Dr. David Michael Butler – Ophthalmologist | Richmond, BC

Dr. David Michael Butler is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, committed to providing exceptional medical and surgical eye care to patients of all ages. Practicing at a specialized eye clinic in Richmond in Richmond, BC, 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 British Columbia (CPSBC). As a comprehensive provider, 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. Butler graduated with an MD from Dalhousie University in 1972 and is an experienced Ophthalmologist with extensive postgraduate training. He holds key certifications, including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in his field. His training and certifications enable him to deliver the highest standard of care, utilizing the latest in ophthalmic techniques and technology.

His professional philosophy centers on preserving and improving vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care. Dr. Butler is dedicated to educating his patients about their eye health and involving them in treatment decisions. He utilizes advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies to ensure precise and effective treatments. With a focus on early detection and management of eye diseases, he aims to prevent vision loss and promote optimal eye health. His approach emphasizes collaborative care with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient well-being. All communication and care are provided in English, with a strong commitment to patient comfort and understanding.

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

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

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

• Hyperopia (Farsightedness): A condition where near objects may appear blurry (and sometimes distant objects too) because the eye focuses images behind the retina.
• Presbyopia: Corrected with reading glasses, bifocals, progressive lenses, multifocal contact lenses, or specific surgical options.
• Astigmatism: Often occurs in conjunction with myopia or hyperopia.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

Dr. Butler addresses conditions related to the clouding of the eye's natural lens (cataract) or other lens abnormalities.

• Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Often associated with other systemic conditions or genetic factors.
• Age-Related Cataracts: Surgical removal and lens implant is a highly effective treatment.
• Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Treated with a quick and painless YAG laser capsulotomy procedure.

Glaucoma Management

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

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Acute or Chronic): Acute angle-closure is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Diagnosis can be challenging.
• Congenital or Childhood Glaucoma: Symptoms can include excessive tearing, light sensitivity, and an enlarged cloudy cornea.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, a consultation with Dr. David Butler is necessary.

• Glaucoma Screening, Diagnosis, and Monitoring: Risk assessment for individuals with family history or other risk factors.
• YAG Laser Capsulotomy (for Secondary Cataract): Restores clear vision by creating an opening in the clouded lens capsule.
• Cataract Evaluation and Surgical Management: Surgical removal of cataracts (phacoemulsification) with implantation of advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs).
• Medical Management of Glaucoma (Prescription Eye Drops): Tailoring medication regimens to individual patient needs and tolerance.
• Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (Femtosecond Laser): Potentially offers improved visual outcomes for select patients.
• Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Prescription and fitting of corrective lenses, including specialized contact lenses.

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

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. Butler practices at a specialized eye clinic located in the heart of Richmond's Central Richmond (City Centre North) neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near Lansdowne Centre Mall, with accessible public transportation options including TransLink services such as the SkyTrain Canada Line and bus routes. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, featuring ample parking nearby, with some accessible spots. The environment is professional and welcoming, dedicated to providing comprehensive eye care in a patient-friendly setting. Patients can expect a high standard of care delivered in a modern, accessible facility that prioritizes their comfort and convenience.

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

Dr. Butler 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 is the difference between an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Butler and an Optometrist?

An Ophthalmologist like Dr. Butler is a medical doctor (MD/DO) who has completed medical school followed by residency training in ophthalmology. They are licensed to practice medicine and surgery, diagnose and treat all eye diseases, perform eye surgery, and prescribe medications, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. Optometrists (OD) are healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive eye care, including vision testing, prescribing corrective lenses, and diagnosing and managing certain eye abnormalities and diseases (scope varies by province/territory). They typically do not perform invasive surgery.

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

Medically necessary services provided by an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Butler, 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. Butler'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. Butler's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Butler?

A visit to Dr. Butler is recommended for routine eye health check-ups, particularly if you have risk factors for eye diseases. Immediate attention is needed for symptoms such as sudden loss or blurring of vision, flashes of light, an increase in floaters, eye pain, or discharge. Your primary care physician or optometrist may also refer you for specialized medical or surgical eye care.

How does Dr. Butler treat glaucoma?

Dr. Butler 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. Butler?

For most consultations with an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Butler 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. Butler 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. Butler's office regarding their referral policy. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (604) 278-1477.

a specialized eye clinic in Richmond
350-6628 River Rd
Richmond, BC V6X 1X5

Office Phone: (604) 273-5134 | Office Fax: (604) 278-1477

Dr. Butler 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. Butler, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Verify Dr. Butler's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/350678/Butler%2CDavid