Refractive surgery satisfaction

Tell us about your current role

I work as a specialist refractive optometrist and clinical research associate for Optegra Eye Health Care. As part of my research role, I am involved in auditing of our surgical outcomes, analysing clinical research data for publication of articles and training of other optometrists. My clinical role involves undertaking pre and post-operative consultations for refractive surgery patients, such as those seeking laser vision correction or refractive lens exchange.

What is your professional passion?

My passion is refractive surgery. It is an area of optometry that I have worked in for the last 10 years, and I can honestly say my interest in the field is as strong as it was when I first started. Refractive surgery is constantly evolving due to the pace at which technology develops these days. As a result, I am always learning and keeping up to date with the latest innovations.

What is your next career goal?

I am considering undertaking the independent prescribing course. From the direction the profession is heading, it is becoming an increasingly useful qualification for an optometrist to have.

"My next holiday will be in Malaysia. I have a lot of extended family there and so I often go to visit them. Apart from the great weather, Malaysia is also a food paradise"

What is the one thing you couldn’t live without?

We have a vast array of advanced diagnostic equipment at Optegra, many of which is vital to the type of work we do. However, the one device that makes my working practice very convenient is a phoropter. It is such a simple device, yet so much more efficient than a trial frame and lenses.

How do you manage your work/life balance?

This isn’t always easy, so I try to plan my weeks to make time for the important aspects outside of work. Once I finish a working day, I try to step away from emails completely. I reserve my evenings and weekends to meet my family and friends and spend time doing the things I enjoy.

What do you do to unwind?

I enjoy keeping active and I play badminton regularly. I’m also a keen scuba diver, so one of my annual trips will usually involve some diving.

You have won the OT lottery. What are the first three things you would do with the £1m jackpot?

I’d take a trip to New Zealand, which is on my bucket list. Then I would buy a house and a brand new Tesla.

Where are you going on your next holiday?

My next holiday will be in Malaysia. I have a lot of extended family there and so I often go to visit them. Apart from the great weather, Malaysia is also a food paradise.