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Our People

Our People

The people behind your care

Our dedication to the highest standards runs through the whole team. From our consultant surgeons to our optometrists, nurses, patient care coordinators and management, every person at Solasta is hand-picked for their expertise — and for their natural enthusiasm to go the extra mile for every patient.

Our leadership

Mr Michael O'Gallagher, Medical Director
Medical Director

Mr Michael O'Gallagher

MSc, FRCOphth · Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon · GMC 6120201

Mr O'Gallagher leads the surgical team as Medical Director and is one of Northern Ireland's most respected anterior segment surgeons, specialising in conditions affecting the front of the eye, including cataract. He graduated in Medicine with honours from Queen's University Belfast, then spent over two years in London in subspecialist corneal surgery training at the world-renowned Moorfields Eye Hospital and Great Ormond Street Hospital. Since 2016 he has brought that expertise back as an established consultant at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast.

A GMC Recognised Trainer, he is committed to the highest-quality care, patient experience and clear communication. Outside work he enjoys the mountains and beaches of Co. Down with his two Bernese Mountain Dogs.

Ruth Collins, Clinic Director
Clinic Director

Ruth Collins

RN, Dip Nursing, BSc, PGCFHE, PGCE, SCPHN, PG Dip Nursing, FIFPN

Ruth leads an established team of clinical staff as Clinic Director, bringing over 26 years of experience as a perioperative nurse. With a deep interest in leadership, education, human factors and patient safety, she currently serves as President of the Association for Perioperative Practice.

Known for her person-centred approach, Ruth prioritises the wellbeing of both patients and staff. Outside work she enjoys time with her teenage children, walks with her beagle Poppy, sea dips, hot yoga and tennis.

Our Surgeons

Meet our consultant surgeons

Your care is led by a team of GMC-registered consultant ophthalmic surgeons, each practising within the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust. Browse the team below.

Every surgeon is registered with the General Medical Council. You can confirm any registration on the GMC register.

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Mr Samir Dowlut

Consultant Ophthalmologist

Find out more...

 

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Miss Dimple Patel

Consultant Ophthalmologist

Find out more...

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Mr Muralidharan Upendran

Consultant Ophthalmologist

Find out more...

Meet our Clinic Coordinators

Katie, your Clinic Coordinator, keeps everything running smoothly, and will help make sure you always receive the highest possible standards of service. Katie's aim is to ensure every patient’s administrative needs are taken care of – from re-arranging appointments or getting an insider recommendation for the best cafe nearby – Katie walks that little extra mile for patients, every day.

It’s important for you to have a friendly, expert, personal and knowledgeable guide at your side throughout your cataract surgery treatment. Amanda is your Patient Care Coordinator. She will be the first member of the team you meet and will explain the whole process to you. Amanda will then remain your key point of contact throughout your treatment, so you always know whom to call if you have any questions or concerns. Rest assured, with Amanda you will be in expert hands.

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Katie

Clinic Coordinator

 

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Amanda  

Patient Care Coordinator

Meet our Nurses and Technicians

Our nurses are essential to the clinical expertise. Throughout your treatment, Barbara will be dedicated to both your clinical and emotional well-being. Calm, expert, and reassuring, Bridgean will always be on hand before, during, and after surgery.

Should you be suitable for treatment, our nurses will sit down with you and provide you with instructions on how to administer your eye drops and post-treatment medications on the day of surgery. Of course, they will be happy to answer any clinical queries you may have, before or after treatment.

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Bridgean 

Theatre Practitioner

 

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Barbara 

Nurse

Meet our Admin and Management

Clear, accurate administration and management is vital for creating a reassuring, high-quality service for patients. Polite, thorough and professional — whatever the need or the pressures of the day, our admin and management team are invaluable in keeping everything running smoothly.

If you have any questions about pricing or payment plans Cathy is always there to provide friendly advice. Please don't hesitate to contact Cathy if you need any help.

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Cathy

Finance Director

 

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Derick

Director

 

CONTACT our team to start your cataract journey TODAY

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Book a consultation and let’s see if now’s the right time for cataract surgery