Eye Conditions We Treat

Washington Eye Institute brings together board-certified ophthalmologists, fellowship-trained surgeons, and award-winning optometrists under one roof — with three locations across Maryland to serve you. Whether your condition requires ongoing monitoring or advanced surgery, our team has the training, technology, and experience to get you the right outcome.

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Real Specialists.
Real Results.

Eye conditions don't all look the same — and neither should your care. At Washington Eye Institute, you won't be rushed through an appointment or handed a one-size-fits-all treatment plan. Our physicians, led by Dr. Michael Summerfield, MD — Georgetown University residency program director — take the time to hear what's going on, run the right diagnostics, and walk you through every option before moving forward. That's how eye care should work.

From Diagnosis
Through Treatment

We don't just identify the problem — we manage it. Our practice covers the full spectrum: cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, keratoconus, corneal disease, chronic dry eye, and inflammatory conditions like uveitis. With fellowship-trained specialists in cornea, retina, and refractive surgery — plus active participation in clinical trials — we bring treatments to our patients that many practices simply can't offer.

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Conditions We Diagnose and Treat

Click any condition below to learn how our team approaches diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management.

Cataracts

Blurry, faded, or glare-sensitive vision from a clouded lens. We perform femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery with premium IOL options including the Light Adjustable Lens and Apthera.

Glaucoma

Silent optic nerve damage that steals peripheral vision over time. We catch it early with advanced diagnostics and treat it with laser procedures and MIGS when needed.

Macular Degeneration

Gradual loss of sharp central vision, most common after age 60. Our retina team monitors progression closely and delivers anti-VEGF therapy to slow or stabilize the disease.

Diabetic Eye Disease

Uncontrolled blood sugar quietly damages retinal blood vessels. We provide regular diabetic eye screenings, laser treatment, and injections to preserve your remaining vision.

Dry Eye Disease

Persistent burning, grittiness, or watery eyes that won't resolve on their own. We go beyond eye drops with IPL therapy, punctal plugs, and targeted treatment for the underlying cause.

Keratoconus

A thinning, cone-shaped cornea that distorts vision — sometimes rapidly. We manage every stage with corneal cross-linking to halt progression and scleral lenses to restore clarity.

Corneal Disease

Scarring, infections, pterygium, and other conditions affecting the front surface of the eye. Our fellowship-trained cornea specialist performs transplants and complex surgical repair.

Uveitis

Painful inflammation inside the eye linked to autoimmune disorders, infections, or unknown causes. We provide careful workup and long-term management to prevent flare-ups and vision loss.

Retinal Conditions

Retinal tears, vascular occlusions, and macular pathology that require prompt attention. Our medical retina team diagnoses quickly and intervenes early to protect your sight.

Refractive Errors

High myopia, farsightedness, and astigmatism that glasses alone can't always solve. We offer the Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) and refractive lens options for patients who aren't LASIK candidates.

Our Specialists

Washington Eye Institute isn't a general clinic that refers out the hard cases. Our physicians — including Dr. Michael Summerfield, MD, who directs the Georgetown University / Washington Hospital Center ophthalmology residency — handle complex surgical and medical eye care in-house.

The team includes fellowship-trained specialists in cataract and refractive surgery, cornea, and medical retina, alongside Dr. Diana Chu, OD — Maryland's 2025 Young Optometrist of the Year — who leads our specialty contact lens and keratoconus management services.

Questions and Answers

Find answers to common questions about eye care, conditions, and when to see a specialist.

If you're dealing with sudden vision loss, persistent pain, flashes, floaters, or a condition that isn't responding to standard treatment, it's time to see a specialist. Many conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration have no early symptoms at all — a comprehensive eye exam is often the only way to catch them before damage is done.

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who diagnoses disease, prescribes medication, and performs surgery. An optometrist provides eye exams, prescribes glasses and contacts, and manages many common conditions. At Washington Eye Institute, both work side by side — so you get the right level of care without having to go somewhere else.

Yes. When both conditions are present, your surgeon can combine cataract lens replacement with a minimally invasive glaucoma procedure (MIGS) in a single operation — reducing your overall recovery time and often decreasing dependence on glaucoma eye drops.

Diabetic eye disease damages the small blood vessels in your retina, causing them to leak fluid or bleed. Without treatment it can lead to permanent vision loss. Regular dilated exams, blood sugar control, and early intervention with anti-VEGF injections or laser therapy are the best defense.

Treatment depends on the stage. Early on, scleral contact lenses can restore functional vision. Corneal cross-linking (CXL) can stop the cornea from getting worse. In advanced cases, a corneal transplant may be the best path forward. Our team manages keratoconus at every stage under one roof.

Every 2–3 years for adults under 40 with no risk factors, every 1–2 years from 40–64, and annually after 65. If you have diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, or a known eye condition, you likely need to come in more often. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam at our Rockville, Greenbelt, or Cumberland office.

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  • Monday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Tuesday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Wednesday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Thursday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Friday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Saturday: Closed
  • Sunday: Closed