The surface of the eye is a complex environment made up of several structures which all have a specialised function.  Disturbance of one or more of these structures or functions can result in redness, irritation or pain affecting one or both eyes.  Upset of one structure or function can then go on to disturb more, leading to worse or prolonged symptoms.

Common causes of these problems are blepharitis, inflammation, infections, allergies and minor trauma.  By discussing your symptoms and performing a thorough examination, Miss Corbett will aim to identify the underlying cause, and recommend a specific management plan.

A cataract is clouding of the lens of the eye.  When this interferes with vision and the patient’s way of life it is then time to consider surgery.

Surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear plastic lens to improve the vision.  This also an opportunity to select a power of lens to reduce or avoid the need for glasses postoperatively.

Cataract often occurs as patients get older, but they can occur in younger patients too due to previous eye conditions, injury or surgery.  Miss Corbett specialises in complex forms of cataract surgery and anterior chamber reconstruction.  Her access to a full range of skills, techniques and devices, enables her to tailor surgery to the individual patient and achieve optimised results.

The cornea is the transparent window at the front of the eye which needs to be of optimum shape and clarity to achieve good vision.  This can be affected by conditions such as infections or keratoconus.  Miss Corbett can perform a variety of examinations and investigations to assess the severity and progress of the condition, and select from a wide range of treatment options to optimise healing and vision.

Specialist surgical techniques offered by Miss Corbett range from corneal cross-linking to prevent progression of keratoconus, to corneal transplantation replacing a malfunctioning layer of the cornea.

The specialist medical contact lens fitting offered by Miss Corbett is a relatively rare skill amongst ophthalmologists.  Contact lenses can be prescribed to improve vision in situations which are not helped by glasses.  Additionally, they can be used to manage disorders of the surface of the eye and improve healing.

Contact lens intolerance and infections are relatively common amongst those wearing standard contact lenses.  Miss Corbett can perform a full assessment to identify the problems and how to correct them. Targeted treatments can extend contact lens wearing times and improve comfort, as well as reduce complications.

• Local anaesthetic – numbs the eye whilst you are awake; used in the majority of eye surgery
• Sedation – local anaesthetic is used to numb the eye, and a mild sedative is given so you are less aware of what is happening around you.
• General anaesthetic – you are totally asleep during the operation, and drops are used to numb the eye.