Dr Simon Skalicky

28/01/2026

Eye specialists are now collaborating more closely with general practitioners, cardiologists, and neurologists to ensure that eye exams are used as whole-body health check-ups. This integrated care model is paving the way for better prevention and earlier intervention. If you’re over 40, living with diabetes, or simply due for a comprehensive eye exam, book an appointment with Associate Professor Simon Skalicky, Melbourne’s leading glaucoma specialist and cataract surgeon. Protecting your eyes might just protect your life.

26/01/2026

For Australians, especially those over 40, living with diabetes, or with a family history of cardiovascular disease, this technology represents a critical opportunity. A routine retinal scan could reveal early signs of silent disease, allowing for lifestyle changes or medical treatment before serious damage occurs.

Internal linking opportunity:
Patients with diabetes should read more about Diabetic Eye Disease and why regular screenings are essential.

If you are concerned about age-related changes, you may also explore Cataract Surgery and other eye conditions that commonly occur later in life.

21/01/2026

AI has taken retinal imaging to the next level. Algorithms trained on thousands of eye scans can identify subtle patterns associated with systemic disease long before they are noticeable to patients or even doctors.

For example:

- AI has been shown to predict cardiovascular risk by analysing retinal blood vessel shape

- Algorithms can identify diabetes-related retinal changes years before vision is affected

- AI-powered screening platforms, such as Eyeonic (co-developed by Dr Skalicky), are making testing more accessible in Australia and internationally.

19/01/2026

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.

14/01/2026

The following conditions are linked to retinal changes.
- Cardiovascular disease: Narrowed or twisted retinal arteries can indicate high blood pressure

- Diabetes: Damaged blood vessels can leak, leading to diabetic retinopathy

- Neurological disorders: Early signs of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s have been detected in retinal scans

- Kidney disease: Retinal vessel changes often mirror kidney function decline.

12/01/2026

Unlike other parts of the body, the retina provides a direct view of blood vessels and nerves without surgery. This means that by examining the back of the eye, doctors can gain valuable insights into your circulation, neurological health, and even the impact of chronic diseases.

07/01/2026

For Australians, where conditions like diabetes and hypertension are on the rise, the link between eye health and systemic disease is particularly important. In my latest blog article, I explain how retinal imaging is transforming healthcare and why regular eye examinations could save more than just your vision. Read it here https://loom.ly/b7DZon8

Discover how retinal imaging and AI can detect early signs of systemic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Learn why regular eye exams are essential for Australians.

05/01/2026

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.

01/01/2026

Wishing everyone a fantastic happy new year!

29/12/2025

While screens are an unavoidable part of modern life, it’s essential to be mindful of their impact on our eye health. By incorporating regular digital detox practices and adopting healthy screen habits, you can protect your vision and improve your overall well-being. Remember, balancing screen time with green time is key to maintaining healthy eyes and a healthy lifestyle.

24/12/2025

Follow these tips to help you have a successful digital detox:
- Set Screen Time Limits: Establish limits on your daily screen time. Use apps or built-in features on your devices to monitor and control usage.

- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This simple practice can help reduce eye strain.

- Create Tech-Free Zones: Designate certain areas of your home, such as the dining room and bedroom, as tech-free zones to encourage breaks from screens.

- Engage in Outdoor Activities: Spend more time outdoors engaging in activities that do not involve screens. This benefits your eyes and your overall health.

- Use Blue Light Filters: Install blue light filters on your devices to reduce blue light exposure, especially during the evening.

- Practise Good Posture: Ensure your workstation is ergonomically designed to promote good posture and reduce strain on your eyes and body.

22/12/2025

Taking a break from screens can significantly improve your eye health and overall well-being. Here are some benefits of a digital detox:

- Reduced Eye Strain: Giving your eyes a break from screens helps reduce dryness, irritation, and other symptoms of digital eye strain.

- Improved Sleep: Reducing blue light exposure, especially before bedtime, can improve your sleep quality.

- Better Posture: Taking regular breaks from screens encourages better posture and reduces strain on your neck and shoulders.