Dr. Sherif Rashad El-Defrawy – Ophthalmologist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Sherif Rashad El-Defrawy is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, committed to providing exceptional medical and surgical eye care to patients of all ages. Practicing at London Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, ON, he is a trusted provider of specialized eye care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective treatment for every patient. As a comprehensive Ophthalmologist, he offers a full spectrum of services from routine eye examinations and vision correction to the management of complex eye diseases and surgical interventions. The clinic provides a full spectrum of eye care services, from routine vision checks to advanced surgical procedures, in a patient-friendly setting.

Dr. El-Defrawy graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Calgary in Canada. He has been practicing as an Ophthalmologist for over 31 years, since 1993, gaining extensive experience in the field. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his commitment to maintaining excellence in eye care and staying current with evolving medical practices. His certifications and ongoing professional development ensure he provides evidence-based, state-of-the-art treatments tailored to each patient's needs.

Driven by a commitment to preserving and improving vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care, Dr. El-Defrawy emphasizes educating his patients about their eye health and involving them in treatment decisions. He utilizes advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for precise and effective treatments, with a focus on early detection and management of eye diseases to prevent vision loss. He values collaborative care, working with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient well-being. Fluent in French, he ensures clear communication with all patients, fostering a trusting and informative environment. His dedication to patient vision and eye health in Toronto is evident in his personalized approach and ongoing pursuit of excellence.

Dr. Sherif El-Defrawy provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of eye conditions, including:

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

Dr. El-Defrawy addresses common eye conditions where the eye does not bend (refract) light properly, leading to blurred vision.

• Myopia (Nearsightedness): Often develops in childhood and can progress through adolescence.
• Candidates for Refractive Surgery (e.g., LASIK, PRK, ICL): Evaluation of individuals interested in surgical procedures to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
• Presbyopia: A natural part of the aging process of the eye.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

Dr. El-Defrawy addresses primary treatment involves surgical removal of the cataract and implantation of an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

• Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Can significantly impact visual development and requires prompt surgical intervention if visually significant.
• Age-Related Cataracts: Clouding of the eye's natural lens that occurs as part of the aging process, leading to blurry vision, glare, and difficulty seeing at night.
• Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Clouding of the posterior lens capsule that can occur months or years after cataract surgery.

Glaucoma Management

Dr. El-Defrawy addresses medical, laser, and surgical treatments aimed at lowering eye pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage.

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Acute or Chronic): A type of glaucoma where the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, leading to a sudden (acute) or gradual (chronic) rise in eye pressure.
• Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): Regular eye exams are key for early detection.
• Congenital or Childhood Glaucoma: A rare form of glaucoma occurring in infants and young children due to abnormal development of the eye's drainage system.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, a consultation with Dr. Sherif El-Defrawy is necessary.

• Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Offering premium IOL options designed to reduce dependence on glasses after cataract surgery.
• Emergency Eye Care Services: Access to immediate care to prevent long-term vision damage.
• YAG Laser Capsulotomy (for Secondary Cataract): Commonly performed to address blurry vision months or years post-surgery.
• Cataract Evaluation and Surgical Management: Discussion of IOL options (monofocal, toric, multifocal, extended depth of focus) to meet individual visual needs.
• Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Prescription and fitting of corrective lenses, including specialized contact lenses.
• Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Conditions: Referral to subspecialists when necessary for complex conditions.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough eye examination and consultation with Dr. El-Defrawy.

All ophthalmology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. A referral from a physician or optometrist may be required for consultation.

Dr. El-Defrawy's primary eye clinic is located at London Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, ON. The clinic is situated in a vibrant area near the University of Toronto (St. George Campus south edge), within the neighborhoods of Kensington Market, Chinatown, and Grange Park. The facility offers a professional, welcoming environment designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients. Patients can reach the clinic conveniently via TTC services including subway, streetcar, and bus lines. Parking options are usually available in proximity to the eye care center, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive eye care close to downtown Toronto.

How does Dr. El-Defrawy treat glaucoma?

Dr. El-Defrawy manages glaucoma with the goal of lowering intraocular pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. Treatment options may include prescription eye drops, laser therapy (like SLT or LPI), or surgical procedures such as trabeculectomy, glaucoma drainage devices, or Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS). The specific approach depends on the type and severity of glaucoma.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. El-Defrawy?

For most consultations with an Ophthalmologist like Dr. El-Defrawy that are covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)), a referral from your family physician or an optometrist is typically required. This ensures that your visit is appropriate and that Dr. El-Defrawy receives relevant medical history. For some urgent eye conditions or specific services, direct access might be possible, but it's always best to check with Dr. El-Defrawy's office regarding their referral policy. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (416) 928-5075.

What are some common eye conditions treated by Dr. El-Defrawy?

Dr. El-Defrawy treats a wide array of eye conditions. Common ones include refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism), cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye syndrome, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and eyelid disorders. Depending on any subspecialty training, he may also manage more complex retinal, corneal, or neuro-ophthalmic conditions. providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.

What does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. El-Defrawy specialize in?

An Ophthalmologist, such as Dr. El-Defrawy, is a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) who specializes in comprehensive eye and vision care. This includes medical diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of eye diseases and disorders, as well as prescribing eyeglasses and contact lenses. a Ophthalmologist, providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.

Are services from Dr. El-Defrawy covered by provincial health insurance?

Medically necessary services provided by an Ophthalmologist like Dr. El-Defrawy, such as the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases (e.g., glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy) and medically indicated surgeries (e.g., cataract surgery), are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). However, routine eye exams for adults of certain age groups without specific medical conditions, and procedures considered cosmetic (like elective refractive surgery or some eyelid procedures) are typically not covered. It's advisable to confirm coverage details with Dr. El-Defrawy's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Medically necessary eye exams and treatments for eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Routine eye exams for glasses/contacts for adults (usually ages 19-64) may not be covered unless a specific medical condition affecting the eyes is present. Elective procedures such as cosmetic eyelid surgery or refractive laser surgery (LASIK/PRK) are generally not covered. It is recommended to verify coverage specifics with Dr. El-Defrawy's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Does Dr. El-Defrawy perform cataract surgery?

Yes, cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures performed by Ophthalmologists like Dr. El-Defrawy. It involves removing the cloudy natural lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision. Dr. El-Defrawy can evaluate your cataracts and discuss the surgical options, including different types of IOLs.

What is the difference between an Ophthalmologist like Dr. El-Defrawy and an Optometrist?

The key difference is that an Ophthalmologist, such as Dr. El-Defrawy, is a physician and surgeon specializing in eye care, able to provide the full spectrum of medical and surgical treatments for eye diseases. Optometrists are primary eye care providers who conduct eye exams, prescribe glasses and contacts, and can diagnose and manage many eye conditions with medications or refer to an ophthalmologist for more complex issues or surgery. Both play vital roles in eye health.

London Health Sciences Centre
C8-124, 340 College Street, University Campus Department of Surgery
Toronto, ON M5T 3A9

Office Phone: (416) 928-1335 | Office Fax: (416) 928-5075

Dr. El-Defrawy is a licensed Ophthalmologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or optometrist may be required for a consultation with Dr. El-Defrawy, particularly for services covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Verify Dr. El-Defrawy's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/ElDefrawy-Sherif-Rashad/0047154-61132