Meet the Consultant: Mr Jack Gormley

At Optegra, our consultants combine decades of surgical expertise with a passion for patient care. In this edition of our Meet the Consultant series, we speak with Mr Jack Gormley, who has been working in eye health for almost twenty years.

Specialising in refractive and cataract surgery, Mr Gormley joined Optegra because of its strong focus on innovation and patient-centred care. He was also drawn by the access to world-class technology that allows him to deliver the very best outcomes.

“I was drawn to Optegra because of its strong focus on innovation, patient care, and access to world-class technology. It’s a place where I can offer patients the very latest treatments in a supportive environment.”

The Joy of Transforming Lives

Restoring sight is more than a clinical achievement; for many patients, it changes the way they live their everyday lives.

Mr Gormley describes how rewarding it is to see patients’ immediate reactions once their vision is restored. “The most rewarding part is seeing the immediate transformation in patients’ lives. Restoring clear vision – whether through laser eye surgery, lens replacement, or cataract surgery – often has a profound impact on confidence, independence, and quality of life.”

For patients who have been heavily dependent on glasses or struggling with cataracts, the difference can be life-changing. Seeing the smile on someone’s face as they read, drive, or simply look around with clarity again is what drives his work.

Harnessing the Latest Technology

Modern eye care is powered by technology, and Mr Gormley is passionate about ensuring his patients benefit from the latest innovations.

One of his favourite tools is the Zeiss VisuMax 800 excimer laser, which powers SMILE laser vision correction. “This is the latest platform for SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction), a keyhole laser vision correction procedure. It allows for a minimally invasive approach with excellent precision, quick recovery times, and great comfort for patients. I am still amazed at the technology.”

By combining surgical skill with cutting-edge equipment, Mr Gormley ensures patients receive treatments that are accurate, safe, and comfortable, with recovery times that are faster than ever before.

Advances in Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery has evolved far beyond its traditional purpose of removing the cloudy lens. Patients today have far more choices, thanks to advanced lens technology. 

“Cataract surgery now goes beyond simply removing the cloudy lens. We can offer premium lens implants – such as multifocal or extended depth of focus lenses – that not only restore vision but also reduce dependence on glasses. Advances in lens design and surgical precision mean outcomes are better than ever.”

Lens Replacement vs Cataract Surgery

Patients often wonder how lens replacement differs from cataract surgery. While the procedures are technically very similar, the timing and purpose set them apart.

Mr Gormley explains: “Cataract surgery is performed when the lens has become cloudy, whereas lens replacement (or refractive lens exchange) is done before cataracts develop, usually to reduce reliance on glasses or contact lenses. Both involve replacing the natural lens with a clear artificial one. The most important factor in both is tailoring the lens technology to the patient’s needs.”

This flexibility means patients don’t have to wait for cataracts to form before accessing life-changing vision correction. At Optegra, these premium options allow patients to customise their surgery according to their lifestyle, whether that’s reducing glasses use for reading, computer work, or driving.

Who Is Suitable for Laser Eye Surgery?

Laser eye surgery is one of the most popular treatments Mr Gormley provides, but it’s not suitable for everyone.

“Laser eye surgery is ideal for people who are generally healthy, over 18, and want to be less dependent on glasses or contact lenses. Suitability depends on factors such as glasses prescription, corneal thickness, and eye health, which are all assessed in a thorough consultation.”

At Optegra, every patient receives a detailed assessment before surgery, ensuring the chosen procedure is safe, appropriate, and personalised to their needs.

The Most Common Eye Conditions

With almost two decades of experience, Mr Gormley has treated a wide range of eye conditions.

“The most common problems are refractive errors – short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism – alongside age-related issues like cataracts and presbyopia (the need for reading glasses). I also see patients with corneal disease, such as corneal dystrophies or Keratoconus, for medical opinions.”

These conditions can all be effectively managed or treated, ensuring patients can maintain independence and quality of life at any age.

If you’d like to learn more about cataract surgery or book a free consultation with one of our leading consultants, book a free virtual consultation with Optegra today.