Dr. Alistair Laidlaw

About Dr. Alistair Laidlaw

Mr. Alistair Laidlaw is a highly respected Consultant Ophthalmologist and Vitreoretinal Surgeon with over 25 years of experience.
He is recognised as one of the UK’s foremost experts in vitreoretinal surgery, with specialist expertise in the treatment of retinal detachment, macular hole, epiretinal membrane, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Mr. Laidlaw completed his undergraduate and ophthalmology training in Newcastle upon Tyne, followed by six years in Bristol, where he also obtained a higher medical degree, and later advanced subspecialty training at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London.
Since 1998, he has been a Consultant Ophthalmologist at St Thomas’ Hospital, London, and Maidstone Hospital, Kent, while also maintaining a private practice at the London Clinic Eye Centre, Harley Street.
He is actively involved in clinical research and innovation, with more than 70 published research papers focused mainly on retinal surgery.
His contributions include the development of vision measurement software and the implementation of electronic medical records (OpenEyes EMR) in ophthalmology.
Mr. Laidlaw plays a leading role in teaching and training future vitreoretinal surgeons, both through a fellowship programme at St Thomas’ Hospital and international courses such as the annual “VR In A Day” workshop.
He has held prominent leadership positions, including President and Honorary Secretary of the British & Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons (BEAVRS), and has served as an elected board member of EURETINA (European Society of Retina Specialists), where he was appointed President from 2021 to 2023.

Conditions treated by Dr Alistair Laidlaw

Diabetic retinopathy
Age-related macular degeneration.
Vitreoretinal Surgery

Area of Interest

Ophthalmology

Qualification

MD (University of Bristol)
FRCS (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons)
FRCOphth (Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists)

Work Experiences

Dr Alistair Laidlaw is a Consultant Vitreoretinal Surgeon at St Thomas’ Hospital, part of Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.
Dr Laidlaw has practised privately in central London, including at Harley Street and The London Clinic Eye Centre, where he provides specialist vitreoretinal care.
Dr Laidlaw completed his medical training in Newcastle, pursued ophthalmology and research training in Bristol, and undertook subspecialty vitreoretinal fellowship training at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London.

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CERTIFICATIONS (2)

FRCOphth – Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists
FRCS – Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons

MEMBERSHIPS (3)

President & Honorary Secretary, British & Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons
Board Member, EURETINA (European Society of Retinal Specialists)
Honorary Senior Lecturer, King’s College London

RESEARCH PAPERS AND PUBLICATIONS (3)

Shalchi Z, Shunmugam M, Mahroo OA, McDonald RJ, Dogramaci M, Laidlaw DA, Stanford M, Mohamed M. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography findings in a case series of patients with bilateral diffuse uveal melanocytic proliferation. Ocular Immunology and Inflammation. 2014 Dec 1;22(6):490-3.
Ugarte M, Shunmugam M, Laidlaw DA, Williamson TH. Morphision: a method for subjective evaluation of metamorphopsia in patients with unilateral macular pathology (ie, full-thickness macular hole and epiretinal membrane). Indian journal of ophthalmology. 2013 Nov 1;61(11):653-8.
Shah N, Laidlaw DA, Shah SP, Sivasubramaniam S, Bunce C, Cousens S. Computerised repeating and averaging improve the test-retest variability of ETDRS visual acuity measurements: implications for sensitivity and specificity. Investigative ophthalmology & visual science. 2011 Dec 1;52(13):9397-402.

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PROCEDURES

Cornea Transplant
LASIK
Macular Degeneration Surgery

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is Dr. Alistair Laidlaw doing teleconsultation on the MediGence platform?

Dr. Alistair Laidlaw is available to teleconsult on the MediGence platform.

How long is the consultation?

The consultation can last from 15 to 30 minutes. It may exceed the estimated time, depending on the patient’s queries and the doctor's medical suggestions.

How soon can the consultation be organised?

We have Medical specialists and board-certified doctors on our panel of doctors. The consultation will be organised within 24 to 48 hours or based on the availability of the doctor and the patient.

Is a follow-up consultation included in the consultation price?

No, the follow-up consultation fee is not included in the consultation price. The patient will be required to re-book the consultation.

How do I share my medical record with the doctor for review?

The option to share your medical records is available between the steps of the form provided to you on the website.

Can I book my procedure with the doctor post-consultation?

Yes. If you are satisfied with the consultation, you can go ahead with treatment packages for your diagnosis with the help of our case managers.

Can you get an estimate for the procedure?

Yes. The cost estimate will be provided to you by our case manager, including the doctor’s opinion, the cost estimate, and crucial information about traveling to your medical destination.

FAQ's Related to Ophthalmologist

What conditions can be treated with vitreoretinal surgery?

Vitreoretinal surgery treats conditions such as retinal detachment, macular holes, epiretinal membranes, vitreomacular traction, diabetic retinopathy, and complications of retinal vascular disease.

What is age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and how is it treated?

AMD is a degenerative condition affecting the central retina, leading to vision loss. Treatment may include anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, or surgical interventions depending on the type and severity.

How is diabetic retinopathy managed?

Diabetic retinopathy is managed through regular retinal screenings, laser therapy, anti-VEGF injections, and, in advanced cases, vitreoretinal surgery to prevent vision loss.

What is the recovery period after cataract or retinal surgery?

Recovery depends on the type of procedure. Cataract surgery usually allows a return to normal activities within a few days, whereas vitreoretinal surgery may require several weeks for complete visual recovery.

Are there risks associated with retinal or macular surgery?

As with all surgeries, there are potential risks such as infection, bleeding, retinal detachment, or temporary vision changes. However, these complications are rare and can often be managed successfully.

Who is a candidate for laser eye treatment or retinal procedures?

Candidates should have stable general health, a confirmed diagnosis of a retinal or macular condition, and no contraindications such as severe eye infections or uncontrolled systemic diseases.

Can both eyes be treated at the same time?

In some cases, procedures can be performed on both eyes simultaneously, but this depends on the specific condition and surgical risk assessment.

What are the latest innovations in retinal surgery?

Modern retinal surgery includes minimally invasive vitrectomy, retinal implants (bionic eye), advanced imaging-guided procedures, and novel drug delivery systems for conditions like AMD and diabetic maculopathy.

How can vision be preserved in progressive retinal diseases?

Early diagnosis, regular monitoring, prompt treatment with injections, laser therapy, or surgery, and lifestyle management (e.g., controlling diabetes and hypertension) are key to preserving vision.

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