Dr. David Plemel – Ophthalmologist | Calgary, AB

Dr. David Plemel 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 Calgary, AB, he is a trusted provider of comprehensive eye care in the community. The clinic is located in Calgary's SW neighborhoods of Killarney, Glendale, and Glenbrook, offering easy access and a welcoming environment for patients seeking high-quality eye services. Situated conveniently near major transit routes, including connections north and south via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT), the clinic ensures accessibility for all patients. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all, with on-site or nearby public parking generally available. Dr. Plemel adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), focusing on delivering safe, effective, and compassionate eye care in a patient-centered setting.

He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Saskatchewan in 2015. An experienced Ophthalmologist, he has completed extensive postgraduate training, including specialized residencies and fellowships, to develop expertise in medical and surgical eye care. Dr. Plemel holds the necessary certifications to practice as an Ophthalmologist in Alberta, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professional competence and patient safety.

Driven by a philosophy of preserving and improving vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care, Dr. Plemel emphasizes 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 to prevent vision loss. Collaborating with other healthcare professionals as needed, he strives to provide comprehensive care that supports overall patient well-being. Fluent in French, he ensures clear communication with all patients, fostering trust and understanding in every consultation.

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

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

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

• Astigmatism: Often occurs in conjunction with myopia or hyperopia.
• Candidates for Refractive Surgery (e.g., LASIK, PRK, ICL): Discussion of different refractive surgery options and their suitability.
• Presbyopia: A natural part of the aging process of the eye.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

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

• 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.
• Dislocated Intraocular Lens (IOL) or Natural Lens: Can cause significant visual disturbances.

Glaucoma Management

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

• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage and vision loss occur despite intraocular pressure being within the normal range.
• 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): Managed with eye drops, laser trabeculoplasty, or surgical procedures (e.g., trabeculectomy, glaucoma drainage devices).

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

• Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Conditions: Referral to subspecialists when necessary for complex conditions.
• Laser Treatments for Glaucoma (SLT, LPI, Cyclophotocoagulation): Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) to improve fluid drainage in open-angle glaucoma.
• Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Personalized lens selection based on lifestyle and visual goals.
• Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Prescription and fitting of corrective lenses, including specialized contact lenses.
• Surgical Procedures for Glaucoma (Trabeculectomy, Glaucoma Drainage Devices/Shunts, MIGS): Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) procedures, often combined with cataract surgery.
• Comprehensive Adult and Pediatric Eye Examinations: Includes refraction for glasses/contacts, intraocular pressure measurement, and dilated fundus examination.

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

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

Dr. Plemel practices at a specialized eye clinic centrally located in Calgary's SW neighborhoods, including Killarney, Glendale, and Glenbrook. The clinic is easily accessible via major transit routes, such as the Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT), making it convenient for patients from all parts of the city. The facility is designed to be accessible and welcoming, with on-site or nearby public parking generally available. The clinic provides a comprehensive environment for a full spectrum of eye care services, from routine eye exams to advanced surgical procedures, all delivered in a professional and patient-focused setting.

When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Plemel?

You should see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Plemel 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.

What does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Plemel specialize in?

Dr. Plemel is an Ophthalmologist, a physician with extensive training in all aspects of eye health. He provides complete eye exams, diagnoses conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal diseases, and can perform complex eye surgeries. Providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.

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

Dr. Plemel 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.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Plemel?

Yes, a referral from a family doctor or optometrist is generally necessary to see Dr. Plemel for medical or surgical eye conditions covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). This helps coordinate your care effectively. If you have an urgent eye problem, contact Dr. Plemel's office or seek emergency eye care as appropriate, as referral requirements may differ in emergencies. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (403) 255-7764.

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

The key difference is that an Ophthalmologist, such as Dr. Plemel, 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.

Does Dr. Plemel perform cataract surgery?

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

a specialized eye clinic in Calgary
300-5 Richard Way SW
Calgary, AB T3E 7M8

Office Phone: (403) 255-5561 | Office Fax: (403) 255-7764

Dr. Plemel is a licensed Ophthalmologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or optometrist may be required for a consultation with Dr. Plemel, particularly for services covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

Verify Dr. Plemel's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=d57666f8-1b22-4e24-a139-71b58aab8789&i=1164