Dr. Michael Bennett Only Private Sector Surgeon Selected Nationwide.
Dr. Michael Bennett MD, FACS, founder of The Eye Center of Hawaii, has been named one of thirteen prestigious surgeons across the United States to conduct the procedure for the Argus® II Retinal Prosthesis System. The Argus II (also called the “bionic eye”) is an implantable visual prosthetic and was selected in 2013 CNN’s Top 10, Time Magazine’s Best Inventions and in 2014 Cleveland Clinic’s Top 10 Medical Innovations.
Eye Center of Hawaii is dedicated to patient care with the pursuit of all opportunities to help patients restore vision. Approved by the FDA in February of 2013, ophthalmologists began to implant the Argus II in U.S. patients in late 2013. Enabling blind individuals to achieve greater independence, The Argus II can help patients see black-and-white images. To date, seventy-four patients have received the implant.
“Patients learn to interpret these visual patterns with their retinal implant. This allows the person to locate lights and windows and identify objects around them,” says Dr. Bennett. “We are very excited to be part of a unique, quality-of-life product that helps patients navigate through life more easily. We look forward to working with our local ophthalmologists and optometrists in identifying and working with those patients who qualify to receive this treatment option.” Eye Center of Hawaii has recently identified eight qualified patients for the procedure.
Implanting centers currently offer consultations to patients with retinitis pigmentosa (“RP”), a rare disease that destroys the photoreceptor cells in the eye’s retina. Retinitis pigmentosa is an inherited retinal degenerative disease that causes a gradual loss of the light-sensitive retinal cells, resulting in slow but progressive vision loss. The device is intended to provide electrical stimulation of the retina to induce visual perception in blind individuals. Medicare has agreed to cover the device procedure if a patient qualifies.
The doctors at Eye Center of Hawaii have consistently been recognized for awards, including Best Doctors in the U.S., Best Doctors in Hawaii, Governor’s Innovation, Pacific Business News Business Award, and Retina Society Distinction Award. Call (808) 955-0255 for a consultation.
As we celebrate Black History this month, we take a look at some remarkable pioneers whose persistence, dedication, innovation and leadership have paved the way and shaped the landscape of eye and vision science.
From top to right:
David K. McDonogh, MD, (1821 - 1893), was a slave who, became America's FIRST African American Ophthalmologist, practiced at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary and even started a practice in Manhattan’s Village neighborhood.
Howard P. Venable, MD, (1913 – 1998) and his wife, Katie, started the Venable Student Research Fund in Ophthalmology with the goal of encouraging more black students to join the ophthalmology field. The fund supported resident research projects and provided resources for necessary equipment and housing. Venable retired in 1987 and in 1994 was awarded the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s Outstanding Humanitarian Award — the first African American to receive this honor. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Great leaders look toward the future—shouldn’t you? This Presidents Day, take the first step toward better vision with LASIK, cataract surgery, or dry eye care!
🏝️ See the beauty of our islands with clear vision. ⛰ ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
😍 Your Eyes Deserve a Love Story Too! 😍
Give yourself (or a loved one!) the gift of improved vision this Valentine’s Day! Imagine waking up glasses-free and seeing your world with clarity and confidence thanks to LASIK.
👁️ Ready to start your love story with clear vision? Schedule a consultation today! ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in adults over 50, affecting central vision and making daily tasks like reading and driving difficult.
🔍 Know the Signs:
Blurry or distorted vision
Dark or empty spots in your central vision
Trouble recognizing faces
Early detection is key! Regular eye exams can help protect your vision. If you or a loved one are at risk, schedule an eye exam today! ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Wishing you a year filled with clear vision, good health, and prosperity! As we welcome the Year of the Snake, may your future be bright and full of new possibilities. 🐍
👁️ Start the new year seeing clearly—whether it's LASIK, cataract surgery, or a routine eye exam, we’re here to help you achieve better vision for a brighter tomorrow!
🏝️ From our ohana to yours, Hau’oli Makahiki Hou! 🎊 ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Low vision is when even with regular glasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery, people have difficulty seeing, which makes everyday tasks difficult to do. The leading causes of vision loss in older adults are age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, cataract, and glaucoma. Eye Center of Hawaii provides support for these patients as well as preventative care to preserve vision by diagnosing and treating these conditions before they take vision. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook