Dr Simon Skalicky

16/03/2026

For Australians over 40, living with diabetes or with a family history of cardiovascular or metabolic disease, AI and advanced imaging tools offer an important chance to detect silent health issues early. A simple retinal scan can highlight concerns that may require lifestyle changes or treatment well before serious complications arise. Patients with diabetes can learn more about Diabetic Eye Disease, while those experiencing age-related changes may wish to explore information on Cataract Surgery and other common eye conditions.

11/03/2026

Artificial intelligence has enhanced retinal imaging by identifying subtle patterns linked to systemic disease long before symptoms appear. AI can estimate cardiovascular risk from retinal vessel shape, detect diabetes-related retinal changes and support wider screening through platforms like Eyeonic, which Dr Skalicky helped develop. To find out more on Eyeonic click here

Glaucoma, a global cause of irreversible blindness, impacts 80 million individuals. Consistent visual field testing is crucial for diagnosis and ongoing monitoring, typically every 6 to 12 months.

09/03/2026

Ophthalmologists now use technologies such as:
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Produces cross-sectional images of the retina, revealing microscopic structural changes.
Fundus photography: High-resolution images of retinal blood vessels and optic nerve health.
These tools are non-invasive, quick, and painless, yet they offer powerful diagnostic information far beyond what a standard eye test can provide.

04/03/2026

The retina gives eye doctors a clear view of your blood vessels and nerves, which makes it an important window into your overall health. Changes in this area can hint at cardiovascular disease, often seen when the retinal arteries look unusually narrow. They can also reveal signs of diabetes, such as tiny leaking vessels linked to diabetic retinopathy. Some early markers of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, can appear in the retina as well. Even kidney disease may show up through subtle shifts in the retinal blood vessels. This is why regular eye checks can play a key role in keeping both your vision and your general health on track.

02/03/2026

Your eyes do far more than help you see. Modern medical research shows that the retina—the thin layer at the back of the eye—can act as a mirror for your overall health. With advanced imaging tools and artificial intelligence (AI), ophthalmologists can now detect early warning signs of systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and even dementia. For Australians, where conditions like diabetes and hypertension are on the rise, this link between eye health and systemic disease is particularly important. Associate Professor Simon Skalicky, leading Melbourne ophthalmologist, explains how retinal imaging is transforming healthcare and why regular eye examinations could save more than just your vision in his latest blog. Read it here https://loom.ly/ihs6b90

Discover how retinal imaging and AI can reveal early signs of heart disease, diabetes and neurological conditions during a routine eye examination.

25/02/2026

A fourth option for cataract surgery is a multifocal intraocular lens, which offers the opportunity to see distance, intermediate and near simultaneously. That sounds great, but this lens is associated with other problems such as glare, haloes, sparkles around lights and reduced contrast. This might be intolerable for some, but for the right person, these visual problems are insignificant compared the satisfaction of reduced dependence on spectacles for near vision.

23/02/2026

A third option for cataract surgery is to have one eye focused for distance, and the other eye focused for near: this is known as “monovision”. This sounds strange but actually is very successful for many people. Not everyone is suited to this arrangement, and so it is important to see your Optometrist to trial this arrangement with contact lenses prior to the cataract surgery. While avoiding the inconvenience of taking glasses on and off for reading, it does place more strain on each eye if there is extensive reading or distance viewing – that is why for people who read a lot, or those who desire crisp vision in either eye for distance (e.g. for seeing at the theatre), it may not be suitable. Also – both eyes must be in good working order; if one eye has a problem of the macula, cornea or other issue, then this approach will not work.

18/02/2026

One option for cataract surgery is to have both lenses focused for near, so that each eye sees near (e.g. reads) without glasses, but needs glasses for distance. Some people who have been short sighted their whole lives, and are happy wearing glasses for seeing in the distance, like this plan.

16/02/2026

One option for cataract surgery is distance focus for both eyes. This means having both eyes focused for distance, so that they see well without glasses for distance activities (e.g. driving, golf) and need a pair of glasses for reading. Many people are happy with this arrangement. We recommend speaking with a specialist to determine the best option for you.

11/02/2026

While it is common to achieve glasses independence for distance activities, it is harder to do so for near activities (e.g. reading). This is because most artificial intraocular lenses do not have the same range of vision as our natural lenses did when we were younger; they are best suited for one focal distance, which can either be set for distance, near or something in between.

People are understandably keen to explore options to reduce their dependence on glasses for near activities. There are several options to consider, but it is important to recognise each has their pros and cons, and so it is important to pick the right choice which would suit a person’s individual visual needs and lifestyle.

09/02/2026

If you have cataracts, it is important to understand your options and discuss these with your Ophthalmologist. Before surgery, Dr Simon Skalicky takes the time to discuss the issues of cataract surgery with his patients, as he believes informed patients make the best decisions, and this leads to the best outcomes for them.

Cataract surgery involves removing the cataract and inserting an artificial intraocular lens to restore vision to its original crispness and clarity. The technology behind these intraocular lenses has progressed significantly in recent years. This means people following cataract surgery will see even better and rely less on eyeglasses for their various activities. However, it has also led to a dizzying myriad of choices in intraocular lenses, and it is important to address these.

04/02/2026

Cataract surgery is the most common and arguably the most successful operation globally. It has a very low complication rate, very predictable outcomes and rapid recovery. It is efficient, quick surgery that does not require an overnight stay in hospital or heavy anesthetic. And the impact of cataract surgery is amazing. My patients who have received cataract surgery are generally very pleased with their outcomes, and how their new vision transforms their life and opportunities. Find out more via our website or book a consultation today.