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Dr Matthew Russell during an specialist eye appointment, diabetic retinopathy treatment, cataract surgery guide
Dr Matthew Russell - 1

Dr Matthew Russell

Specialist Ophthalmologist

MBChB, FRANZCO

Dr Matthew Russell is an ophthalmic surgeon with subspecialty training in cataract and refractive surgery. He has over 20 years’ experience as a qualified ophthalmologist and provides consultations and performs surgery across OKKO Eye Specialist Centre and VSON Eye Specialists, offering patients access to advanced vision correction options in both Brisbane locations

Dr Russell is committed to delivering evidence-based, patient centred care, ensuring each treatment plan is tailored to individual needs, lifestyle, and visual goals.

  • Cataract surgery including the use of Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) and Multifocal Intraocular Lenses (IOLs), selected according to individual visual requirements.
  • Laser vision correction options such as LASIK, SMILE, Smart Sight, PRK, and TransPRK for patients seeking reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
  • Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery for patients who may not be suitable for laser vision correction, offering a reversible, lens-based solution for high myopia and astigmatism.
  • Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), a surgical option for patients seeking a long-term solution for presbyopia or high refractive errors, using premium intraocular lenses.

Approach to Care

Dr Russell takes a personal and thorough approach to each patient journey – from the initial assessment through to post-operative care. His practice philosophy focuses on combining clinical precision, modern technology, and patient education to achieve the best possible visual outcomes in a safe, transparent environment.

Background, expertise and education

Dr Russell earned his medical degree from the University of Otago in New Zealand. Upon graduation, Dr Russell completed extensive specialist training, including three fellowships at institutions in the United States and Canada.

His academic background includes:

  • Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver (Canada)
  • Post-fellowship training in refractive surgery (University of Sydney)
  • Subspecialty fellowship training in Los Angeles (USA) at the highly regarded University of Southern California Doheny Eye Institute
  • Subspecialty fellowship training at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver (Canada)
  • Completed medical degree in 1994
  • Qualified as an ophthalmologist with The Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists’ (RANZCO) in 2002
  • Founder of OKKO Eye Specialist Centre & VSON Laser Vision Specialists
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Special Interests and
career highlights

  • Refractive surgery (LASIK, SMILE, Smart Sight, PRK,TransPRK)
  • Cataract Surgery using advanced technology intraocular lenses (EDOF and multifocal)
  • Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery
  • Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) surgery
  • Microincision cataract surgery
  • Early adopter of microincision cataract surgery.
  • Pioneer of microsurgical techniques in Brisbane
  • Pioneer of the introduction of new intraocular lens technologies and microsurgical techniques in Brisbane.
  • First surgeon internationally to use Zepto™ capsulotomy system
  • First surgeon internationally to use the revolutionary Zepto™ capsulotomy system during cataract surgery in combination with next-generation FEMTIS intraocular implants to enhance the precision of implant positioning.
  • First in Brisbane to use Symfony™
  • First surgeon to use extended depth of focus multifocal implants (Symfony™) in Brisbane.