For the past 20 years Helderberg optometrist Colin van Wyk Optometrists has solved any challenging optical problem, providing excellent service to all its patients.
Situated at 17 Lourensford Road, Somerset West, it assesses people with low vision and assists them with a wide range of enhancing devices, home modifications and coping techniques. The practice also has a Wise Eye Reading Academy, where eye movements are scientifically assessed during reading.
Elza van Wyk, who manages the practice with Linda Pienaar, recalls its beginnings in 2004, when it had only two staffers, Colin van Wyk and his wife. The eight it now boasts include three optometrists – Colin van Wyk, Jacque le Roux and Meriek van den Berg – an occupational therapist (Pienaar), two dispensers, Lizanne Kotzè and Michaela Strydom, and the friendly receptionist, Liezl van der Merwe.
Pienaar also elaborated on Colin van Wyk Optometrists’ offerings: “We are proud of our comprehensive 45-minute eye test, using the latest equipment. We have an Optical Coherence Tomography [OCT] for retinal imaging and early diagnosis of glaucoma or retinal abnormalities, and for fitting specialised scleral lenses for damaged corneas.
“We use Corneal Topography for tracking changes in front-surface diseases such as keratoconus, and for diagnosis and treatment of dry eyes. We have a Wide Field Fundus camera that helps with retinal holes or tears, and to assess retinal changes associated with systemic conditions.”
Colin van Wyk Optometrists boasts an extensive range of branded spectacle-frame options that include budget to high-end products and spectacle lenses from France and Germany, all carrying a warranty. It also has sunglasses and children’s frames.
“Staff are trained to help choose the correct frame and lenses to suit the person’s needs, including specialised prescription sunglasses for golf, shooting and cycling. The practice is contracted to most medical aids.”
It also fits soft and hard contact lenses, and scleral lenses.
It has an on-site laboratory that cuts lenses while people wait and does repairs, fittings and transfers.
Pienaar said the practice is always seeking new ways to address ocular needs, with staff continuously expanding their knowledge and expertise.
They are, for instance, undergoing training to provide dyslexia diagnosis and therapy as well as orthoptics and visual therapy, and they remain updated on the latest research in Myopia Control.
Eye examinations are also offered for driving licences as is free screening for Grade R children at several Helderberg schools.
Colin van Wyk Optometrists works with the Imibala Trust to provide poor children of school-going age with free eye tests and special packages.
“We would like to thank all our loyal customers who, over the last 20 years, have entrusted their visual needs to us, and we are grateful to the Helderberg community for all their support,” said Van Wyk.
- Contact them on 021 852 0320 or vision@colinvanwyk.co.za.
