Dr. Steve Aaron Arshinoff – Ophthalmologist | Downsview, ON

Dr. Steve Aaron Arshinoff 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 Downsview in Downsview, ON, he is a trusted provider of specialized eye care in the community. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Arshinoff's role encompasses a comprehensive approach to eye health, offering 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.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Baylor College of Medicine in the United States. With over 45 years of specialized experience as an Ophthalmologist since 1979, he has established a reputation for excellence in eye care. Dr. Arshinoff is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His extensive training and certification ensure that patients receive care that meets the highest standards of Canadian ophthalmology practice.

Dr. Arshinoff'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 treatment decisions. Utilizing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, he provides precise and effective treatments. His focus on early detection and management of eye diseases aims to prevent vision loss, and he collaborates closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient well-being. Fluent in French, he ensures clear communication with all patients, emphasizing a personalized and respectful approach to eye health in Downsview.

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

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

Dr. Arshinoff addresses common eye conditions where the eye does not bend (refract) light properly, leading to blurred vision.

• Astigmatism: Often occurs in conjunction with myopia or hyperopia.
• 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): Corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

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

• 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: Malposition of an implanted artificial lens or the eye's natural lens, often due to trauma or zonular weakness.
• 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.

Glaucoma Management

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

• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage and vision loss occur despite intraocular pressure being within the normal range.
• Secondary Glaucoma (e.g., due to trauma, inflammation, steroids): Glaucoma that develops as a result of another medical condition, eye injury, medication use (like steroids), or previous eye surgery.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Acute or Chronic): Acute angle-closure is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.

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

• Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Prescription and fitting of corrective lenses, including specialized contact lenses.
• Glaucoma Screening, Diagnosis, and Monitoring: Comprehensive testing for glaucoma including intraocular pressure measurement, optic nerve imaging (OCT), visual field testing, and gonioscopy.
• Cataract Evaluation and Surgical Management: Surgical removal of cataracts (phacoemulsification) with implantation of advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs).
• Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Offering premium IOL options designed to reduce dependence on glasses after cataract surgery.
• 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): Restores clear vision by creating an opening in the clouded lens capsule.

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

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. Arshinoff practices primarily at a specialized eye clinic located in Downsview, ON. The clinic is situated within a modern facility in the Downsview neighborhood, offering comprehensive eye care services in a professional and welcoming environment. The clinic's location provides convenient access for patients, with nearby public transit routes and on-site or nearby public parking generally available. For surgical procedures, Dr. Arshinoff performs most operations at Humber River Hospital, which is equipped with state-of-the-art surgical suites and facilities. The practice is situated close to other medical facilities and optical services, ensuring a seamless patient experience. The clinic is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, emphasizing personalized care and attention to individual needs.

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

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

Does Dr. Arshinoff perform cataract surgery?

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

What does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Arshinoff specialize in?

An Ophthalmologist, such as Dr. Arshinoff, 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. A Ophthalmologist, 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. Arshinoff and an Optometrist?

An Ophthalmologist like Dr. Arshinoff 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. Arshinoff?

As an Ophthalmologist, Dr. Arshinoff manages numerous eye problems. These frequently include prescribing glasses/contacts, performing cataract surgery, treating glaucoma with medications or lasers, managing retinal issues like macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease, and addressing infections or inflammations of the eye. 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. Arshinoff?

Yes, a referral from a family doctor or optometrist is generally necessary to see Dr. Arshinoff for medical or surgical eye conditions covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This helps coordinate your care effectively. If you have an urgent eye problem, contact Dr. Arshinoff'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 (416) 745-6724.

a specialized eye clinic in Downsview
2115 Finch Avenue West
Downsview, ON M3N 2V6

Office Phone: (416) 745-6969 | Office Fax: (416) 745-6724

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

Verify Dr. Arshinoff's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Arshinoff-Steve-Aaron/0024995-29818