Dr. Seymour Albert Hershenfeld – Ophthalmologist | North York, ON

Dr. Seymour Albert Hershenfeld 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 North York in North York, ON, 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 Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that each patient receives comprehensive and compassionate treatment. As an experienced 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 full spectrum of eye care services, from routine vision checks to advanced surgical procedures, in a patient-friendly setting.

Dr. Hershenfeld graduated with a Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in Canada. He 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), reflecting his extensive training and expertise in the field of eye health. His certifications demonstrate a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of ophthalmic practice in Canada.

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 treatment decisions. Utilizing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, he ensures precise and effective treatments. Dr. Hershenfeld emphasizes early detection and management of eye diseases to prevent vision loss. He collaborates with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care and is proficient in French, allowing him to communicate clearly and effectively with a diverse patient population in North York. His commitment is to maintain optimal eye health and enhance quality of life for his patients.

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

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

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

• Candidates for Refractive Surgery (e.g., LASIK, PRK, ICL): Assessment includes corneal thickness, refractive error stability, and overall eye health.
• Hyperopia (Farsightedness): May cause eye strain or headaches, especially with close work.
• Myopia (Nearsightedness): Corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery (e.g., LASIK, PRK).

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

Dr. Hershenfeld addresses primary treatment involves surgical removal of the cataract and implantation of an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

• Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Often associated with other systemic conditions or genetic factors.
• Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Commonly referred to as an 'after-cataract'.
• 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. Hershenfeld addresses a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often characterized by increased intraocular pressure, leading to progressive, irreversible vision loss.

• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Diagnosis can be challenging.
• Secondary Glaucoma (e.g., due to trauma, inflammation, steroids): Treatment involves managing the underlying cause and lowering eye pressure.
• 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. Seymour Hershenfeld is necessary.

• Cataract Evaluation and Surgical Management: Surgical removal of cataracts (phacoemulsification) with implantation of advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs).
• Surgical Procedures for Glaucoma (Trabeculectomy, Glaucoma Drainage Devices/Shunts, MIGS): Reserved for glaucoma not adequately controlled by medications or laser.
• YAG Laser Capsulotomy (for Secondary Cataract): Commonly performed to address blurry vision months or years post-surgery.
• Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Offering premium IOL options designed to reduce dependence on glasses after cataract surgery.
• Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Prescription and fitting of corrective lenses, including specialized contact lenses.
• Glaucoma Screening, Diagnosis, and Monitoring: Risk assessment for individuals with family history or other risk factors.

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

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. Hershenfeld's primary eye clinic is situated in the heart of North York, a well-established and accessible area in Toronto, ON. The clinic is conveniently located in a vibrant neighborhood close to various medical facilities and optical services, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive eye care. The location is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring easy accessibility for patients from surrounding communities. The clinic's premises are designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, with on-site or nearby public parking generally available. Patients can expect a welcoming environment dedicated to providing personalized and attentive eye care in a professional setting.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Hershenfeld?

For most consultations with an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Hershenfeld 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. Hershenfeld 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. Hershenfeld's office regarding their referral policy. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (647) 351-1393.

Does Dr. Hershenfeld perform cataract surgery?

Most Ophthalmologists, including Dr. Hershenfeld, are highly experienced in performing cataract surgery. This outpatient procedure is very effective in improving vision affected by cataracts. Dr. Hershenfeld would assess the severity of your cataracts and determine if surgery is the best course of action for you.

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

Most medical and surgical eye care provided by Dr. Hershenfeld 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. Hershenfeld's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

What does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Hershenfeld specialize in?

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

An Ophthalmologist like Dr. Hershenfeld 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.

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

Dr. Hershenfeld 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.

How does Dr. Hershenfeld treat glaucoma?

For glaucoma, Dr. Hershenfeld will develop a personalized treatment plan which can involve daily eye drop medications to reduce eye pressure, in-office laser treatments to improve fluid drainage, or surgical interventions if medications and lasers are insufficient to control the pressure and protect your vision.

a specialized eye clinic in North York
7 Elmwood Ave
North York, ON M2N 6R6

Office Phone: (416) 748-2020 | Office Fax: (647) 351-1393

Dr. Hershenfeld 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. Hershenfeld, particularly for services covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Verify Dr. Hershenfeld's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Hershenfeld-Seymour-Albert/0025043-29866