Over 25 years ago, Eye Institute became the first clinic to offer laser surgery in New Zealand and since then has been at the forefront of ever-evolving techniques. Verve sat down with surgeons Dr Adam Watson and Dr Nick Mantell, to discuss their work.
What does ‘having the most advanced eye surgery experience in New Zealand’ mean?
Adam: We want patients to have a great experience. Eye Institute’s facilities are new, welcoming and relaxing—designed to provide a comfortable, contemporary hotel feel, with easy access and ample parking.
Our surgeons have exceptional training and use the latest laser and lens technology. Plus, we’re attentive to patients’ needs following the procedure to ensure an excellent vision outcome.
What are the differences between laser vision correction and refractive lens exchange?
Adam: Laser vision correction involves gently reshaping the surface of the eye—the cornea—to help it focus accurately. Eye Institute has the latest LASIK, SMILE and surface laser procedures (PRK) available so we can choose the best procedure for each individual.
Refractive lens exchange involves removing the poorly-performing lens from the eye and replacing it with a special, permanent lens implant. The type of lens we choose determines vision—special lens implants can give great distance and near vision. Refractive lens exchange also eliminates the need to have later cataract surgery.
What is the most common reason that people over 50 come to you for vision correction?
Adam: Usually frustration with needing reading glasses. It’s especially bad if distance vision starts failing too—too many pairs of glasses!
Who is suitable for laser surgery and refractive lens exchange?
Nick: For laser surgery, most people under 50 who wear glasses or contact lenses to correct short- and long sightedness, and/or astigmatism. A few people are not suitable because of a high degree of refractive error and very thin corneas, but these patients are often suitable for other vision correction procedures.
Refractive lens exchange is a great option for those aged late-40s and over, with age-related loss of refocusing, who can’t read with single focus glasses or contact lenses, need progressive glasses, or need glasses for reading. This option restores distance, intermediate, and near vision. It’s a permanent solution.
Why is having a specialised and customisable treatment so important?
Nick: No two eyes are the same. The best vision correction option varies depending on refractive error, age, associated eye conditions, and visual needs. We offer the full range of vision correction procedures: PRK, LASIK, SMILE, ICL, and refractive lens exchange. We work with patients to help determine the best vision correction procedure for them.
Why should people choose your clinic over others for vision correction?
Nick: Eye Institute was the first to introduce laser surgery in New Zealand making us pioneers. Our commitment to being at the forefront of evolving techniques has been paramount in our surgeons upskilling and investing in only the best technology.
The reason we should be the first choice goes beyond the technology and surgeons as both are a given. The fact that every single staff member loves what they do, and is committed to providing outstanding service to each patient and their family sets us apart. From our friendly concierge team offering refreshments, to the secretaries taking time to answer all questions and help with our finance plans, to the nurses sitting beside patients before and after the procedure. Our patients are at the centre of everything we do. Our commitment to providing the best, and being the best, is why our clinic remains number one.
123 Remuera Rd, Remuera / 0800 99 2020/ 09 522 2125
eyeinstitute.co.nz / enquiries@eyeinstitute.co.nz
