Having worn glasses or contacts for 20 years, Paula relies on excellent vision for her work, to see the conductor, especially in low lighting, and to read her fellow singers’ facial expressions.  But work in London and travelling on the Victoria Line led to her getting metal dust caught under her contact lens, which resulted in A&E treatment, a scratched cornea, and a week in darkness.

Paula explains: “After a whole week in discomfort, and in fact in darkness, I knew that contacts were no longer an option for me. I just could not rely on them.  I perform opera at least three times a week and never knew if they were going to let me down, and then having this accident on the tube really triggered me to look into alternatives.”

Her clear option was to consider laser surgery, something her father had done and fully recommended.  Paula said: “I have a lot of doctors in my family, so when I asked their advice, the main thing was to get the best. They said, don’t seek out a deal but go for the best possible. These are my eyes after all and I do not want to risk anything! And then making sure there is excellent after care. I found all of this, and so much more, with Optegra.”

After much research of local options, Paula made the decision to have LASIK laser surgery at Optegra Leeds Laser Eye Centre in the heart of the city centre.  “I was over-whelmed with the staff, from the reception to nurses to my consultant, they were all wonderful!  They gave me such confidence and I felt so relaxed in their totally professional hands.  They explained everything so clearly, showed by the equipment, which was more advanced than other places I had visited, and answered all my questions.

“The day after my procedure, I could see so well, it was really so cool! I could read at long distance for the first time in two decades, and have even better than 20/20 vision.  In fact my husband, who has no problems with his vision, can’t see as well as me, and often asks me to read things to him with my ‘magic eyes’!”

Paula sings with the English Touring Opera, and is currently on tour performing Mozart’s Cosi fan tutte and Donizetti’s The Seige of Calais, which will come to Yorkshire later this year.  She loves reading, walking on the Moors and hopes to take up running once the snow thaws – a spring project!

Paula’s surgeon, Mr Kobus Pauw, explains the procedure she had: “After a thorough examination, we advised Paula to have LASIK laser eye surgery, which uses latest computer technology in a fast, painless and completely blade-free procedure.  A laser is used to reshape the cornea, the front of the eye, to change its focusing power to improve sight. It can correct both long and short sighted vision to result in clearer, sharper vision – and, as Paula is enjoying – no more hassle from glasses or contacts.”

Laser eye surgery is the most commonly performed elective procedure in the world today.   Various types of laser eye surgery are available at Optegra Leeds Laser Eye Centre, and an initial consultation will allow a surgeon to give advice on the most suitable vision correction surgery for you.

Optegra Leeds Laser Eye Centre is near City Square in the heart of Leeds City Centre, just 200 meters from Leeds Railway Station.

Elaine teaches English and Maths part-time to the inmates of a local prison. Whilst most of her friends have retired, Elaine relishes the opportunity to educate these men, and is the first to admit she loves the work to which she has been committed for the past 30 years.

She explains: “Many of my friends ask why I still bother to work – but it’s all to do with age perspective: 70 just isn’t 70 anymore! I am fit and healthy, I have so much energy and drive – that is why I opted for the Clarivu eye procedure. I didn’t want to wear glasses for the rest of my life, and Clarivu offered me an option which I could not refuse!”

Clarivu is a permanent lens replacement procedure, available at Optegra Manchester Eye Hospital.  When Elaine saw the TV advert, the opportunity to say ‘Goodbye Glasses’ led to her being immediately persuaded.

“Naturally, I researched the Optegra procedure, ordered the brochure etc., but really, I was so determined to have it, that the decision was made very quickly.  I had worn both distance and reading glasses for some years, which I could cope with, but, over the past few months my sight had deteriorated to the point where I could not even apply my eye make-up.  I was faced with wearing varifocals forever.  However, after trying on countless spectacle frames, I dislike my appearance in all of them!”

Clarivu is a 20 minute procedure, during which a specialist eye surgeon replaces the eye’s natural lens with a new, permanent, and technically advanced Intra Ocular Lens (IOL). This provides the additional focusing power previously provided by glasses or contact lenses for both distance and reading.  It also removes the potential of future cataract operations, as cataracts cannot develop on the new artificial lens.

Elaine said: “My consultant surgeon, Mr Quah, took me through the benefits, and, as I already had a cataract lurking and was so determined to be free of glasses, this seemed the ideal solution. The procedure only took 20 minutes.  I waited nervously – though not as much as my husband! – but it was all worthwhile and I have nothing but praise for the whole team.

“My vision is marvelous now. I can thread a needle, sew, read, work….do everything — without glasses!”

Impressed with the state of the art Optegra Manchester Eye Hospital, Elaine’s memories are of a highly professional team – right through from her consultant to a wonderful receptionist, Dee, who befriended Elaine and supported her through the procedure. Whilst there were people in their fifties having Clarivu, Elaine could see that she was ‘slightly’ older!  Elaine stated: “But I know I am fit and healthy and I was determined not to wear glasses all day every day. Now I can see so clearly, and colours are so much brighter – I am delighted.”

Now raring to go with her newfound vision, Elaine enjoys her weekly swimming sessions, regular theatre and cinema trips and planning holidays, including a 70^th birthday trip to Venice with her husband of 42 years. All to be enjoyed without a handbag full of glasses!

Elaine concludes:  “I am so happy to be free of glasses.  I don’t worry about getting old, as I just enjoy life!”

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Speciality: Cataracts, vitreoretinal surgery, Floaters and treatments for macular disease.

Mr. Luff qualified from Oxford University and Guys Hospital Medical School, and initially trained as a General Surgeon, before moving to Ophthalmology in 1988.

After Fellowship postings at Moorfields Eye Hospital, Mr. Luff was appointed Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Southampton Eye Unit in 1995, where he developed a particular interest in vitreoretinal and cataract surgery.

Mr Luff works closely with the Academic Department of Ophthalmology in Southampton, and was one of the original pioneers of intravitreal injection, used to treatment of Wet age-related macular degeneration. In recent years, he has promoted the technique of vitrectomy under local anaesthesia and has particular expertise in sutureless vitrectomy surgery, combined with the insertion of multifocal implant lenses.

In addition to his position as consultant ophthalmologist with Optegra, Mr Luff also runs highly-successful vitreoretinal practice, and is a recognised surgical lecturer for Ophthalmic Trainees, General Practitioners and Optometrists.

Mr Andrew Luff website.

Consultant Ophthalmologist to Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust since 1999. Mr Subramaniam trained at the highly regarded Moorfields Eye Hospital in London and is a leading specialist in refractive surgery. Since completing his training in refractive surgery in 2001, Mr Subramaniam has carried out more than a 1,000 refractive surgical procedures in the UK. He is a college tutor and examiner for the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. Mr Subramaniam is also actively involved with the charity, “Second sight” providing free cataract surgery to poor rural villagers in Northern India.

Mr Kheterpal received his medical degree in 1989 from the University of Oxford, England. His Ophthalmology training was carried out at the Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre and the world famous Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia. He received his certificate of completion of specialist training in 1999 when he was appointed as Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at the King Edward VII Hospital in Windsor. He has membership and fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons and the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. He has extensive experience in all aspects of ocular surgery and in particular has several years experience in lasik, lasek, wavefront technology and also has performed many thousands of intraocular lens implants.

Mr Kheterpal has corrected the vision of doctors, professionals, sportsmen, policemen, firemen and patients from all vocations and backgrounds. He lectures regularly on local, national and international circuits and trains Ophthalmic Surgeons in all aspects of refractive surgery. He attends international meetings and is involved in many publications and articles.

Mr Kheterpal has experience with some of the most advanced refractive lasers in the world including Bausch and Lomb, Visex and Wavelight Allegrato.

Mr Kheterpal also has membership of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons and the European Society for Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

Mr Kheterpal is a national adviser to the government national institute of Clinical excellence and is a lecturer at Thames Valley University.

Mr Sundeep Kheterpal website.

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Speciality: Glaucoma, cataract and laser eye surgery

Mr Jeffrey studied medicine Birmingham University, and has trained in Ophthalmology at a number of the UK’s leading eye hospitals including Moorfields and Addenbrooke’s, Cambridge.

After graduating, Mr Jeffrey joined the Royal Navy as a Medical Officer. He served on board HMS Bristol during the Falklands Campaign, and was appointed Consultant Ophthalmologist to the Royal Navy’s primary casualty receiving ship RFA Argus during the first Gulf War.

In 1990, Mr Jeffrey became Consultant Ophthalmologist and Advisor to the Medical Director General (Navy), leaving the Navy in 1993 to take up his present position of Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust. He was Clinical Director of LaserVision (Europe) 2004 to 2006, and is currently the regional representative for the Wessex Ophthalmic Group Committee of the British Medical Association.

He regularly lectures to ophthalmologists and trainee ophthalmologists, GPs, nurses and medical students. He has also been the Chairman of the Corporate Speciality Education Committee in Ophthalmology and Programme Director for ophthalmic training in Wessex.

In addition to his expertise in the treatment of glaucoma and cataracts, Mr Jeffrey has extensive experience of refractive laser surgery performing Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) and LASIK surgery.

Mr Michael Jeffrey website.

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Speciality: Clarivu, cataract and laser vision correction. Complex squint surgery.

Mr. Robert Morris graduated with distinction from St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London. He trained at Oxford Eye Hospital, Moorfields Eye Hospital, Great Ormond Street and the University of Iowa, one of the top five training programmes in the United States.

In 1991, Mr Morris was appointed NHS Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Southampton General Hospital, and in 1995 at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester.

He has worked in laser vision correction since 1994, performed over 15,000 refractive, Clarivu and cataract procedures. He is a renowned expert in LASIK, LASEK and Wavefront treatments. In addition, he is recognised nationally for his training and expertise in complex squint surgery.

Mr Morris is passionately committed to passing on his skills by training other surgeons and is actively involved in education of young doctors. He has been Chairman of the Wessex Deanery Education committee, Regional Adviser for Wessex to the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, an examiner for the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and a Member of their Microsurgery Training Faculty.

As Medical Director of Optegra he is committed to maintaining high clinical outcomes across the Hospital group. In this role he is responsible for the assessment of new techniques and technology at Optegra.

He has published over 35 papers in peer-reviewed journals, and lectures and presents papers on cataract, refractive and strabismus surgery all over the world.

Mr Robert Morris company website.

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Speciality: Medical Retina, Macular Degeneration, Cataract and Refractive Surgery

Mr Rehman has been passionate about eye surgery for over 15 years. He was appointed consultant ophthalmic surgeon at Calderdale & Huddersfield NHS trust in October 2002 and has been consulting at Optegra Yorkshire Eye Hospital since early 2003. Mr Rehmane has been involved in the following developments at Optegra Yorkshire Eye Hospital;

• 2005 The Photodynamic therapy service for patients suffering from AMD
• 2006 Avastin TM anti-vegf injection therapy for AMD,
• 2006 LASIK, LASEK & Implant vision correction service,
• 2007 Lucentis TM anti-vegf injection therapy for wet AMD,
• 2008 IOL-VIP telescopic lens implantation for AMD

Mr Rehman has worked as a Consultant Ophthalmologist in Calderdale and Huddersfield since 2002 and has a special interest in retinal diseases and macular degeneration.

Mr Rehman continues to work tirelessly – scouring peer reviewed scientific journals to identify new developments in macular degeneration, cataract surgery and vision correction technology. It is this dedication that allows him to bring major advancements in eye care from around the world for the benefit of all our patients from Yorkshire and beyond.

Mr Rehman has held a substantive post at Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Trust since 2002.

Mr Rehman has contributed to 14 publications and posters and has given 17 presentations to learned societies. Mr Rehman also has four articles in preparation for submission.

Mr Shafiq Rehman website.

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Speciality: Neuro-ophthalmology, Uveitis, Cataract, Refractive Surgery, Clarivu

Mr Backhouse has been a consultant at Optegra Yorkshire Eye Hospital since January 2003.

Mr Backhouse has worked as a Consultant Ophthalmologist at St James’ University Hospital since 2002. He has special interests in neuro-ophthalmology, uveitis and refractive surgery and is very actively involved in MOSS (Madagascan Organisation for Saving Sight), a charity which he founded in 1993. Mr Backhouse is also a member of the ‘Yorkshire World Blindness 2020 Group’, which helps ‘eye programmes’ in developing countries.

When not at work, Mr Backhouse spends time with his family and enjoys playing tennis and squash.

Mr Backhouse has held a substantive post at St James’ University Hospital since 2002. He is also a member of the following:
• UK and European Refractive Surgery Society
• North American Neuro-Ophthalmological Society (NANOS)
• European Neuro-Ophthalmological Society (EUNOS)
• International Uveitis Society
• British Uveitis Group and UK Bechets Forum
• Worshipful Society of Apothecaries
• North of England Ophthalmological Society

Mr Backhouse has published 30 papers and given numerous presentations and posters, in his specialist interest. He also maintains his own website.

Mr Oliver Backhouse website.

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Speciality: Cataract, corneal disease and transplantation, refractive surgery, Clarivu

Mr Ball is a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. He qualified from Cambridge University in 1995 before embarking on his

ophthalmology training in Yorkshire. Prior to his consultant appointment he completed specialist training in corneal and refractive surgery at the prestigious Lions Eye Institute in Australia and at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London.

He has already performed over 2000 laser eye surgery and refractive procedures. He enjoys offering the full range of anterior segment procedures from corneal transplantation through to lens exchange with the latest multifocal lens implants and laser eye surgery.

When not at work, Mr Ball’s other passions include spending time with his young family, playing the cello, golf and skiing.

Credentials:
• Certified by the Royal College of Ophthalmologists to perform laser eye surgery
• Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists
• Member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology
• Member of the UK Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons
• Member of the British Society of Refractive Surgeons
• Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of Leeds
• Reviewer for the journals JCRS, BJO and Eye

Mr Ball has published on the subjects of cataract surgery, laser eye surgery and corneal disease in peer reviewed journals. He is the clinical lead of the corneal research unit at Leeds University.

Mr James Ball’s website.

Consultant Ophthalmologist

Say Aun Quah is a NHS Clinical Lead & Consultant Ophthalmologist at East Cheshire Hospitals NHS Trust and a Consultant Ophthalmologist at Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Say Aun graduated in medicine from Queen’s University of Belfast in 1994 and has over 14 years of experience in Ophthalmogy. He began his Ophthalmology career at Cheltenham General Hospital in 1997 and trained as Senior House Officer at several London hospitals including St Thomas’ Hospital before moving to the Northwest to become a registrar. At Liverpool following the completion of his registrar training, Say Aun undertook advanced specialty training in cornea & refractive surgery and oculoplastics. He has also completed a cornea, anterior segment & refractive surgery fellowship at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London.

He has special interests in management of ocular surface and corneal diseases, corneal transplantation, routine and complicated cataract surgery, refractive surgery (laser and premium lens implantations), oculoplastics and general Ophthalmology.

Say Aun has publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has presented scientific papers and international lectures in Europe and USA. He is a college tutor for the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a past council member of Medical Contact Lens and Ocular Surface Association and regularly examines for the College of Optometrists.

Speciality
• Management of Ocular Surface and Corneal Diseases
• Corneal Transplantation
• Cataracts
• Oculo Plastics
• Refractive Surgery (both laser and lens exchange)

Consultant Ophthalmologist

Mr. Moriarty joined Optegra Manchester Eye Hospital in 2012 as a consultant with emphasis on Clarivu Surgery and Telescope Surgery for Macular Degeneration. Mr Moriarty qualified in medicine from Cambridge University. He continued his training in ophthalmology while working in Bristol, London, Windsor and St Paul’s Eye Hospital in Liverpool. In 1987 he was appointed as fellow to the department of Glaucoma at Moorefield’s Eye Hospital in London.

Specialities

Clarivu Surgery; Cataract, Glaucoma, Surgery for Macular Denegeration, Laser for Floaters.

Professional

Places of study: Cambridge University.
Past professional history: Middlesex Hospital, Moorfields Eye Hospital.
Other hospital of practice:  Optegra Prospect Eye Clinic , Altrincham, Cheshire.
Training of other surgeons: Via ORBIS
Overseas Charity Work: Previous Medical Director and Advisor to ORBIS International.
Papers published: over 60 papers and presentations to Learned Societies.
Other: NHS trained. Lecturer Liverpool University. Member of UK, European and American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons.

Personal

Family Life – Married, 3 children
Hobbies  – Rhythm and blues piano and harmonica, Tennis, Golf, Skiing, Fell Walking, Amnesty International

Mr Brendan Moriarty website

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Southampton University Hospitals Trust since 2005. Parwez is also Clinical Lead for Ophthalmology, as well as, Senior Lecturer in Ophthalmology at University of Southampton. He qualified in Medicine from Aberdeen University and trained in Ophthalmology in Aberdeen, Nottingham & the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami, USA. He sub-specialises in Cornea, Cataract & External Eye Disease.

As a senior consultant with a research interest in cornea, Parwez has pioneered a variety of treatment and surgical techniques for corneal diseases, which are now in regular clinical practice worldwide. He has expertise in non-laser based refractive correction, routine and complex cataract surgery. He is in an international expert on corneal imaging, corneal transplantation, endothelial transplantation and corneal infections.

Parwez is an Associate Editor for the scientific journal ‘Eye’ and is the ‘Programmes and Seminar Secretary’ for Royal College of Ophthalmologists. He also leads a research group at University of Southampton, which is investigating the new treatments for corneal inflammatory disease.

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Specialist in Laser Vision Correction, Cataract and Corneal Surgery.

Clinical Service Director for Ophthalmology Specialist in Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery Southampton University Hospitals Trust.

Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer in Ophthalmology, University of Southampton.

Recognised expertise in:

• Laser Vision Correction (LASIK and Wavefront)
• Refractive and complex cataract and lens implant surgery
• Corneal disease including transplantation surgery (DSEK, AMT, CXL)

Key Achievements

Clinical Director of Ophthalmology, Southampton University Teaching Hospital the regional centre of excellence for Ophthalmology.

Moorfields Eye Hospital Fellowship-trained laser refractive Surgeon.

Moorfields Eye Hospital Fellowship-trained cataract and corneal Surgeon.

Bascom Palmer Eye Institute (BPEI), Fl USA-trained Corneal Research Fellow.

BPEI is rated as the leading USA eye hospital and has been for the last 6 consecutive years.

Clinical investigator in large scale laser vision correction trials at including wavefront-guided laser vision correction – presentation of laser vision correction research internationally.

Nationally recognised specialist in corneal transplant surgery including DSEK.

Surgeon trainer for wavefront-guided laser vision correction for AMO-VisX Europe.

Trainer for Royal College of Ophthalmology in microsurgical skills.

Respected academic with Medical Research Council (MRC) sponsored PhD in Allergy and Immunology and MRC grant recipient – The MRC is the most prestigious grant giving body in the UK.

Substantial and consistent academic publication track record with first author publications (peer-reviewed scientific papers, reviews, editorials and letters) in the worlds leading ophthalmology and scientific journals.

• Recognised expert in Ophthalmic immunology and allergy.
• Lead investigator for lens implant (IOL) evaluation and performance.
• Reviewer for multiple ophthalmic and scientific journals, grants and research trials.
• Clinical innovator for corneal transplant surgery.

Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer status awarded by Southampton University in recognition of research and teaching.

Mr Steven Harsum is a specialist in vitreoretinal surgery, complicated cataract surgery, and in the treatment of medical retinal conditions such as diabetes and age related macular degeneration. Steven is based at Sutton Hospital where he is the Audit lead, aiming to improve the quality of care. He is also the clinical lead for both macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

During his medical degree Steven was selected for the prestigious MBPhD course, which combines a second degree with a 3 year research doctorate (PhD) and fast-track medical training.

Training: BSc (Anatomy) University College London 1994 PhD (Wound Healing) University College London 1998 MBBS University College London 2001 MRCOphth London School of Ophthalmology 2005 FRCOpth London School of Ophthalmology 2010 Ophthalmology training was at numerous hospitals in both North and South London, including the last 2 years at Moorfields Eye Hospital, where he completed his specialist fellowships in medical and surgical retina.

He is passionate about both teaching and modern technology, incorporating his videos of operations and special imagery into his tutorials.

Steven has recently undertaken a number of Charity trips to Guyana and Burma where he treated people with complex cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachments and glaucoma.

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Speciality: Clarivu, cataract and laser vision correction. Complex squint surgery.

Mr. Robert Morris graduated with distinction from St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London. He trained at Oxford Eye Hospital, Moorfields Eye Hospital, Great Ormond Street and the University of Iowa, one of the top five training programmes in the United States.

In 1991, Mr Morris was appointed NHS Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Southampton General Hospital, and in 1995 at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester.

He has worked in laser vision correction since 1994, performed over 15,000 refractive, Clarivu and cataract procedures. He is a renowned expert in LASIK, LASEK and Wavefront treatments. In addition, he is recognised nationally for his training and expertise in complex squint surgery.

Mr Morris is passionately committed to passing on his skills by training other surgeons and is actively involved in education of young doctors. He has been Chairman of the Wessex Deanery Education committee, Regional Adviser for Wessex to the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, an examiner for the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and a Member of their Microsurgery Training Faculty.

As Medical Director of Optegra he is committed to maintaining high clinical outcomes across the Hospital group. In this role he is responsible for the assessment of new techniques and technology at Optegra.

He has published over 35 papers in peer-reviewed journals, and lectures and presents papers on cataract, refractive and strabismus surgery all over the world.

Mr Robert Morris company website.

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Speciality: Glaucoma, cataract and laser eye surgery

Mr Jeffrey studied medicine Birmingham University, and has trained in Ophthalmology at a number of the UK’s leading eye hospitals including Moorfields and Addenbrooke’s, Cambridge.

After graduating, Mr Jeffrey joined the Royal Navy as a Medical Officer. He served on board HMS Bristol during the Falklands Campaign, and was appointed Consultant Ophthalmologist to the Royal Navy’s primary casualty receiving ship RFA Argus during the first Gulf War.

In 1990, Mr Jeffrey became Consultant Ophthalmologist and Advisor to the Medical Director General (Navy), leaving the Navy in 1993 to take up his present position of Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust. He was Clinical Director of LaserVision (Europe) 2004 to 2006, and is currently the regional representative for the Wessex Ophthalmic Group Committee of the British Medical Association.

He regularly lectures to ophthalmologists and trainee ophthalmologists, GPs, nurses and medical students. He has also been the Chairman of the Corporate Speciality Education Committee in Ophthalmology and Programme Director for ophthalmic training in Wessex.

In addition to his expertise in the treatment of glaucoma and cataracts, Mr Jeffrey has extensive experience of refractive laser surgery performing Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) and LASIK surgery.

Mr Michael Jeffrey website.

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Speciality: Cataracts, vitreoretinal surgery, Floaters and treatments for macular disease.

Mr. Luff qualified from Oxford University and Guys Hospital Medical School, and initially trained as a General Surgeon, before moving to Ophthalmology in 1988.

After Fellowship postings at Moorfields Eye Hospital, Mr. Luff was appointed Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Southampton Eye Unit in 1995, where he developed a particular interest in vitreoretinal and cataract surgery.

Mr Luff works closely with the Academic Department of Ophthalmology in Southampton, and was one of the original pioneers of intravitreal injection, used to treatment of Wet age-related macular degeneration. In recent years, he has promoted the technique of vitrectomy under local anaesthesia and has particular expertise in sutureless vitrectomy surgery, combined with the insertion of multifocal implant lenses.

In addition to his position as consultant ophthalmologist with Optegra, Mr Luff also runs highly-successful vitreoretinal practice, and is a recognised surgical lecturer for Ophthalmic Trainees, General Practitioners and Optometrists.

Mr Andrew Luff website.

Professor Philip Bloom began training at The Bristol Eye Hospital, then in London at The Western Eye Hospital and at Moorfields Eye Hospital, where he underwent a Glaucoma Fellowship. He specialises in Glaucoma, Cataract and Anterior Segment Surgery and holds a joint consultant appointment between The Western Eye Hospital (Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London) and The Hillingdon Hospital (Uxbridge).

Professor Bloom’s clinical and research interests include Trans-scleral and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation, combined cataract and glaucoma surgery, and Spectacle independence following cataract surgery (including multifocal lens implantation, toric IOLs and incisional refractive surgery).

Memberships:

Service Director and Lead Clinician, Western Eye Hospital
Course Leader, Post-Graduate Diploma in Ophthalmology (Middlesex University)
Surgical Tutor & Microsurgical Skills Faculty Member, Royal College of Ophthalmologists
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) representative (North Thames), Royal College of Ophthalmologists
Past Vice President, Ophthalmology section, Royal Society of Medicine
Chief of Glaucoma Services, Hillingdon Hospital
Post-graduate Clinical Tutor in Ophthalmology, Royal College of Ophthalmologists
Pastoral Tutor, Imperial College School of Medicine
Keeler Scholarship (Royal College of Ophthalmologists) 1994-5
Muthusamy Gold Medal, Royal College of Surgeons (Edinburgh) 1990

Consultant Ophthalmologist, Cataract and Glaucoma Specialist

Mr Sharma is extensively trained, and has gained expertise, in lens surgery, glaucoma, eyelid surgery, and retinal treatments, as well as general ophthalmology:

Mr. Vik Sharma MBBS BSc FRCOphth is a Glaucoma Specialist who offers new non-penetrating surgical techniques and micro-tube implants, the latest micro-pulse laser treatment, and micro-incision cataract surgery with multifocal lens implants.

He is an experienced glaucoma and cataract surgeon, using topical anaesthesia and on-axis phacoemulsification as part of his technique. Holder of a substantive NHS consultant post with the Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust, Edgware, and Barnet Hospitals, London, where he is the clinical lead for glaucoma. Mr. Sharma is developing a new modern service for patients in North London.

Mr. Vik Sharma is also a Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, and a fully accredited consultant on the UK General Medical Council Specialist.

As well as completing a Glaucoma fellowship in London, he has also undergone further training in Oculo-Plastics at the Premier Facial Plastic Centre in Sarasota, Florida.

He has authored many ophthalmology chapters in medical texts and in peer reviewed journals. Vik Sharma remains an active member of the medical research field, presenting internationally and locally, discussing research findings and new techniques/treatments.

Mr. V Sharma qualified in 1996 from St. Bartholomew’s & The Royal London Hospital’s Medical College, and also completed a BSc in Immunology at UCL, London.
Early in his career, Mr. Sharma was Specialist Registrar in Ophthalmology appointed at many of London’s teaching hospitals, and he has held the position of Glaucoma Specialist at King’s College and St. Thomas’ Hospitals.

Mr. Vik Sharma can be accredited with the following: Substantive NHS consultant post with Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust, London, where he is the clinical lead for glaucoma, developing new laser treatments and surgical implants for better eye pressure control.

- Holds a Fellowship with the Royal College of Ophthalmologists
- Fully accredited consultant on the UK General Medical Council
- Sits on the Glaucoma Advisory Board for pharmaceuticals
- Hon. Senior Lecturer in Ophthalmology for the University of London
- Author of ophthalmology chapters in medical texts and articles in journals
- Lecturer for course in central London for Doctors, Nurses and Opticians

Mr Kheterpal received his medical degree in 1989 from the University of Oxford, England. His Ophthalmology training was carried out at the Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre and the world famous Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia. He received his certificate of completion of specialist training in 1999 when he was appointed as Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at the King Edward VII Hospital in Windsor. He has membership and fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons and the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. He has extensive experience in all aspects of ocular surgery and in particular has several years experience in lasik, lasek, wavefront technology and also has performed many thousands of intraocular lens implants.

Mr Kheterpal has corrected the vision of doctors, professionals, sportsmen, policemen, firemen and patients from all vocations and backgrounds. He lectures regularly on local, national and international circuits and trains Ophthalmic Surgeons in all aspects of refractive surgery. He attends international meetings and is involved in many publications and articles.

Mr Kheterpal has experience with some of the most advanced refractive lasers in the world including Bausch and Lomb, Visex and Wavelight Allegrato.

Mr Kheterpal also has membership of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons and the European Society for Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

Mr Kheterpal is a national adviser to the government national institute of Clinical excellence and is a lecturer at Thames Valley University.

Mr Sundeep Kheterpal website.

Consultant Ophthalmologist to Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust since 1999. Mr Subramaniam trained at the highly regarded Moorfields Eye Hospital in London and is a leading specialist in refractive surgery. Since completing his training in refractive surgery in 2001, Mr Subramaniam has carried out more than a 1,000 refractive surgical procedures in the UK. He is a college tutor and examiner for the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. Mr Subramaniam is also actively involved with the charity, “Second sight” providing free cataract surgery to poor rural villagers in Northern India.

Paul Rosen completed Medical training at Manchester University before a specialist training at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London. Registered with the General Medical Council as a Specialist in Ophthalmology, Paul Rosen then accepted a position as Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Oxford Eye Hospital in 1993. He was Head of Department from 1998 to 2004 and performs over 1000 cataract/refractive surgical procedures each year between his NHS and private practices.

Paul first performed laser refractive surgery in 1991 at Moorfields Eye Hospital and commenced LASIK treatments in 1997. With a keen interest in education, he is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Oxford and an Examiner for the Royal College of Ophthalmologists for the Certificate in Refractive Surgery.
Committed to quality in refractive surgery and valued for his 18 years of experience in laser refractive surgery, Paul was invited to participate on the Royal College of Ophthalmologists Refractive Surgery Working Party.

He advises the government’s National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE).
Paul is the current President of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) the largest Society in Europe dedicated to refractive surgery, and past President of the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (UKISCRS). He is also a Medical Editor of Eurotimes, a publication of the ESCRS. Paul is regularly invited to lecture on cataract and refractive surgery both nationally and internationally.

Qualifications and Awards

• President European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS)
• Past President, UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons
• Registered with the General Medical Council as a Specialist in Ophthalmology
• Medical Editor, Eurotimes ESCRS magazine
• Chairman of the Programme and Practice Management Committees of the ESCRS
• Honour Award recipient from the American Academy of Ophthalmology
• Royal College of Ophthalmologists Examiner in Refractive Surgery
• Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Glasgow
• Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists
• Certificate in Refractive Surgery, Royal College of Ophthalmologists

View Paul Rosen’s website

Mr Barsam is a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at the Luton and Dunstable Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, a University Teaching Hospital of University College London (UCL) where he specialises in Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery. Mr Barsam has full specialist registration with the General Medical Council and is one of only a handful of Consultant surgeons in the UK who is fellowship trained in Cornea, Cataract  and Laser Vision Correction.

Mr Barsam has undergone extensive and rigorous training in the world’s most prestigious institutions. He went to Cambridge University and University College London Medical Schools where he graduated with Honours and a Distinction in Surgery. He completed his residency training at Moorfields Eye Hospital and went on to complete a one year fellowship in New York where he worked closely with Drs Donnenfeld and Perry, two of the US founding fathers of modern Cornea and Refractive Surgery. He followed this with an additional Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery Fellowship at the Western Eye Hospital in London.

Over the last 8 years Mr Barsam has been carrying out research towards a Doctorate in Medicine at the University of Cambridge on corneal ectasia. He has published over 30 peer review publications, 6 book chapters and is the co-author of a comprehensive textbook of Ophthalmology, which is used by Ophthalmologists around the world. He is an invited reviewer for the major international journals in his field. Mr Barsam is a member of the editorial board for Cataract and Refractive Surgery Today Europe.

Mr Barsam is actively involved in teaching and has been a clinical examiner and lecturer for City University, School of Optometry. He is on the Executive Board of the London Deanery and is the lead instructor for a video based instructional course in refractive anterior segment surgery at both the American and European Societies of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. Mr Barsam is regularly invited to speak, chair and moderate research sessions nationally and internationally.

Outside of work Mr Barsam enjoys time with his wife (a Haematologist) and his 3 boys.

Consultant Ophthalmologist

Specialties: Clarivu, intraocular lens surgery, cataract surgery, Laser eye surgery

Mark Wevill is a specialist eye surgeon who has done over 20 000 laser eye surgery operations. He was awarded a Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in 1995 and is recognised as a Specialist in ophthalmology by the UK’s General Medical Council. Mark did his first eye operation in 1991 and first corrected a patient’s vision with LASIK laser eye surgery in 1996. He is a fully accredited laser eye surgeon holding the “Certification in Refractive Surgery” qualification from the Royal College of Ophthalmologists after undergoing assessment in surgical skills and patient management to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses (refractive surgery). Mark has also been awarded the Diploma in Cataract and Refractive Surgery with merit from the University of Ulster. In addition to laser eye surgery he also has a special interest in cataract and intra ocular surgery having performed more than 6,000 such procedures.

Mark Wevill regularly shares his experience with his colleagues in scientific papers and presentations at national and international congresses and he has written many chapters for textbooks in the fields of cataract and refractive surgery. He is also one of the only surgeons in the UK implanting the Raindrop corneal inlay to improve reading vision.

Member of societies, bodies

.       Specialist register: General Medical Council

.       Member of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons

.       Member of the United Kingdom Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons

.       Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh

.       Member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology

www.lasereyesurgerybirmingham.com

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Speciality: Cataract and Corneal surgery.

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at the Royal Wolverhampton Hospitals NHS Trust specialising in cataract and corneal surgery.

Mr Ilango held the position of Fellow at the highly prestigious Moorfields hospital before being appointed a Consultant at Wolverhampton in March 2005.

He is a fully accredited laser eye surgeon holding the “Certification in Refractive Surgery” qualification from the Royal College of Ophthalmologists

Click here to read full story

Ruth, 52, describes the experience as ‘liberating and life-changing’ and urges people to look into the procedure which also prevents getting cataracts.

She explains: “Life before the surgery was very irritating and frustrating. It was particularly difficult at work if I had to readjust from reading auto cue or interviewing guests to checking facts on my notes. I would have to have my glasses to hand at all times, to put them on to read my notes and then take them off again.”

Having been told that she wasn’t suitable for laser eye surgery Ruth had given up all hope of life without glasses but then she met with the team at Optegra who offer Clarivu™ Total Vision Correction, which is an alternative to laser eye surgery for people over 50. It corrects both long and short-sightedness and prevents cataracts in one simple, permanent lens replacement procedure.

Ideal for the over 50’s, where laser eye surgery becomes less suitable to correct refractive errors (such as long and short-sightedness and astigmatism), Clarivu can give freedom from glasses and contacts in one simple, permanent lens replacement procedure.

Clarivu is Optegra’s exclusive refractive lens exchange (RLE), a procedure that involves a surgeon replacing the eye’s natural lens with a new, permanent, and technically advanced Intra Ocular Lens (IOL). This provides the additional focusing power previously provided by glasses or contact lenses for both distance and reading.

Ruth continued: “My sight with contact lenses just wasn’t sharp enough, so I used to mark up my scripts wearing glasses and then I’d put my lenses in for the show – but it was always a relief to take them out afterwards.  In fact, after my consultation with Optegra, they said I had dry eyes which is very common apparently and would probably get worse. The surgeon, Mr Morris, also explained to me that I would never get cataracts with this procedure as Clarivu is an advanced form of cataract prevention surgery.”

The procedure itself took 15 minutes per eye in two separate sessions four days apart. Her eyes were kept open with a specially designed device.

She said: “The device didn’t hurt at all, or pinch or feel heavy; and before I knew it the procedure was completed. The operation is completely pain free – you’re obviously aware that something goes on, but I really didn’t feel a thing. I was in and out within two hours (with pre and post op checks) and apart from using some anaesthetic drops for a few days afterwards it really was that straightforward.

“The freedom from wearing glasses is amazing. When I used to leave the house my main priority would be glasses above wallet or keys but now I just grab my bag and off I go. I don’t even think about it anymore.”

Mr Rob Morris, Medical Director at Optegra, explained: “We’re so pleased that Ruth is delighted with the result. Clarivu is a proven procedure which has been performed thousands of times and is a technically advanced and sophisticated development of cataract surgery; the world’s most frequently performed surgical procedure.

“The technically advanced synthetic Intra Ocular Lens (IOL) replaces the eye’s natural crystalline lens. The main role of the IOL is to focus light onto the back of the eye just as a natural, healthy eye lens would. From here, the light rays are converted into electrical impulses that travel to the brain, where they are then converted into images. If the light isn’t focused correctly on the back of the eye, the brain cannot process the images accurately.”

Clarivu™ is available exclusively from Optegra specialist eye hospital group.

Read Ruth’s story in the Daily Mail

Available at its new Optegra Eye Hospital, London, the LensAR system will be operated by a team of consultant ophthalmic surgeons led by Sundeep Kheterpal, Director of Laser Cataract Surgery for Optegra.

Mr Kheterpal said: “Optegra has invested in this latest equipment to ensure we continue to offer the best possible service to our patients. Suitable for treatment of patients having both cataract surgery and Clarivu^TM permanent lens replacement, the LensAR system has been designed to enhance the accuracy of surgery.

“The advantages of LensAR include full 3D custom imaging (CSI) of each individual eye – both posterior and anterior – to ensure precision and reproducibility. This enables the laser technology to perform laser incisions which are more consistent and precise than ever before. The imaging is fully automated and there are multiple screens for ultimate accuracy and detail, leading to a most highly-informed diagnosis and accurate surgical procedure.”

The LensAR technology, (which is CE Marked), is very user-friendly and comfortable for the patient. The servo-controlled docking system has a “no corneal touch” liquid patient interface for greater patient comfort which avoids any compression or distortion to the cornea.

Optometrists and referring GPs interested in offering their patients this latest technology are welcome to contact Farzam Jafari, Hospital Manager at Optegra Eye Hospital, London on Tel: 0800 358 0825.

The treatment algorithms have been optimised for each cataract grade and this purpose designed integrated system is highly efficient and can eliminate or significantly reduce the amount of ultrasound energy required to complete the cataract removal. LensAR can be used in both sterile and non-sterile environments and with its retracting laser head, allows unrestricted access to the treated eye after the laser procedure.

Optegra is able to provide use of LensAR through its investment and partnership with Topcon GB Ltd (“Topcon”) and LensAR Inc (Orlando, Florida)(“LensAR”).

Gloria McCall, Head of Surgical Sales UK for Topcon UK, comments: “Our partnership with Optegra creates a very exciting opportunity for Topcon to demonstrate our commitment to technologies that will have a positive and significant impact on enhancing patient outcomes that are synergistic with our portfolio of products in ocular surgery, implants and diagnostics. This latest announcement shows our commitment and confidence in the LensAR Laser System to expand our offering to our partner, the ophthalmic surgeon, and help us continue to combine our quality diagnostics with the newest surgical technologies”.

Dr Clare O’Donnell, Head of Optegra Eye Sciences, states that “Optegra is committed to the latest advances in technology where supported by clinical evidence in order to deliver the very best solutions for our patients.”

Gareth Steer, Managing Director of Optegra, concludes: “Our on-going commitment to delivering the very best clinical outcomes for our patients and providing access to the latest technological innovations, has led to this investment in the latest LensAR Femtosecond Laser. Our consultant surgeons are delighted to be able to offer the benefits of this advanced technology, which enables them to deliver accurate and reproducible incisions for all cataract and Clarivu procedures.”

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Tel: 0800 368 4848

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What to expect

Upon arrival you will be welcomed by our Clarivu team where you can relax with a refreshment and chat to the staff before sitting down to hear about Clarivu.

During the presentation our consultant eye surgeon will explain about our hospital, our team and the Clarivu procedure. The open evenings are deliberately informal so you can ask any questions you may have during or after the presentation.

At the end you will be offered a guided tour of the hospital which will include consultation rooms, treatment rooms and the recovery suite: we believe the more you experience, the more you will understand why Optegra are the experts in eye care.

What to expect

Upon arrival you will be welcomed by our Clarivu team where you can relax with a refreshment and chat to the staff before sitting down to hear about Clarivu.

During the presentation our consultant eye surgeon will explain about our hospital, our team and the Clarivu procedure. The open evenings are deliberately informal so you can ask any questions you may have during or after the presentation.

At the end you will be offered a guided tour of the hospital which will include consultation rooms, treatment rooms and the recovery suite: we believe the more you experience, the more you will understand why Optegra are the experts in eye care.

What to expect

Upon arrival you will be welcomed by our Clarivu team where you can relax with a refreshment and chat to the staff before sitting down to hear about Clarivu.

During the presentation our consultant eye surgeon will explain about our hospital, our team and the Clarivu procedure. The open evenings are deliberately informal so you can ask any questions you may have during or after the presentation.

At the end you will be offered a guided tour of the hospital which will include consultation rooms, treatment rooms and the recovery suite: we believe the more you experience, the more you will understand why Optegra are the experts in eye care.

Julie made the decision to have Clarivu and the procedure was carried out at the Optegra Surrey Eye Hospital by surgeon Michael Jeffrey.

Read the full article on how Clarivu changed her life here, or  download a PDF of the article here

Clarivu at Optegra eye hospitals can enable a whole new quality of life – more simply than you thought possible.

What to expect

Upon arrival you will be welcomed by our Clarivu team where you can relax with a refreshment and chat to the staff before sitting down to hear about Clarivu.

During the presentation our consultant eye surgeon will explain about our hospital, our team and the Clarivu procedure. The open evenings are deliberately informal so you can ask any questions you may have during or after the presentation.

At the end you will be offered a guided tour of the hospital which will include consultation rooms, treatment rooms and the recovery suite: we believe the more you experience, the more you will understand why Optegra are the experts in eye care.

What to expect

Upon arrival you will be welcomed by our Clarivu team where you can relax with a refreshment and chat to the staff before sitting down to hear about Clarivu.

During the presentation our consultant eye surgeon will explain about our hospital, our team and the Clarivu procedure. The open evenings are deliberately informal so you can ask any questions you may have during or after the presentation.

At the end you will be offered a guided tour of the hospital which will include consultation rooms, treatment rooms and the recovery suite: we believe the more you experience, the more you will understand why Optegra are the experts in eye care.