Providing more clinical space plus a modernized look!
Lakeview Clinic is happy to announce that it will break ground this fall on a major expansion and renovation project at its Waconia location. Designed to enhance the patient experience and prepare for future growth, this project marks an exciting new chapter for the clinic and the communities it serves. THE CLINIC WILL REMAIN OPEN THROUGOUT THE PROJECT AND UPDATES ABOUT THE PROJECT WILL BE POSTED ON LAKEVIEW’S WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS.
We’re excited to share several key improvements designed to enhance both the patient experience and operational efficiency:
Updated Patient Parking Lot: A redesigned layout improves traffic flow and accessibility, with existing handicap-accessible spaces relocated closer to the entrance for greater patient convenience.
(Tentative) Modernized Front Façade: A refreshed, contemporary exterior reflects our commitment to innovation, professionalism, and high-quality patient care.
Northwest Build-Out: Previously unused space is being transformed into new clinical areas; helping us accommodate growing patient volume and support future provider expansion.
Remodeled Reception & Waiting Areas: Redesigned interiors will offer greater privacy, increased patient seating, and a more welcoming, efficient environment for everyone.
The expansion at Lakeview Clinic is about more than just adding space, it’s about continuing to meet the growing needs of our patients through a thoughtful, patient-centered environment that is both comfortable and efficient.
As part of this growth, Lakeview Clinic plans to welcome seven new physicians to its Internal Medicine, OB/GYN, and Family Medicine teams by the end of 2026. This expansion will further strengthen Lakeview’s ability to provide timely, high-quality care to patients across the region.
Dr. Prasun Mandal, DO will join Lakeview Clinic’s Family Medicine Team in Waconia in late August. We are also excited to announce that Dr. Spencer Ferrell, MD, will be joining our OB/GYN team in the fall, 2025!
Lakeview Clinic has long been a trusted healthcare provider in the Waconia area and is proud to grow alongside the thriving communities of the southwest metro.
About Lakeview Clinic Lakeview Clinic is an independent, physician-owned practice dedicated to delivering high-quality, compassionate healthcare for patients of all ages. With clinics in Waconia, Chaska, Norwood Young America, and Watertown, Lakeview offers a broad range of specialties including Family Medicine, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, OB/GYN, Pediatrics, Podiatry, and Optometry.
It’s finally summer in Minnesota! The grills are sizzling, the boats are cruising, and we’re all reaching for our swimsuits, sandals, tank tops, and sundresses. But before you head out to soak up the sun, let’s talk about your body’s largest and most exposed organ: your skin.
At Lakeview Clinic, our primary care providers do more than just manage your blood pressure and annual check-ups. We’re also your first line of defense when it comes to dermatologic care. Whether it’s a weird rash, a changing mole, or just some stubborn acne, your skin has a way of telling us what’s going on, and we’re here to listen.
Skin Self-Care Starts with You
Keep an eye out for changes in your skin. Is that mole new? Is that patch of skin flaking more than usual? The sooner you notice, the sooner we can help. Your primary care doctor is a great place to start the conversation. And no, you don’t need to wait for a dermatology referral to get it checked out.
Beyond awareness, treat your skin with the care it deserves. Tips for success include staying well hydrated, avoiding peak sun exposure, eating a balanced diet with a lot of color, and using mild soap and lotions
What Can Your Primary Doctor Handle? A Lot, Actually!
Lakeview’s primary care team is experienced and comfortable managing many common skin issues, including:
Acne (mild to moderate)
Eczema
Mild Psoriasis
Skin Infections
Bacterial
Fungal
Viral
Benign Skin Lesions
Warts
Skin Tags
Seborrheic Keratoses
Precancerous Lesions (Actinic Keratosis)
We’re your first stop for evaluation and treatment—and your guide when specialized care is needed.
When You Might Need a Dermatologist
Your primary care provider will coordinate specialty referrals when appropriate, ensuring you get the care you need.
Certain conditions may require advanced dermatologic care, such as:
Chronic or treatment-resistant skin conditions
Severe Psoriasis requiring biologic medications
Autoimmune Skin Disorders like lupus or dermatomyositis
Complex Skin Cancers requiring surgical removal or Mohs surgery
Cosmetic Procedures
What to Expect During Your Visit
When you come in for a skin concern, we’ll evaluate the area thoroughly. Depending on the issue, we might perform a skin scraping or biopsy to help diagnose the problem. From there, we’ll create a treatment plan and schedule any needed follow-ups to ensure you’re healing well and responding to treatment.
Bottom Line: Your skin deserves just as much attention as the rest of your body; especially in the sunny months! At Lakeview Clinic, our primary care team is ready to help you protect, heal, and love the skin you’re in. So go ahead, enjoy that sunshine responsibly and don’t forget the SPF! Feel free to let us know how we can help.
Dr Rogers joined Lakeview Clinic in 2016. He holds dual board certifications in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics which allows him to provide comprehensive care to all ages.
Ocular health, often overlooked in general health discussions, is a vital aspect of overall well-being. Our eyes are not only essential for vision but also serve as indicators of systemic health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, and neurological disorders. Maintaining good eye health ensures not only clarity of sight but also the early detection of potential health risks that might otherwise go unnoticed. Regular eye exams and appropriate care are foundational to preserving this vital sense.
A variety of factors can influence ocular health, including age, genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures. As people age, they become more susceptible to conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Additionally, individuals with a family history of eye diseases are at greater risk and may require more frequent monitoring. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor nutrition, and excessive screen time can also contribute to eye strain and long-term damage, emphasizing the importance of preventive care.
One of the most prevalent threats to modern eye health is digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. With increased reliance on digital devices for work, education, and entertainment, many individuals experience symptoms such as dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. Taking regular breaks, using blue light filters, and maintaining proper screen distance can alleviate some of these symptoms. Furthermore, ensuring that lighting conditions are adequate while using screens plays a crucial role in minimizing strain.
Nutrition plays a central role in maintaining healthy eyes. Nutrients such as vitamin A, C, E, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc have been shown to support retinal health and reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases. Leafy greens, carrots, fish, nuts, and citrus fruits are all excellent choices for eye-friendly diets. Hydration is also key, as dry eyes can be exacerbated by inadequate fluid intake. A balanced diet combined with hydration can significantly improve ocular resilience and functionality.
Eye injuries are another significant concern when it comes to ocular health. These injuries can result from accidents involving sharp objects, chemical exposure, or even sports-related impacts. Without prompt treatment, even minor injuries can lead to serious complications such as infection, scarring, or permanent vision loss. Wearing protective eyewear during risky activities—such as using power tools, handling chemicals, or playing contact sports—is a simple but effective way to prevent many common eye injuries. Immediate medical attention should always be sought if an eye injury occurs.
Preventive care through regular eye exams is essential for early detection and treatment of eye diseases. Many eye conditions, such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, develop slowly and painlessly, often going unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Optometrists and ophthalmologists use various tools and tests to assess eye health and provide necessary interventions. Timely detection can preserve vision and prevent irreversible damage. A comprehensive eye exam with dilation is recommended annually to screen for various ocular diseases.
Ocular health is a fundamental aspect of general health and deserves greater attention in daily wellness routines. By understanding risk factors, making healthy lifestyle choices, and committing to regular eye check-ups, individuals can protect their vision and reduce the likelihood of serious complications. Prioritizing ocular health ultimately enhances quality of life and allows individuals to maintain independence and clarity throughout their lives.
Dr. Thomas Bryan is an optometrist practicing eye care at Lakeview Clinic in Waconia, Minnesota and enjoys all aspects of optometry, but especially medical cases and contact lens patients.
We all know that a comfortable pair of shoes can make a day on your feet much more enjoyable. But what is a “comfortable shoe?” In today’s market there are countless options for shoe types, styles, support levels, etc. Here are a few basic guidelines to help you pick a shoe that will allow you to go the extra mile.
Bend and Twist
The first thing you should do when shoe shopping is pick up the shoe and start bending and twisting it. If you are looking for more support, the shoe should only bend in the toes, not in the arch. A stiffer shoe can help with heel pain, arch pain, and pain in the ball of the foot.
Toe Box – Upper Material
A “natural toe box” can allow more room for your toes to move freely. A natural toe box will be wider and deeper than a traditional shoe. These are usually best for people with toe deformities like bunions and hammertoes as they provide more room for the toes to move.
If you do have toe deformities, then an upper material that is soft and pliable will decrease pressure, prevent calluses, and reduce pain. Stay away from shoes with stiffer leather or those that have stitching/designs over the toes.
Length & Width
Shoes should be one thumb-width longer than your longest toe when you are standing. Remember, if you wear a size 8 in one shoe brand, that doesn’t mean you will wear a size 8 in all shoe brands.
If shoes feel too tight or constricting while trying them on, do not think “they will stretch.” Get a larger size. Your feet swell as the day goes on, so it is best to go shoe shopping in the afternoon. If you wear orthotics be sure to bring those with when you are shopping for shoes.
Cushioning
While a thicker sole can feel better on arthritic feet, it is more important that the sole does not bend in the arch. Find a stiff shoe first and then find one with your ideal amount of cushion.
Beware of shoes with too much cushion because they can make you feel unstable, and you could twist your ankle.
Rocker Bottom Sole
Athletic shoes offer a rocker bottom which can be helpful for people with pain in the ball of their feet or in their Achilles tendon. However, they can also cause overloading of the knee joint and knee pain. If you do buy these shoes because you have forefoot pain, be sure to wear them only occasionally.
Zero Drop Shoes
In most shoes, even those without a noticeable “heel,” the heel sits higher than the toe of the shoe. Zero drop shoes have no difference between the heel and the toe. This mimics a “barefoot” style of walking which can lead to increased stretching of the Achilles tendon and strengthening of the calf muscles. It can also relieve pressure on the ball of your foot. But these shoes can also lead to overuse injuries of the Achilles tendon so you should gradually transition to wearing them and avoid frequent use.
Tread
Tread helps your shoes grip different surfaces, so it is important to choose the right shoe for certain activities. You should not wear gym shoes when hiking and you should not wear trail shoes for playing basketball. Just because a shoe is comfortable playing pickleball doesn’t mean it will be comfortable hiking the Grand Canyon.
Quality Over Style
It is more important to choose a shoe that is better quality than the style or color that you want. This is especially true if it is a shoe that you will be doing a lot of activity in. One theory is “the more you behave, the more you can cheat.” In other words, if you want to wear stylish shoes to dinner on Saturday night, you better wear good supportive shoes during the day.
It can be easy to get overwhelmed when you are trying to pick out the perfect pair of shoes. Remember that these are all guidelines and not hard rules. If the shoe feels comfortable to you and doesn’t cause any pain, go ahead and wear it. If no shoes seem to help with your foot issues, it may be time for a visit with a podiatrist.
Podiatrist, Dr. David Arens, sees patients at Lakeview Clinic in Waconia and Chaska, MN. His practice involves all aspects of podiatric medicine and surgery. He performs surgery of all foot and ankle conditions ranging from bunions and hammertoes to fractures and chronic ankle pain. He believes in the importance of listening to the patient to develop the best specific treatment plan for each individual.
Lakeview providers address common colonoscopy concerns, fears, and questions.
It is estimated that about 1 in 24 people will develop colorectal cancer at some point in their lifetime, and colonoscopies are the best preventative measure currently available. “The only people dying from colon cancer, are the people who are not getting a colonoscopy” states Lakeview Physician, Dr. Paul Brown. Despite this, many people choose not to follow the advice of their medical provider when they are told to have a colonoscopy screening.
There are a variety of reasons people avoid or delay getting colonoscopies, even though they are an important tool for detecting colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal issues. A panel of Lakeview Clinic medical providers has addressed many of these reasons below in an effort to persuade patients to have this important screening and potentially save lives.
I have no family history of colon cancer; is a screening necessary?
“Current recommendations for colonoscopy in patients without family history begins at age 45,” states Dr. Todd Elftmann. Colorectal cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms, and early detection is crucial. According to Dr. Timothy Thormodsgard, “The majority of colon cancer cases occur in people with no family history of colon cancer, so screening is important even if you have no family history.”
Isn’t it possible that polyps aren’t cancerous?
Knowing whether a polyp in benign (non-cancerous) is critical to preventing colon cancer. “The only way to know which type of polyp you may have is to do a colonoscopy. Additionally, the polyp can usually be removed during the procedure, which will prevent it from becoming a cancer” states Dr. Thormodsgard.
“Not all polyps are harmful but monitoring them closely can help prevent colon cancer and save your life” explains Dr. Heidi Wuerger. If no polyps are found, the study should be repeated in 10 years.
What if polyps are found?
Dr. Elftmann explains, “we do not always know which polyps we encounter will actually become cancer. Therefore, [polyps] will be removed and sent to a pathologist. The pathologist will determine if the polyp is pre-cancerous, and recommendations regarding appropriate follow-up will be made.” If adenomatous polyps are found, the study will likely need to be repeated in 3-5 years depending on the number and type of polyps found.
I’ve heard polyps can be missed. If so, why even get a colonoscopy?
Dr Thormodsgard explains, “there is a risk that a polyp will not be seen during the colonoscopy. Research has shown that nearly 17% of polyps can be missed during the exam. However, that means that over 80% of polyps are found and treated during the exam. The polyps that are missed are almost all less than 1 centimeter in size. Additionally, the risk of missing colon cancer during a colonoscopy is very low, around 2-3%. Because we know that some polyps are at risk of developing into colon cancers, and that this transformation happens slowly, getting a colonoscopy is still the best way to prevent colon cancer.
I am nervous about complications.
Dr. Todd Elftman outlined complication rates as follows: “Complications include bleeding are 8 in 10,000; colon perforations are 4 in 10,000, and the risk of death is 3 in 100,000.” In comparison, “the risk of death in a car accident is approximately 1 in 100.” In addition to complications being very rare, they are also treatable. According to Dr. Heidi Wuerger, “if a perforation and bleeding do happen, there are good means to help treat these complications.” It also bears mentioning that, according to The American Cancer Society, the rate of developing colon/rectum cancer is 1 in 24 for males and 1 in 26 for females.
I’m terrified of anesthesia. What can alleviate this concern?
Colonoscopies take about 20 minutes and are typically done with conscious sedation “In general, the anesthesia used for a colonoscopy is very safe. Your vital signs will be closely monitored throughout the procedure” stated Dr. Thormodsgard. Dr. Wuerger added that patients “could do a small pre-medication, if needed.”
Do colonoscopies hurt?
According to Dr. Brown, “people may have mild discomfort during the procedure and for a day or so afterwards.” “Patients usually will not remember any discomfort during the procedure due to the sedative medications,” adds Dr. Elftmann.
How bad is preparation for a colonoscopy?
“The colonoscopy preparation is usually the worst part for about 95% of patients. However, if the preparation is taken as instructed, most patients tolerate the preparation quite well and without issues. Some patients experience nausea and vomiting, but this is usually due to patients trying to rush the oral intake rather than following the timing of oral intake in the directions they receive. I recommend giving yourself plenty of time the evening before and the morning of the colonoscopy to complete the preparation,” explains Dr. Elftmann.
If I am diabetic, will preparing for a colonoscopy be hard on me?
Be sure to talk with your primary medical provider about any concerns. They are your go-to for advice regarding safely preparing for a colonoscopy. Whether it is adjusting medications or recommending different insulin doses, they are best equipped to assist you. Additionally, “you are able to consume a clear liquid diet before, during, and after your bowel preparation. This will allow you to maintain your glucose intake and levels,” adds Dr. Elftmann.
How much time will I need to take off of work?
Typically, one day is needed. “You will need to begin your bowel preparation in the early evening the day before your colonoscopy and will need to take the day off for your colonoscopy. Most people are back to normal activities without restrictions the day following their procedure,” explains Dr. Elftman.
Why not just do a Cologuard test instead?
Put simply, “it is less sensitive and if positive, you will require a colonoscopy anyway,” states Dr. Brown. “Unfortunately, there are numerous limitations to the Cologuard test. The test can miss up to 8% of colon cancers and 42% of polyps, giving a false negative result,” adds Dr. Thormodsgard. Dr. Elftmann says another way to look at it is “Cologuard will not detect a colon cancer when present approximately 8% of the time and will not detect an advanced pre-cancerous polyp when present approximately 58% of the time.” When early detection is so important in saving lives, these numbers really matter.
Some patients may have health or medical statuses that prevent them from undergoing a colonoscopy. Cologuard is an option for these patients.
Does insurance cover colonoscopies?
We always recommend verifying coverage with your insurance company prior to having any procedure, but in general, colonoscopy screenings are considered preventative and therefore covered. However, if the patient has any gastrointestinal symptoms, or your doctor finds a polyp or mass needing biopsy, your colonoscopy is then considered diagnostic, and your coverage may change. Patients may be required to pay a deductible or coinsurance for a diagnostic colonoscopy.
