Rutzen Eye Specialists Helps People See The Value Of Clear Vision

Dr. Allan Rutzen didn’t have to look far to find an impactful profession.

“When I was looking for a career, I wanted something that could help people,” Rutzen said, detailing how, as a medical student at Cornell University, he worked on a high-tech research project studying a method of vision correction surgery. “From that moment, I was hooked. I love that we deal with vision, which is so important.”

He went on to do his internship at Harvard University, ophthalmology residency at Tufts University, and two specialty fellowships.

After practicing in the Shipley’s Choice area for more than a decade, Rutzen opened his Severna Park eye center in 2007. In 2014, he was joined by Dr. Jacey Hanna, who completed a one-year fellowship with Rutzen after attending medical school in Texas, where she graduated in the top 5 percent of her class, and completing her ophthalmology residency in New Jersey.

At Rutzen Eye Specialists & Laser Center, the ophthalmologists are able to care for a wide range of problems, including cataracts, corneal conditions, glaucoma, macular degeneration and other causes of blurry vision. They specialize in laser eye surgery such as laser vision correction (LASIK) and laser-assisted cataract surgery.

Not only do patients receive improved vision and confidence, but the experiences are rewarding for Rutzen and Hanna as well. “People who may have a cataract or a corneal scar and haven’t been able to see clearly for some time may undergo surgery to have their sight restored. After surgery, they may see a grandchild clearly for the first time,” Rutzen explained.

The doctors perform both conventional surgery and laser surgery. There are many different lasers used in ophthalmology, and these technological advancements have made a big impact in treating conditions like cataracts, glaucoma and other eye conditions. Laser-assisted LenSx cataract surgery, for example, has been offered at the eye center since January 2013. Targeting the cataract – clouding of the natural lens inside of the eye – the surgery usually yields immediate results. Patients can leave with their eyes open, without a patch, and have better vision than the day prior.

Although the laser procedures produce great benefits, Rutzen and Hanna still review all options with patients so that they can make an informed decision. “That’s a wonderful new option,” Rutzen said of the LenSx surgery, adding that “we don’t pressure anyone to choose laser surgery over conventional surgery.”

Rutzen and Hanna have both had LASIK surgery themselves and can relate to patients. “It helps me understand what they’ve gone through, and I can explain what they can expect,” Rutzen noted.

That ability to communicate with others is essential not only to the ophthalmologists but also to the entire staff. “Our approach to patients is highly personal,” Rutzen said. “Our office exemplifies the highest level of customer service, kindness and compassion that you can find. Our staff members are articulate and able to make patients feel at home.”

To that end, all employees are trained specifically in the area of exceptional service. “Everyone is competent in their jobs and knowledgeable,” Rutzen added. “They know what they’re talking about, and if they don’t know something, they will find the answer, because they’re resourceful.”

Rutzen and Hanna ensure that every patient is cared for, and that goal doesn’t stop at the office. Over the last 20 years, Rutzen has made several trips to Jamaica and he has volunteered in India, Cambodia, Vietnam and China, providing free eye care for those who lacked financial resources.

“Before I had kids, I did a lot of traveling, and I lived overseas,” Rutzen said, emphasizing that when his kids are older, he wants to bring them along to showcase the importance of giving back. “We’re charity minded and community focused.”

His focus for now is trained on his office, where he and Hanna provide optimum comfort for patients to ensure they leave feeling at ease with their questions answered and eye problems solved.

If you’re looking to improve your vision, stop by the Rutzen Eye Specialists & Laser Center at 489 Ritchie Highway, Suite 200, in Severna Park or call 410-975-0090. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 4:30pm. For more information, visit www.rutzeneye.com.