Vance Thompson Vision

Choosing a LASIK surgeon is about more than finding the closest clinic. It is about understanding the technology being used, how your eyes are evaluated, and whether the team is willing to give you an honest answer about candidacy. At Vance Thompson Vision in West Fargo, North Dakota, Dr. Michael Greenwood leads a team focused on personalized refractive surgery care. For patients throughout the Fargo area, LASIK can be a meaningful step toward clearer vision, but it starts with a careful consultation. This guide walks through how Dr. Greenwood and the West Fargo team approach LASIK, from diagnostic technology and candidacy to procedure day and realistic expectations.   Who Is Dr. Michael Greenwood? Dr. Michael Greenwood is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained cornea, glaucoma, and refractive surgeon. He specializes in refractive surgery (including LASIK, PRK, EVO ICL, and Refractive Lens Exchange), cataract surgery, cornea care, glaucoma, and vision resea...

If you're tired of reaching for your glasses every morning or dealing with the daily routine of contact lenses, you've probably started researching your options, and quickly realized there's more than one. LASIK eye surgery gets most of the attention, but it's not the right fit for everyone. Depending on your age, prescription, and eye health, EVO ICL or Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) might be a better path to lasting visual freedom. This guide is written for patients in Billings, Montana who want a clear, honest starting point. We'll walk through all three procedures, help you figure out which one might fit your situation, and introduce you to the team at Vance Thompson Vision in Billings, who offer all three under one roof. What Are Your Options for Vision Correction in Billings? Three procedures cover the vast majority of vision correction surgery candidates: LASIK uses a laser to reshape the cornea, correcting the way light focuses on the retina for ...

When patients come to us after being told they have cataracts, we often hear the same thing: “I didn’t even realize anything was wrong. I just thought I needed a stronger prescription.”  That’s one of the most telling things about cataracts. They develop gradually, are often mistaken for normal aging, and by the time glasses stop helping, everyday moments can start to feel harder than they should.  That’s usually the moment that brings someone to our door. And it’s an important one. Because from there, the conversation shifts from what’s changing in your vision to what’s possible for your future. Fortunately, the range of lens (or IOL) options available today allow us to personalize your care and recommend an option that best aligns with your goals.  Helping you understand your options and build a vision plan around your life is one of the most meaningful parts of what we do. When Is Cataract Surgery Recommended? Many patients ask about timing. Cataract surgery is recommende...

Summer is knocking. The lake is waiting. The open road is ready. And as you’re soaking it all in, you might find yourself asking: What if I just didn’t need glasses anymore? If LASIK has ever crossed your mind—seriously or just as a passing thought— this is the season to stop wondering and start knowing. At Vance Thompson Vision, we’ve helped people just like you get to the other side of that question. We’ve seen how clear vision can transform everyday moments, and it never gets old. Here’s everything you need to know about LASIK. What is LASIK? How Does It Work? LASIK is a laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) so that light focuses correctly on the retina. The result is clear, high-quality vision without the constant reach for glasses or contacts. At Vance Thompson Vision, every LASIK procedure is fully customized. The goal is to optimize your vision based on the unique way your eyes see the world. LASIK Corrects: Ne...

There are often two lanes when it comes to surgery: reconstructive (or functional) procedures focused on treating disease or injuries, and cosmetic procedures designed to enhance physical appearance. Oculoplastics (or  eyelid surgery ) lives in a unique space, as it combines the expertise of ophthalmology with the precision of plastic surgery. In this blog, you’ll gain a better understanding of the field of oculoplastics, the different procedures, as well as the functional and emotional benefits they can bring. Why Eyelid Surgery? A common reason patients inquire about oculoplastics surgery is that they have upper eyelid skin that droops down over or beneath their eyelashes, resulting in a more tired appearance. Additionally, this excess skin—especially in the upper eyelids—can disrupt their field of vision, making everyday tasks more difficult than they need to be. In some cases, eyelid surgery is necessary to address skin lesions or cancerous moles. Whether the concern is fu...

You’ve got to love springtime. The air becomes warmer, melting away the snow and making room for the return of fresh green grass, blooming  flowers, and… irritating allergies. Yes, allergies—A common yet unfortunate side effect of the changing seasons for some individuals. Without proper treatments and precautions, allergies can turn your eyes as red as roses,  making it difficult to see and enjoy the beauty of spring. If you’re tired of allergies irritating your springtime fun, read on to learn more about the warning signs,  prevention tips, and when you might need to visit your eye doctor. What Causes Eye Allergies? Eye allergies (allergic conjunctivitis ) are triggered by a reaction to indoor and outdoor allergens that enter your eyes. Examples of allergies include  pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and pet dander . While they're more common in the spring and fall, it’s very possible for them to happen year-round. The eyes are exposed and sensitive, making the...