Mr Gokulan Ratnarajan 2021-03-11 Person 5 5 0

From an early age I have been short sighted and this, along with a family history of glaucoma, meant that my eyes were checked regularly. Over time, my sight deteriorated and my eye pressure increased. Cataracts formed in both eyes and in my mid 60s, the optician informed me that my sight was just about good enough to drive legally, although I had already given up night time driving due to being unable to cope with glare from oncoming car lights. On the recommendation of my optician, I met with Gok Ratnarajan to discuss possible treatment for both glaucoma and cataracts. Various tests were carried out and, on assessing the results, he outlined a number of options available which could help with my sight and longer term, with helping to reduce eye pressure. This involved inserting stents in both eyes to help with relieving pressure and a selection of different lens available when the cataracts were removed. These options were outlined in a clear way, detailing benefits and any potential side effects. At the end of this discussion, I agreed with the insertion of stents and chose toric lens. About a month later, surgery was completed on my left eye and six days later on my right. Although I knew my eyes were not great, I really hadn’t appreciated how much difference new lens and removing the cataracts would make. From the moment I left hospital following the first operation, the difference in my eyesight was immediately evident. It was as if a net curtain had been drawn back. I could easily read car number plates from a distance. Car lights were no longer dazzling and watching the scenery as we drove home, the colours were wonderfully clear. Living by the sea, it was a delight to be able to pick out sea birds skimming across the waves, something which I would have struggled to make out pre surgery. Admittedly it was a bit strange living without glasses after more than 60 years wearing them, but adjusting didn’t take long. I could use the computer without squinting to make out the screen and a cheap pair of reading glasses sufficed short term until my eyes settled down sufficiently for prescription glasses to be obtained. Perhaps most noticeable of all, I wasn’t constantly squinting over, through, round my glasses, struggling to make out details on TV or intricacies when constructing/painting model kits, which is incredibly frustrating. Everything became clearer. I knew exactly what to expect from my eyes. Distance/middle distance work did not necessitate the use of glasses. It was only close work that required help. It is almost impossible to explain the relief of trusting exactly what your eyes can do. Nearly six months on from surgery, both eyes have settled down and I am delighted with my day-to-day vision. Pressure has reduced slightly in both eyes. Prescription glasses have been selected for close work. Apart from being delighted with my vision, I am very grateful to Gok and his team for their professionalism and help in challenging times.