Dry Eye & Ocular Surface Specialist, Surrey & Berkshire
Dry Eye & Ocular Surface Disease Specialist in Surrey & Berkshire
Miss Hala Ali is a Consultant Ophthalmologist offering private diagnosis and treatment of dry eye disease, blepharitis and ocular surface conditions at Frimley Park Hospital in Surrey and Heatherwood Hospital in Ascot, Berkshire.
Understanding Ocular Surface Disease
Ocular surface disease (OSD) is an umbrella term for a group of conditions that affect the health of the eye's surface, including the cornea, conjunctiva and tear film. It is one of the most common reasons patients seek ophthalmic care, yet it is frequently under-diagnosed and under-treated.
Symptoms can range from mild irritation and grittiness to significant discomfort, fluctuating vision and intolerance of contact lenses. Miss Ali takes a thorough, evidence-based approach to diagnosing and managing these conditions.
Conditions Treated
Dry Eye Disease
A multifactorial condition in which the eye does not produce sufficient tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. Symptoms include dryness, burning, stinging, and paradoxically, excessive watering. Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause.
Blepharitis
Chronic inflammation of the eyelid margins, often associated with meibomian gland dysfunction. It contributes to evaporative dry eye and can cause crusting, redness and discomfort. Management includes lid hygiene, warm compresses and targeted treatments.
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
The meibomian glands produce the oily layer of the tear film. When these glands become blocked or dysfunctional, the tear film becomes unstable, leading to evaporative dry eye. Miss Ali offers in-depth assessment and targeted management.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Allergic reactions affecting the conjunctiva cause redness, itching and watering. Miss Ali can differentiate between seasonal, perennial and more severe forms such as vernal keratoconjunctivitis, and provide appropriate treatment. These conditions can typically affect children and Miss Ali is happy to see and treat them.
Conjunctivochalasis
Redundant conjunctival tissue that folds over the eyelid margin, disrupting the tear film and causing symptoms of dry eye. Surgical correction can provide significant relief in selected cases.
The Approach
Effective management of ocular surface disease begins with a thorough assessment. Miss Ali uses specialist diagnostic equipment to evaluate tear film stability, meibomian gland function and corneal surface integrity, enabling a precise diagnosis and targeted treatment plan.
Treatment options range from optimised lubricant therapy and lid hygiene regimens to prescription anti-inflammatory drops, in-clinic procedures and, where appropriate, surgical intervention. Miss Ali works closely with patients to find the most effective long-term management strategy.
Dry Eye Treatment
See our dedicated dry eye treatment page for in-depth information on diagnosis and management.
Arrange a Private Dry Eye Consultation
Ocular surface disease is often complex and requires specialist assessment to manage effectively. If you are struggling with persistent eye discomfort, dryness or fluctuating vision, Miss Ali offers consultations at Frimley Park Hospital in Camberley, Surrey and Heatherwood Hospital in Ascot, Berkshire.
Book a Consultation