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Business Details
33 Years
experience
Your Trusted Opticians in Stornoway, Lewis
At R Doig Optometrists, we have served the Western Isles since 1993, providing comprehensive ophthalmic care with expertise in advanced diagnostic technologies and personalized eyecare solutions. Our practice was established by Robert Doig, leveraging over a decade of experience, and has pioneered home visiting optometry services and computerised record-keeping in the region. We invest continuously in cutting-edge equipment such as OCT and Optomap scanners to ensure precise diagnostics. With two locations in Stornoway and Balivanich, our team of five qualified optometrists and 13 support staff deliver NHS and private eye examinations, contact lens fittings, and specialist services including myopia control and precision tinted lenses.

Our commitment to training future optometrists and maintaining high standards through partnerships with the General Optical Council (GOC) and the College of Optometrists underscores our position as a trusted local leader in vision care.
Services
Eye Examination Contact Lenses Childrens Eyecare Ocular Diagnostic Tests Home Visits Dry Eye Assessments Designer Eyewear Optomap Scanning VDU Examination Precision Tinted Lenses
Details
  • Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
  • We offer over 30 years of experience in optometry since 1993.
  • Our team uses the latest OCT and Optomap technology for detailed retinal imaging.
  • We provide home visits across the Western Isles for patients with mobility challenges.
  • We hold the only 3D OCT scanning service in Balivanich since 2018.
  • Our practice supports ongoing optometry training and professional development.
Associations and certifications
  • General Optical Council
  • College of Optometrists
Services
Eye Examination
Our comprehensive eye examinations assess vision clarity, eye health, and potential conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration. Using advanced equipment such as OCT scanners, we provide NHS-funded and private sight tests tailored to adults and children. The 45-minute appointment includes expert analysis and personalized recommendations for corrective lenses or further treatment.
Contact Lenses
We offer a full range of contact lenses, including daily disposables, rigid gas permeable, and specialist myopia control options. Our fitting process includes corneal mapping, training on insertion/removal, and aftercare follow-ups to ensure comfort and eye health. NHS patients receive partial coverage for medical necessity cases, with flexible payment plans available for ongoing supplies.
OCT Scanning
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) creates 3D retinal maps to detect early signs of diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. This 10-minute non-invasive scan is available at both practices, with discounted rates for NHS benefit recipients. Results are reviewed alongside your medical history to determine referral urgency or management strategies.
Childrens Eyecare
Early detection of vision issues in children is critical for developmental and academic success. Our child-friendly exams use computerised charts and playful techniques to assess visual acuity, eye alignment, and focusing ability. We provide durable frames, behavioral observation tools, and guidance on identifying warning signs like frequent headaches or reading avoidance.
Precision Tinted Lenses
Prescribed via the Intuitive Colorimeter system, these lenses alleviate symptoms of visual stress and migraine-related photophobia. The 20-minute assessment identifies optimal tints to reduce perceptual distortions in text and light sensitivity. Backed by neurological research, this solution benefits children with reading difficulties and adults experiencing cortical hyperactivation.
Questions
Does R Doig Optometrists Optometrists offer NHS eye tests?
Yes, we provide free NHS eye examinations for eligible patients, including essential diagnostic tests covered by NHS Scotland.
Can I get home visit eye care services?
We offer domiciliary optometry across the Western Isles, serving patients with mobility challenges in Lewis to Eriskay.
What advanced diagnostic equipment do you use?
We utilise OCT scanners, Optomap ultra-widefield imaging, and corneal topographers for detailed retinal and corneal assessments.
Do you provide childrens eye examinations?
Yes, our child-friendly exams detect visual problems early, with specialists using age-appropriate techniques and equipment.
How do precision tinted lenses help with reading?
These lenses, prescribed via Colorimeter testing, reduce visual stress symptoms like text distortion, improving reading comfort and speed.
Reviews (3)
J.
May 16, 2021 Report
Had a booked appointment on the 18 May. Very proffesional Optometrists in a lovely building, with off road parking,the staff are friendly & caring.The eye tests are very thourer, you wont find a better Optometrist on the Island.So i highly recommend them. Also when i left, the heavens opened,and as i had arrived on a motorcycle,the kind staff said i could wait in the dry till the weather improoved,how kind was that. Thank you for a great 5* service. Kind regards
Jay
Norma Murray
Dec 27, 2018 Report
Nice pleasant staff, nice place, bjtca little too clinical.. just waiting too long at appointments. Staff should tell people if they are running late.
Qype User Diaz
Jan 25, 2009 Report
R Doig is one of two opticians in Stornoway and personally I think it is the better one. Robert Doig is a very caring and understanding optician. A relative had severe eye problems last year and he was incredibly helpful. The shop has a nice layout. You are greeted by a member of staff as you enter and has a small seating area while you wait. They had 2 opticians last I checked (this could now have changed) but I've found everyone to work there pleasant and helpful.

Getting an appointment can take a while however if you have an emergency they will see you straight away. They have