Dr Andrew Apel

Dr Andrew Apel Refractive, Cataract, Corneal and External Disease Ophthalmologist, Brisbane Queensland

19/05/2026

There’s more to ophthalmology than what happens in the operating room.

Here’s a glimpse into what makes working in eye care so meaningful.

12/05/2026

A closer look at one of the most important parts of modern cataract surgery 👁️

05/05/2026

Behind every great doctor is great guidance.

28/04/2026

Life beyond ophthalmology 👀

22/04/2026

A little insight outside the world of ophthalmology 👀

14/04/2026

It’s a question I’m often asked - and one that goes far beyond textbooks and training.

Here’s my perspective from years in ophthalmology and patient care.

07/04/2026

Q: How do I spend my spare time?

With my family - always.

31/03/2026

Supporting the next generation of ophthalmologists isn’t optional — it’s essential.

Here’s why mentorship and teaching continue to shape the future of eye care.

Lattice Corneal Dystrophy: Driven by mutations in the TGFBI gene, the accumulation of amyloid branching filaments within...
26/03/2026

Lattice Corneal Dystrophy: Driven by mutations in the TGFBI gene, the accumulation of amyloid branching filaments within the stroma creates a challenging cycle of recurrent erosions and progressive opacification.

To help these patients, ensure to monitor:

The RCE Cycle: Beyond simple lubrication, the instability of the epithelium over amyloid deposits often requires advanced intervention. Early recognition of recalcitrant Recurrent Corneal Erosions (RCE) is the primary indicator for a shift in management.

Stromal Haze & Contrast Loss: Monitoring the coalescence of lattice lines is vital. As the central stroma clouds, this can result in reduced visual acuity, irregular astigmatism and light scatter.

Management pathways:

Surface Stabilisation: For anterior deposits and chronic erosions, we utilise Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK) to clear the visual axis and promote basement membrane adhesion.

Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK): Indicated for full-thickness opacification to restore maximal visual clarity.

17/03/2026

I love my clinic days. It’s great to catch up with my regular patients and tackle whatever new clinical challenge walks through the door. I'm here to provide the personalised care your vision deserves, from diagnosis through to surgery.

It’s rare to see rejection after Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) because the transplant involves only ...
10/03/2026

It’s rare to see rejection after Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) because the transplant involves only the thin endothelial layer and Descemet’s membrane, meaning there is minimal donor tissue and fewer antigen-presenting cells, which significantly lowers the immune rejection risk compared with other corneal grafts.

However, rejection can still occur, and this patient presented with signs of it.

Signs of DMEK rejection to watch for:
• Keratic precipitates
• Mild hyperaemia
• Blurred vision

Early recognition is critical to protect the graft. Treatment in this case included hourly topical steroids with Pred Forte and an Bevacizumab (Avastin) injection.

Any new redness, inflammation, or drop in vision following a corneal transplant should always prompt urgent ophthalmic review.

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Level 11/87 Wickham Terrace
Brisbane City, QLD
4000

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