Dr. Andrew Dennis Lukaris – Ophthalmologist | Prince George, BC

Dr. Andrew Dennis Lukaris is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, committed to providing exceptional medical and surgical eye care to patients of all ages. Practicing at Dr Andrew D. Lukaris Inc. in Prince George, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized eye care in the community. He adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). As a skilled 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 comprehensive, patient-friendly environment designed to meet the diverse needs of its patients.

He graduated with MB BCh from the University of Wales in 1996 and has accumulated extensive postgraduate training in ophthalmology. Dr. Lukaris is an experienced ophthalmologist with key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring his practice meets rigorous national standards. His ongoing commitment to professional development enables him to stay current with the latest advancements in eye care and surgical techniques.

Dr. Lukaris’s professional philosophy revolves around preserving and enhancing vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care. He is dedicated to educating patients about their eye health, involving them actively in treatment decisions. Utilizing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, he aims for precise and effective treatments. His focus is on early detection and management of eye conditions to prevent vision loss, and he collaborates closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient well-being. He offers all patient communication and care in English, with a steadfast dedication to protecting and improving the vision and eye health of those in Prince George.

Dr. Andrew Lukaris provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of eye conditions, including:

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

Dr. Lukaris addresses management of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related farsightedness).

• Myopia (Nearsightedness): A condition where distant objects appear blurry because the eye focuses images in front of the retina instead of on the retina.
• Hyperopia (Farsightedness): A condition where near objects may appear blurry (and sometimes distant objects too) because the eye focuses images behind the retina.
• Astigmatism: Corrected with glasses, toric contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

Dr. Lukaris addresses a leading cause of reversible vision impairment, especially in older adults.

• Dislocated Intraocular Lens (IOL) or Natural Lens: Can cause significant visual disturbances.
• Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Commonly referred to as an 'after-cataract'.
• 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.

Glaucoma Management

Dr. Lukaris 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.
• Secondary Glaucoma (e.g., due to trauma, inflammation, steroids): Glaucoma that develops as a result of another medical condition, eye injury, medication use (like steroids), or previous eye surgery.
• 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. Andrew Lukaris is necessary.

• Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Offering premium IOL options designed to reduce dependence on glasses after cataract surgery.
• Glaucoma Screening, Diagnosis, and Monitoring: Comprehensive testing for glaucoma including intraocular pressure measurement, optic nerve imaging (OCT), visual field testing, and gonioscopy.
• Cataract Evaluation and Surgical Management: Surgical removal of cataracts (phacoemulsification) with implantation of advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs).
• Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Conditions: Referral to subspecialists when necessary for complex conditions.
• Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (Femtosecond Laser): May improve corneal incisions, capsulotomy creation, and lens fragmentation.
• Emergency Eye Care Services: Access to immediate care to prevent long-term vision damage.

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

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

Dr. Lukaris's primary eye clinic, Dr Andrew D. Lukaris Inc., is located in the heart of Downtown Prince George, Central. The clinic is conveniently situated near Pine Centre Mall, making it easily accessible for patients. Patients can reach the clinic via the Prince George Transit System (BC Transit), with accessible facilities designed to ensure comfort for everyone. The eye care center offers a welcoming and professional environment for comprehensive eye examinations, surgical procedures, and ongoing eye health management. Ample parking options are usually available nearby, providing convenience for those visiting for appointments or urgent care needs.

Does Dr. Lukaris perform cataract surgery?

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

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Lukaris?

For most consultations with an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Lukaris that are covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP)), a referral from your family physician or an optometrist is typically required. This ensures that your visit is appropriate and that Dr. Lukaris 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. Lukaris's office regarding their referral policy. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (250) 596-8302.

What are some common eye conditions treated by Dr. Lukaris?

Dr. Lukaris 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.

Are services from Dr. Lukaris covered by provincial health insurance?

Medically necessary services provided by an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Lukaris, 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, Medical Services Plan (MSP). 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. Lukaris's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP). Medically necessary eye exams and treatments for eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). 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. Lukaris's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Lukaris?

You should see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Lukaris for comprehensive eye examinations, especially if you have a family history of eye disease, are over 40, or have medical conditions like diabetes that can affect your eyes. Also, seek consultation for any sudden vision changes, eye pain, injury, persistent redness, or if referred by your family doctor or optometrist for a specific eye condition.

How does Dr. Lukaris treat glaucoma?

Dr. Lukaris 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.

Dr Andrew D. Lukaris Inc.
200-1440 2nd Ave
Prince George, BC V2L 3B6

Office Phone: (250) 596-3011 | Office Fax: (250) 596-8302 | Practice Website: http://www.drandrewlukaris.com/

Dr. Lukaris is a licensed Ophthalmologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or optometrist may be required for a consultation with Dr. Lukaris, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Verify Dr. Lukaris's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/332672/Lukaris%2CAndrew