prescription Krewe glasses to New Orleans High Schoolers in need.


Krewe has been spotted on some famous faces. They are a favorite brand of Beyonce, and have also been seen on Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Karlie Kloss.


Orgreen- These are eyeglasses that will stand the test of time. This frame line started in 1997 and comes to us all the way from Copenhagen Denmark. The Danish design brings about a timeless appearance, while offering bold color combinations. These impactful color combinations are executed perfectly by the work of their dedicated in-house colorist, a job that is commonly outsourced by other manufacturers. The designs are inspired by architecture, nature, and art. Orgreen frames can be loud or minimalistic, they are bold and they are confident. But one thing that all the frames have in common is the quality of their design.


Their titanium frames are handmade in Japan, and their other collections feature frames made of premium materials such as stainless steel. Why this really matters is because you won’t be coming in soon after with a broken temple or nose piece. They are strong, light weight, and they give that flawless “barely there” feeling.


Maui Jim – This brand is designed to change the way you see the world. Maui Jim started as a small company selling sunglasses on Ka’anapali beach in Maui. It is a sunglass company born with the question of how to protect eyes from intense glare and harmful UV while still displaying the brilliant colors of island life. The polarizedplus2 lens was the answer. This lens protects the eyes, while still allowing you to see vivid clarity and crisp colors. This lens is featured in every pair of Maui Jim Sunglasses.


Maui Jim is also an expert in creating prescription lenses. When you put your prescription in a Maui Jim pair of glasses, you are getting a digital lens with cutting edge technology. So, whether you are spending a day on the water, or just want to see clearly on your commute, these glasses are sure to do the trick.


These are just a few of our brands and the story behind them. Stay tuned for more information on some of our other favorites in our next blog, and make sure to come check them out at First Sight Eye Care. Book an appointment today!

​Polarized sunglasses are designed with a special filter that blocks intense reflected light, thereby reducing glare. They work on a simple principle of wave polarization. Like other waveforms, light waves can oscillate in more than one direction. Polarized sunglasses only allow light waves moving in one direction to pass through, effectively reducing the intensity of light that reaches the eye.


The polarization technology embedded in the lenses helps eliminate the glare that bounces off surfaces such as water or a shiny car hood.


The Benefits Of Polarized Sunglasses For Eye HealthFirstly, by reducing glare, they ease the strain on the eyes. This is advantageous, especially for people like me who spend significant time outdoors, as it helps prevent eye fatigue.


Secondly, polarized sunglasses enhance visual clarity and contrast, which is particularly beneficial when participating in outdoor sports or activities that require acute visual perception.


Lastly, most polarized sunglasses offer full UV protection. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to various eye problems, including cataracts and macular degeneration. By wearing polarized sunglasses, you're not only improving your vision but also protecting your eyes from potential harm.


Potential Drawbacks Of Polarized Sunglasses For Eye HealthDespite the numerous benefits, there are also potential drawbacks to using polarized sunglasses for eye health. One of the main disadvantages is difficulty in viewing LCD screens. Since these screens also employ polarization technology, wearing polarized sunglasses can make it harder to read in them. This can be inconvenient, especially when trying to use your phone or read your car's digital displays while wearing the sunglasses.


Another potential downside is the false sense of security they may provide. While polarized sunglasses do offer UV protection, it's important to remember that the level of protection varies from one pair to another. Always ensure to check the UV rating before purchase.


Who Should Use Polarized Sunglasses?Polarized sunglasses are more beneficial to anyone who spends a significant amount of time outdoors, especially in high-glare situations. This includes sports enthusiasts, drivers, fishermen, and even photographers. They are also ideal for individuals with light sensitivity issues or those recovering from eye surgery.


Polarized sunglasses might not be the best fit for everyone, especially those who rely heavily on LCD screens or have occupations that require accurate color perception, as polarized lenses may alter color perception.


Comparison Of Polarized Sunglasses With Non-Polarized SunglassesIn comparison to non-polarized sunglasses, polarized sunglasses provide superior glare reduction. While both types can offer full UV protection, the added benefit of glare reduction makes polarized sunglasses a better option for outdoor activities.


However, non-polarized sunglasses generally do not interfere with viewing LCD screens and are often less expensive  than their polarized counterparts. They might be a more suitable choice for individuals on a budget or those whose activities do not involve high-glare situations.


Are Polarized Sunglasses Right For You?Polarized sunglasses offer numerous benefits for eye health, including reduced eye strain, enhanced visual clarity, and UV protection.


For more information on polarized sunglasses for eye health, call First Sight Eye Care in St. Petersburg, FL, at (727) 592-2000 to book an appointment today.

At First Sight Eye Care we live by the words “the art of eye care,” so we knew right away that we needed a location that embraces that message.  After finding the right location, we decided we needed a mural that spoke to us. The search for an artist began, and we quickly arrived on none other than local legend, Chad Mize. You may recognize his iconic sunshine with glasses piece that cruises the city on the sun runner. You may notice residents adorned with his “London, Tokyo, Paris, St Pete” shirt. You may have seen his free flow doodle designs inside of the Tropicana, Fair Grounds, or Bodega. This was the guy we needed for the job!


As we joined the small business community of St. Pete, we wanted to pay tribute to the people and places that make this city so great, to us. We asked Chad to incorporate some of our personal favorite St Pete establishments. Some of the highlights include the St. Pete treasure of Sunken Gardens; Dairy Inn, a longtime ice cream favorite; and Rubys Elixir, which is our personal favorite hangout.


Inspired by the “I <3 NY” slogan, we couldn’t resist the obvious pun of using an actual eyeball for the "Eye Love St Pete" message. Also, since St. Pete is so dog friendly, we had to have a dog sitting front and center. The dog in the mural isn’t just any good girl, it is our first-born, Lexi, who spent many days at the practice helping with construction.


Next time you’re driving down 1st Ave S, take a moment to check out our mural. Take a selfie, tag us, stop in and say hello, or have your glasses adjusted. We would be happy to meet you and help with any of your eye care needs.

​When it comes to maintaining our overall health, routine check-ups are vital. They help detect any potential issues early, enabling swift intervention and the prevention of severe complications. One such routine check-up is an eye exam. An eye exam is more than just a test for visual acuity. It's a comprehensive check-up for your eyes, examining everything from your visual acuity to your eye health.



What Does It Mean To Dilate Your Eyes?
Dilation involves the use of special eye drops that cause your pupils to enlarge. This process allows your eye care professional to have a clearer view of the internal structures of your eyes, including the retina and the optic nerve.
You'll be asked to tilt your head back, and the eye drops will be placed in your eyes. It typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes for your pupils to fully dilate. During this time, you may become sensitive to light, and your near vision may become blurry. These effects can last for several hours after the eye exam.
While dilation may sound a bit intimidating, it's a standard part of an eye exam. Furthermore, it's a safe procedure with minimal risks. The discomfort and temporary vision changes are a small price to pay for the wealth of information that dilation can provide about your eye health.



The Importance Of Dilating Your Eyes During An Eye Exam
Eye dilation plays a significant role in an eye exam. It allows your eye doctor to see the back of your eyes, which includes the retina, the optic disc, and blood vessels. This view can help your doctor detect signs of common eye conditions and diseases early, often before you notice any changes to your vision.
Dilating your eyes can also help your doctor more accurately determine your prescription if you need corrective lenses. Dilation suspends the focusing muscle inside the eye, allowing the doctor to get a more accurate measurement of your refractive error.
Certain eye conditions may only be visible when your eyes are dilated. For instance, if you have signs of diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration, these may not be visible without dilation. By dilating your eyes, your doctor can ensure that these conditions are not missed during the eye exam.

Detection Of Common Eye Conditions
Eye dilation is particularly important in detecting common eye conditions. Some of these conditions include glaucoma, retinal detachment, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease.
For instance, in glaucoma, the eye's optic nerve is damaged, often due to high pressure within the eye. Dilation allows the doctor to examine the optic nerve for signs of this disease. Similarly, in retinal detachment, the retina pulls away from the underlying tissue. Dilation makes it possible to detect this issue early, potentially saving you from serious vision loss.
Age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss among older adults, involves the deterioration of the central portion of the retina. With dilation, your doctor can detect early signs of this disease. Diabetic eye disease encompasses a group of eye conditions that affect people with diabetes. These include diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. Eye dilation is critical in diagnosing these conditions.



The Benefits Of Eye Dilation
While eye dilation may cause temporary discomfort, the benefits it provides are immeasurable. Firstly, it allows for a comprehensive examination of the eye, ensuring that no part of the eye's interior is left unchecked. This extensive check-up can lead to early detection of various eye conditions, many of which could lead to serious vision loss if left undiagnosed.
Lastly, regular eye dilation can help your doctor track the health of your eyes over time. By comparing the results of your current exam with previous ones, your doctor can identify any changes or trends in your eye health. This tracking can help predict your risk of developing certain eye conditions in the future.



A Necessary Step In Eye Health
Eye dilation is an incredibly important part of an eye exam. Eye dilation provides us with an opportunity to maintain our eye health and potentially prevent serious vision loss. So, next time you're in for an eye exam, remember the importance of dilation and know that it's a necessary step towards ensuring your eyes remain healthy for years to come.
To learn more about the importance of eye dilation, visit First Sight Eye Care in our St. Petersburg, Florida, office. Please call (727) 592-2000 to schedule an appointment today.