Ophthalmology

Clear vision supports independence, safety and quality of life. Affidea’s ophthalmology service provides specialist care for conditions that affect your eyes, helping you protect your sight and maintain long-term eye health.

Overview: What is ophthalmology?

Ophthalmology is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating eye conditions and vision problems. Our eye specialists examine the structures of the eye to evaluate how your vision is working and identify any underlying concerns.

Some eye conditions develop gradually, and changes in vision may not always be noticeable at first. Regular assessment by an eye specialist can help detect potential issues early, allowing timely care to maintain your eyesight.

At Affidea, ophthalmology services include specialist evaluation of the retina, optic nerve, lens and cornea. By closely examining these areas, our clinicians can identify conditions that affect your vision and recommend the most appropriate treatment or monitoring plan.

Depending on your needs, care may involve regular observation of any changes in eye health, medical treatment or surgery designed to improve or protect your vision.

What to expect during your ophthalmology appointment

Your eye consultation will focus on understanding any changes in your vision and how these affect everyday activities such as reading or driving.

During your appointment, your specialist may carry out tests to assess your vision and check the health of your eyes. These may include a visual acuity test to measure how clearly you can see, visual field testing to look for blind spots or changes in peripheral vision and tonometry to measure the pressure inside your eye. 

Your ophthalmologist may also use OCT scanning, which uses light to create detailed images of the retina and optic nerve. Together, these tests help identify eye conditions, guide treatment and monitor changes over time.

Once the assessment is complete, your doctor will explain the findings in clear, simple terms and discuss the options available. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, and your specialist will guide you on the next steps – whether monitoring, medical treatment or surgery.

Ophthalmology treatments and services we offer

Our ophthalmology team supports patients with conditions affecting vision and eye health.

Cataract surgery

Cataracts develop when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, which can lead to blurred or dim vision. Cataract surgery replaces the cloudy lens with a clear artificial lens to restore sharper vision.

Glaucoma care

Glaucoma can damage the optic nerve and may lead to gradual sight loss if it is not treated. Specialist monitoring and treatment can help control pressure inside the eye and protect long-term vision.

Macular conditions

The macula is the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision. Conditions affecting this area, including wet and dry age-related macular degeneration, can make tasks such as reading or recognising faces more difficult.

Retinal conditions and vitreoretinal care

Conditions affecting the retina or the vitreous gel inside the eye can have a serious effect on vision and eye health. This may include retinal detachment and diabetic retinopathy, with specialist assessment used to guide treatment or ongoing monitoring.

Corneal conditions

The cornea forms the clear outer surface of the eye. Problems affecting the cornea may cause blurred vision, sensitivity or discomfort and may need specialist care.

When to see an ophthalmologist

It’s important to see a specialist if you notice changes in your vision or have concerns about your eye health.

You may benefit from an ophthalmology appointment if you experience:

• Blurred or reduced vision

• Changes in visual clarity

• Difficulty reading or focusing

• Flashes or floaters in your vision

• Concerns about long-term eye health

Early evaluation can help identify the cause of vision changes, provide reassurance and guide suitable treatment. 

Your GP or optometrist can advise if you need specialist care, or you can contact our ophthalmology team directly for expert guidance.