Learn more about Dr. Chuck Monson, optometrist and owner of Vision Center of Lake Norman in Mooresville and Lifetime Eyecare Optometry in Newton. He shares what inspired him to become an optometrist, why he opened the Vision Center of Lake Norman, and one of the most common eye health issues he encounters every day.
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in optometry?
Several of my family members are in the medical field, so I was always exposed to it growing up. Eyes always intrigued me as a student, which attracted me to optometry. What drives my passion for optometry is the ability to instantly be able to impact someone’s life. For example, a kid getting their first pair of glasses or contact lenses.
2. What motivated you to establish the Vision Center of Lake Norman?
I have always had an interest in the business side of optometry. When the opportunity presented itself, we decided to take a chance and open the Vision Center of Lake Norman. Our latest leap of faith has been acquiring a second location. My favorite part of serving the local community is helping people. Optometrists have such a unique set of skills, and we can make such an instant impact in someone’s life.
3. How do you stay updated with the latest advancements and technologies to provide the best care for your patients?
I try to attend at least two conferences each year, one of them being a large conference with more continuing education options and new technology to learn about. I also enjoy keeping up with a few monthly optometry journals.
4. What are some of the most common eye health issues you encounter?
Dry eyes are easily one of the most common eye health issues we see each day. The first step of treatment is educating our patients on dry eyes and talking about environmental factors that can contribute to dry eyes. Preservative-free drops are always recommended.
We also love to try a more natural approach when possible, such as using warm compresses and taking omega-3 supplements. If more treatment is needed, then we can offer prescription eye drops or nasal spray to help with symptoms of dry eyes. Our newest office treatment options are intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy and low level light therapy (LLLT), which we have found to be very effective in treating our patients’ dry eyes.
5. When you’re not in the office, what do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my wife Lisa and dog Winston, traveling, and spending time on Lake Norman. I like to stay active and participate in several sports, including golf, snow skiing, and wakeboarding. I am also an avid fan of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels and the Carolina Panthers.
If you have any concerns about your eye health and would like to see Dr. Monson, we would love to hear from you! Call or text us at (704) 799-2020 or schedule an appointment online here.
