expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Karen S. Nipper, M.D.

Ophthalmologist

Dr. Nipper is an Ophthalmologist and Eye Plastic Surgeon, a specialty commonly referred to as Oculoplastic Surgery. This means she has completed extensive training in ophthalmology and highly specialized training in functional and cosmetic plastic surgery, as it relates to the eyes and their surrounding structures. This results in an excellent combination for patients: the attention to detail that comes from a surgeon who specializes in eyelid surgery and facial rejuvenation, and the safety that comes from a specialist who is knowledgeable and concerned about protecting your vision.
24 years Experience
Dr. Karen Nipper, M.D.
  • Stamford, CT
  • University of Pennsylvania Med
  • Accepting new patients

Can you use eye drops with contacts in?

You can use drops with contacts that are specifically made for use with contact lenses. There are specific artificial tears that you can use with your contact lenses. Otherwise, READ MORE
You can use drops with contacts that are specifically made for use with contact lenses. There are specific artificial tears that you can use with your contact lenses. Otherwise, most drops should be used without your contact lenses.

Can you go blind from optic neuritis?

Unfortunately, yes, optic neuritis can lead to blindness. So monitoring your vision at home and regular exams with your eye physician are important. If you feel your vision has READ MORE
Unfortunately, yes, optic neuritis can lead to blindness. So monitoring your vision at home and regular exams with your eye physician are important. If you feel your vision has changed immediately go to your doctor. There are medications which treat optic neuritis that your doctor can recommend.

What happens if you blink during a cataract operation?

During cataract surgery a speculum to open the eyelids is placed by the surgeon. With the speculum in place one cannot blink.

Can eye drops help watery eyes?

Yes, under certain situations drops can help watery eyes. Sometimes the tearing is due to eye allergy and an allergy drop can be obtained over the counter or can be prescribed. READ MORE
Yes, under certain situations drops can help watery eyes. Sometimes the tearing is due to eye allergy and an allergy drop can be obtained over the counter or can be prescribed. Sometimes the eye is so dry that the eyes “flood” in reaction to the dryness. Artificial tears or prescription drops can often alleviate the watering. There are situations that need surgical intervention. Your ophthalmologist can start you on the correct regimen for your specific problem.

What happens if you blink during laser eye surgery?

During laser eye surgery your eyelids are held open by a small non-painful device so you do not have to worry about blinking.

When should you have cataracts removed?

Cataracts should be removed when they start to affect your daily activity, also known as, Activities of Daily Living. With corrective glasses or contacts are you able to read, READ MORE
Cataracts should be removed when they start to affect your daily activity, also known as, Activities of Daily Living. With corrective glasses or contacts are you able to read, use your computer, drive a car at night? When cataracts start to limit your activities is when you are ready for surgery. All surgeries have risks, benefits, and alternatives The benefits of surgery should outweigh the risks.

How long does it take to go blind from glaucoma?

With proper medical and surgical management one may never go blind with glaucoma. Treatment includes drops, laser, and surgery. It is very important that patients with glaucoma READ MORE
With proper medical and surgical management one may never go blind with glaucoma. Treatment includes drops, laser, and surgery. It is very important that patients with glaucoma have regular eye examinations with their ophthalmologist.

Should I stay off work with conjunctivitis?

If you have viral conjunctivitis, "pink eye", you should use strict hand washing. Anytime you touch your face, you wash your hands. Wipe down your counter surfaces, wash your READ MORE
If you have viral conjunctivitis, "pink eye", you should use strict hand washing. Anytime you touch your face, you wash your hands. Wipe down your counter surfaces, wash your pillow case, and try not to put others at risk for pink eye. If your job entails working with children or people over 65 years old, I usually recommend you stay home.

Can blurred vision be fixed with contacts?

Blurred vision can be due to many causes, but often it is refractive, i.e. glasses or contact lenses can improve your vision.

Can glaucoma be cured from surgery?

Glaucoma can be managed with drops, laser, and surgery. There is a new category of surgery called MIGS, which is very exciting.

What is a good vitamin for dry eyes?

Both fish oil and flax seed oil by mouth can be beneficial for dry eyes.

Do computer screens damage your eyes?

Computer screens do not damage the eye. But the eyes can get dry when concentrating on the computer. You can purchase over-the-counter artificial tears at your local pharmacy. READ MORE
Computer screens do not damage the eye. But the eyes can get dry when concentrating on the computer. You can purchase over-the-counter artificial tears at your local pharmacy. If your eyes feel dry when on the computer, then use some artificial tears.