Latest news with #StephenHannan


Scotsman
28-05-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
Couples say 'eye do' as laser eye surgery becomes UK's must-have wedding prep
More and more Brits are turning to laser eye surgery (LES) as part of their pre-wedding makeover, according to new national research. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... The study, conducted by Optical Express, with wedding season fast approaching, revealed over a quarter (27%) of UK adults would consider LES before their wedding day, with that figure rising to 42% amongst the Gen Z demographic. In reasons behind the upward trend, one in four (25%) put it down to avoiding wearing their glasses or contact lenses on their wedding day. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Elsewhere, 24% of respondents stated desiring better vision quality as their motive, allowing them to experience their wedding with clarity. Optical Express study reveals over a quarter of UK would consider laser eye surgery ahead of their big day The data further reinforces this, with half of the UK (50%) state they would not want to be wearing glasses in their wedding photos. With eight in 10 (83%) stating that it's important to look their best on their wedding day, it's no surprise laser eye surgery is increasingly being seen as a long-lasting solution, offering clear vision and a glasses-free walk down the aisle. Dr Stephen Hannan, Clinical Services Director at Optical Express, said: 'It's not surprising to see more brides and grooms considering laser eye surgery ahead of their big day, especially within the younger generation. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Weddings are one of, if not the, most photographed event in a person's life – so it makes sense people want to look and feel confident! 'However, our survey also revealed there's still a portion of the UK that is unsure about laser eye surgery. Laser eye surgery is one of the safest procedures in the world and there is an extensive screening process to assess suitability. The risks of a sight threatening infection for example is ten times more common in patients that utilise contact lenses on an extended wear basis, for example, than with modern day LASIK. The most common thing we hear from our patients after surgery is that they wish they had opted to have Laser Eye Surgery sooner. 'Through consultations with medical experts, we'll say no if patients aren't suitable for the procedure, but we'll work with them to offer a solution. Today we find that over nine in every ten patients are suitable candidates.' Laser eye is the most popular elective surgery treatment in the UK, over the past 12 months Optical Express has witnessed a double digit surge in LES bookings.
Yahoo
26-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Warning issued to British Muslims observing Ramadan over eye health
British Muslims observing Ramadan have been warned about the potential risks fasting may have on eye health. With around four million expected to take part in the holy month, experts at Optical Express have highlighted the possible effects of fasting on vision. From dawn to sunset, those observing Ramadan abstain from food and drink, which can lead to dehydration. This, in turn, can affect tear production and cause dry, irritated eyes. READ MORE: Farmers urged to vaccinate against bluetongue virus Essential nutrients such as vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants may also be lacking, impacting overall eye health and increasing the risk of eye strain. Stephen Hannan, clinical services director at Optical Express, said: "Fasting during Ramadan is a deeply rewarding experience, but it's important to be mindful of how it can impact your vision. "Dehydration and inadequate nutrition can contribute to dry eye syndrome and visual discomfort." He advised those fasting to drink plenty of water between iftar and suhoor, eat nutrient-rich foods and take regular breaks from screens to prevent eye strain. He also suggested using eye drops if needed and ensuring quality sleep to prevent eye fatigue. Mr Hannan added: "Taking proactive steps to care for your eyes during Ramadan can enhance both your fasting experience and long-term eye health."