Dr. Robin Warren Cottle 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 New Westminster in New Westminster, 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), ensuring that every patient receives safe, effective, and compassionate care. 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 patient-friendly environment designed for comfort and accessibility, equipped to handle a variety of eye health needs.
Dr. Cottle graduated with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 1978 and has extensive postgraduate training in ophthalmology. He is an experienced Ophthalmologist with a focus on both medical and surgical treatments. He holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professional expertise and ongoing education in eye care.
His professional philosophy centers 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 their treatment plans. Utilizing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, he aims for precise and effective treatments. Dr. Cottle emphasizes early detection and proactive management of eye conditions to prevent vision loss. He values collaborative care with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive well-being for his patients. All communication and care are provided in English, with a focus on building trust and understanding in the New Westminster community.
Dr. Robin Cottle provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of eye conditions, including:
Refractive Errors and Vision Correction
Dr. Cottle addresses common eye conditions where the eye does not bend (refract) light properly, leading to blurred vision.
- Hyperopia (Farsightedness): Corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.
- Astigmatism: Often occurs in conjunction with myopia or hyperopia.
- Presbyopia: Corrected with reading glasses, bifocals, progressive lenses, multifocal contact lenses, or specific surgical options.
Cataracts and Lens Disorders
Dr. Cottle 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.
- Dislocated Intraocular Lens (IOL) or Natural Lens: Can cause significant visual disturbances.
- Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Treated with a quick and painless YAG laser capsulotomy procedure.
Glaucoma Management
Dr. Cottle addresses a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often characterized by increased intraocular pressure, leading to progressive, irreversible vision loss.
- 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.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage and vision loss occur despite intraocular pressure being within the normal range.
- Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): Regular eye exams are key for early detection.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, a consultation with Dr. Robin Cottle is necessary.
- Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Prescription and fitting of corrective lenses, including specialized contact lenses.
- Medical Management of Glaucoma (Prescription Eye Drops): Regular follow-up to assess treatment efficacy and side effects.
- Surgical Procedures for Glaucoma (Trabeculectomy, Glaucoma Drainage Devices/Shunts, MIGS): Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) procedures, often combined with cataract surgery.
- Emergency Eye Care Services: Urgent evaluation and treatment for acute eye injuries, sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, or infections.
- Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Personalized lens selection based on lifestyle and visual goals.
- 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. Cottle.
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. Cottle practices at a specialized eye clinic situated in the heart of New Westminster's Downtown Quayside neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Westminster Pier Park, making it an ideal choice for patients seeking comprehensive eye care in a welcoming environment. Easily accessible via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus routes, the facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients. Ample parking options are generally available in close proximity to the clinic, ensuring a smooth and stress-free visit. The practice offers a professional, friendly atmosphere dedicated to high-quality eye health services for the community.
- Does Dr. Cottle perform cataract surgery?
- Most Ophthalmologists, including Dr. Cottle, are highly experienced in performing cataract surgery. This outpatient procedure is very effective in improving vision affected by cataracts. Dr. Cottle would assess the severity of your cataracts and determine if surgery is the best course of action for you.
- When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Cottle?
- You should see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Cottle 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. Cottle treat glaucoma?
- Dr. Cottle 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 does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Cottle specialize in?
- An Ophthalmologist, such as Dr. Cottle, 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. Dr. Cottle provides 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. Cottle?
- For most consultations with an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Cottle 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. Cottle 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. Cottle's office regarding their referral policy. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (604) 544-5157.
a specialized eye clinic in New Westminster
204-625 Fifth Ave
New Westminster, BC V3M 1X4
Office Phone: (604) 521-3232 | Office Fax: (604) 544-5157
Dr. Cottle 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. Cottle, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Cottle's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/304250/Cottle%2CRobin