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Ask the Expert

Samantha Rao, O.D., answers our questions about working in Milford, the unique Bright Eyes experience, and maintaining your ocular health

What first interested you about optometry?

My father is an optometrist and prescribed me my first pair of glasses in second grade. I remember being astonished to see each individual blade of grass and leaf on a tree. Experiencing the world through blurry vision as a child, and then the clarity that came with glasses and contacts, inspired me to explore the science behind human vision.

Why did you choose to open up a practice in Milford?

I chose to open my practice in Milford because I just love the community spirit here. I live nearby with my husband and two-year-old daughter, and we love coming to all the great events, playgrounds, and beaches. The best thing about Milford is the people – our patients have been so kind, friendly, and appreciative of our practice, and it is our patients that truly make it fun to come to work every day.  


What kinds of services do you and your team offer at Bright Eyes?

At Bright Eyes, we offer comprehensive eye care for adults and children ages 3 and up in a warm and inviting setting. Our specialties include contact lenses, dry eye treatment, and myopia control to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children. We manage a wide range of eye health conditions, from glaucoma to diabetes, and provide urgent care for conditions like eye infections, styes, and injuries. 

Why should people regularly visit an eye doctor?

Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining good vision and detecting early signs of eye diseases. Eye exams can also reveal potential health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

Regular eye exams are especially crucial for children and young adults because of how important vision is for learning. I have seen children who struggled with reading, headaches, and paying attention in class due to an undiagnosed vision problem. 

What makes Bright Eyes a unique experience for patients?

Bright Eyes is a welcoming, modern space with friendly staff and state-of-the art technology. We utilize advanced equipment to provide comprehensive eye care and educate our patients about their eye health. I show every patient HD images of the inside of their eyes and teach them what they can do to optimize their vision and eye wellness.   

In our studio, we curate a selection of unique eyeglass frames by independent designers from around the world. If you see someone walking around Milford with awesome glasses, ask them if they’re from Bright Eyes!   

What advice would you give for maintaining ocular health on a daily basis?

My top tips for ocular health are: 1) UV protection – wear high quality sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays, 2) cleanse your eyelids and lashes! Gently scrub to remove debris that can clog tear glands and lead to dry eye, and 3) stay active, don’t smoke, and eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3’s. 

"The best thing about Milford is the people – our patients have been so kind, friendly, and appreciative of our practice."