IAN SIMMONS OPTHAMOLOGIST

Cataracts

Cataract surgery is one of the most successful operations that is currently performed. It can be performed under general or local anaesthetic. The most modern techniques involve injecting a replacement implant into the eye having first removed the cataract out of its bag with an ultrasonic probe. Multifocal lenses, accommodating lenses or single focus lenses can be used.

In the case study below, the patient elected for a general anaesthetic (as she was young and anxious) and having had a full discussion of the options decided on monovision. This is where one eye is corrected for distance and one for near. The patient is an optometrist so clearly understood the options available!

How did we help Mrs M?

The patient (Mrs M) attended for her first consultation with Mr Simmons at Spire Hospital, Leeds. She underwent a thorough ocular examination including dilation of the pupils to allow a better view of the lens and retina. Mr Simmons then spent some time discussing the diagnosis of cataract and the possible treatment options.

Mrs M returned for a further consultation which included measurements of the curvature and length of the eye using state-of-the-art laser technology. Mrs M had a further opportunity to ask important questions. Mr Simmons gave Mrs M his email address to allow her to pose questions even when she had left the hospital. Mrs M decided to have both cataracts removed under general anaesthetic with the creation of monovision. One eye was therefore set for distance and the other for near objects. This is not an option for all patients but the possibility can be discussed at the time of consultation.

Mrs M attended for sequential cataract operations with a 2 week gap between each surgery. She came and went on the same day but had to return the day after surgery for an examination.

Mrs M has had an excellent result from her surgery. Her testimonial can be read below.

Testimonial

I am really grateful to Mr Simmons not only for the perfect vision he gave me but also for his understanding and kindness dealing with a reluctant patient.  The same consideration was shown by all members of the hospital staff who cared for me at each operation. What I expected to be a nightmare was actually no more traumatic than a visit to the dentist; a sentiment I often express nowadays when I make referrals for my patients. Mrs M. 

Benjamin's condition

Benjamin had surgery performed to correct a squint that was both causing problems with relationships at school and affecting his performance in the run up to important examinations.

What we had to do!

Benjamin had been suffering from a squint of his right eye that was affecting his school work and was becoming more noticeable by his friends and family. Benjamin was particularly concerned about his appearance in photographs.

Mr Simmons saw him and his parents for an initial consultation at Spire Hospital, Leeds. The options were carefully discussed as were the potential risks and benefits of any operation. Benjamin then had a separate appointment with a senior orthoptist also at Spire Hospital. During this assessment the angle of Benjamin’s squint was measured and the degree of stereoscopic vision was quantified. If Benjamin had been under three years of age, the orthpotist would have been able to objectively measure his vision as well.

Benjamin decided that he wanted surgery and this was supported by his parents. Benjamin came in to Spire Hospital, Leeds at lunch-time on the Friday of his operation. He was admitted onto the ward and then visited by the consultant anaesthetist who checked his general health.

Benjamin was taken to theatre, accompanied by his parents. He had a general anaesthetic for his operation which took 40 minutes to perform. The muscle on the inside of Benjamin’s right eye was moved back to weaken it and a small section was removed from the muscle on the outside of the eye to strengthen it.

Benjamin returned to Spire Leeds the following morning to have his eye examined. The eye was a bit prickly and sore but these feeling tend to improve within 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Benjamin was seen again by Mr Simmons and the orthoptist 2 weeks later to have the position of his eyes measured. Benjamin made a very good recovery from his surgery. His eye is now much straighter and he is happy with his appearance. The surgery also improved the way the eyes work as a pair which will make a difference with work at school.

Testimonial
“The care Benjamin received before, during and after his eye surgery was excellent.  From the beginning everything was explained to him in a language that he could understand which made him feel more comfortable in his surroundings and more relaxed for the forthcoming operation. During the pre-op visit, small details such as choosing a duvet cover and selecting DVD’s to watch made a massive difference and actually made it an exciting event, something that our son looked forward to!”

Regarding Mr Simmons himself:

“Ian Simmons has a special way of communicating with children, addressing them personally and directly, explaining everything in such a way that allows them to understand what is going on and puts them at ease.  We have been very reassured by being under the care of Ian during our son’s consultations and surgical procedure, which was a great success.”

WE WILL HELP YOU IN EVERY WAY WE CAN!

Ian's sub-speciality interests within the health service and privately are adult strabismus (squints), neuro-ophthalmology and paediatric ophthalmology.  Mr Simmons is the only ophthalmologist in Leeds and Harrogate performing adult strabismus surgery. Each week he runs a dedicated clinic and theatre list for patients with
neuro-ophthalmological conditions and strabismus. 

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