Business Details
Expert Ophthalmology Care in Severna Park, MD
Rutzen Eye Specialists & Laser Center & Laser Center has been dedicated to providing advanced ophthalmology care since our founding. Our team of fellowship-trained specialists brings decades of combined experience in treating complex eye conditions, including cataracts, corneal diseases, and uveitis. We utilize cutting-edge technology like the LenSx laser to deliver precise, minimally invasive treatments tailored to each patient's needs. Our practice emphasizes personalized care, ensuring every patient receives thorough education about their condition and treatment options.With a focus on patient comfort and outcomes, we combine clinical expertise with compassionate service to address both routine and specialized eye care requirements. Our commitment to excellence has been recognized through awards like Best of Severna Park 2023 and inclusion in the Best Doctors in America Database. We maintain transparency in all communications, prioritizing patient understanding and satisfaction throughout their care journey.
Services
Cataract Surgery
LenSX Laser
Corneal Transplant
Uveitis Treatment
Ophthalmology Services
Highlights and features
- We offer state-of-the-art laser cataract surgery with the LenSx system
- Our team includes fellowship-trained ophthalmologists with decades of combined experience
- We prioritize personalized patient care with a focus on comfort and education
- We provide comprehensive treatment for complex eye conditions including corneal transplants and uveitis
- Our practice has been recognized as Best of Severna Park 2023 for excellence in eye care
What people say
Felt cared for
Dramatic improvement
Relaxed and informative
Excellent first impression
Great staff
Services
Cataract Surgery
Our cataract surgery removes clouded lenses and replaces them with artificial implants. Using advanced techniques like phacoemulsification, we restore vision for patients experiencing age-related cataracts. The procedure takes 15-30 minutes with local anesthesia, offering rapid recovery and improved visual clarity. Most patients achieve 20/40 vision or better post-surgery.
LenSX Laser
The LenSx femtosecond laser enables bladeless cataract surgery with enhanced precision. This technology creates 3D eye maps for customized incisions, reduces ultrasound energy use by 40%, and corrects astigmatism during the procedure. Patients benefit from faster healing and potentially reduced dependence on glasses post-surgery through advanced lens implant options.
Corneal Transplant
We perform penetrating and lamellar corneal transplants for damaged or diseased corneas. Using donor tissue from certified eye banks, our surgeons replace cloudy corneas to restore vision. The procedure addresses conditions like Fuchs dystrophy and keratoconus, with post-operative care including specialized eyedrops and stitch management over 6-12 months.
Uveitis Treatment
Our specialists diagnose and manage uveitis through comprehensive evaluations and targeted treatments. We use corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologics to reduce intraocular inflammation. Patients receive monitoring for complications like cataracts and glaucoma while addressing underlying autoimmune conditions that may contribute to their eye inflammation.
People
Allan Rutzen
Ophthalmologist
Dr. Rutzen is a board-certified ophthalmologist with fellowship training in uveitis and corneal diseases. He has practiced since 1996, authored multiple textbooks, and received recognition as one of America's Top Ophthalmologists. His expertise spans complex corneal transplants and inflammatory eye conditions.
Jacey Hanna
Ophthalmologist
Dr. Hanna specializes in cornea and external disease treatment. She completed fellowship training at Rutzen Eye Specialists & Laser Center & Laser Center and provides comprehensive ophthalmic care. Her practice focuses on cataract surgery and corneal conditions, combining technical skill with patient-centered care.
Sara Franco
Ophthalmologist
Dr. Franco is a glaucoma specialist with advanced training in complex cataract and glaucoma surgeries. She completed her residency at University of Maryland and fellowship at Howard University. Her expertise includes minimally invasive glaucoma procedures and laser treatments.
Callia Twigg
Optometrist
Dr. Twigg provides comprehensive eye exams with a focus on corneal conditions and systemic disease management. She completed advanced training in anterior segment disease and serves as a primary eye care provider for patients with complex ocular health needs.
Questions
What eye conditions do you specialize in treating?
We specialize in cataracts, corneal diseases, uveitis, and glaucoma. Our surgeons perform advanced laser cataract surgery, corneal transplants, and minimally invasive glaucoma procedures using the latest technology.
Do you accept my insurance plan?
We participate with most major insurance plans. Patients should bring their insurance cards for verification. Medicare covers standard cataract surgery, while premium lens options require additional out-of-pocket payments.
What makes your practice different from other eye clinics?
Our fellowship-trained specialists combine decades of experience with personalized care. We offer advanced technologies like the LenSx laser and maintain a 98% patient satisfaction rate according to recent surveys.
How should I prepare for cataract surgery?
Patients receive detailed pre-operative instructions including medication guidelines and fasting requirements. We recommend arranging transportation and planning for post-operative rest. Specific preparation details depend on individual health factors.
What are the risks of corneal transplant surgery?
Potential risks include graft rejection (15-20% chance), infection, and astigmatism. Our surgeons use meticulous techniques to minimize complications, with post-operative monitoring and steroid therapy to ensure successful outcomes.
Reviews (5)
James R.
May 25, 2022
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Two surgeries from Dr. Hannah. Both went perfectly and she was wonderful. Staff is great - caring and thorough. Highly recommend.
Brenda Taylor
Jun 15, 2021
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I have been a patient for over 3 years. I even left to get "additional" help for my severe eye issue at Wilmer, but came back within 6 months. I came back, not because Wilmer was bad, but I was a number at Wilmer. I am a "person" at Rusden. This doctor cares about patients. Dr Hannah is also a doctor I see frequently and an incredible person and doctor as well. Their staff is second to absolutely nobody.
Will you wait occasionally to be seen? occasionally, but not the norm. Will you sit in the exam room, waiting for the doctor, yes occasionally, but again, not the norm. I am still seeing today (not great) because of the technical expertise of both doctors. I would say out of 15-20 visits, I maybe spent a total of over an hour in the practice a total of three times. If you want PERFECTION, try Heaven. If you want an incredible Eye Specialist, try this practice at Rustzen!
Will you wait occasionally to be seen? occasionally, but not the norm. Will you sit in the exam room, waiting for the doctor, yes occasionally, but again, not the norm. I am still seeing today (not great) because of the technical expertise of both doctors. I would say out of 15-20 visits, I maybe spent a total of over an hour in the practice a total of three times. If you want PERFECTION, try Heaven. If you want an incredible Eye Specialist, try this practice at Rustzen!
Dottie B.
Apr 23, 2019
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My husband had a rare issue with his eye that Dr Rutzen recognized immediately. My husband was told in no uncertain terms that he was to get an MRI the next day. He had had one a couple weeks before that showed nothing but Dr Rutzen said he was looking for something very specific and sure enough, it was there. The long and short of it is that Dr Rutzen saved my husband's eyesight and potentially his life. Everyone has been wonderful and accommodating for him over the past year's diagnosis and recovery. Great place. Great doctor. Great staff.
Sharon McGlaughlin
Dec 06, 2017
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My friend Mary at 91 years young was referred to Dr. Rutzen. After seeing him, she now is able to see out of her left eye. This is really a big thing for a woman her age. I will be eternally grateful to the doctor for this! He's the best.
Heather B.
Dec 20, 2016
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Dr JC Hanna is a marvelous doc! I had the best attention to my eye issues. I feel very satisfied with the office staff, the way they handled my insurance, all very efficient and with much kindness and smiles! Lovely place, lovely staff, excellent medical attention. What's not to love? Highly recommend. Parking is on the back side of Brian Baru. Elevator other stairs to second floor.
