Our Surgeons
Andrew Luff
Founding Consultant
![Ophthalmology surgeon Andrew Luff (Andy Luff) in a suit smiling at camera](https://sapphire-eyecare.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Andy.jpg)
Andrew is one of the UK’s most respected eye surgeons with more than 35 years’ experience in ophthalmology
“In over 35 years of ophthalmology practice, I have witnessed a paradigm shift in the delivery of eye care, from the development of intricate microsurgical techniques to the design of exceptional new intraocular lenses and delivery of novel medical treatments. Each operation is not just a surgical procedure, but an opportunity to enhance our patients’ lives.”
Andrew is one of the UK’s most respected eye surgeons. He has more than 35 years’ experience in ophthalmology, with more than 15,000 vitrectomy procedures his name, and in excess of 25,000 cataract or refractive lens procedures.
Andrew began his career in general surgery, having trained in medicine first at Oxford University and then at Guy’s Hospital Medical School in London. He made the move into ophthalmology in 1988, training at Southampton’s highly regarded General Hospital and the world famous Moorfields Eye Hospital in London. The late 1980s was an exciting time for ophthalmology; eye surgery was experiencing huge leaps forward, from improved optics and micro-instrumentation to breakthrough cataract and macular treatments.
Andrew’s work has tracked many of those advances. He was one of the first British surgeons to use intravitreal injections (where medicines are injected into the vitreous of the eye to treat conditions like age-related macular degeneration or AMD). He remains an enthusiastic proponent of new technologies, such as the exciting Red Light Therapy for AMD.
As a high-volume surgeon who specialises in retinal and cataract surgery, Andrew is often asked to take on complex cases by colleagues. This includes issues like implant lens exchanges, ocular trauma, and eyes that have had difficult first procedures.
During his time in the NHS, he served as Clinical Service Director at Southampton General, playing a key role in establishing the Chair of Ophthalmology there. He continues to act as a reviewer for grant applications and lectures regularly to Optometrists and general practitioners. He now works full-time in the private sector.
What specific expertise does Prof. Andrew Luff bring to Sapphire Eye Care?
Andrew Luff is renowned for his extensive experience in ophthalmology, particularly in vitreoretinal surgery and cataract operations. With over 30 years in the field and a huge number of procedures under his belt, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a track record of pioneering work in treatments like intravitreal injections.
What types of surgeries does Andrew Luff specialise in?
Prof. Luff specialises in cataract surgery, vitreoretinal surgery, and refractive lens exchange. He is adept at managing complex cases, including implant lens exchanges, ocular trauma, and revisions of prior surgeries. He has embraced photobiomodulation as a treatment for Dry AMD and has a particular interest and expertise in vitrectomy for Symptomatic Vitreous Opacity (floaters).
Why is it beneficial to have a surgeon like Prof. Luff who embraces new technologies?
Andrew’s enthusiasm for new technologies, such as Red Light Therapy for AMD, ensures that patients at Sapphire Eye Care have access to the latest advancements and treatments in eye care, often improving outcomes and recovery times. Andrew uses a thorough understanding of multifocal implant lenses in Refractive, Lens Exchange, and has a research interest in the often-neglected area of Symptomatic, Vitreous Opacity (floaters).
Can you tell me more about Andrew Luff’s background and qualifications?
Andrew Luff began his medical career at Oxford University and Guy’s Hospital Medical School in London, later specialising in ophthalmology. His training at prominent institutions like Moorfields Eye Hospital, combined with his service as Clinical Service Director at Southampton General, establishes his distinguished credentials. He trained to FRCS Fellowship level in both general and ophthalmic surgery and was awarded the title Visiting Professor to the University of Chichester for his research work on Symptomatic Vitreous Opacity.
What can patients expect when being treated by Prof. Luff?
Patients under Andrew’s care can expect a high-volume surgeon recognised for taking on challenging cases with precision and care. His approach is patient-focused, leveraging his extensive experience and the latest in eye care technology to provide personalised treatment plans.
Memberships
The Royal College of Ophthalmologists
The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
Britain and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons
European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons
American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery