Your Trusted Partner for Comprehensive Eye Health in Birmingham — Mr Dilraj Sahota, Consultant Ophthalmologist

As a consultant ophthalmic surgeon with world-class training (Oxford University and University of London) and a medical retina fellowship at Moorfields Eye Hospital, I treat both routine eye problems and refer/coordinate specialist care where needed. This page explains what general ophthalmology covers, when to see a consultant, what to expect at your appointment, and how my practice in Birmingham offers fast, compassionate, consultant-led care.

What is General Ophthalmology?

General ophthalmology is the medical and surgical care of the eye. It covers a wide range of everyday problems — from routine sight checks, to infections, to early detection of serious eye disease. A general ophthalmologist is trained to diagnose, manage and refer conditions across the whole eye, ensuring you get the right treatment at the right time.

Common Conditions Managed

Typical problems seen in general ophthalmology include:

• Blurred or changing vision (short or long sight changes)

• Floaters, flashes or new spots in your vision

• Red, painful or watery eyes (infections or inflammation)

• Dry eye, blepharitis and irritation

• Early cataracts and routine cataract assessment

• Screening or checks for glaucoma and diabetic eye disease

If a problem needs specialist treatment (for example retinal injections or complex cataract surgery), I’ll explain why and arrange the next step — all without needless delay.

Urgent Symptoms — See a Consultant Quickly

Call urgently if you notice any of the following:

• Sudden, painless loss of vision in one eye

• New flashes of light or a sudden increase in floaters

• A curtain or shadow over part of your vision

• Severe eye pain, especially with visual change

These symptoms can indicate conditions that need rapid assessment (retinal tear, retinal detachment, acute glaucoma, or retinal vascular events). In my NHS role I run a retinal fast-track clinic where colleagues refer urgent retinal cases — this reflects the speed and seriousness with which these problems are managed.

Routine Checks — Who Should Be Screened?

You should see a consultant ophthalmologist for:

• Regular checks if you have diabetes (annual or more frequent screening)

• Family history of glaucoma or if you are over 60

• If you’re troubled by worsening vision or glare from lights

• Pre-operative checks before operations such as cataract surgery

Early detection often prevents progression and preserves vision.

A Foundation of Broad Expertise

While many patients know me for cataract surgery and medical retina, my clinical foundation is broad. I completed medical training at Oxford University and subspecialty fellowships at Moorfields Eye Hospital, and I hold the FRCOphth (Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists). This background ensures your care rests on a solid generalist plus specialist skillset.

Delivering Patient-Centred General Eye Care

At your appointment you can expect:

• A warm welcome and clear, jargon-free explanations

• A thorough eye examination (visual acuity, slit-lamp exam, intraocular pressure)

• Modern imaging where helpful (OCT, retinal photos) to clarify the cause of symptoms

• A written plan: next steps, follow-up timing, or rapid referral to a sub-specialist if required

I aim for clarity and reassurance: if your condition is simple, we’ll manage it quickly; if it needs specialist care, I’ll arrange it and stay involved.

Academic Excellence & Specialist Training

• MA (Oxon), MBBS — Oxford University and University of London medical training.

• FRCOphth — Specialist qualification in ophthalmology.

• Medical retina & uveitis fellowship at Moorfields Eye Hospital — advanced subspecialist training.

Teaching, Leadership & Research

• College Tutor, West Midlands Postgraduate School of Ophthalmology — I train and supervise ophthalmology registrars.

• Regular presenter at national ophthalmology meetings and contributor to peer-reviewed research (including work on cataract surgery complications and retinal therapies).

• This combination of clinical, teaching and research work keeps my practice evidence-led and current.

Where I See Patients

Private consultations are available at Edgbaston Eye Consultants (22 George Road, Edgbaston — near the Botanical Gardens and Edgbaston Cricket Ground). The clinic is easy to reach from central Birmingham, Harborne and Solihull. Also appointments are available at The Westbourne Centre in Edgbaston

How to Book

• Free 10-minute video consultation (Monday evenings): Book a free 10-minute video consultation

• For in-clinic appointments: call +44 121 630 4580 or use the online booking link above.

Beyond the clinic, Mr. Sahota contributes to medical research and education. He co-authored a peer-reviewed study in the journal Retina on dexamethasone intravitreal implants (Ozurdex) for treating macular oedema in RVO. This reflects his active role in evaluating retinal therapies. He also lectures locally (for optometrists and trainees) and presents at national conferences, ensuring his practice reflects the latest evidence. His involvement in research and teaching demonstrates a commitment to advancing retina care in Birmingham and beyond.

Overall, Mr. Sahota’s blend of world-class training, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate care makes him one of Birmingham’s top retinal specialists. Whether you have AMD, diabetic eye disease, or an urgent condition like RVO, patients trust his expertise to protect and restore vision using the latest, most effective treatments.

Q: Do I need a referral to see a private retinal specialist?
A: No, you can self-refer. However, many patients come with an optician referral.

Q: Can I be seen urgently for sudden vision loss?
A: Yes. Sudden distortion, blurring, or blank spots should be assessed urgently — please call for availability.

Q: What treatments do you offer for wet AMD or retinal vein occlusion?
A: Most commonly, treatment involves intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF drugs or steroid implants, depending on the diagnosis.

Q: How often will I need to come for follow-up?
A: This depends on your diagnosis, disease activity, and response to treatment. Some patients require monthly visits initially, which can later be extended.

Q: Are all retinal problems treatable?
A: Not all, but early diagnosis and modern treatment options mean many conditions can be stabilised or improved, especially if caught early.

Premium Cataract Surgery in Birmingham – Learn about advanced lens options and private cataract care

Retinal Conditions I Treat – Detailed overview of the retinal services I provide

About Mr Dilraj Sahota – My background, training, and approach to patient care

Protect and restore your vision with an expert consultant ophthalmic surgeon in Birmingham specialising in cataract and retina.

Book a free 10‑minute video consultation with Mr Dilraj Sahota—Monday evenings.
🔗 Schedule online now
📞 Call +44 121 630 4580

Last updated: September 2025
Disclaimer: Educational purposes only; not a substitute for professional advice.