Ophthalmology

Ophthamology Services The ophthalmology team has the advanced training, equipment and expertise to treat even the most complex types of eye disease. We look forward to working with you and your regular veterinarian in identifying the eye disease that your pet is experiencing and offering various treatment options.

For many types of eye disease, significant improvement in vision or comfort can be achieved. However, there are some conditions that cannot be cured. During the exam, the problem will be explained and the options for treatment will be discussed.

What Separates us From The Rest?

The extra training and experience that is required to achieve specialist certification ensures that the doctor has the most current knowledge and techniques available. As the only full-time, board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist in Rochester, we are able to offer the highest level of eye care without the need for extensive travel. Most of our local patients can be treated as outpatients, which provides convenience for the pet owner.

For more information about veterinary specialization, please visit the College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.

Veterinarians

Click image or name to view Dr. Burgesser's bio.


Kent Burgesser, PhD, DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVO Hospital Co-Director

Specialty Coordinator

Click image or name to view a coordinator's bio.

As the ophthalmology service coordinator, Christina Gardner has many functions. When Dr. Kent Burgesser is not available, she is able to assist owners with any questions or concerns they may have. She also advises veterinarians on the care of their ophthalmic cases and refers to the closet ophthalmologist when necessary. Christina schedules surgeries for the ophthalmology service as well as admits and discharges patients. She is available Monday-Thursday from 7:00am — 6:00pm.

Christina Gardner, LVT

Your Visit

Initial consultations generally take 30 minutes. During this time a complete eye examination will be performed as well as any special tests that may be required. The problem will be explained and the options for treatment will be discussed. Your regular veterinarian will be informed about the results of our consultation as well as any recommendations or treatments.

You will meet Dr. Burgesser and his staff during the consultation. The initial examination fee is $100.00. Depending on the presenting problem, additional fees for diagnostics or treatment may be necessary. These will be discussed with you during the consultation.

Services Provided

Ophthamology Services We provide complete medical and surgical treatment of eye diseases in small animals (dogs and cats) as well as large animals (horses) and exotic pets. These include, but are not limited to treatment for:

cataracts
corneal diseases
eyelid disease
eyelid tumors
glaucoma

Additionally, we provide eye certification examinations to evaluate for possible inherited eye disease in breeding dogs (CERF exams). For a more in-depth look at ophthalmological services for cats and dogs, please click the links below:

We have a dedicated ophthalmology examination room equipped with all the instruments to evaluate the eye and associated structures. These include slit lamp biomicroscopy (to examine the cornea and lens), indirect and direct ophthalmoscopy (examination of the retina), tonometry (measurement of intraocular pressure to evaluate for glaucoma), gonioscopy (evaluation of glaucoma) and electroretinography (to evaluate retinal function). Ultrasound evaluation of the eye is also available. Our dedicated surgery suite is equipped with an operating microscope, phacoemulsification unit (for cataract surgery), diode laser and specialized microsurgical instruments.

How Do I Schedule A Consultation?

Consultations are set up by referral from your local veterinarian and are scheduled Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00am to 6:00pm, and every other Saturday from 8:00am to 12:00noon. Elective surgeries are performed on Thursdays. Emergencies are seen as needed.