Our New OCT Eye Test Technology

Nigel Robinson on November 27, 2024

Image of an optical coherence tomography machine with the text ‘Optical Coherence Tomography.

Experience Our New OCT Eye Test Technology

We’re thrilled to introduce our new OCT eye test technology. Investing in your eye health is important to us, and this state-of-the-art equipment gives us a closer, more detailed look at your eyes. It allows us to detect potential issues early and take action quickly. With OCT, you’re in great hands when it comes to protecting your vision.

What is OCT?

An Optical Coherence Tomography scan or OCT is like an ultrasound for your eyes—except it uses light waves instead of sound. It’s non-invasive and painless, capturing incredibly detailed images of your retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. This means we can identify conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy often before you even notice symptoms.

Key features of our new OCT machine

Our new Topcon Maestro OCT machine comes packed with standout features designed to benefit you:

Panoramic Fundus Imaging: See your retina in full detail, giving us a clearer view of your eye’s health. Instant Vascular Information: See the health of your eye’s blood vessels instantly—ideal for spotting early signs of diseases like diabetic retinopathy.
True-colour photography: Enjoy ultra-clear, true-to-life images of your eyes, which make it easier to detect and monitor changes over time.
Fully Automated Image Capture: The machine does all the hard work so that we can capture accurate images quickly and comfortably during your eye test.
3D Glaucoma Scans with Reports: We get a precise 3D view of your eyes, helping us test for glaucoma with exceptional accuracy.

How does this help you?

These features aren’t just impressive—they make a real difference to your eye care. Early detection means we can catch eye diseases before they cause lasting harm. High-quality images and detailed reports allow for better monitoring and personalised treatment plans. Plus, with its advanced automation the test is quicker and more comfortable than ever.

See the difference today

Taking care of your eyes doesn’t have to be complicated. Our OCT eye test is an easy, proactive way to stay on top of your vision health. Book your appointment today at our opticians in Whitley Bay and discover the benefits of advanced eye care!

MiYOSMART Glasses for Short Sightedness

Nigel Robinson on October 31, 2024

Young girl holding her glasses on her face while smiling

MiYOSMART Glasses: A Smart Choice for Your Child’s Vision

Managing myopia is more important than ever, with 50% of the world’s population projected to be myopic by 2050. For parents, this rising trend highlights the need for proactive strategies to safeguard children’s eyesight. One innovative solution is MiYOSMART glasses lenses by Hoya—an effective way to manage and slow myopia progression.

What is myopia, and why does it matter?

Myopia, or short-sightedness, is a condition in which distant objects appear blurry because the eye grows too long or the cornea curves too much. It often develops in childhood, and if left unmanaged, it can lead to long-term issues like glaucoma, retinal detachment, or macular degeneration later in life. Beyond health risks, uncorrected myopia can also affect everyday activities, from learning to sports. Managing myopia early can significantly protect your child’s vision for life.

What are MiYOSMART lenses, and how do they work?

MiYOSMART lenses are cutting-edge spectacle lenses scientifically designed by Hoya to help slow the progression of myopia. Their unique design features “Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments” (D.I.M.S.) technology. Simply put, these lenses project slightly defocused images onto the peripheral retina to slow its elongation—effectively reducing the condition’s progression. These innovative glasses for myopia look and feel like normal glasses lenses, so your child won’t feel different from their peers.

Benefits of MiYOSMART glasses

Made with science-backed precision, MiYOSMART lenses offer several benefits and enhance your child’s comfort and vision.

Studies show that MiYOSMART lenses slow the progression of short-sightedness by up to 60%, giving you peace of mind regarding your little one’s long-term vision health.
These polycarbonate lenses are impact-resistant and lightweight, perfect for your children’s active and busy lives.
MiYOSMART lenses are also available in polarised and photochromic options. These options ensure comfort in bright sunlight and UV protection while adapting seamlessly to indoor and outdoor environments.

The future of vision today

With innovative solutions like MiYOSMART glasses, helping your child manage myopia is no longer daunting. The sooner you act, the greater the benefits for your child’s vision and overall quality of life.

Book an appointment at our opticians in Whitley Bay today and take the first step towards giving your child clearer, healthier eyesight.

Rolf Eyewear Sustainable Designs

Nigel Robinson on September 30, 2024

A pair of Rolf Eyewear glasses and case on a table at the opticians

Introducing Rolf Eyewear Sustainable Designs

We’re thrilled to welcome Rolf Eyewear to our Robinson Optometrists family. This eco-chic brand perfectly blends style and sustainability, proving you don’t have to choose between looking good and doing good. Their innovative design and manufacturing approach sets a new standard in the eyewear industry. Read on to learn more about the eyewear brand that ticks all the boxes for sustainable fashion.

A brief history of Rolf Eyewear

Rolf Eyewear was born from a vision to create stylish, high-quality, sustainable eyewear. Each pair of glasses is crafted with precision, featuring their patented Flexlock joint for enhanced durability.

What’s more, their manufacturing processes are designed to minimise their ecological footprint, from reducing water and energy usage to recycling and repurposing waste. With Rolf, luxury and sustainability really can go hand in hand.

Sustainable materials: a new perspective on eyewear

The brand stands out for its innovative use of sustainable materials. Moving away from traditional plastics, Rolf incorporates natural materials such as wood and stone into their designs. They look great, and they tread lightly on the planet. A win-win!

Their wooden glasses provide a warm, organic feel, while stone offers distinctive patterns that make each pair unique. Both help connect you to the beauty of the natural world.

A diverse range of styles to suit every taste

By choosing Rolf Eyewear, you’re not just selecting a pair of glasses; you’re making a statement about your commitment to sustainable fashion.

Rolf Eyewear offers a wide range of designs to suit a variety of tastes and face shapes, including options for wider faces.

From classic rectangular and aviator frames to more adventurous geometric shapes, Rolf offers both traditional and contemporary styles, so you can find a pair suitable for any style or occasion.

Visit us today

Come along and explore the Rolf Eyewear collection at our opticians in Whitley Bay and experience first hand how eco-friendly choices can enhance your style and contribution to a more sustainable future.

Discover HOYA EnRoute Driving Lenses

Nigel Robinson on August 3, 2024

Sharp vision & safer journeys with driving lenses for glasses

Do you love to escape on the road on long drives, or do you go behind the wheel as a necessity? Whatever your answer, wouldn’t it be great if your drive was safer and easier on your eyes? Considering how crucial having good vision is to being able to drive responsibly and comfortably, it’s our responsibility as eyecare professionals to let you know if there is something to help.

Lucky for you, there is!

HOYA EnRoute driving lenses for glasses are arguably the best driving glasses lenses available today. So, how do they work, and what do you stand to gain?

Hoya EnRoute driving lenses – The tech

There’s a reason HOYA EnRoute is considered the best driving glasses option for distance vision or varifocal wearers — and it’s the technology behind them.

First, they feature a Glare Filter. This cuts out high-energy light from oncoming LED and xenon headlights, streetlights, and your dashboard. The result? Excellent anti-glare driving glasses that also improve contrast and brightness in low-light conditions, making night driving less of a strain on your eyes and less stressful.

Then, there’s the Integrated Double Surface Design for varifocal lenses. That’s tech-speak for glasses lenses typically worn by people in their 40s upwards who need a prescription for near and distance vision. This particular design delivers a wider visual field and speedy switching between distances, meaning you can experience a clear, comfortable vision whether you’re looking at your speedometer, the road, or your mirrors.

Finally, EnRoute offers Balanced View Control for varifocals, too. This provides stable image perception, which means you can see what’s ahead of you clearly despite the constant movement and changing dynamics of driving.

Why does it matter?

Want sharp, comfortable vision for a safer drive? Get ready to discover what makes HOYA Enroute some of the best driving glasses to wear all year round.

If more comfortable vision isn’t quite enough to convince you of the benefits of HOYA EnRoute driving lenses for glasses, consider this: 90% of your reaction time depends on your vision.

By reducing glare, improving contrast and brightness, and ensuring a smooth transition between distances, HOYA EnRoute improves your vision while driving, where every second can count — and that keeps you safer on the road.

This is especially important as darker evenings draw closer and you want to feel more confident on the road.

To find out more about how HOYA EnRoute can make driving more comfortable and safer for you, get in touch with Robinson Optometrists, your trusted opticians in Whitley Bay.

Spotlight on Kaleos eyewear

Nigel Robinson on July 2, 2024

Kaleos eyewear and glasses at Robinson Optometrists, Whitley Bay Opticians

Discover your signature style with Kaleos eyewear

From Antoni Gaudí’s Basílica de la Sagrada Família to delectable Catalan delicacies, Barcelona has given the world a long list of cultural delights.

Amongst that list is a thriving fashion scene that blends the city’s unique flair with avant-garde creativity. It’s from this scene that Kaleos eyewear was born in 2013, founded by Claudia Brotons and Pol Grau, to offer high-quality, high-fashion glasses at prices that won’t break the bank.

We think they got it spot on and we’re delighted to stock a wide range of Kaleos glasses in practice. The brand draws its inspiration from Barcelona’s rich artistic heritage and dynamic urban culture, a fusion that comes out loud and clear in its bold and colourful frame designs.

From classic to cutting-edge

Kaleos offers a wide range of styles, from classic to cutting-edge. Their collections include oversized glasses, retro-inspired designs, and sleek minimalist options. The brand is particularly known for its statement pieces featuring unique shapes and colour combinations. Kaleos also experiments with materials, incorporating premium acetate and high-grade metals, such as titanium.

Each frame is put together by hand with exceptional attention to detail. It’s the antithesis of fast fashion – these glasses are made with care and built to last.

As a fashion industry veteran, co-founder and creative director, Claudia Brotons has brought her unique insight into trends, design, and manufacturing processes to create a 21 st -century eyewear brand that blends modern and classic styles to perfection.

Every six months, a new collection of eclectic and daring Kaleos sunglasses and glasses is released. Each design takes over a year and a half from conception to production.

Our top Kaleos picks

It’s fair to say we love the entire range, but if our staff had to choose two frames that embody Barcelona’s vibe, it would be these.

Megs loves this glasses frame. Gaudi’s modernism is echoed in a funky, geometric design that mixes up colours tastefully.

More Kaleos Designer Eyewear, Whitley Bay

The whole team loves this frame for its oversized, chunky shape that scream ‘I’ve arrived’ balanced out with versatile yet striking hues that work with any outfit.

Browse our Kaleos collection

Visit our opticians in Whitley Bay to awaken your Mediterranean spirit and embody art with our fabulous Kaleos eyewear collection now!

Eye health: Can UV cause cataracts?

Nigel Robinson on June 5, 2024

Can UV cause cataracts?

Long days, warm evenings, weekends in the garden or the park. Summer is a time of year when most of us love to be outside enjoying the sunshine. You just can’t beat those easy-going, relaxed, sunny vibes.

However, while we hasten to spend as much time outside as possible, we must also take precautions to protect ourselves from sun damage caused by UV rays. One question our patients often ask is, ‘Can UV cause cataracts?’

Let’s explore the link, symptoms, and how you can stay safe in the sun.

What are Cataracts?

Cataracts are an age-related eye condition, most common in people over 60 which typically develops gradually as you age.

This is when the lens in your eye, which is normally clear, becomes cloudy or opaque. It’s caused by proteins in your lens breaking down and clumping together, affecting the quality of your vision. It usually only affects one eye at a time rather than both simultaneously.

Signs and symptoms of cataracts

The signs and symptoms of cataracts typically develop gradually over time:

● Cloudy and blurry vision; often the first and most common symptom.
● Difficulty seeing at night; activities such as driving at night or reading in low light can become difficult.
● Sensitivity to light and glare; bright lights can seem more intense than usual or have a halo effect.
● Fading or yellowing of colours; they can seem less vibrant.

These symptoms can also be caused by other eye conditions. If you’re experiencing any of them, it’s important to book an eye examination to get a professional diagnosis from our experience optometrists.

How do UV rays cause cataracts?

UV rays from sunshine exacerbate the breakdown of proteins in your natural lens, which kicks off the early development of cataracts. These rays can also damage cell membranes in the lens, making them weaker. Additionally, UV rays can lead to the buildup of yellow pigments, which
contributes to lens discolouration.

Protecting your eyes

It’s not all bad news, though! When it comes to your eye health, a belt and braces approach is worth it.

If you’re wondering, “Are cataracts preventable?” The answer is yes, to some degree. While there are other risk factors, such as genetics, one simple yet effective way to protect your eyes and enjoy the sunshine is by wearing a high-quality pair of UV protection sunglasses.

All our sunglasses carry the CE UV400 or British Standard Mark (BSI Kitemark) with lenses that offer 100% UV protection. In terms of sunglasses frames, we recommend oversized and wraparound styles for the most coverage around your eyes to completely shield them from the
sun.

Additionally, your everyday prescription eyewear can protect your eyes
from UV too. The Hi-Vision Meiryo lens coating from our lens supplier
Hoya, provides 100% UV protection on the front and extra protection on
the back of the lens, too.

The importance of regular eye examinations

It’s important for you to attend regular eye examinations as they are the
first port of call for diagnosing cataracts. It also means over time; we can
monitor changes in your vision and any cataract development. If cataracts
are severely affecting your vision, we’ll refer you for cataract surgery. It’s
a simple procedure that’s typically very straightforward and effective.

Contact us for more information

Contact our opticians in Whitley Bay if you have any concerns about your eye health or if you’d like to learn more about cataract symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments.

Our top Father’s Day gift ideas

Nigel Robinson on June 3, 2024

With Father’s Day approaching, it’s an ideal time to pick something special you know they will love. If you’re struggling this year, we have the best Father’s Day gift ideas for you… sunglasses! Not only will they make an excellent gift because they are stylish, but they will show you care.

To help you make your choice, we’ve selected three brands that dads nationwide will appreciate: Tom Ford, Ray-Ban, and Land Rover. Read on to find out more.

Tom Ford

Close-up of a pair of sunglasses

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Having been the creative director at Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent, Tom Ford put his reputation and name on the line to start something fresh and memorable. High-quality materials, precision engineering and Italian craftsmanship form the backbone of his operation.

These square-framed sunglasses show how Tom Ford manages to weave the vintage with the contemporary. The angular design plays perfectly with round and oval-shaped faces, and the blend of tortoiseshell and moody Havana tones of orange, black, and brown offers versatility with countless aesthetic preferences.

These are sunnies for the chic, stylish and fashion-conscious men amongst us.

Ray-Ban

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This company is synonymous with sunglasses and classic, eternal style, and the Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses are a model that will always be a solid choice. The Wayfarer comes in a few different forms, but we are in love with the New Wayfarer Classic, as pictured here. Being a bit smaller, they can accommodate a variety of face shapes, and the rounded design offers a softer yet more compelling finish.

The G-15 polarised lenses only allow 15% of light to pass through, so your dad would be glare-free, cool, and comfortable.

Land Rover

A pair of sunglasses on a window

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Land Rover is a brand seeking out sporty and adventurous souls, and the pair featured here meld this aesthetic with clean and minimalist elements, finished in a lovely matte black.

The frame shape complements rounder faces and harnesses that sought-after timeless style. Land Rover is a British brand known for its attention to detail and for producing superior on and off-road vehicles that can navigate incredible obstacles. This “go-anywhere” attitude and premium feel have been transferred to its eyewear, making these a perfect pair for the thrill-seeking dad.

Visit our Opticians in Whitley Bay

We have the perfect gifts for Father’s Day: sunglasses! Rest assured, all of our shades can be fitted with prescription lenses if needed. We’d love to welcome you to our practice, so please get in touch to book an appointment or visit us to browse our eyewear and sunglasses ranges!

Meet our Optometrists

Nigel Robinson on May 3, 2024

Robinson Optometrists, Whitley Bay Opticians

At Robinson Optometrists, we pride ourselves on having a fantastic team that provides every patient with a service that is second to none. Our practice offers a relaxed and friendly environment to help you feel comfortable when you come for an eye test in Whitley Bay. Our optometrists are the main port of call when you attend your eye exam, so why not carry on reading to get to know them a little better?

John

Up first is our colleague from north of the border, John, who’s been a valued member of the team for 20 years! John moved to Scotland from South Africa in his youth and started with us as a pre-registration student before qualifying in 2004.

As a contact lens wearer, John has a special interest in that area, as well as being involved in the North Tyneside diabetic eye care programme. You’ll find John loves a good chat with patients and will be happy to tell you all about his hobbies, including sea fishing and watching Hibbs as a season ticket holder!

Elaine

Say hello to Elaine! We are incredibly lucky to have Elaine working with us as she is one of only a few independent prescribing optometrists in the area. Elaine has experience working in the eye emergency department of Newcastle Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI), which is invaluable to us here at the practice.

With years of experience behind her, and as one of our optometrists in Newcastle, it’s safe to say Elaine is passionate about looking after her patients’ eyes, and everyone who meets her also says she is lovely! You’ll see her out and about running, training for a 5k or marathon when she’s not at work.

Andrea

Our optometrist, Andrea, is super popular with our patients and team. As a genuine people person, Andrea loves getting to know our patients and will do everything she can to help them. Her qualifications enable her to provide emergency care for minor eye conditions like red eye.

Andrea is also qualified in paediatrics, and she is a part of the local paediatric scheme. She loves helping people of all ages, even more so if you chat with her about her beloved Newcastle United!

Stop by to say hello

Now that you’ve got a little insight into some of our fabulous optometrists, why not pay us a visit and meet them in person? Contact us to book an appointment with our opticians in Whitley Bay today – we know you’ll love them as much as we do!

Decoding Glaucoma With OCT

Nigel Robinson on March 5, 2024

Glaucoma is a condition that can have serious consequences on your vision. It unfortunately affects a large proportion of the population, with studies showing around 480,000 people in the UK suffer from the most common form of this condition – open-angle glaucoma.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a chronic condition that occurs when excess fluid builds up in the eye due to poor drainage. This increases the internal eye pressure, causing irreversible damage to the optic nerve, which, if undetected and untreated, can lead to vision loss and blindness.

What are the risk factors?

There are several risk factors associated with the development of glaucoma. Glaucoma is usually found among people who are:

In upper age brackets, particularly over 60s
Of Asian, African or Caribbean origin
From a family with a history of glaucoma
Are suffering from diabetes, short or long-sightedness or high blood pressure.

The different types of glaucoma

There are several different types of glaucoma. The most common type is primary open-angle glaucoma. Onset is slow but progressive due to the drainage channels in the eyes becoming gradually blocked.

Acute angle-closure glaucoma is less common and is caused by a sudden blockage, raising the pressure in the eye very quickly, causing symptoms and damage to occur rapidly.

Secondary glaucoma is caused by an underlying eye condition such as uveitis, and childhood glaucoma is a rare development caused by a genetic abnormality.

Glaucoma symptoms

Due to the slow, creeping nature of open-angle glaucoma, you might not be aware of any damage until it has significantly progressed, resulting in reduced peripheral vision.

Acute angle-closure glaucoma, however, will have symptoms that you must not ignore. It is considered a medical emergency if you are experiencing:

intense eye pain and tenderness
nausea/vomiting
red eyes and headaches
seeing rings around lights
blurred vision.

Test for glaucoma

Regular eye exams (at least every 2 years) are vital, especially for those over 60 – or annually if there’s a family history of glaucoma. While damage is irreversible, early detection can slow down the progression of symptoms and can help manage the condition.

A glaucoma eye test may include an OCT (optical coherence tomography), which is a non-intrusive 3D scan of the eye. The OCT takes multiple images, layering them together to provide optometrists with an instant image of the back of the eye, including the retina. An OCT can detect glaucoma in its earliest stages, up to 5 years before a standard eye test can.

Your local opticians, Whitley Bay

At Robinson Optometrists, we want our patients’ eyes to be in the best shape possible. If you haven’t had an eye test recently or have any concerns, please get in touch for advice or to book an appointment.

Discover The Eyewear Styles We Adore

Nigel Robinson on February 1, 2024

With love in the air this month, we thought we’d introduce you to some of our favourite eyewear styles we’ve fallen head over heels for this season. Could they be inspiration for a gift to give to a cherished loved one, perhaps?

Just Cavalli

Just Cavalli glasses are the perfect choice for anyone wild at heart. Designs are bold, young, and unbelievably flattering, with an urban vibe. Think rock styles and experimental graphics. They’re definitely not for the wallflowers amongst us!

We love this wine-coloured, butterfly-shaped frame. It is wonderfully versatile and perfectly complements oval face shapes or softens a square shape.

Etnia Barcelona

Another frame manufacturer known for its stand-out styles is Etnia Barcelona. An independent brand that favours bright colours and unique designs. It’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular brands we stock.

Etnia Barcelona glasses emphasise fashion, art and culture inspired by the streets of Barcelona. Expect daring colours, innovative patterns, and a playful vibe. Perfect for anyone who likes to express their artistic side.

These round-eye frames will suit a variety of face shapes, and the range includes on-trend transparent frames. We’re not ashamed to admit that we’re in love with this vibrant and fun red option!

Tom Davies

Handmade in the UK using only the finest materials – it doesn’t get more sophisticated than Tom Davies bespoke eyewear. The brand is known for its commitment to high-quality materials such as natural horn and precious stones and metals, intricate attention to detail, and a fusion of traditional craftsmanship with a sleek, modern design.

This cat eye frame embodies a softened, retro style that perfectly sets off a feminine, vintage look. The red crystal acetate with rose gold accents is sure to get hearts racing.

Visit us

We have many more eyewear brands and a wide range of shapes, colours, and materials to suit any face shape at our opticians in Whitley Bay. Come and visit us, and you’ll be sure to find a pair of glasses to fall in love with.