Ophthalmology Services | Meet the Best Eye Specialist in Penang
What is an Ophthalmologist?
Ophthalmologist, also known as eye specialist, is a medical doctor who diagnoses and treats patients with eye
problems and diseases and might also perform eye surgeries.These specialists are trained to manage everything
related to the eyes, including their anatomy, physiology and associated conditions. Unlike optometrists,
ophthalmologists can perform eye surgeries, making them specialists in advanced care for complex eye issues.
Our ophthalmologists in Gleneagels Hospital Penang provide comprehensive eye care. Whether you need a routine
examination or complex surgery, our eye specialists in Penang are equipped with the expertise and advanced
technology to ensure optimal care.
In addition to general ophthalmology, some of our ophthalmologists specialise in advanced subspecialties within
ophthalmology, including vitreo-retinal, medical retina, uveitis, paediatric ophthalmology and strabismus as well as
glaucoma. These subspecialties enable our specialists to provide comprehensive care for complex eye conditions
requiring higher expertise.
Our vitreo-retinal specialists diagnose and treat diseases related to the retina and vitreous body,
which are crucial for vision. These conditions include vitreo-retinal disease that require surgical
intervention such as retinal detachment, vitreous haemorrhage, secondary retinal diseases,
subluxated lens, macular hole, macular pucker, retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and others.
The medical retina subspecialty focuses on managing retinal conditions such as diabetic retinopathy,
retinal vein occlusion, central serous chorioretinopathy (CSR), which require intravitreal injection,
laser photocoagulation, photodynamic therapy, or other non-surgical interventions.
Uveitis, an inflammation of the eye's uveal tract, can result from autoimmune diseases or infections.
Our specialists in this area provide thorough assessment and investigations for diagnosis with
appropriate management and monitoring.
Glaucoma is an eye condition where increased pressure damages the optic nerve, potentially leading to
vision loss. It often develops slowly without symptoms, initially affecting peripheral vision, and
is usually detected during routine eye tests. In rare cases, it can cause sudden symptoms like eye
pain, nausea, and blurred vision.
These subspecialties enable us to provide highly specialised care that not all ophthalmologists can
offer, ensuring that your eye health is in the best hands.
Paediatric ophthalmology is a subspecialty focused on eye care for children - from newborn to
teenagers. Paediatric ophthalmologists are trained to diagnose and treat eye disorders that are
specific to children, ranging from inherited condition to developmental issues.
Paediatric ophthalmologists specialise in treating strabismus; a condition where the eyes are not
properly aligned. One side of the eye can turn in, out, up or down while the other eye looks
straight ahead. Strabismus commonly occurs in children, but also can be seen in adults. Paediatric
ophthalmologists are able to treat strabismus by glasses, eye patching, botox injection or surgery.
Eye Conditions and Symptoms
At Gleneagles Hospital Penang, our dedicated team of ophthalmologists and eye specialists is committed to excellence
in eye care. Recognising the complexity of eye health, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of
eye conditions and symptoms. From common vision problems to complex eye diseases, our specialists are equipped with
the knowledge and technology to address each patient's unique needs.
Amblyopia usually develops in childhood due to improper development of vision from uncorrected
squinting or refractive errors. It is one of the most common causes of visual loss in children. This
condition reflects poor vision with normal ocular anatomy.
Only one eye is usually affected, but it is possible for Amblyopia to be present in both eyes. It is
reversible if prompt treatment is given early.
Farsightedness is a condition that makes it difficult for the patient to focus on objects closer to
their eyes. This is due to the eyeball being physically too short to effectively refract light and
is usually solved with prescription lenses.
Symptoms of farsightedness can also include overall blurred vision and sore eyes from reading text
and headaches.
Deemed as the loss of one's auto-focus function in the eye to nearer objects, this is caused by
ligaments of the eye lens hardening naturally over time. This condition is often confused with
hyperopia.
Other common symptoms include visual fatigue and the inability to read small texts. Presbyopia can
also occur with other refractive errors.
AMD described as a central loss of vision, AMD typically affects adults over the ages of 50 and is
attributed to damage to a small area central of the retina called the macula.
The most apparent symptom is blurred central vision, distorted image and difficulty for near work.
Strabismus is a condition in which the eyes do not maintain proper alignment. Often developing in
childhood, this condition usually requires surgery to straighten the eyes though less serious cases
may only require specialised prescription glasses.
Cataract indicated via a cloudiness on the lens of the eye, this condition usually develops in older
individuals but can occur as a result from injury or trauma, diabetes mellitus, eye inflammation,
steroid treatment and others. Certain infants can also be born with cataracts.
The most common symptom exhibited by cataracts is blurry vision however other symptoms can include
fading colours, light sensitivity, glare and double vision.
Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve, Glaucoma is usually present in
older individuals
causing loss of sight and if untreated, permanent blindness.
Because it has no visible symptoms in early stages, this can lead to gradual loss of peripheral
(side) vision, tunnel vision, and finally if not treated, permanent vision loss.
Myopia, commonly known as short-sightedness, the most common symptom is the
inability to see objects
that are far away and tends to develop in early childhood.
Typically corrected with glasses, other common symptoms include blurry vision when focusing on
distant objects or when reading.
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye complication caused by high blood sugar damaging the retina. If
untreated, it can lead to vision loss. Early stages have no symptoms, so regular eye screenings are
crucial. Managing blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol helps reduce the risk. Treatment
includes laser therapy, eye injections, or surgery if vision is at risk.
Retinal vein occlusion occurs when a blockage in the eye’s vein reduces blood flow, leading to sudden
painless vision loss. It is more common in older adults and those with high blood pressure,
diabetes, or glaucoma. There are two types, called branch and central, depending on the blockage
location. Treatment options include anti-VEGF eye injections, laser therapy, and steroids to reduce
swelling. Managing health conditions, quitting smoking, and regular check-ups can help prevent
further damage.
Advanced Diagnostic Methods for Eye Conditions: Ophthalmology Screenings in Penang
From birth and childhood to old age, screening tests should be regularly scheduled as while some eye conditions may
be detected during childhood, others may appear later on.
Through consistent maintenance of eye health, Gleneagles Hospital Penang’s Ophthalmology specialists strive to ensure
early diagnosis and treatment options for any current or even potential eye disorders and diseases.
Tonometry is typically used for those who may suffer from Glaucoma, tonometry is a diagnostic test to
measure the pressure of the eyes.
A computer is used to check the curvature of the patient's cornea and this test is typically
necessary before surgery or first time contact lenses.
To evaluate and determine the capacity for one to see both close and far. This test involves reading
letters on a backlit board. Children who aren't able to read yet will be given a simpler version.
This diagnostic is used to determine the required type of prescription glasses. The Ophthalmologist
tests the different strengths of lenses which help the patient achieve the clearest and sharpest
possible vision.
To check the retina for any signs of eye diseases, specialised drops of medication will be applied to
the eye to dilate the pupil allowing the ophthalmologist a wider opening to view.
Gleneagles Hospital Penang Ophthalmological Facilities
We at Gleneagles Hospital Penang are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones see it through the tiresome and
elaborate process of eye-related diagnosis, treatment and care.
Quality medical care aside, we provide each patient access to nothing but the best in modern innovative medical
technology. Our team of health professionals including the best ophthalmologists in Penang create personalised
treatment plans to best suit each different individual and their lifestyles, prioritising the best possible outcomes
to minimise any possible side effects during your recovery process.
To further help you maintain good eye health and preserve your vision for as long as possible, it is vital that your
overall health is taken care of. As our sense of sight is an essential and valuable part of life and our well-being,
our expert, compassionate and committed team of dedicated eye professionals are ready to help you every step of the
way.
If you or maybe your loved ones are having any concerns regarding changes or disturbances in sight, please do not
hesitate to set up an appointment and our team will take care of the rest.
Ophthalmology Specialists at Gleneagles Hospital Penang
Ready to enhance your vision and eye health? At Gleneagles Hospital Penang, our top ophthalmologists are committed to
providing you with the best possible care using state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment methods. Whether you’re
experiencing symptoms or simply due for a check-up, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and see why we are recognised as the best eye specialists in
Penang.