Dr. Hendrik Louw – Ophthalmologist | Cranbrook, BC

Dr. Hendrik Louw 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 Cranbrook in Cranbrook, BC, he is a trusted provider of comprehensive eye care in the community. His practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality, safe, and effective treatment. Dr. Louw’s role encompasses a broad 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 basic vision checks to advanced surgical procedures, in a patient-friendly setting.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) from the University of Pretoria in South Africa. An experienced Ophthalmologist, he has completed extensive postgraduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice in British Columbia. His training includes comprehensive residency programs and subspecialty fellowships, ensuring he is well-equipped to handle a wide array of eye conditions with expertise and precision.

Dr. Louw’s professional philosophy is centered on preserving and improving vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care. He is dedicated to educating patients about their eye health and involving them in all 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 diseases to prevent vision loss, while collaborating with other healthcare professionals for comprehensive patient care. All communication and care are conducted in English, with a strong commitment to enhancing each patient’s quality of life through optimal eye health.

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

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

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

• Astigmatism: An imperfection in the curvature of the eye's cornea or lens, causing blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
• 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.
• Hyperopia (Farsightedness): A condition where near objects may appear blurry (and sometimes distant objects too) because the eye focuses images behind the retina.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

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

• Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Commonly referred to as an 'after-cataract'.
• Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Clouding of the lens present at birth or developing in early childhood.
• Dislocated Intraocular Lens (IOL) or Natural Lens: Malposition of an implanted artificial lens or the eye's natural lens, often due to trauma or zonular weakness.

Glaucoma Management

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

• Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): The most common form of glaucoma, characterized by a gradual increase in eye pressure and slow, painless loss of peripheral vision.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Acute or Chronic): Laser iridotomy is a common preventative or treatment procedure.
• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage and vision loss occur despite intraocular pressure being within the normal range.

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

• Comprehensive Adult and Pediatric Eye Examinations: Includes refraction for glasses/contacts, intraocular pressure measurement, and dilated fundus examination.
• Emergency Eye Care Services: Access to immediate care to prevent long-term vision damage.
• Medical Management of Glaucoma (Prescription Eye Drops): Regular follow-up to assess treatment efficacy and side effects.
• Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Offering premium IOL options designed to reduce dependence on glasses after cataract surgery.
• YAG Laser Capsulotomy (for Secondary Cataract): A quick and painless outpatient laser procedure to treat posterior capsular opacification (secondary cataract) that can occur 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.

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

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. Louw practices at a specialized eye clinic situated in the heart of Cranbrook, BC. The clinic is located in a vibrant neighborhood close to various medical facilities and optical services, making it convenient for patients to access comprehensive eye care. It is easily reachable via local public transit routes, ensuring accessibility for all patients. The facility is designed to be welcoming and accessible, with ample parking nearby, including some accessible spots. The clinic offers a professional environment dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered eye care, with state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options in a comfortable setting.

How does Dr. Louw treat glaucoma?

Dr. Louw 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.

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

Dr. Louw 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.

Does Dr. Louw perform cataract surgery?

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

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Louw?

Yes, a referral from a family doctor or optometrist is generally necessary to see Dr. Louw for medical or surgical eye conditions covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). This helps coordinate your care effectively. If you have an urgent eye problem, contact Dr. Louw'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 (250) 426-7987.

When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Louw?

A visit to Dr. Louw 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.

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

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

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

Most medical and surgical eye care provided by Dr. Louw for diagnosed eye conditions is covered under Medical Services Plan (MSP). This includes treatments for diseases like cataracts and glaucoma. Routine eye check-ups for vision testing (refraction) may not be covered for all age groups unless there's an underlying medical reason. Elective cosmetic procedures are generally not covered by provincial health insurance. 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. Louw's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

a specialized eye clinic in Cranbrook
101-111 Kootenay St N
Cranbrook, BC V1C 3T5

Office Phone: (250) 426-7997 | Office Fax: (250) 426-7987

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

Verify Dr. Louw's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/324741/Louw%2CHendrik