Dr. Selwyn Leigh Abel – Ophthalmologist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Selwyn Leigh Abel 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 Toronto, ON, he is a trusted provider of comprehensive eye care within the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective treatment for every patient. Dr. Abel's focus is on delivering compassionate, personalized care, with an emphasis on preserving and improving vision for his patients. The clinic provides a full spectrum of eye care services, from routine vision checks to advanced surgical procedures, in a patient-friendly setting.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of the Witwatersrand Faculty of Health Sciences in South Africa and has been practicing as an Ophthalmologist with over 42 years of specialized experience since 1982. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His extensive training and certification enable him to offer expert diagnosis and management of a wide range of eye conditions, utilizing the latest technologies and treatment approaches.

Dr. Abel’s professional philosophy is centered on early detection and proactive management of eye diseases to prevent vision loss. He is committed to educating his patients about their eye health, involving them actively in treatment decisions. Utilizing state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, he provides precise and effective treatments. His dedication extends to 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 trusting, long-term relationships with his patients.

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

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

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

• Astigmatism: Corrected with glasses, toric contact lenses, or refractive surgery.
• Candidates for Refractive Surgery (e.g., LASIK, PRK, ICL): Discussion of different refractive surgery options and their suitability.
• Hyperopia (Farsightedness): May cause eye strain or headaches, especially with close work.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

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

• 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.
• Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Can significantly impact visual development and requires prompt surgical intervention if visually significant.
• Age-Related Cataracts: The most common type of cataract.

Glaucoma Management

Dr. Abel addresses early detection and lifelong management are crucial to preserving sight.

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Acute or Chronic): Laser iridotomy is a common preventative or treatment procedure.
• Congenital or Childhood Glaucoma: Requires prompt surgical intervention to control eye pressure and prevent blindness.
• 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. Selwyn Abel is necessary.

• Medical Management of Glaucoma (Prescription Eye Drops): Regular follow-up to assess treatment efficacy and side effects.
• Laser Treatments for Glaucoma (SLT, LPI, Cyclophotocoagulation): Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) to improve fluid drainage in open-angle glaucoma.
• Emergency Eye Care Services: Urgent evaluation and treatment for acute eye injuries, sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, or infections.
• Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Conditions: Prescription of appropriate medications and therapies.
• Comprehensive Adult and Pediatric Eye Examinations: Includes refraction for glasses/contacts, intraocular pressure measurement, and dilated fundus examination.
• Surgical Procedures for Glaucoma (Trabeculectomy, Glaucoma Drainage Devices/Shunts, MIGS): Reserved for glaucoma not adequately controlled by medications or laser.

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

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

Dr. Abel practices primarily at a specialized eye clinic situated in Toronto, ON. The clinic is conveniently located near the University of Toronto (St. George Campus south edge), accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, providing a welcoming environment for comprehensive eye care. Surgical procedures, when necessary, are often performed at St. Joseph’s Health Centre, located in Toronto's historic neighborhood of The Kingsway, Montgomery's Inn, and Old Mill North. Patients can usually find convenient parking options in proximity to the eye care center, making visits comfortable and hassle-free.

When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Abel?

A visit to Dr. Abel 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 are some common eye conditions treated by Dr. Abel?

Dr. Abel 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. Abel?

For most consultations with an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Abel that are covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)), a referral from your family physician or an optometrist is typically required. This ensures that your visit is appropriate and that Dr. Abel 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. Abel's office regarding their referral policy. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (416) 233-4763.

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

Most medical and surgical eye care provided by Dr. Abel for diagnosed eye conditions is covered under Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). 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. Abel's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

How does Dr. Abel treat glaucoma?

Dr. Abel 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.

a specialized eye clinic in Toronto
3101 Bloor Street West
Toronto, ON M8X 2W2

Office Phone: (416) 239-1968 | Office Fax: (416) 233-4763

Dr. Abel is a licensed Ophthalmologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or optometrist may be required for a consultation with Dr. Abel, particularly for services covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Verify Dr. Abel's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Abel-Selwyn-Leigh/0028570-33393