Retina / Eye Specialist Mahi Maqit

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Finding the Best Ophthalmologist in London: Tips and Recommendations

Finding the best ophthalmologist in London can be a daunting task, given the multitude of options available. However, with the right approach and information, you can make an informed decision to ensure your eyes receive the highest quality care.

Begin by researching the qualifications and experience of potential ophthalmologists. Look for specialists who have trained at reputable institutions and have significant experience in treating a wide range of eye conditions. Ophthalmologists who are members of professional bodies, such as the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, are typically held to high standards of practice.

Consider seeking recommendations from your general practitioner (GP) or optometrist. These professionals often have a network of trusted specialists and can provide valuable insights based on their experience and knowledge of your specific needs. Personal recommendations from friends and family members who have had positive experiences can also be helpful.

Online reviews and patient testimonials are another excellent resource. Websites such as Healthgrades and Trustpilot feature reviews from patients who have undergone treatment with specific ophthalmologists. These reviews can provide a glimpse into the quality of care, bedside manner, and overall patient satisfaction.

When evaluating potential ophthalmologists, consider their areas of specialisation. Some ophthalmologists focus on specific conditions or procedures, such as cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment, or retinal disorders. If you have a particular eye condition, finding a specialist with expertise in that area can lead to better treatment outcomes.

The location and accessibility of the ophthalmologist’s clinic are also important factors. London is a large city, and convenience can play a significant role in your decision-making process. Choose a clinic that is easily accessible by public transport or has ample parking if you plan to drive. This will make attending appointments and follow-ups more convenient.

During your initial consultation, pay attention to how the ophthalmologist interacts with you. A good specialist should take the time to listen to your concerns, explain your condition and treatment options in detail, and answer any questions you may have. This communication is crucial for building trust and ensuring you feel comfortable with the proposed treatment plan.

State-of-the-art technology and modern facilities are indicators of a high-quality clinic. Clinics that invest in the latest diagnostic and treatment equipment are better equipped to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. Don’t hesitate to inquire about the technology and techniques used by the ophthalmologist during your consultation.

The cost of treatment can vary significantly, especially between private and NHS services. While NHS services are often more affordable, private clinics may offer shorter waiting times and more personalised care. Consider your budget and whether you have private health insurance that might cover some of the costs. It’s important to weigh the financial aspects alongside the quality of care.

Follow-up care is an essential part of the treatment process. Ensure that the ophthalmologist you choose offers comprehensive follow-up care and is available to address any post-treatment concerns or complications. This ongoing support can significantly impact your recovery and long-term eye health.

Consider the overall reputation of the clinic where the ophthalmologist practices. Clinics with a strong reputation for excellence often attract top specialists and provide high standards of care. Researching the clinic’s history, patient outcomes, and awards can give you additional confidence in your choice.

In addition to professional qualifications, consider the ophthalmologist’s approach to patient care. Compassion, empathy, and a patient-centred approach are qualities that can make a significant difference in your treatment experience. An ophthalmologist who prioritises your comfort and well-being will likely provide a more positive experience.

Attend several consultations if needed before making your final decision. Meeting with different specialists can provide you with a broader perspective and help you determine which ophthalmologist best aligns with your needs and preferences. Don’t rush the decision-making process; taking the time to find the right specialist is crucial for your eye health.

London is home to some of the leading eye care facilities in the world, particularly in areas like Harley Street. These clinics often employ highly qualified ophthalmologists who are leaders in their field. Exploring options in these renowned medical hubs can be advantageous for accessing top-tier care.

Stay informed about the latest advancements in ophthalmology. Specialists who are involved in research and innovation are likely to offer the most current and effective treatments. Keeping up with developments in eye care can help you ask informed questions and understand your treatment options better.

Ultimately, the best ophthalmologist for you will be one who combines professional expertise with a personal approach to care. They should make you feel confident in their abilities and comfortable throughout the treatment process. Trust your instincts and choose a specialist who meets your expectations and needs.

In conclusion, finding the best ophthalmologist in London involves thorough research, seeking recommendations, and evaluating various factors such as qualifications, experience, specialisation, and patient care approach. By taking a comprehensive approach, you can ensure you receive the highest quality eye care tailored to your specific needs, leading to better outcomes and overall satisfaction.

About Us:

Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eye sight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com/.

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Do I Need a Vitrectomy for Vitreomacular Traction?

If you have been told you need surgery for vitreomacular traction, then you are being offered a vitrectomy. This is a common and relatively straight forward procedure that removes the vitreous gel inside the eye, in turn releasing the traction being placed on the macula. Often the inner limiting membrane is peeled. The entire procedure involves microscopic instruments and in most cases, you will not require any stitches inside your eye.

The good news if you are worried about your surgery for vitreomacular traction, is that it is completely painless. The surgery is always performed under a local anaesthetic, though you may be given a sedative to help you relax. You will feel some pressure in your eye as the ophthalmologist operates on the eye.

The surgery itself is a very straight forward and common surgery. Your eye surgeon will clean around the eye using iodine solution and a plastic sheet will be placed over your eye and face. A hole Is then cut into the eye and a clip is used to keep the eye open. It's common to feel the surgeons hands on your forehead as they work, sometime you may feel them touching the bridge of your nose.

Three tiny holes are made in the white of the eye. This allows the microscopic instruments to be inserted into the eye. One of these allows a flow of liquids to flow into the eye, the other is used for the fibre-optic light and the third is used for any instruments needed throughout the surgery.  The surgeon uses a cutting tool to remove the vitreous gel and forceps to carefully remove the inner limiting membrane on the surface of the retina.

Once this is complete, the surgeon then fills your eye with a gas bubble, air or a saline solution. You may hear some soft whistling during this process. This is a quick surgery that usually takes anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour. You can expect it to take anywhere up to six weeks for a full recovery.

The air, gas bubble or saline can remain within your eye for anywhere up to two weeks. During this time you are not allowed to travel by plane or visit high altitudes. Altitude can make the bubble expand and cause unnecessary pressure inside the eye. You should wear an eye shield when sleeping. This is designed to reduce the risk of pressure on the eye, such as accidentally rubbing your eye as you sleep, for example.

Once the surgery is completed, the surgeon will place a pad and shield over the eye to protect it. This must stay on your eye until the following day. You are placed in the recovery area where nurses check your blood pressure, pulse and other vital signs. You will be given a drink and snack. Once the nursing team are happy, they will allow you to leave the hospital and a friend or family member take you home. They will provide you with eye drops that must be used to reduce the risk of infection.

It's common to feel some irritation in the eye after vitreomacular traction surgery, though it should not be painful. You may find your eyes are sensitive to light and wearing sunglasses outside is recommended. Your eye will be red with some pink and watery discharge, this is completely normal. It's your tears mixing with blood on the surface of the eye.

About Us:

Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eye sight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com/.

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Tips to Choosing an Ophthalmologist

If you have been advised to have eye surgery, then it's important to choose an ophthalmologist you are comfortable with and that is the right choice for you. The first step is committing to the treatment and the second is choosing who will be performing the surgery. Finding the right treatment is often chosen prior to actually going ahead with the treatment.

This is a personal choice, as you need to be completely confident in the person that will be carrying out surgery on your eyes.

What is an Ophthalmologist?

Before you start your search for the best ophthalmologist in London based on your requirements, you need to understand who they are. These are medical professionals and expert eye surgeons. They have completed medical school and an internship in a hospital. They have then continued with specialist training in eye disease and eye surgery.

It's not uncommon for you to be referred to an ophthalmologist after your GP or optometrist have found a problem with your vision or eyes. In the end, it is up to you to make the selection based on what you feel most comfortable with.

Track Record and Experience

The first thing to look for is the track record and experience of the eye doctor. Take into consideration how reputable they are and how many patients they see each year. The more patients they see, the more eyes they have examined, which improves experience. You also want to identify their surgical outcomes, so you have confidence in using their services moving forward.

Look at their associations with medical boards and schools. They should be members of a number of schools and boards in your country.

Level of Care

Next you want to focus on their level of care. You can check this by asking numerous questions. These questions can include things such as who will be my main point of contact, will I be dealing directly with the surgeon or a co-ordinatior? What eye conditions does the surgeon specialise in and ensure that they match your condition to give you peace of mind.

The ophthalmologist should be patient and happy to respond to any of your questions, so you can build trust and confidence. If they brush off your questions because they are too busy, you may want to consider someone else.

Credentials

When you have someone going to operate on your eye, you don't want to take any risks. This means thoroughly checking the ophthalmologists credentials. Often this can be done via the internet. Identify where they went to medical school and if it was a reputable institution. See what their qualifications are and if they tutor or teach at any schools or speak at any medical conferences. Also identify if they have written any white papers on various eye conditions. Have they won awards? Do they volunteer their services? Also check what professional bodies they are members of.

Initial Consultation

If you feel confident with the ophthalmologist you have selected, then set yourself an initial consultation. This is your chance to see how comfortable you feel with the eye doctor and if you feel you can trust them.

This is your opportunity to see if the ophthalmologist listens to you, answers your questions and takes note of your concerns. It also helps you identify their bedside manner and professionalism.  The initial consultation is a great opportunity for you to see if you want to go ahead with this eye surgeon or not.

About Us:

Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eye sight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com/.

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Top Reasons Why You May Have to See a Retina Specialist

An ophthalmologist will offer a wide variety off eye treatments with the ability to diagnose and refer you to other specialists, if they feel necessary. Retina specialists are ophthalmologist that have studied further, focusing on retina disease and treatment. Your optometrist or ophthalmologist may refer you to a retina specialist for a number of reasons.

If you have just been referred to a retina surgeon, your eye doctor may have found a retinal break or tear inside your eye, maybe even a Rhegmatogenous detachment, all of which need specialist care. Retina tears are common when trauma has taken place or in patients with severe near-sightedness.

A retinal break enables the liquefied vitreous gel to enter behind the retina, which leads to Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Retinal tears and brakes are suspected based on your history of new floaters, or an eye examination, then it is important to meet a retina specialist as soon as possible.

Another reason you may be referred to a retina specialist is if you have an intraocular foreign body, if yo have something that penetrates the globe of the eye. You may need to have an ultrasound skull films or a CT scan. Foreign bodies can be organic, glass or metallic, if suspected you will be referred to the specialist immediately who will remove the foreign body.

If you have had an accident, an eye surgery or you have endogenous infectious endophthalmitis, then you will be referred to a retina surgeon. You may have profound swelling in an area where you have had surgery, you may have a penetrating globe trauma or sepsis, all of which require urgent treatment.

Patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy and high risk characteristics are referred to a retina surgeon. This disease increases the risk of vision loss. Diabetic retinophathy is slow progressing and usually patients can monitor the eye disease through regular eye examinations, while taking preventative measures. Once you are diagnosed with proliferative diabetic retinopathy, the risk of vision loss is increased, which may require urgent surgery.

Macular edemas and recalcitrant diabetic macular edemas also require urgent retina specialist attention. You will need an eye examination and maybe focal laser treatment. If you are not suitable or laser therapy, then you may be offered a vitrectomy, which removes the vitreous gel from the eye and replaces it with a gas or solution, while the macular is repaired.

If you have age related macular degeneration, then you may be referred to a retina specialist for evaluation and treatment. Establishing care from a retina specialist includes follow up of clinical responses, which are every four to six weeks.

Finally, you may be referred to a retina specialist if you have retinal vein occlusions, which is when the occlusions cause macular edema. Every case of retinal vein occlusions requires retina specialist assessment and management. They will put a treatment plan in place which can include laser treatments.

Ensure you do your research on any retina specialist your eye doctor wants to refer you to. This helps you identify their experience with the retina of the eye and their proven track record, which gives you peace of mind when attending your first appointment. Remember to write down any questions you may have about the condition you are being referred to, so you are assured to get all the information you need before going ahead with a treatment plan.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eye sight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com/.

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What is Vitreomacular Traction and The Best Treatment?

Your eye is made mostly of a vitreous gel, which is transparent, filling the eye between the retina. This is what gives your eye its shape. The vitreous is surrounded by a thin cell, called the vitreous cortex, which is sealed to the retina in healthy and young eyes.

The vitreous cortex pulls away from the retina, as a natural part of the human ageing process, which causes Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD). This normally happens as even the healthiest of eyes age. In some cases the vitreous pulls away from the retina completely, but there are cases of PVD, where the vitreous remains partially attached to the retina, which causes pulling forces and damage. This is called vitreomacular traction syndrome.

VMT, vitreomacular traction syndrome, increases your risk of other eye disorders, especially to the macular area, which is the centre of the retina. Some of the risks caused by VMT includes epiretinal membranes, cystoid macular edemas, visual complications and partial thickness macular holes.

Patients with vitreomacular traction syndrome can experience common symptoms, such as seeing flashes of light in the eye, object start appearing smaller, your vision becomes distorted, with straight lines looking wavy along with a decreased sharpness in vision. In some cases the symptoms are mild and develop at a lower rate than the chronic effects, which can result in ongoing vision loss, if ignored.

The most common cause of VMT is age related degeneration, when the vitreous gel forms pockets of fluid, which causes loss of volume. The retina and vitreous separate, stretching the macular over a period of time Another common cause is patients that have internal limiting membranes or weakened vitreous cortex attachments.

Vitreomacular traction syndrome usually occurs in older adults, especially women with age related vitreous changes associated with post menopausal levels declining. Other risk factors of VMT include having extreme near sightedness, diabetic macular edema, age related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion.

Vitreomacular traction syndrome is identified and monitored using OCT, which is Optical Coherence Tornography, a technology that captures images of the layers of the retina. This includes the surface, enabling ophthalmologists to evaluate the degree of VMT you have and how badly it is distorting the structure of the retina.

VMT can be treated and should not be ignored. There are four treatment options available, with the most common for early diagnosis is regular monitoring. In some very rare cases VMT has been known to resolve spontaneously.

If your symptoms are more severe that intervention is required then yo will be offered vitrectomy surgery as an option. This release the vitreous to relieve any traction. The vitreous is filled with a gas or saline, while your body produced new vitreous gel. This surgery is usually offered to patient that are at a higher risk of central blindness or very bad visual disturbances.

Patients that have been diagnosed with vitreomacular traction syndrome and are looking for the best treatment options, it is best to get referred to an experienced ophthalmologist that has experience with VMT treatment, ensuring a positive end result.

In the early stages, when there is no high or immediate risk of retinal detachment, the ophthalmologist may recommend you visit each year to identify the progress of the condition before taking any steps to operate. Vitrectomy surgery is offered as a day case, enabling you to recover in the comfort of your own home.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eye sight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com/.

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As a Diabetic, Are You At Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that causes vision loss and even blindness in patients with both type I and type ii diabetes. This eye disease affects the retinas blood vessels. The retina is what is responsible for allowing light into the eye, sending this information to the brain, enabling you to see.

Any diabetic patients should get a comprehensive eye exam once a year, this is because there are no early symptoms of this disease. It is slow progressing and patients can live for years without it having any impact on their lives. Finding out you have diabetic retinopathy early on can help your ophthalmologist and yo focus on taking the relevant steps to protect your vision.

Managing your diabetes and keeping it under control combined with a healthy diet, exercise and taking your medication as prescribed, are all effective ways for you to slow the progression of this eye disease preventing it or delaying vision loss in the future. Patients with diabetes are at risk of contracting a number of eye diseases, with diabetic retinopathy being the most common. Diabetic patients are five times more likely to develop cataracts, including a higher risk of getting cataracts at a young age. Another risk of diabetes is open angle glaucoma with double the risk of contracting glaucoma than a person without diabetes.

Most people with diabetic retinopathy have no idea they have it until they have an eye test at the optometrist. Some people do experience a change in vision, such as problems seeing objects in the distance or having problems reading. The changes are known to come and go. As the disease progresses, there is bleeding in the blood vessels of the retina. They bleed into the vitreous gel, which makes you see what are known as eye floaters. Eye floaters are spots, streaks or cobwebs that float around your field of vision.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, then it is important that you follow the ophthalmologists recommendations and treatment plan. Take your medication as prescribed, eat a healthy diet and get some exercise, you will want to ensure you manage your diabetes to the best of your ability, getting it into a normal rating, that can slow the progress or even prevent the risk of your diabetic retinopathy being a problem in the future.

With diabetic retinopathy, you are at risk of other serious eye problems, such as a diabetic macular edema, which affects one in fifteen diabetic patients. This is when the retinal blood vessels leak into the macular and causes blurred vision. The risk of neovascular glaucoma is also increased when you have diabetic retinopathy, which causes abnormal blood vessels to grow out of the retina, which blocks the fluids from draining from the eye.

In addition to this, if you have diabetic retinopathy, then you risk of a detached retina is also increased as scars form on the back of the eye, puling the retina away fro the back of the eye.

Further, anyone that has diabetes can get diabetic retinopathy, even those with gestational diabetes, a diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. The longer you have diabetes, the higher your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy with more than half of all people with diabetes having diabetic retinopathy. Risk is reduced as soon as you have your diabetes under control.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eye sight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com/.

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Detached Retina – An Emergency Eye Problem

A detached retina is considered an emergency eye problem, when the retina, at the back of the eye, pulls away. It separates the retinal cells from blood vessels that provide them with oxygen and nourishment, the longer you have the detachment, you have an increased risk of permanent vision loss in that eye.

The problem is that retinal detachment is completely painless, which is why knowing the warning signs can help you to ensure you receive the urgent treatment your eye needs. The warning signs include a sudden appearance of a number of floaters, these are dots or lines, such as cobwebs that float through your field of vision.

If you get flashes in both eyes, blurred vision, reduced peripheral vision and shadows being cast over your vision, then you need to call an ophthalmologist immediately. A detached retina is an emergency eye problem. Ignoring these symptoms could result in a permanent loss of vision in the affected eye.

Out of the three types of detached retinas, Rhegmatogenous is the most common, which are caused by a retinal tear or hole, allowing fluid to collect under the retina, which pulls the retina away. Vision loss is due to the detchment from the blood supply, which reduces oxygen and nourishment to the retina, causing a patient to lose vision. This type of detached retina is due to the natural ageing process, as the vitreous gel inside the eye chances consistency, shrinking or becoming more of a liquid.

The second type of detached retina is tractional. This occurs when scar tissue grows across the surface of the retina causing the retina to pull itself away from the back of the eye. This is common in patients with badly managed diabetes and other conditions. The third is exudative, which is when fluid accumulates behind the retina, but no tears or holes form. This is often caused by aged related macular degeneration, inflammatory disorders tumours or eye injuries.

Some of the causes of detached retina includes the natural ageing process, it is more common in those over the age of fifty. If you have already experienced retinal detachment in one eye, you are at higher risk of developing it again. If your family has a history of detached retinas, then your risk is also increased.

In addition to this, it has been found that patients with severe near sightedness is also at a higher risk of detached retinas, along with those that have had previous eye surgery, such as a cataract surgery or a previous eye injury.

A detached retina is not something you ignore, your eyesight is precious and you want to protect it as much as you can. If you start noticing any of the warnings signs of a possible detachment, you must seek immediate eye care examination and treatment. This means finding a reputable and experienced ophthalmologist with extensive experience in retinal detachment repair.

If you are in the United Kingdom, you can use the NHS website to identify the ophthalmologists in your local area. In most cases, your doctor or regular optician will refer to a consultant ophthalmologist, ensuring you secure the best treatment as quickly as possible.

Remember to get any questions you have ready. The eye specialist will do a number of tests to diagnose the problem and provide you with a treatment option. For a detached retina, it is a simple procedure done under local anaesthetic, enabling you to recover in the comfort of your own home.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eye sight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com.

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Tips To Living With Severe Eye Floaters

Eye floaters are more of a nuisance than a serious condition. Some people find that floaters can negatively impact their daily life. Eye floaters are small particles of collagen within the vitreous gel at the back of the eye. They become visible when they cast a shadow over the retina, especially when moving the eye.

Eye floaters are a normal part of the ageing process with some patients finding that their floaters impact their quality of life. The most common treatment is to learn to ignore them, which most people can do. Over some time you get so used to them being there you don't notice them as much anymore. Then some find that they struggle daily, whether it's trying to work or just enjoy the beautiful blue sky.

When floaters change and become more or you see flashes of light with the floaters, then you need to visit your eye doctor to eliminate any sight-threatening problems, which include retinal tears and detachment.

There are some tips and advice you can follow to manage your floaters, including learning to adapt. Most people can learn how to ignore their floaters over some time and will never require any treatment. 

Another tip is to try and reduce anxiety and stress. Studies have found that those distressed have eye floaters. Many patients become worried regarding the condition, as their anxiety increases, so do the floaters. Stress has been associated with other eye problems. Learning how to reduce anxiety and stress through exercise, mindfulness, meditation, and more can help to reduce the floaters and help you ignore them moving forward.

Floaters become more visible in brighter lights, so you may want to make some changes to your environment. Stay away from beaches and coastal towns when on holiday and keep open spaces off your list. This can make floaters worse. White skies, minimal décor, and bright spaces are not friendly environments for eye floaters. You will find that visiting a forest rather than the beach will be more eye-friendly. Consider visiting a town with cobbled streets or darker interiors, which will give you visual distractions and alleviate the symptoms of the floaters.

If you are heading to a coastal town or the beach with your family, consider wearing sunglasses or tinted prescription glasses, which can make the floaters less noticeable and enable you to enjoy your time.

Working at a computer or working in an environment with white walls can be problematic for anyone with eye floaters. Ensure you make your employer aware of any adjustments you need. Maybe holding meetings in a darker room or reducing the brightness on your computer screen can help you manage the symptoms.

Treatment is often held until it is a last resort, as the majority of patients learn to live with their eye floaters. Surgery or laser therapy is often provided for those whose quality of life is suffering as a result of their eye floaters. It's important to understand the risks and complications associated with treatment before making any final decisions.

Laser therapy is a non-surgical way to treat the floaters, it is less invasive and can be carried out in the eye specialist's office. The large floaters are lasered, reducing their size and making them less obstructive. Laser treatment can improve symptoms by fifty percent, though twenty-five percent of patients see no improvement or their symptoms get worse.

Vitrectomy surgery may be offered, which is a routine surgery that takes around an hour to complete. You can return to work within two weeks. It is very successful at removing floater symptoms. Risks associated with vitrectomy include inflammation, bruising, bleeding, and infection.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract, and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eyesight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina, and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons, and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com.

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What Is Vitrectomy Surgery?

Vitrectomy surgery is the removal and replacement of the vitreous gel, the fluid that fills your eye, giving your eye its shape. The procedure is very successful and often done in conjunction with other eye surgeries.

The vitreous gel, which gives your eye its shape is a gel-like substance that is made up of ninety-eight percent water. The vitrectomy surgery is carried out as an outpatient surgery, which allows the patient to recover in the comfort of their own home. The vitreous cavity makes up two-thirds of the eye volume. 

A vitrectomy is when the vitreous gel is surgically removed and replaced. It is recommended to take a few days off work to give yourself time to recover. This surgery is usually carried to under a local anesthetic. So the eye is numbed and dilated before it is cleaned with an antiseptic solution and covered with sterile coverings. The eye is then held open with an eye speculum, while the other eye is covered to protect it.

The eye surgeon will make a small cut, not even a full millimeter in length. This cut is made to the outer membrane of the eye. The surgeon then uses this small cut to access the eye, with the help of forceps. A microscope with fiber-optic light is used to allow the surgeon to see inside the eye as they use a vitrectomy probe to cut out the vitreous gel. Suction is then used to remove any fluid. 

From here the surgeon will use scissors, forceps, or cutters to peel away any scar tissue from the retina or insect a needle to drain bloody or cloudy fluid. They may use a laser probe to treat clots, seal off retinal injuries or treat abnormal blood vessels.

Once this is completed, the vitreoretinal surgeon fills the eye with a substitute gel, often a saline solution or air bubble before antibiotic ointment is applied to reduce the risk of infection. The eye will be covered. In some cases, you may have to lie face down for a period, while being monitored.

Vitrectomy surgery is carried to for several eye problems from cataracts to injuries. It is also a common surgery for those with severe eye floaters. The most common reasons for a vitrectomy include bleeding inside the eye, eye infections, eye injury or trauma, cataracts, floaters, scar tissue on the retina, injury from misplaced, dislodged, or infected intraocular lens, detached retinas, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration, to name a few.

Complications are not common with this type of surgery and any potential risks will be explained in detail before you have the surgery. Vitrectomy surgery has a ninety percent success rate. Complications recorded are more common in those that are immune-compromised or have a history of eye conditions and surgery.

The possible side effects associated with vitrectomy surgery include bleeding in the eye, inflammation, infection, increased pressure on the eye, the formation of cataracts. Swelling of the retina or needing new glasses. In very rare cases, there may be some problems with depth perception, loss of night vision, or blurriness, some people experience double vision.

You will not be able to drive for a few days after the surgery, giving your eye time to recovery. You may be asked to lie face down for some time, helping the eye heal while maintaining its shape.  Most people fully recover within a few weeks.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract, and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eyesight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina, and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons, and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com.

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What Eye Doctor Should I See?

One of the most common questions when it comes to your eyesight is identifying what eye doctor you should make an appointment with. Should you see an optician, optometrist, or ophthalmologist? Each type has different training and expertise, offering different services.

The first type of eye doctor is an optometrist. They carry out eye exams to identify any changes in your vision. They provide primary vision care and their services range from testing to diagnosing, treating, and managing changes in your vision. An optometrist will carry out eye exams, vision tests, prescribe and dispense corrective lenses, detect eye irregularities and prescribe medications for certain eye conditions.  Optometrists can perform specialised surgical procedures, along with providing visual rehabilitation services.

An optician is responsible for the design and fit of glasses lenses and frames, contact lenses, and any other devices designed to correct eyesight. They will use prescriptions from optometrists and ophthalmologists. They do not diagnose eye problems and do not treat any eye conditions.

An ophthalmologist, on the other hand, goes to medical school. They do extensive training becoming an eye doctor that can practice medicine and surgery. An ophthalmologist can offer the same services as an optometrist, including the prescription and fitting of glasses and contacts, but they also diagnose and treat all eye conditions, perform eye surgeries and carry out scientific research into the causes and cures for eye conditions.

Ophthalmologists are also able to detect other health problems that are not directly related to the eye but show themselves during an eye examination. These are specialist doctors, some choose specialities in their studies, this includes cornea specialists.

Further, there is a retina specialist. The retina is a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye responsible for receiving light, sending visual signals to the brain. Retina specialists diagnose and treat all retina eye problems, this may include surgical repair of torn and detached retinas. They can treat conditions relating to the vitreous, which is the gel-like substance that gives the eye its shape. This can include floaters surgery, for example.

Other eye doctors include glaucoma specialists, that treat glaucoma in the eye. This is when fluid builds up in the eye, putting pressure on the eye, causing damage to the optic nerve, while a neurology specialist is an ophthalmologist that specialises in neurology. This deals with vision problems relating to how the eye communicates with the muscles nerves and brain. Neurology specialists treat vision problems, double vision, optic nerve problems, abnormal eye movements, unequal pupil sizes, and eyelid irregularities.

A pediatric specialist is an ophthalmologist that specialises in the treatment of eye conditions in babies and young children that have childhood eye conditions and issues, such as misaligned eyes, vision differences in the two eyes, and uncorrected refracted errors, to name a few.

The final eye doctor is a plastic surgeon or oculoplastic surgeon. The specialist in the repair of damaged eyelids and bones, along with structures that surround the eye, including the tear draining system. They improve the function and look of facial structures around the eye. The most common problem includes droopy eyelids.

If you are unsure of which eye doctor to make an appointment with, speak to your local GP and they will be able to recommend someone to see. Not all patients need an ophthalmologist, some may never see a retina surgeon in their lives. Most patients see their optometrist once a year or once every two years to keep their eye prescription updated.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract, and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eyesight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina, and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons, and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com.

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When Should You See A Retina Specialist?

A retina specialist is an ophthalmologist that has had additional training, becoming an expert on the diagnosis, management, and treatment of retina diseases in the eye. These specialists don't usually carry out routine eye exams, they also do not prescribe glasses or contact lenses.

Your current eye doctor or GP may recommend that you see a retina specialist and will refer you for a comprehensive eye examination if they think there could be a problem. The most common reason to be referred to a retina specialist is that your eye doctor has found something unusual with your retina and is looking for a second opinion. Your eye doctor may feel your retina condition is best managed and treated by a specialist or your eye doctor feels you have a retina emergency that requires urgent surgery, which is performed by the retina specialist.

The good news is that most people will never need to visit a retina specialist in their lifetime, though there are some reasons you may be referred, such as retina or vitreous conditions, caused by genetics, specialist surgical requirements, such as a detached retina or to evaluate a retina hole or tear. Retina specialists also specialise in diabetic retinopathy, which is a retina condition caused by fluctuating sugar levels in diabetic patients.

Retina specialists also offer the ongoing management of chronic retina diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration or to evaluate and treat certain eye cancers.  Retina specialists can diagnose, manage and treat conditions or injuries to the retina. This includes the macular, which is part of the retina, responsible for central vision.

They are also able to treat retinal holes or tears, which are small defects on the retina surface, which can lead to detachment if not treated. Retinal detachment is when the retinal tissue separates from the back of the eye, usually resulting from the injury. Treatment is required to reduce the risk of vision loss.

The retinal specialist will also treat and manage age-related macular degeneration, which is a slow deterioration of the macular. This results in gradual vision loss in your central vision. It can also cause the blood vessels to grow abnormally and leak into the retina.

Diabetic retinopathy is another of the conditions that the retina specialist will specialise in. This is a complication of diabetes that is slowly progressing. Usually, it requires regular eye exams to monitor the progress, while later stages may require treatment. 

There are other types of retinopathy, other than diabetic retinopathy, that retina specialists treat. This includes hypertensive retinopathy, a result of high blood pressure to solar retinopathy, which is retina damage caused by the sun. They also manage and treat retinopathy of prematurity, which is a complication of premature birth.

Retina specialists also manage and treat a rare and serious bacterial or fungal infection, known as endophthalmitis. This is usually an infection inside the eye as a result of trauma or surgery. It can also result from an infection that has spread from another part of the body and moved into the eye.

In addition to this, a retina specialist will deal with floaters. Eye floaters look like cobwebs, lines, or patches that float across your field of vision. They are more noticeable when you look into the light, such as looking at a blank computer screen, for example. They are common and not cause for concern. Surgery may be recommended for severe cases.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract, and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eyesight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina, and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons, and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com.

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How To Get Rid Of Frustrating Eye Floaters

Eye floaters are web-like lines, rings, or spots that frustratingly move through your field of vision. Some people see them as grey to black spots that drift through your vision when you move your eyes or try and look at them. While they look like they are in front of your eye, they are actually inside the eye.

Floaters are frustrating, but they are more common than you may think and are no reason to get too concerned. They can sometimes be a symptom of a developing eye condition or health issue. The most common causes for eye floaters include being older, being near-sighted, experiencing migraines or headaches, certain medications, eye inflammation at the back of the eye, bleeding in the eye, diabetic retinopathy, resulting from surgery to tumors in the eye.

Floaters can be a symptom of a serious vision problem. You must seek urgent eye care if you experience a sudden increase in floaters or you see sparks of light with your floaters. How floaters are treated is determined by the cause. Some are completely harmless, but when they get severe, they can affect your eye health and vision. 

When eye floaters are not considered to be a problem, then your eye doctor will recommend you try and ignore them. Treatment is only offered when the floaters start to seriously hamper your sight or you experience a sudden increase of floaters. Most people learn to live with these irritating cobwebs in their field of vision. Over time your brain learns to ignore them, which means you can continue with your daily activities, not noticing them as much.

Learning to live with your floaters is the least invasive way to protect your eyes and sight. When the floaters become a nuisance and your daily life is effective, then your eye doctor may recommend surgery to remove the floaters and help improve your vision.

The most common surgery offered for eye floaters is a vitrectomy, which is an invasive surgery that removes the floaters. This is done by removing the vitreous gel, which is responsible for giving your eye the shape. The vitreous gel is clear and gel-like, but when you have floaters, the vitreous has started to separate. When the vitreous gel is removed, the eye doctor fills the eye with a synthetic solution to help maintain the shape f the eye, while your body produces new vitreous to fill the space.

It's important to note, that floaters can form again, even after surgery. If you experienced any bleeding or trauma during the surgery, the risk of floaters returning is high. The vitrectomy is only offered when the floaters are severe and are negatively impacting your daily life, making it hard to do and enjoy everyday activities.

Laser therapy can also be used as a way to eradicate eye floaters, breaking them up and reducing how noticeable they are. This involves the laser pointing directly at the floaters. This can be risky, in the event the laser is directed incorrectly, it could result in damage to the retina. This procedure is still considered experimental and not used very often as some people see no or very slight improvement compared to the vitrectomy.

Eye diseases can sometimes be prevented, so ensure you visit your eye doctor at least once every two years for a comprehensive eye exam. You want them to identify any problems early on, so you can secure the right treatment.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract, and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eyesight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina, and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons, and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com.

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Why There Is A Demand For Ophthalmologists In The United Kingdom

The Royal College of Ophthalmologists carried out a census, which identified the gaps in the recruitment of ophthalmologists, along with workforce planning as the demand is set to increase by more than forty percent in the next twenty years.

There are approximately two hundred and thirty consultants and two hundred staff and associate specialist posts needed to be filled within the next two years with more than sixty-seven percent of the hospital eye units relying on locum doctors to fill their consultant poses, which is an increase of fifty-two percent over two years. At the same time, approximately a quarter of the current workforce is nearing retirement age, which could have a significant impact on patients across the United Kingdom shortly.

The problem encountered in the United Kingdom is the shortage of ophthalmologists, along with there not being enough clinic space t manage the rise in demand fr this specialist eye and vision care professional. The demand has been driven by an ageing population with new treatments that can treat what was considered untreatable in the past. New techniques and technologies are making eye condition treatments efficient and effective.

Most people believe that ophthalmology is a very small speciality that carries out minor procedures, but in fact, ophthalmology is a major eye care service that deals with more than nine million outpatient cases each year, along with completing six percent of all the surgeries carried out by the NHS. As a result, with the shortage of qualified and experienced ophthalmologists, more locums are being used in national hospitals.

Ophthalmology has become one of the busiest outpatient specialities in the United Kingdom with an expected increase in demand of forty percent in the next twenty years. The current training spaces will fall short of what is needed in the next two years. More than two-thirds of eye hospitals are relying upon locum doctors to fill their consultancy posts, which can lead to safety risks for patients. This is due to locums often working in unfamiliar environments and may be more or less qualified than expected.

As result hospitals are taking a waiting list approach to managing the growing demand, which can lead to patients suffering from severe or permanent visual loss due to health service delivery delays. Losing your sight can be devastating, it reduces your independence and quality of life. It can impact employment and increase the risk of other health-related problems, such as depression and accidents. This can be a huge burden and can result in you having to rely on social care.

The need for qualified and experienced ophthalmologists has been noted and the significance understood, reducing the risk of patients having to suffer as a result of not being able to secure the appointment that they need.

Many patients will visit a constant ophthalmologist on their optometrist's recommendation. This is when the optometrist has noticed a problem with the eye or vision that needs specialised treatment. Ophthalmologists manage a host of eye conditions and vision problems from detached retinas to macular holes and cataract surgery to eye floaters and more.

Ensure you identify where the ophthalmologists are in your local area, learning as much about them as possible, before comparing them and choosing which one you want to see to help you with your particular eye problem.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract, and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eyesight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina, and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons, and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com.

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How To Choose An Eye Doctor – Optometrist Vs Ophthalmologist

Choosing the right eye doctor is a very important health decision. Your eye doctor is responsible for ensuring you protect your vision, improving it where necessary from prescribing glasses and contact lenses to removing cataracts, eye floaters, performing surgery on detached or torn retinas, and more.

Your sight is one of your most-used senses, you rely on it daily and cannot afford to lose it. Your doctor will help you see as clearly as possible while ensuring your site is protected. 

There is more than one type of eye doctor, there are optometrists and ophthalmologists, you do need to know the difference between the two. Optometrists are eye doctors who have passed their doctor of Optometry degree, specialising in eye and vision care. Optometrists can perform routine eye examinations, prescribing eyeglasses or contact lenses. They carry out contact lens fittings and will diagnose any eye conditions and problems. They can medically manage injuries and infections.

Some optometrists, which have done specialised training can also carry out before and after cataract surgery examinations, along with prescribing and supervising vision therapy. Optometrists are not trained to carry out eye surgery.

If you regularly have eye exams, may be due to being short-sighted or far-sighted, then your optometrist may refer you to an ophthalmologist if he feels you have an eye problem, which could be cataracts, eye floaters, retinal problems, macular holes, or more. The ophthalmologist is licensed and qualified to carry out eye surgery. They have comprehensive training in the medical care and management of eye health conditions and problems. Some may specialise in certain eye diseases, such as retina conditions or glaucoma, for example.

Pediatric eye doctors specialise in eye care for children, they also can be an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Pediatric optometrists will specialise in the normal development of children’s vision to carrying out eye exams and fit children with glasses. Some can provide vision therapy to treat lazy eyes or learning related vision problems. A pediatric ophthalmologist will specialise in the surgical treatment of eye conditions in children, usually misaligned eyes to congenital cataracts and more. 

When it comes to routine eye examinations, prescriptions for new glasses, or contact lens fittings and prescriptions, you should visit an optometrist, which is a primary eye care provider. The majority of people may never need specialised eye care, such as surgery from an ophthalmologist. Optometrists are widely spread throughout towns, cities, and some villages. Ophthalmologists tend to be located outside of the smaller towns and in the large city centers where there is a large population.

In most cases, your optometrist will refer you to an ophthalmologist if they feel it necessary.  Therefore, you don't have to worry, just arrive for your consultation and take note of what the options are to treat your condition. In the event of a retinal detachment, then you will be assumed an emergency case, which means you are not going to have much time in choosing a specialist doctor.

Always do your research before you make an appointment with an eye doctor, whether an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Visit their website, identify their qualifications and experiences, and do your research to get honest feedback from past and present patients. See where they operate from, so you can work out travelling times before you make your first consultation to see what the eye doctor recommends to help improve your vision health.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract, and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eyesight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina, and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons, and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com.

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Tips ON Choosing A Retina Surgeon

When you are told you need retina surgery, you need to choose a retina surgeon that will provide you with the best results. Retina conditions are scary and often require urgent treatment, but you can still choose the surgeon you want operating on your eye. 

The best place to get a referral for a retina surgeon is from your regular optometric, your eye doctor that tests your eyes for glasses and/or contact lenses. They will know the best retina surgeons in your area. You are not obligated to go to the retina surgeon your eye doctor recommends. 

Speaking to friends and family who have used a retina surgeon in the past about their experience, is a great way to get a referral. People are not likely to refer you to a surgeon that they had a bad experience. People are more likely to share bad experiences than good, so if someone you know has had a good experience, then this is one to consider.

The internet has become a place where you can find just about any information you are looking for, including finding out everything you need to know about potential retina surgeons. Most surgeons have websites that offer basic information on the surgeon, where they practice from, what training and qualifications they have, along with experience and volunteer work. 

There may be some online reviews you can take into consideration, though remember never rely on the reviews you find on the retina surgeons website alone, always do your research, focusing on independent review sites and online forums. Read as many reviews as you can to get an overall feel for the surgeon you are thinking of using for your retina surgery.

Once you have put a list together and compared the surgeons to find the ones you feel comfortable using, you are going to want to arrange a consultation with the first retina surgeon at the top of your list. Based on availability, you may want to schedule an appointment with more than one surgeon.

When your consultation date and time arrive, take careful note of how the staff treats you and the surgeon's bedside manner. Take the time to speak to some of the patients in the waiting room, getting an idea of their experiences.

When you get to see the surgeon, be sure to check again on qualifications and experience, ensuring it corresponds to what you read online. You can also mention some of the bad reviews you found and see how the surgeon responds. You have the right to be sure when making your selection, knowing you chose the best retina surgeon to perform your eye surgery.

Ensure you ask about the different treatment options available for your particular retina condition. Takedown notes, so you can research them later. Taking down notes also ensures you don't forget anything that the surgeon may have told you. Always double check on any risks or side effects of the surgery, along with whether any post-operative guidelines are difficult to follow, such as lying face down for a few days.

Go home and consider the consultation. Take into account how you felt from when you walked through the door to when you left. Did the surgeon provide you with all the valuable information that you need on the surgery you will need, so you know exactly what to expect on the day?

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract, and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eyesight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina, and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons, and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com.

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Eye Floaters – What You Need To Know

Eye floaters can be very frustrating, they are spots that move around your field of vision, looking like black or grey strings, cobwebs, or specks. When you try and look at them they dart away. Most eye floaters are a result of age, which is caused when the jelly substance (vitreous) inside the eye becomes a liquid, causing the microscopic fibers to clump and cause shadows on the retina, these are known as floaters.

Floaters are harmless, but if you notice an increase in floaters with light flashes or loss of peripheral vision, then this could be an emergency and you should contact your eye specialist immediately. Symptoms can vary, but usually include small shapes in your vision, spots that move around your eyes and disappear when you look at them to small strings that settle down and drift away.

You must contact your eye specialist if you suddenly have a lot more new floaters, you have flashes of light in the eye that you have the floaters or you have darkness on the sides of your vision, known as your peripheral vision. The symptoms are painless, but they can be a result of a retina tear, which could be a serious problem and threaten your vision moving forward.

Eye floaters are usually a result of the normal aging process, but they can also result from other eye diseases. Age-related changes are when the jelly substance that fills your eyeball becomes more liquid, causing the vitreous to pull away from the eyeball. The vitreous shrinks and sages, clumping and becoming more like string. 

Another common cause is when you experience inflammation at the back of the eye, causing the release of the inflammation debris into the vitreous, which you see as floaters. The inflammation is usually caused by infection. Bleeding in the eye is caused by several conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and injury. The blood cells are seen as floaters.

Other causes of eye floaters include eye medications and surgery. Some surgeries that use silicone oil bubbles into the vitreous, may be seen as floaters. Risk factors include being over fifty, being near-sighted, experiencing eye trauma, having complications with cataract surgery, having diabetic retinopathy, or eye inflammation.

Eye floaters can be managed without surgery or treatment. Most people learn to live with them, eventually even forgetting they are there. They are most visible when you look at a bright light, such as the sky or a blank page on your computer. Eye specialists will not offer surgery until it is necessary, which means regular monitoring of your floaters, ensuring they don't become more, and incorporate flashes of light in the eye.

If you do require surgery to manage your floaters, simply because they are affecting your quality of life, then you may be offered a vitrectomy. Vitrectomy is when the vitreous, jelly-like substance that gives your eye its shape is carefully removed and the area is filled with a gas or saline, which eventually is absorbed into the body as your body fills the area with natural liquid. This process is a relatively common day case surgery that does require strict post-operative requirements to ensure your surgery is a success.

If you have eye floaters, it's advisable to speak to your eye doctor and discuss your options. Most eye doctors will monitor your floaters and only offer surgery when it advances or impacts your daily life.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract, and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eyesight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina, and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons, and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com.

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Diabetic Retinopathy – What You Need To Know

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes, caused by blood vessel damage at the back of the eye, the retina. In most cases, diabetic retinopathy doesn't cause any problems, in some cases very mild sight problems. But over time it can lead to blindness. This eye condition can happen to anyone who has diabetes, both type 1 and type 2. The longer you have diabetes or if you don't control your blood sugar, you are at the higher risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.

As the condition progresses, it's common to experience some symptoms, which can include eye floaters, blurred vision, dark areas in your vision, and complete vision loss. Most patients are recommended to have an annual eye examination, even if their vision seems perfect. Careful management of your diabetes is the best way to prevent the risk of vision loss in the long run.

If you develop gestational diabetes when pregnant or you had diabetes before you became pregnant, then you are at a higher risk of diabetic retinopathy. You may be recommended to have additional eye examinations throughout your pregnancy to monitor your vision and detect early if you start developing diabetic retinopathy.

Over time having too much sugar in your blood can result in a blockage of tiny blood vessels that feed the retina at the back of your eye, slowly cutting off the blood supply. The eye will try and grow new blood vessels, which don't develop properly and tend to leak. There are two types of diabetic retinopathy that you need to know about.

The first is nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy and is early diabetic retinopathy, where the new blood vessels are not growing. The walls of the blood vessels weaken the retina, causing bulges protruding from the vessels, leaking fluid, and causing blood to get into the retina. The larger vessels begin to dilate and become irregular in diameter. This type of diabetic retinopathy can progress from mild through to severe as the blood vessels become blocked.

In some cases, the blood vessel damage in the retina results in edema, which is a build-up of fluid in the centre of the eye, called the macular. Macular edema can reduce vision and treatment can help reduce the risk of permanent vision loss.

Advanced diabetic retinopathy progresses to a severe form, known as proliferative diabetic retinopathy, where the damaged blood vessels are closed off and cause the growth of new and abnormal blood vessels in the retina, which are fragile and tend to leak a jell substance that fills the centre. The scar tissue that develops due to the new blood vessel growth can cause the retina to detach itself from the back of the eye. The new vessels also interfere with the flow of fluid from the eye, building pressure in the eyeball. This damages the nerves that are responsible for helping your eye carry images to your brain. This causes glaucoma.

Anyone who has diabetes is at risk of diabetic retinopathy. The concern is the number of people around the world that don't even know they have this blood sugar disease. The risk of diabetic retinopathy is increased if you have diabetes for an extended period, you don't control your blood sugar and you have high blood pressure. Other risk factors include high cholesterol, pregnancy, and smoking.

Ensure you attend your annual eye examinations, ensuring that your diabetic retinopathy is carefully monitored and managed.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract, and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eyesight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina, and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons, and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com.