Coastal Vision

Coastal Vision Located in Harbour View, Coastal Vision offers eye exams, contacts and a stylish eyewear selection.

Coastal Vision in Harbour View proudly delivers comprehensive, patient-focused eye care to the Suffolk community. Our experienced optometrists offer thorough eye exams, dry eye treatment, and contact lens services using the latest technology. Each visit includes access to a stylish selection of eyewear and advanced lenses to help you see and look your best. We prioritize comfort, clarity, and convenience—making it easy for new and returning patients to get the care they deserve. Book your eye exam today and experience personalized care in a welcoming environment.

Did you know?
10/30/2025

Did you know?

Looking for a quick laugh to brighten your day? 😄 Stay tuned for our upcoming lighthearted post! Share your favorite jok...
10/29/2025

Looking for a quick laugh to brighten your day? 😄 Stay tuned for our upcoming lighthearted post! Share your favorite jokes in the comments below and let's spread some positivity together. ➡️

When a Freckle in the Eye can be Something more SeriousA routine eye exam is often uneventful, with most findings being ...
10/28/2025

When a Freckle in the Eye can be Something more Serious

A routine eye exam is often uneventful, with most findings being minor and manageable. But sometimes, what seems like a benign discovery can signal a much larger problem. One such example is the choroidal nevus—commonly referred to as an “eye freckle.” While most nevi remain harmless, a small percentage can transform into malignant melanoma, a potentially life-threatening condition.

What Is a Choroidal Nevus?

A choroidal nevus is a pigmented lesion that forms in the choroid, a layer of blood vessels beneath the retina. These nevi are typically flat or slightly elevated and resemble freckles or moles on your skin. They’re relatively common, occurring in about 6.5% of the population, and most people are completely unaware of their presence.

Why Are Choroidal Nevi Monitored Closely?

Though the vast majority of choroidal nevi are benign, they share characteristics with choroidal melanoma, a serious form of eye cancer. Identifying which lesions require closer monitoring or intervention is critical to preventing delayed treatment. A study published in Review of Optometry highlights that 1 in 8,000 nevi transform into melanoma annually, making vigilance essential.

Key risk factors for malignant transformation include:

Thickness Greater Than 2 mm: Elevated lesions are more suspicious.

Orange Pigmentation: A sign of overlying lipofuscin, often associated with malignancy.

Subretinal Fluid: Indicates possible detachment or activity beneath the lesion.

Visual Symptoms: Changes in vision or visual field loss.

Location Near the Optic Disc: Proximity to this area increases risk.

How Are Choroidal Nevi Monitored?

If your eye doctor identifies a nevus, they will typically document its size, color, and location. Advanced imaging technologies such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and ultrasound are often used to measure the lesion’s thickness and assess for underlying fluid or tissue changes.

Routine follow-ups are critical. Your doctor may recommend:

Annual or biannual imaging to monitor for growth or changes.

Immediate referral to a retinal specialist if the nevus shows suspicious features.

Symptoms to Watch For

In many cases, a choroidal nevus causes no symptoms and is found during a routine eye exam. However, you should contact your eye doctor immediately if you experience:

Sudden blurry vision or visual distortion.

New floaters or flashes of light.

A shadow or curtain effect in your peripheral vision.

These symptoms could indicate changes in the nevus or other eye health issues that need prompt attention.

Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment

Recent advancements have improved the ability to differentiate between benign nevi and early-stage melanoma:

Fundus Photography: High-resolution imaging provides a clear, detailed view of the lesion.

OCT Angiography: Non-invasive imaging that maps blood flow to detect suspicious vascular patterns.

B-Scan Ultrasound: Measures lesion thickness and reveals internal reflectivity, a key marker of malignancy.

Biopsy and Genetic Testing: In rare cases, these methods are used to confirm diagnosis and determine treatment.

For nevi that transform into melanoma, treatment options include radiation therapy, laser treatment, or surgical removal, depending on the size and location of the lesion.

What You Can Do

You can play an active role in monitoring your eye health by:

Scheduling Regular Eye Exams: Ensure your eye doctor can track any changes in your retina or choroid.

Reporting Symptoms Early: Don’t ignore changes in vision, even if they seem minor.

Asking Questions: Understand the features of your nevus and how it’s being monitored.

Final Thoughts

A choroidal nevus is often harmless, but it’s not something to overlook. With regular monitoring and advancements in eye care, your doctor can detect early signs of potential complications and intervene before they become serious. If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, now is the perfect time to schedule one. Your vision—and your health—depend on it.

We appreciate DJ for sharing such inspiring words! 🎧✨ Your support motivates us to keep pushing forward. How has DJ's me...
10/27/2025

We appreciate DJ for sharing such inspiring words! 🎧✨ Your support motivates us to keep pushing forward. How has DJ's message impacted your day? Let us know below! 👇

👁️ Are You Using Eye Drops Correctly?Missing your eye or having drops roll down your cheek is more common than you think...
10/24/2025

👁️ Are You Using Eye Drops Correctly?
Missing your eye or having drops roll down your cheek is more common than you think! Proper technique ensures your drops actually work—and saves you from wasting them.

Quick Tips for Perfect Application:
🔹 Wash your hands first to avoid infections
🔹 Tilt your head back and create a pocket by pulling down your lower lid
🔹 Close your eyes for 30 seconds after applying (don’t blink!)

Next time you grab your drops, try pressing the inner corner of your eye to keep them from draining too fast!

Exciting update from Coastal Vision! 🌟 Now you can conveniently order your contacts online. Plus, enjoy FREE SHIPPING on...
10/23/2025

Exciting update from Coastal Vision! 🌟 Now you can conveniently order your contacts online. Plus, enjoy FREE SHIPPING on all annual orders! 💧💼 Have you tried ordering online before? Share your experience below!

Looking for a quick laugh? 😄 Share your favorite joke in the comments below and brighten our day! Let’s spread some posi...
10/22/2025

Looking for a quick laugh? 😄 Share your favorite joke in the comments below and brighten our day! Let’s spread some positivity and fun together. 🎉

Coastal Corner: What’s the Yellow Spot on Your Eye?If you’ve ever glanced in the mirror and noticed a strange yellow or ...
10/21/2025

Coastal Corner: What’s the Yellow Spot on Your Eye?

If you’ve ever glanced in the mirror and noticed a strange yellow or red spot on the white part of your eye, you’re not alone. Patients often ask about this, and while it may look alarming, chances are it’s something called a pinguecula—a common, harmless growth that shows up on the surface of the eye.

Let’s break down what a pinguecula is, why it happens, and what you can do to manage it.

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What is a Pinguecula?

A pinguecula (pronounced pin-GWEK-yoo-luh) is a small, yellowish growth that forms on the conjunctiva—the thin, clear tissue covering the white part of your eye (sclera). It’s often found on the side of the eye closest to your nose, though it can sometimes appear on the outer side near your ear.

Despite being labeled as a “growth,” it’s benign and non-cancerous. Think of it as a callus on your eye. It doesn’t spread but can become irritated or inflamed, which leads to redness and discomfort.

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What Causes a Pinguecula?

The biggest culprit? UV exposure. This is why pinguecula is sometimes called “surfer’s eye.” Surfers are frequently exposed to intense sunlight and UV rays reflected off the water, which increases the risk of developing this growth.

But you don’t have to be a surfer to get one. Other common factors include:

Dry, dusty environments – Farmers, construction workers, or anyone who spends long hours outdoors are at higher risk.

Wind exposure – Bikers or anyone exposed to wind can develop irritation that leads to a pinguecula.

Dry eyes – Chronic dry eye can contribute to the formation of pinguecula by reducing the eye’s natural defense against environmental stressors.

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Is a Pinguecula Dangerous?

In most cases, no. Pinguecula is usually just a cosmetic issue. It may cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness, but it won’t affect your vision or lead to serious eye conditions.

However, there are a few scenarios to watch for:

Pingueculitis – This is when the pinguecula becomes inflamed, causing noticeable redness and discomfort.

Pterygium – If the pinguecula grows and starts to extend over the cornea (the clear front part of the eye), it becomes a pterygium. This can affect your vision if it grows large enough to cover the pupil.

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How to Manage or Prevent a Pinguecula

While you can’t always prevent a pinguecula, you can take steps to limit its growth and reduce irritation.

Wear Sunglasses
The best way to prevent a pinguecula from worsening is to protect your eyes from UV exposure. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound sunglasses offer even better protection by shielding your eyes from the sides.

Use Artificial Tears
If dry eyes are contributing to the problem, lubricating eye drops can help keep the eyes moist and reduce irritation. For those in dry or dusty environments, using artificial tears several times a day can make a noticeable difference.

Shield Your Eyes from Dust and Wind
Wear protective eyewear if you work outdoors, especially in dusty or windy environments. Goggles or sunglasses with side shields are a great option to minimize exposure.

Consider UV-Protective Lenses
If you wear prescription glasses, ask your eye doctor about photochromic lenses (like Transitions) that darken in sunlight. This provides UV protection even when you’re not wearing sunglasses.

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Treatment for Inflamed Pinguecula (Pingueculitis)

If your pinguecula becomes inflamed or irritated:

Steroid eye drops or anti-inflammatory drops can help reduce redness and discomfort.

Artificial tear gels provide longer-lasting moisture, especially helpful at night or in dry conditions.

Pingueculitis usually resolves on its own, but if the irritation persists or worsens, it’s a good idea to schedule an eye exam.

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When to See Your Eye Doctor

While most pinguecula are harmless, see your eye doctor if you notice:

A rapid increase in the size of the growth

Persistent redness or irritation that doesn’t improve with eye drops

Changes in vision or the feeling that the growth is encroaching on your pupil

It’s always better to have any unusual eye growth examined to rule out more serious conditions.

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Final Thoughts

A pinguecula may look strange, but in most cases, it’s nothing to worry about. With good UV protection, regular use of eye drops, and routine eye exams, you can keep your eyes healthy and minimize irritation.

If you’ve noticed a yellow spot or irritation in your eyes, schedule a check-up to confirm the diagnosis and ensure your eyes stay in great shape. Your vision is too important to ignore.

Cheers.

Dr. Beach

Grateful for Bri's inspiring words! 🌟 Such motivation fuels our passion at Coastal Vision. How do you stay inspired in y...
10/20/2025

Grateful for Bri's inspiring words! 🌟 Such motivation fuels our passion at Coastal Vision. How do you stay inspired in your journey? Share your thoughts below!👇

Why settle for standard glasses when your eyewear can do more? Oakley Meta HSTN helps you live in the moment—while captu...
10/18/2025

Why settle for standard glasses when your eyewear can do more? Oakley Meta HSTN helps you live in the moment—while capturing every second of it.

✅ Built-in 12MP camera to capture your POV
✅ Open-ear speakers so your playlists move with you
✅ Hands-free calls & texts while you’re on the go
✅ Live translation in real time
✅ Meta AI at your command for directions or instant info
✅ Enhanced style with 6 colors

Choose from Prizm™ lens technology for enhanced
color and detail or Transitions® GEN S™ technology
for seamless adaptation to changing light.

Book your eye exam and try them on today.

10/18/2025

Why settle for standard glasses when your eyewear can do more?

Oakley Meta HSTN helps you live in the moment—while capturing every second of it.

World Sight Day is a global reminder to care for your vision and make eye health a priority. 👁️✨This year's theme, , is...
10/10/2025

World Sight Day is a global reminder to care for your vision and make eye health a priority. 👁️✨

This year's theme, , is all about taking that first, simple step—getting your�eyes checked.

Early detection can make all the difference. 💙�Use your end-of-year benefits and schedule your appointment today.

Annual eye exams do more than keep your vision clear—they help detect early signs of conditions like diabetes, glaucoma,...
10/08/2025

Annual eye exams do more than keep your vision clear—they help detect early signs of conditions like diabetes, glaucoma, and high blood pressure.

Schedule Your Appointment Today!
+1 757-426-2020

See Clearly. Learn Confidently.Get a complete pair with Transitions® GEN S™ lenses — light-responsive, stylish, and read...
09/26/2025

See Clearly. Learn Confidently.
Get a complete pair with Transitions® GEN S™ lenses — light-responsive, stylish, and ready for wherever the day takes you, just $149* through Sept. 30!

📆 Schedule Today!


*First Pair Purchsae Required. Ask Associate for Details.

Presbyopia makes everyday tasks harder- from reading your phone to working at your desk.The solution? Two Perfect Pairs!...
09/10/2025

Presbyopia makes everyday tasks harder- from reading your phone to working at your desk.
The solution? Two Perfect Pairs!

Pair 1:
Shamir Autograph Intelligence incorporates AI technology for smooth transitions and sharp focus for everyday activities.

Pair 2:
Shamir WorkSpace Lens with Glacier Expression AR supports the modern workplace, where we are constantly moving from digital screens to open office environments. This solution offers sharp vision up close and mid-range while reducing glare, improving clarity, and improving comfort (by addressing ergonomic pain points).

EXCLUSIVE LENS OFFER: $169 for Shamir WorkSpace Lens with Glacier Expression AR Coating ($525 Value)*.
Plus 50% off your Second Frame*

Schedule an Appointment and Ask about this Exclusive Offer.
https://coastalvisionva.com/
*Some Exclusions Apply. Ask Associate for Details.

Look Deeper. Live Healthier.Not all Eye Exams are Equal. Our Retinal Wellness Scan gives your doctor a detailed view of ...
08/29/2025

Look Deeper. Live Healthier.
Not all Eye Exams are Equal. Our Retinal Wellness Scan gives your doctor a detailed view of your eye, helping detect early signs of disease- before symptoms appear.

Don't wait - Schedule your Appointment Today!

SEE MORE. DO MORE. BE MORE.When vision isn't at its best, it can lead to headaches, eyestrain, and fatigue—impacting per...
08/20/2025

SEE MORE. DO MORE. BE MORE.
When vision isn't at its best, it can lead to headaches, eyestrain, and fatigue—impacting performance in the classroom and on the field.

Book an Eye Exam TODAY!
https://coastalvisionva.com/

Vision Care with a deeper look at your overall health, because your eyes reveal more than you think.Retinal imaging offe...
08/16/2025

Vision Care with a deeper look at your overall health, because your eyes reveal more than you think.

Retinal imaging offers a comprehensive view not only of eye health but overall health as well. This technology allows us to monitor changes over time, which is key to early detection of serious health concerns.

Schedule Your Appointment Today!
https://coastalvisionva.com/

$149 for a Complete Pair that's Uniquely You!See More, Be More with Transitions® Gen S™.With 8 lens color options - you ...
07/31/2025

$149 for a Complete Pair that's Uniquely You!
See More, Be More with Transitions® Gen S™.
With 8 lens color options - you can create a personalized look that provides protection, clarity, and style ALL DAY!

Your new look is waiting, ask an associate for details.
Some Exclusions Apply.
https://coastalvisionva.com/
+1 757-426-2020


Because clear vision is only part of the story, at Coastal Vision we use advanced, non-invasive retinal imaging to look ...
07/23/2025

Because clear vision is only part of the story, at Coastal Vision we use advanced, non-invasive retinal imaging to look beyond your eyes. Our technology can detect early signs of eye disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure—long before symptoms appear. Whole health insights begin with your eyes – and expert care that sees beyond them.

Look Deeper. Live Healthier.
Schedule your appointment today.
https://coastalvisionva.com/

Reduce Glare. Enhance Contrast. Protect Your Eyes.June 27th is National Sunglasses Day! With 50% off Prescription Polari...
06/25/2025

Reduce Glare. Enhance Contrast. Protect Your Eyes.

June 27th is National Sunglasses Day! With 50% off Prescription Polarized Sunglasses and our wide selection of frames, you can find a style that’s right for you and protection that’s right for your eyes!



Schedule An Appointment Today! https://coastalvisionva.com/

Address

2051 Sun Harbour Drive
Suffolk, VA
23435

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 2pm

Telephone

+17574262020

Website

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