REFRACTIVE VISION SPECIALIST & MEDICAL VITREO-RETINAL FELLOW
Born and raised amidst the natural beauty of Hawaii, Dr. Kellen Kashiwa brings a deeply rooted local perspective to his practice at the Eye Center of Hawaii. With over twelve years of dedicated service as an optometrist at ECH, Dr. Kashiwa is a cornerstone of the community’s ocular health sector.
Dr. Kashiwa graduated with a Doctor of Optometry Degree from the Pacific University College of Optometry in Oregon. His academic focus was on low vision and retinal diseases, equipping him with specialized expertise in managing visual impairments that conventional methods cannot correct. His training encompasses the comprehensive examination and treatment planning for patients requiring tailored visual aids.
Prior to joining the Eye Center of Hawai’i, Dr. Kashiwa honed his skills at the Retina Institute of Hawaii, where he served as a technician and diagnostic photographer from 2008 to 2009. His international experience includes internships in Japan and China, enhancing his clinical skills with a global perspective.
Dr. Kashiwa is also committed to humanitarian efforts, having treated over 5000 patients in optometric missions across the Philippines, Peru, Nicaragua, Thailand, and Tanzania. In his spare time he does volunteer keiki vision assessment at homeless shelters and free diabetic retinal screenings throughout Hawaii. His dedication to improving vision transcends borders, making him not only a valued local optometrist but also a global vision care advocate.
Dr. Kashiwa is a clinical professor at Pacific University College of Optometry and University of Missouri College of Optometry. He has given lectures on topics including dry eye disease and sports vision therapy and consults with contact lens companies on sports training technologies. He also works with our local athletes to improve their vision including University of Hawaii athletics, MLB, NFL, and UFC athletes.
Dr. Kashiwa’s approach to eye care is informed by a blend of advanced medical training and a profound connection to his local roots, making him a trusted healthcare provider and community leader in Hawai’i.
It's important to consider your contact lenses when swimming. In fact, we suggest removing them before taking a dip in the pool or ocean. The lenses can absorb the water, trapping potential bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens against your eye.🙅🦠 Avoid these risks and dive into the summer with healthy eyes! 🏊♀️🏖️ #SummerEyeCare #healthyeyes ... See MoreSee Less
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Did you know that dry eye has a variety of causes? From hormonal changes and environmental factors like wind and smoke, to certain medications and underlying health conditions. One of the most common causes of significant dry eye is from Meibomian Gland Dysfunction or MGD. Contact us to schedule your dry eye exam and discover the cause of your dry eye. #DryEyeAwarenessMonth #eyehealth #dryeyedisease ... See MoreSee Less
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Do your eyes feel dry, gritty, or irritated? Experiencing blurred vision or sensitivity to light? Are your eyes constantly watering? Surprisingly, these all can be symptoms of dry eye disease. Don't ignore the signs! Dry eye can cause discomfort and affect your daily life. Contact us for your dry eye exam. #DryEyeAwarenessMonth #eyehealth #symptomsmatter #eyecenterofhawaii ... See MoreSee Less
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Mahalo Yvonne. We are so glad we could make your transition from the mainland to Hilo an easy one.
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It's UV Protection Month and we want to remind you the importance of good sunglasses. You should be wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays when outdoors to protect your eyes from harmful UV radiation, which can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions. Visit our optical in Kona to find the perfect pair.
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We are proud to welcome Dr. Reddens to our Kona office. Dr. Redens prides himself as a problem solver with a deep understanding of anterior segment surgery. He has many, many patients with significant and complex ocular issues who see well as a result of his care. Dr. Reddens has strong friendships and real connections to the island and its people, and very much looks forward to strongly positively contributing to their ocular health and well-being.
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