Optometry

Contact Lens

Francisco Arturo Manuel García

Degree in Optometry.

Diploma in Corneal Ectasia.

Specialized Clinical Experience

As an eye care professional trained at the prestigious Iztacala School of Higher Studies at the UNAM and with international experience at the National University of the South (Argentina), I have developed a clinical practice focused on:

Knowledge and experience in the field of ophthalmic optics, from pediatric to geriatric patients.

Advanced contact lens management: From the combination of the diploma in Corneal Ectasia at the Iztacala School of Higher Studies and the contact lens service at Conde de Valenciana. Experience in fitting scleral, hybrid, reverse geometry, aspheric, and multi-curve lenses for cases of regular and irregular corneas due to corneal ectasia, trauma, and post-surgical patients.

Qualified in the area of ​​myopia control through international certifications such as Coopervision (Misight) and EssilorLuxottica (Stellest), implementing the latest technologies for the management of myopic progression slowdown in the pediatric population.

Vision Therapy: I develop personalized orthoptic programs for the treatment of non-strabismic binocular anomalies, with an emphasis on geriatric patients and post-refractive surgery cases.

Research and Academia

As a clinical researcher at the Conde de Valenciana Institute of Ophthalmology:

I collaborated on studies on corneal esthesiometry using Brill Engines technology in collaboration with leading ophthalmologists.

I participated in research presented at ARVO 2024 on changes in corneal sensitivity post-LASIK, PRK, and SMILE, as well as non-strabismic binocular anomalies post-refractive surgery.

I developed my thesis on "Variation and incidence of non-strabismic binocular anomalies post-refractive surgery."

Cutting-Edge Technology

I am proficient in the use of advanced diagnostic equipment:

Corneal Topography (Pentacam, Sirius)

Specular Microscopy (NIDEK)

Biometry (ARGOS)

Anterior Segment OCT (MS 39)

Computerized Refraction

Professional Commitment

My practice is based on three fundamental pillars:

Personalized Care: Each patient receives a comprehensive visual analysis tailored to their specific needs.

Scientific Evidence: Every intervention is supported by the latest research in optometry and ophthalmology.

Continuing Education: I constantly update my diplomas (Corneal Ectasia) and international certifications (Good Clinical Practice).

Comprehensive Services. I offer evaluation and management of:

Complex refractive errors

Specialized contact lens fitting

Vision therapy for amblyopia and strabismus

Pre- and post-refractive surgery evaluation

Management of dry eye associated with contact lens use

Corneal tissue procurement

Practice Philosophy

"I believe optometry is much more than fitting lenses. I am convinced that we can be better, and we will only achieve this by integrating scientific rigor and humane treatment. My goal is to provide evidence-based, personalized vision solutions, with special attention to the details that make the difference in visual outcomes and quality of life."

Optometry in Mexico: What Is It and Why Is It Important?

Optometry in Mexico is a key healthcare profession in primary eye care. Mexican optometrists specialize in detecting, diagnosing, and managing vision problems, as well as identifying eye diseases that require medical attention and referring them to a specialist.

What Does an Optometrist Do in Mexico?

Comprehensive Eye Exam

Lens prescription (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, presbyopia).

Visual acuity testing (Snellen chart, eye chart projection).

Binocular status assessment.

Slit-lamp eye health evaluation.

Contact Lens Fitting

From soft lenses to specialized lenses for irregular corneas or those with therapeutic requirements.

Early Disease Detection

Glaucoma (with tonometry).

Early cataracts.

Diabetic retinopathy (referral to an ophthalmologist).

Dry eye and eye allergies.

Vision Therapy

Exercises for amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus. Perceptual skills that impact learning and daily life are also included.

Low Vision

Optical and non-optical aids for people with irreversible visual impairment.

Optometrist Training in Mexico

University Degree: Degree in Optometry (4 years).

Community Service (1 year).

National and international postgraduate studies are available.

Featured Institutions: (Endorsed by the Mexican Optometry Council)

NATIONAL AUTONOMOUS UNIVERSITY OF MEXICO, School of Higher Studies, Iztacala Tlalnepantla, State of Mexico

NATIONAL AUTONOMOUS UNIVERSITY OF MEXICO, National School of Higher Studies, León, León, Guanajuato.

NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE: Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences. Santo Tomas, Mexico City.

NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE: Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences. Milpa Alta, Mexico City.

AUTONOMOUS UNIVERSITY OF AGUASCALIENTES. Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes

AUTONOMOUS UNIVERSITY OF QUERÉTARO. Santiago de Querétaro, Querétaro.

Additional Certifications:

Certification by the Mexican Optometry Council.

Updated by state colleges.

Updated university courses.

Diplomas in contact lenses or vision therapy.

⚖️ Legal Framework and Professional Scope

Recognition: Optometry is regulated by the Ministry of Health and the Mexican Official Standard (NOM).

They can:

Perform refractive exams.

Fit contact lenses.

Detect diseases and refer to an ophthalmologist.

They cannot perform:

Surgical procedures.

🏥 Where do Optometrists Work in Mexico?

✔ Private opticians.

✔ Hospitals and clinics (in collaboration with ophthalmologists).

✔ Independent practices.

✔ Public sector (IMSS, ISSSTE, health centers).

📊 Relevant Statistics in Mexico

More than 40% of Mexicans need vision correction (ENADID 2021).

Only 30% of people with vision problems wear glasses.

Myopia is on the rise, with a projected prevalence of 50% by 2050.

Optometrist vs. Ophthalmologist

Optometrist

Focus: Primary eye care and rehabilitation.

Training: Bachelor's degree (4-5 years).

Refers to an ophthalmologist if serious pathologies are detected.

Ophthalmologist

Focus: Diseases and surgeries.

Training: Surgeon + specialty (10+ years).

Prescribes medications and performs surgery.

When to See an Optometrist?

✔ You need prescription glasses.

✔ You have eye strain or headaches.

✔ You want contact lenses.

✔ You need a preventive checkup (for children, older adults, or diabetics).