FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
1What does an ophthalmologist do?
An ophthalmologist or eye specialist is a qualified doctor who specialised in eye surgery. Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat all ocular conditions. When necessary, an ophthalmologist performs eye laser or surgery and lens implantations to restore a patient’s eyesight.
2Does my medical aid cover consultations and eye surgeries at your practice?
Yes, although we provide a premium patient experience and are equipped with all the latest high-end technology, our practice charges medical aid rates to ensure we offer our community an inclusive service.
3Is there parking available at your practice?
Yes, we have ample free secure parking available for our patients
4Is it necessary to stay overnight at the practice after surgery?
Because we perform minimally invasive procedures at our practice, you can return home on the day of surgery. We provide detailed post-operative surgical care instructions for quick relief.
5Is visiting an ophthalmologist a risk for contracting COVID?
No COVID-19 patients are treated at the New Era Day Hospital where the Atlantic Eye Centre is situated, and our practice uses a dedicated eye theatre. This along with thorough screening and infection prevention protocols help minimise the risk to our patients.
6What’s glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye illness that injures the optic nerve. Glaucoma commonly arises as a result of high pressure in the eye. Poor optic nerve blood flow, diabetes and genetics are also to blame.
7Can glaucoma cause blindness?
Glaucoma is known as “the silent thief of sight” because it can cause slow painless vision loss. If not treated early enough, glaucoma can lead to permanent blindness. If you don’t treat glaucoma, you’re likely to lose your peripheral vision first before going blind.
8What are cataracts?
A cataract occurs when the lens of your eye becomes cloudy and milky. Seeing through a cloudy lens can prove to be challenging especially at night when driving. Cataracts occur as a result of age or injury. This condition happens when there’s a change in the tissues that comprise the eye lens.
9Are cataracts a medical concern?
Cataracts can be concerning when you cannot see correctly. When prescription glasses don’t provide relief, cataract surgery is the only way to restore your eyesight.
10What’s the cause of red eyes?
Some of the reasons for red eyes are dryness, eye fatigue, allergies and conjunctivitis (pink eye). Small blood vessels dilate and give the eye its bloodshot appearance.
11Am I a suitable candidate for LASIK?
Depending on the strength of your glasses and the thickness of your cornea, you might be a good candidate for LASIK or other refractive procedures. Our practice offers a free LASIK screening service to help you decide which option is best.
12Are contact lenses safe to use?
Contact lenses are generally safe to use if used properly, but they can injure your cornea and lead to infections if misused.
13Can working at a computer ruin your eyesight?
Generally not, but extended periods behind a screen can cause eye discomfort. It helps to get a screen protector to prevent eye strain caused by high intensity blue light. You can listen to Dr McClunan’s radio interview for more information on the topic:
http://www.702.co.za/podcasts/121/weekend-breakfast-with-africa-melane/226001/health-feature-how-screen-time-affects-your-eyesight
http://www.702.co.za/podcasts/121/weekend-breakfast-with-africa-melane/226001/health-feature-how-screen-time-affects-your-eyesight
"My goal is to provide a world-class service which ensures every patient leaves my practice feeling happier than when they first walked in"
Dr Daemon McClunan