Eye spy with my little eye… Our list of vision care specialists in Singapore that you should have in your address book!
It comes as no surprise that nowadays, myopia (and other eye-related problems) are on the rise, especially among kids. Excessive screen usage, reading in the dark, and even genetics are just a few causes of myopia. Psst, did you know that this particular eye condition is more prevalent in those with Asian roots? We had no eye-dea, either! Also, Singapore’s myopia rate is among the highest in the world. Thus, the country is often known as the “myopia capital of the world”. Yikes!
That said, are you looking for an eye specialist to check your peepers? Here’s our guide to who you should consult in Singapore, whether it’s an optometrist, an ophthalmologist, or an optician.
The three O’s: optometrist, ophthalmologist, optician
Betcha didn’t know there are three different types of eye care specialists! (Honestly, neither did we!) An optometrist is an eye care specialist that can examine, diagnose, and treat certain eye conditions. An ophthalmologist is an eye care medical doctor that can diagnose all kinds of eye problems and perform surgeries. They’re essentially the levelled-up version of an optometrist. Finally, an optician is an eye care professional that you most often see when you drop by an optical shop.
Now that we’re clear on the definitions, take a peek at our list of eye care specialists in Singapore that you can look into for your family’s eye problems…
Eye care specialists in Singapore
1. Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC)
Optometrist/Ophthalmologist
This is the place you should be eyeing for all your vision-related issues. In operation since 1990, this designated national eye centre provides a full range of eye treatments and clinical services. There’s a dedicated clinic on the third floor that manages all kinds of childhood eye disorders. It features child-friendly facilities that’ll keep the littlies occupied while waiting for their consultation. Is kiddo experiencing double vision, lazy eye, or been squinting of late? The orthoptist (another O!), a trained eye health professional that evaluates and manages conditions involving eye movement and alignment, will take a look.
Singapore National Eye Centre, 11 Third Hospital Avenue, Singapore 168751
2. W Optics
Optometrist/Optician
One of the largest optical stores in Singapore, this shop offers myriad services for your vision care. If you suspect that your child may have myopia, you may want to consider Ortho-K, which significantly slows down myopia progression. This non-surgical procedure is typically recommended for those aged seven and beyond. Yes, adults are eligible for the corrective treatment too! Its flagship store at Suntec City features a fun kids corner where your little people can play with puzzles or draw while getting framed.
W Optics, various locations across Singapore
3. Zoff
Optician
This Japanese brand claims to be more than just an eyewear brand, and we have to agree. Its extensive collection of eyewear designs will leave you spoiled for choice! Kids (and perhaps even adults) will be interested in the Peanuts and Disney collections, which has frames inspired by the respective animations. There’s also the Zoff-U-15 Programme, an initiative that allows parents to change their children’s prescription lenses for free within a year after making their purchase. This programme is only applicable to ages 15 and below.
Zoff, several branches throughout Singapore
4. Asia Retina Eye Surgery Centre
Optometrist/Ophthalmologist
Are you concerned about retinal care? Well, this medical centre is a good place to gather more information. Asia Retina offers a full suite of eye care services and aims to spread eye wellness as well as prevent eye diseases. Modern techniques and instruments are used to help patients improve their eye vision and health. Plus, the centre also has a mobile app that enables you to do vision tests on your own, book appointments, and keep track of your medical records. Handy!
Asia Retina Eye Surgery Centre, The Paragon, 290 Orchard Road #15-10, Singapore 238859
5. Dr Leo Adult & Paediatric Eye Specialist
Optometrist/Ophthalmologist
This eye clinic was established to provide a vast range of services for your eye care needs. The team’s led by Dr Leo Seo Wei, an ophthalmologist with over 20 years of experience under her belt and is well-equipped to perform complex eye surgeries. You can bring your little people over for a comprehensive eye screening and treatment of complex eye problems. Psst, if you’re looking to control your kiddo’s myopia progression, the clinic stocks atropine eye drops, which has been proven super useful.
Dr Leo Adult & Paediatric Eye Specialist, Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre, 3 Mount Elizabeth #10-04, Singapore 228510
6. Foptics
Optician
Is there such a thing as stylish yet affordable eyewear? With Foptics, you won’t be burning a hole in your pocket getting eye-catching glasses for the little ones. The kids’ collection carries a series of colourful frames that won’t make them look like Harry Potter (but hey, if that’s the look they’re going for, then good for them!). Making your purchase with this homegrown brand is easy too: pick the frame that you want, select your lenses and prescription, and voila, your glasses will be ready in three days.
Foptics, 58B Pagoda Street #03-01, Singapore 059217
7. Eyecare Studio
Optometrist/Optician
Eyecare Studio’s commitment to excellence is an assurance that you’ll have peace of mind when you engage with them. Its optometrist and optician staff are qualified and registered under the Optometrist & Optician Board of Singapore. This means all diagnoses and eye examinations are done with utmost care and professionalism. Plus, everything is inexpensive, so you can go ahead and get those blue-light coated lenses to protect the littlies’ peepers.
Eyecare Studio, stores in Seletar Mall, Nex, and Jurong Point
8. Lenskart
Optician
You’ll probably have to do a bit of research if you want to know more about frame sizes, prescription types, and even eyewear care. But what we love about Lenskart is that it provides everything you need in one place on its website! Its frames for kids are simple yet timeless, which parents will appreciate. (Psst, this particular design caught our eye!) You can see how its frames will look on you with the virtual try-on function on its website. Ready to purchase but unsure of your prescription? Book a free eye power test and off you go!
Lenskart, multiple locations islandwide
9. The EyeClinic by Dr Cheryl Lee
Optometrist/Ophthalmologist
In the heart of Orchard Road lies this boutique eye clinic by Dr Cheryl Lee. With more than 10 years of international experience, the award-winning ophthalmologist returned to Singapore after her overseas stints and set up her clinic. Dr Lee’s responsible for increasing public awareness on Implantable Contact Lens, a reversible vision correction procedure that’s noted for being superior. She’s also a mother, so you can rest assured that your kiddies will be in good hands when consulting with Dr Lee.
The EyeClinic, Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Road #04-24/25, Singapore 238897
10. ACE Clinic
Optometrist/Ophthalmologist
Providing eye care for the family is this clinic’s mission. And we say, it definitely delivers on that statement. Located within Mt Elizabeth Hospital, ACE Clinic offers an extensive range of adult and paediatric eye services. The clinic’s medical director, Dr Cheryl Ngo, has carried out comprehensive research on children’s eye diseases, which include myopia and squinting.
Adult & Child Eye (ACE) Clinic, Mt Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, 38 Irrawaddy Road #07-43, Singapore 329563
Choosing the right pair of glasses for your kids
So you’ve decided to take the plunge and purchase a pair of glasses for the kiddo? Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as it looks. Here are a few things to consider:
1. Specs, but make it fashion
Always, always involve your child in the frame selection process. If your child loves their glasses, they’re more likely to wear them! If I recall correctly, I was always the one deciding how my glasses looked. Of course, that doesn’t necessarily translate to really good-looking glasses… But hey, at least they’re my decisions to regret.
2. All about the frame
Other than aesthetics, how the frame sits on your child’s face is most vital in terms of function and comfort. Do remember that the frame shouldn’t be too big or too small, doesn’t touch the cheeks, and the eyelashes are not touching the lens. For frame material, consider one that’s lightweight, robust, and won’t break easily. The number of times I’ve accidentally sat on my glasses and am relieved that they’re still intact… (Don’t do this on purpose, kids!) Lenskart has written down a thorough guide on frame sizes, fit, and material.
3. Remember, remember, the temples and nose bridge
One of the hardest parts about picking a pair of glasses for wee kids is that their nose bridge isn’t fully defined. Thus, there’s less support for the glasses, particularly if they don’t come with adjustable nose pads. Pick a frame that sits well on the nose bridge and won’t slide down easily. Regarding the temples (i.e. the arms on the frame’s sides), they should be at a good length and curve around the back of the ears comfortably. Too tight, and they’ll be uncomfortable to wear. Too loose, and your glasses will slide off too easily.
4. Through thick and thin (lens)
Once you and your child has agreed on the frame, it’s time to consider the lens. If the eye prescription is on the higher side, consider getting thinner lens. It’ll be pricier, not gonna lie, but your child won’t look like Sybill Trelawney after putting on their glasses, that’s for sure! Also, avoid glass lenses, which can break and are a safety hazard.
5. The backup plan
If you can afford it, purchase a second (AKA backup) pair of eyeglasses for your young one. As you know, children can be tough on practically anything, and you don’t want them losing sight while you replace their broken eyewear. Better to be safe than sorry!
How to take care of your (new) glasses
- Wear and remove your glasses by holding both temples. Use both hands to keep them fitting properly.
- When not being worn, store your glasses in their protective case. Don’t leave the glasses lying around – others might just kick, step, or sit on them!
- Use a microfibre cloth to wipe your glasses. Paper towels, tissues, and napkins might scratch the lens.
- If you need to adjust your kiddie’s glasses, bring them to your optician and they’ll do it for free. Don’t attempt to remedy yourself!
- Do not place your glasses on top of your head. Yes, the folks in television and film do that, but you don’t see them wearing the same pair of glasses all the time!
We hope this article has been an eye-opener for you!
