Welcome to Bauer & Clausen Optometry!

Bauer & Clausen Optometry is a preferred provider for many private insurance companies; however, coverage may vary by insurer. We recommend reviewing your policy documents or contacting your insurance provider with any questions. If we can provide any information or assist you in any way prior to your appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Contact lens ordering is available through our website or you may call our office to make your request.

If you have previously had a comprehensive eye exam, you may have had drops placed in your eyes to dilate each pupil. Traditionally, this was the only way eye doctors could evaluate the retina. Advances in technology have expanded those options. at Bauer & Clausen Optometry, we have chosen to make those options available to our patients when appropriate.

Optomap Retinal Imaging is an alternative to pupil dilation. With ORI, a wide-field digital photo is taken of the back of your eye using a specialized camera. The process takes only a matter of seconds, requires no eye drops, and is pain-free. Your eye doctor is able to review the image with you to assess whether any concerns exist.

Keep in mind that because your eye health is so important to us, our eye doctors may still recommend you undergo dilation if they have concerns about the imaging results.

If your pupils are dilated during your eye examination, we want to ensure that you feel comfortable driving before you leave our office. Eyes are often sensitive to light for two to four hours after dilation. If you are worried about driving, we recommend bringing a friend or making other arrangements for transportation.

One of the easiest ways is to stop in and visit with one of our opticians. He or she will examine the fit of your frames, tighten or adjust any screws or nose pads as needed, and answer any questions you might have. This is a complimentary service we provide our patients and is designed to keep your glasses performing their best. We also encourage you to only use cleaning cloths (never paper wipes) designed specifically for eyeglasses. You’ll receive one when you pick up your new glasses, and we’re always happy to replace them for you to prevent lens scratches.

There are some conditions that you can avoid as you age, but presbyopia sadly isn’t one of them. As we age the lens in our eye gradually becomes less flexible. This means that your eyes can’t focus at the same distances they could when you were younger. When presbyopia begins (usually around age 40), most people start to notice eye strain, headaches and fatigue. People who have always enjoyed good vision or who are far-sighted are likely to need glasses in order to read. If you’re nearsighted, you may find yourself removing your glasses to read things close-up, or opting to get multi-focal lenses. There are many options that exist, and our eye doctors are happy to talk with you about them.

Parents often assume that eye exams can’t be performed until their child can recognize letters. As InfantSEE® providers, however, we actually examine the eyes of patients as young as 6 months of age. If no concerns arise at this first visit, we recommend another visit at age 3, and annually thereafter. During these exams, we evaluate how the muscles that control and move the eyes are working, how healthy the eyes look, and even take prescription measurements. Early intervention plays a vital role in a child’s development, learning and overall success.

At one time, sleeping with contacts in was not recommended. However, advances in design have led to some lenses that are more “breathable.” In turn, some of these lenses have been approved by the FDA for overnight wear. We recommend that you avoid sleeping in your lenses whenever possible, however, as it does increase the risk of infection and other complications. Talk to us about your specific needs and we’ll be happy to discuss the contact lens options that are right for you.