Ophthalmology in Aberdeen

A cataract occurs when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, affecting vision in one or both eyes. It is a common age-related condition, with many people developing cataracts after the age of 65.

Typical symptoms include blurred or “misty” vision, increased sensitivity to light (such as sunlight or car headlights), and colours appearing faded or washed out.

Cataract surgery at Albyn Hospital is a highly effective treatment that can significantly improve, or often restore, clear vision.During surgery, the consultant ophthalmologist gently breaks up and removes the cloudy lens using ultrasound, before replacing it with a clear artificial lens implant through a small incision. This is usually performed as a day-case procedure under local or general anaesthetic.

Albyn Hospital’s experienced consultant ophthalmologists also provide advanced cataract care, including complex procedures and specialist lens options. Premium implants, such as toric lenses for astigmatism and multifocal lenses, can further enhance visual outcomes and reduce dependence on glasses.

Mr Aravind Reddy, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon, specialises in the assessment and treatment of corneal conditions such as keratoconus.

Keratoconus is a progressive condition that causes the cornea to thin, which can lead to significant visual impairment. Treatment options include corneal collagen crosslinking, which is a well-established procedure that strengthens the cornea, helping to slow or stop progression and improve vision quality.

Albyn Hospital is able to offer endothelial transplants. Corneal transplants replace the cloudy front layer of the eye to restore eyesight.

Albyn Hospital has facilities for the assessment and treatment of various lid disorders, such as cysts, malformations, in-turning lids and droopy eyelids.

Problems associated with watery eyes are also assessed, with treatments, such as endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy, available.

What is Glaucoma

The nerve of sight (optic nerve) is a part of the nervous system which originates from the eyeball and connects it to the brain. The natural drainage of the internal fluid (aqueous humour) of the eye may occasionally be impeded which then builds up and causes elevated eye pressure leading to damage of the optic nerve over time. This may lead to loss of peripheral vision which sadly often goes unnoticed in the early stages. If left untreated, the deterioration in vision gets steadily worse, with tunnel vision and eventual blindness in the most extreme cases. For example, cars approaching from the side while driving or children in a park suddenly appearing from the corner of vision may go unnoticed.

Sudipto Bhatta,Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Albyn Hospital says "Early diagnosis is the key to treat glaucoma successfully. My simple recommendation is to attend one’s own optician for regular yearly sight tests after the age of 45 years.The optician can spot elevated eye pressure and refer patients to the consultant in the hospital were more specialised tests are carried out including a thorough clinical examination to confirm the diagnosis"

What treatments are available to treat Glaucoma

Albyn Hospital is proud to offer a fully functioning YAG and SLT laser. The laser allows treatments, such as capsulotomy, for thickening of the capsule after cataract surgery, several glaucoma treatments, such as iridotomy for angle closure and selective laser trabeculoplasty.

Micro-Invasive glaucoma surgery is available at Albyn Hospital. The procedure involves the use of a tiny (0.36mm) titanium implant, known as the iStent inject®. The smallest medical device known to be implanted in the human body, the iStent inject® is designed to bypass the resistance and facilitate the eye’s natural outflow of ‘aqueous humour’, reducing intraocular pressure.

For patients with certain types of glaucoma, which relates to approximately 70 to 90% of patients, the device has been shown in studies to be effective when implanted in combination with cataract surgery. It is also effective as a stand-alone procedure in those patients who require intraocular pressure reduction and/or would benefit from glaucoma medication reduction.

Trabeculectomy is also offered at Albyn Hospital. It is recommended when glaucoma can no longer be effectively controlled with eye drops or laser treatment. The procedure works by creating a new drainage pathway for fluid inside the eye, helping to lower pressure and reduce the risk of further optic nerve damage.

Mr Vijay Hegde, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Cataract and Vitreoretinal Surgeon offers consultations and treatments for retina disorders, such as diabetic retinopathy and occlusion of retinal blood vessels. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a common condition and is one of the leading causes of blindness.

The team at Albyn Hospital are equipped to assess and treat AMD with the use of anti-VEGF injections.

When you visit Albyn Hospital, our Consultant Ophthalmologist will take a full medical history, before asking you about the symptoms you are experiencing and the effect this is having on your day-to-day life.

Patients attending a consultation for cataracts, an IOL Biometry Scan is required to be performed at your initial consultation (this test is not included in the consultation fee)

During the consultation, treatment options will be discussed, and you will have time to ask questions and plan the most appropriate way forward.

• Expert assessment from an experienced consultant. You will see the same Consultant will be seen by the same consultant throughout the entirety of their treatment journey.
• A multidisciplinary clinic. Your consultant is supported by a number of other healthcare professionals. This multidisciplinary team approach ensures you will receive support and treatment from the most appropriate specialist throughout your time with us.
• Access to various state-of-the-art ophthalmic diagnostic equipment if required.
• Treatment plans tailored to meet your individual health needs.
• Fixed-price surgery packages.

If you would like to make an appointment with our Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon here at Albyn Hospital, simply call our friendly team on 01224 595993.

You can also book an initial ophthalmology appointment by using our handy online booking system.

Please bring with you to the consultation:

• Your glasses (if you have)
• Your glasses prescription (if you have)
• A list of medications, including any eye medications. 
• Your pupils will likely be dilated at the consultation, and you will not be able to drive immediately afterwards, therefore please make alternative travel arrangements.
• Your appointment can last about 1 to 1.5 hours (irrespective of the length of the consultation slot)