AVEC Eye Center
Some people believe the eyes are the window to the soul. Even if you don't believe that, there is no doubt that caring for your eyes is important. The AVEC Eye Center is dedicated to making sure your eyes are in the best working order they can be.
AVEC has three doctors on staff and handles all aspects of eye care from basic eye exams, vision exams and contact lens fitting, to the most advanced diagnostic tests and medical treatment for cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy as well as other eye diseases such as uveitis, dry eye and blephariti. Dr. Stella Chou, Dr. Kevin Merkley and Dr. Barbara Wirostko have more than 50 years combined experience in ophthalmology and stay updated on the latest advances in their field.
"Your eye is the most precious part of your body," Dr. Chou says. "They are very delicate and can be a good indicator as to your general health. If there is something wrong in your body, we will see it in your eyes first."
Dr. Chou says that yearly eye exams should be done for people 5 years and older if there are no problems. Patients with eye problems should be seen more frequently according to their doctor's orders. AVEC sees patients of all ages. Dr. Chou says that children should be seen for their first eye exam at age 3 and then again when they start kindergarten and yearly after that.
AVEC is located at 8789 South Highland Drive in Sandy and has over 8,000 square feet dedicated to ophthalmology. In addition to exam rooms, they also feature a minor surgical procedure room, a contact lens fitting room and a full service optical shop. Dr. Chou says patients can be seen by a doctor and order their contacts or glasses in one visit.
The doctors at AVEC are up to date on the most cutting edge technology and procedures related to eye health. They participate in ongoing clinical research trials throughout the year and Dr. Chou says they are always interested in patients willing to participate in the trials.
"Research is important and we like to have a nice size pool of our patients willing to help study these new advances," she says.
Dr. Chou and her colleagues were all trained as general doctors before specializing in eye care and surgery. Being an M.D. Ophthalmologist sets them apart from optometrists because it requires more training.
The center features the latest equipment and technology to meet their patients' needs. This allows them to perform Lasik surgery, cataract surgery with accommodating IOLs, corneal transplant, glaucoma laser treatment, eye trauma repair, eye tumor removal, orbital floor fracture repair, cosmetic and reconstructive eye lids surgery, Botox wrinkle removal, facial filler injection and other oculo-plastic procedures.
"We wanted to build a nice community eye care center and we strive to take the best care of our patients," Dr. Chou says.
AVEC Eye Center is open Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. They can accommodate patients after hours for an additional charge. They can be reached at 801-943-4999.
