Your eyes are our world.

At Brennan & Smith Optometrists we take a multifactorial approach to eye care to ensure the best visual outcome for our patients. We are passionate about providing the best possible vision through a wide variety of frame and lens types. Our independence allows us to source a large range of products from multiple manufacturers. We also place equal importance on the early detection and prevention of eye health disorders. We have the latest technology in terms of digital retinal imaging and testing procedures for cataracts, glaucoma and macula degeneration, and all these ocular health diseases are screened for as part of every standard eye examination. 

Eye Examinations

Our team of optometrists recommend regular eye examinations at least once every 2 years for people under the age of 65, and every 12 months for those over this age. This is due to the incidence of many eye diseases increasing exponentially with age. Every standard eye exam can be broken down into two main facets: testing for prescription glasses to achieve the best possible visual acuity and testing the eye health. The early detection of eye conditions means a better prognosis and visual outcome into the future. Many of our optometrists are also therapeutically endorsed meaning that they can prescribe eye drops such as antibiotics, steroids, anti-inflammatories and pressure-lowering agents to treat many eye conditions.

Eye Disease Diagnosis and Management

During an examination all our patients are screened for a wide array of eye diseases. Some of the most common problems include cataracts, macula degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. There are a huge number of other eye conditions which can be related to systemic health and since the eye is the only part of the body where you can see the blood vessels non-invasively, they provide a clue to the general health of a person. Some rarer eye conditions include retinal tears and detachments, melanomas and skin cancers, hypertensive retinopathy and stroke. All of these can be detected by our team through comprehensive eye examinations. 

OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)

We like to keep up with the latest technology and imaging techniques for capturing photography and scans of the retina. This not only assists with the detection of many of the previously mentioned eye conditions, but it also provides an essential comparison tool, to check for change over time. We bulk bill all our routine eye examinations through Medicare, however, we may charge a small nominal fee for retinal imaging, to allow us to continue to upgrade these imaging devices ensuring we provide the best tools on the market to our patients. 

Glaucoma Testing

Glaucoma has been quoted to affect roughly 10% of people over the age of 70, however, it has been known to affect people of all ages. Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy, meaning that it can reduce peripheral vision and clarity of vision. We will measure the intraocular pressure within the eye, assess the optic nerve using sophisticated equipment to check the visual field of each eye. Collating these results, we can determine if someone is suffering from glaucoma, or if one is at risk of developing the condition.

Cataract Assessment and Specialist Referrals

Cataracts are perhaps the most common eye affliction and will affect almost every person as they age. When the intraocular lens becomes cloudy, it can give blurred vision, and this is what a cataract is. When severe, the cataract will need to be removed and replaced with a clear lens. We have a network of ophthalmologists who we regularly liaise with and can refer our patients to have their cataracts removed. We can work with you to book your appointment and assist with the follow-up procedures after the operation. 

Diabetic Eye Examinations

Everyone with diabetes, both Type 1 and Type 2, need to be having their eyes checked at least once every 12 months and we will liaise with your general practitioner to ensure this. During these examinations, we will dilate the pupil to allow a better view of the retinal blood vessels. If the systemic blood sugar is too high, we can detect signs of haemorrhaging and leaking fluids throughout the retina. This in turn requires attention as it can cause serious loss of vision and even blindness.

Macula Degeneration

Macula degeneration is an age-related eye condition which can have devastating effects on eyesight. It is the number one cause for legal blindness in the older population and we can detect the very early signs and symptoms and modify risk factors to try and prevent further damage to the macula. We can also identify the type of macula degeneration and the best way to deal with it, including low-vison aids.

Laser Refraction Surgery

We understand that glasses or contact lenses are not the best solution for every patient. Environmental factors or harsh working conditions sometimes mean that these standard visual aids are not viable. We can provide information and referrals to have your eyes assessed for laser correction to improve your eyesight without the need for prescription lenses.

Behavioural Optometry

All our optometrists have a strong background in children’s vision and understand that not only are the eyes important for clear vison, but also need to be working in harmony with the brain for higher order processing. Learning difficulties can often be attributed to an eye muscle problem or focusing disorder and your children’s eyes need to be working correctly to allow them the best opportunity to learn effectively. We have several tests designed specifically for kids and can provide aids to help them throughout their schooling. Kate Darley visits all four Brennan and Smith stores and has completed a postgraduate certificate in advanced paediatrics to offer your child the best in children’s eye care. Kate is also a current member of ACBO (Australian College of Behavioural Optometry) and a qualified behavioural optometrist.

IPL Dry Eye Treatments

Dry eye is a debilitating and common eye dysfunction which can be treated with laser. The E>Eye is the most efficient mode of treating Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, a common cause of Dry Eye. It uses intense regulated pulse light technology to achieve neurological stimulation of the oil glands to increase tear film quality and treat dry eye disease. Treatment is as follows: Day 0 (Treatment 1), Day 14 (Treatment 2), Day 45 (Treatment 3).

CASA Eye Testing

Civil Aviation Safety Authority requests commercial and private pilots to have their vision checked by a Credentialed Officer for CASA. Kate Darley is our designated CASA Credentialed Officer and appointments are advised to be made in advance.