Business Details
28 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Opticians in Belfast
Eric Mercer Optometrist has been providing first-class eyecare services to clients in Belfast since 1998. Our practice combines professional expertise with a friendly approach, investing in state-of-the-art technology like our 3D OCT eye scanner to ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. We specialise in comprehensive eye health assessments, advanced lens solutions, and designer eyewear selection, prioritising individualised care over corporate impersonality. With over 35 years of professional experience, our lead optometrist maintains continuous professional development through industry conferences and advanced qualifications in areas such as glaucoma and dry eye management.Our team delivers thorough VDU assessments, emergency eye clinics, and myopia control programmes for children, supported by a wide range of modern optical solutions including varifocals, rimless frames, and contact lenses. We maintain strong community ties while staying at the forefront of optometric innovation, offering both routine and specialist eyecare services tailored to each patient's unique needs.
Services
Eye Tests
3D OCT Scans
Emergency Eye Clinic
Children's Eyecare
Dry Eye Clinic
Varifocals
Silhouette Rimless
Sunglasses
Free Specs MOT
Myopia Control
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of professional optometric experience
- Investment in state-of-the-art 3D OCT scanning technology
- Personalised frame styling consultations with optical experts
- Emergency eye clinic under NHS-funded NI PEARS scheme
- Specialist myopia control programmes for children
What people say
Thorough examinations
Prompt treatment
Exceptional customer service
Advanced equipment
Personalised care
Services
Eye Tests
Our comprehensive eye tests assess both vision and eye health using advanced diagnostic technology. We check for common conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration while monitoring general health indicators. Each test includes detailed discussion of results and tailored recommendations for corrective solutions, with special attention to individual visual needs and lifestyle requirements.
3D OCT Scans
Our 3D OCT scanner creates high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina for early detection of eye diseases. This non-invasive technology reveals detailed views of retinal layers and optic nerve structures, enabling precise diagnosis of conditions like diabetic retinopathy and macular holes. The quick, comfortable procedure requires no eye drops and provides immediate results for accurate assessment.
Emergency Eye Clinic
Available under the NHS NI PEARS scheme, our emergency clinic treats acute eye conditions including redness, pain, sudden vision changes, and foreign body removal. Patients receive prompt assessment and treatment without needing GP referral. Most minor emergencies are resolved in-practice, with direct specialist referral available for complex cases requiring hospital care.
Children's Eyecare
Specialist care for children's vision development, including free NHS tests for under-16s. We diagnose and manage common issues like lazy eye and focusing difficulties, offering myopia control solutions to slow progression. Our approach considers learning-related visual problems, with clear communication to parents about children's specific eyecare needs and treatment options.
Myopia Control
Innovative programmes using MiSight contact lenses and specialist spectacle lenses to slow myopia progression in children. Scientifically proven to reduce eye elongation by up to 67%, these solutions address genetic and environmental factors contributing to worsening short-sight. Regular monitoring ensures optimal visual development during critical growth years.
People
Eric Mercer
Optometrist
Qualified optometrist with over 35 years' experience, specialising in glaucoma, medical retina, and dry eye management. Completed advanced qualifications including cataract care and minor eye conditions certification. Belfast-born practitioner with postgraduate training from Aston University and ongoing professional development through industry conferences.
Stephanie Dornan
Optical Assistant
Experienced optical assistant with 20+ years in lens dispensing and frame styling. Expert in varifocals, bifocals, and high-index lenses, offering personalised eyewear solutions. Combines technical knowledge with styling expertise to help clients select frames that complement facial features and prescription requirements.
Questions
What does your eye test include?
Our comprehensive eye test checks vision quality, eye health, and general health indicators. It includes retinal imaging, intraocular pressure measurement, and assessment of focusing ability, with detailed discussion of results and recommendations.
Do you offer emergency eye care?
Yes, we provide NHS-funded urgent eye care through the NI PEARS scheme for conditions like eye pain, sudden vision changes, and foreign body removal, with no need for GP referral.
Can children receive eye care?
We specialise in children's eyecare, offering free NHS tests for under-16s and myopia control programmes. Our practitioners assess developmental vision issues and prescribe appropriate corrective solutions.
What lens options are available?
We offer varifocals, bifocals, high-index lenses, and specialist contact lenses including MiSight for myopia control. Our optical experts help select the most suitable lens type based on prescription and lifestyle needs.
Do you provide home eye tests?
Home visits are available for patients with mobility issues or health conditions preventing clinic attendance. Eligible groups include those aged 60+, diabetics, and glaucoma patients under NHS criteria.
