Work Interests

A/Prof Smita Agarwal is an experienced ophthalmologist and eye surgeon with subspeciality expertise in cataract, complex cataract, refractive, corneal, and general ophthalmology.

She manages her private consulting at Wollongong Eye Specialists and the Wollongong Refractive Laser Eye Institute, of which she is both Medical Director and founder.

Her work interests and areas of focus in her consulting, surgical management, teaching, and research pursuits are provided in succinct summary below.

A/Prof Agarwal has a subspecialty in the diagnosis, treatment and surgical management of cataract and complex cataract patients.

Through this highly effective and routinely performed surgery she can restore clear vision to her patients by removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).

A leader and highly experienced in this field of ophthalmology, Smita works with patients who have both cataract with no co-existing ocular pathology, and those with coexisting eye conditions, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, ensuring that these issues are addressed before or after cataract surgery.

Her expertise allows for precise diagnosis and surgical techniques, optimising outcomes for improved vision and quality of life for her patients. She strongly believes in giving customised lens solutions to all cataract patients that see her, and always invests in the latest technology in her clinics. She endeavours to keep up to date with all the latest developments in the field of cataract surgery and intraocular lens (IOL) technology.

In addition to her consulting and surgical management of cataract patients, as an authority in this area of ophthalmology, she is also involved in the education, teaching, and mentoring of her colleagues, as well as speaking, presenting and contributing to research on this subspecialty.

An example of her ability to clearly impart her expertise and knowledge can be seen below. Smita was invited to speak on Channel 9’s Today Show to discuss the prevalence of cataracts in Australia, their symptoms and treatment options.

To read more about cataracts, the cataract procedure, and her consultation process when treating her patients at Wollongong Eye Specialist’s, visit the website here.

A/Prof Agarwal has a subspecialty in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of patients who can benefit from refractive procedures such as Laser Vision Correction and Refractive Lens Exchange.

Refractive procedures have the primary goal of improving the eye’s focusing ability by reshaping the cornea, or implanting customised lens based solutions to correct these issues.

A/Prof Agarwal is the principal ophthalmologist and founder of the Wollongong Refractive Eye Laser Institute, which is the only purpose built and specialist Laser Vision Correction and refractive ophthalmic clinic of excellence in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions in NSW.

This clinic offers a complete suite of Laser Vision Correction technology and specialised refractive ophthalmic care and expertise, and it is positioned to provide patients with access to the very best in dedicated refractive care, advice, and results.

As well as performing these procedures, Smita is frequently asked to speak, present, contribute to research, and teach, within this area of ophthalmology.

Some of her presentations are highlighted at the links below. Alternatively visit this page for a more complete list of her achievements in this area.

To read more about refractive ophthalmology, its technology, and the scope of A/Prof Agarwal’s refractive practice, visit the Wollongong Refractive Laser Eye Institute website here.

A/Prof Agarwal has subspecialty experience and expertise in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of patients who have Keratoconus.

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder in which the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye, gradually thins and weakens. As a result, the cornea bulges outward into a cone-like shape rather than retaining its normal round shape. This distortion causes irregular astigmatism and affects vision, leading to blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light, and other vision problems. Early diagnosis and treatment with Corneal Cross Linking can help manage Keratoconus and slow its progression.

To read more about Keratoconus and A/Prof Agarwal’s consultation and treatment process, visit Wollongong Eye Specialists website here.

A/Prof Agarwal can diagnose, treat, and surgically manage a wide range of general ophthalmic concerns, issues, and disease within her practice. Her focus encompasses both medical and surgical care for various eye diseases and vision problems.

She is frequently invited to speak, present, educate, or contribute to papers and research within this broader scope of ophthalmology. In addition, she also provides this expertise in her voluntary pursuits and community endeavours. 

To read more about her general ophthalmology consultation and treatment, visit Wollongong Eye Specialists website here.