Opticians in Sussex
Dolphins Opticians & Optometrists, located in Sussex, delivers expert eye care through a team of highly qualified professionals and the latest in diagnostic technology. We are proud to offer outstanding eye care services in the heart of Mid Sussex.
Umesh Patel
Ophthalmic Optician
Umesh, a practising optometrist since 2006, founded his own business to provide exceptional care and stay at the forefront of optometry’s latest advancements.
Explore your vision’s potential
Dolphins Opticians offers a comprehensive range of specialist optometry services, tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. From advanced eye examinations and contact lens fittings to the management of complex eye conditions and referrals for further care, our experienced team is dedicated to providing the highest standard of clinical expertise and personalised service.
- We Specialise in:
- Dry Eye Clinic to manage dry eye and ocular surface diseases
- Advanced Biometric Eye Examination
- Revolutionising Myopia Care
- Prescription Glasses
- Prescription Sunglasses
- Contact Lenses
- Valeda light therapy for dry macular degeneration (AMD)
Innovative myopia management
We offer innovative myopia management services, including night wear contact lenses (orthokeratology). This non-invasive approach gently reshapes the cornea during sleep, providing clear vision without the need for daytime corrective lenses or surgery. Alternatively, we are able to provide specialised myopia control spectacle lenses.
Expertise in dry eye care & dry Macular Degeneration
Our Dry Eye Clinic is headed by specialists Mandy Davidson and Ann Forbes, who focus on managing dry eye and ocular surface diseases. With the use of advanced treatments, symptoms such as dryness, wateriness, burning and redness can be addressed effectively.
Personalised Service & Attention to detail
We provide ample time for each eye examination, which enables us to address your individual needs. When it comes to choosing spectacles, we will be happy to offer guidance, or allow you to browse our frame selection yourself.
Perfectly tailored for you
Our fully qualified dispensing opticians share a passion and expertise, which will enable us to guide you towards the perfect pair of spectacles for your needs. Our precise measurements and frame adjustments will enable us to produce the most comfortable fit.
As a fully independent practice we can provide lenses from all major lens companies. This enables us to give objective and unbiased advice to give you the best solution to your vision needs.
Where To Find Us in Sussex
Dolphins Optometrists is conveniently located in Haywards Heath, in the heart of Mid Sussex. Situated on Muster Green, it’s easily accessible for residents and visitors from nearby towns such as Burgess Hill, Cuckfield and Lindfield.
If you are arriving by car, please use our free on-site parking.
For those using public transport, Haywards Heath railway station is just a short distance away, offering direct connections to London, Brighton, and surrounding areas. Bus services also run frequently through the town, making it simple to reach the practice.
Inside Our Sussex Opticians Practice
Our Happy Customer Reviews
"I just experienced the most thorough and detailed examination in my 40 years of visiting opticians. Plus, I learned so much – for example one test showed that my eyes were on the dry side, and eye drops would be useful even if I don’t have symptoms.
I saw the surface of my cornea after laser surgery 25 years ago which explained how new contact lenses would fit and was advised to get a health test after a detailed image of the back of my eye (which was also shown to me) indicated a possible early issue. Outstanding customer service. Utterly blown away. Exceptional."
Lisa Butler
“I see so many people with unflattering, badly fitting frames and wibbly wobbly lenses that I need a pack of Dolphin stickers please. I could then slap them on unsuspecting passersby and fellow queue-ers and send them to Umesh, Julian, Mandy and the team for some genuine care and attention to detail.
Dolphin Optometrists are not tied to any one supplier and can recommend what is tailored to your requirements, however severe or complex your prescription might be. They have all the latest kit and expertise – and plenty of parking too!”
Sara Hopkins
“I don’t know where to start with my review but the Dolphins Optometrists in Sussex is the best when it comes to their dedicated staff and the service is beyond measurable! Supposedly, I am late for my appointment because of the rain and rang them to move it but the receptionist – Jane – offered to pick me up in the train station for me to make it that day!
Umesh, the optometrist, gave a thorough explanation of my eye test and even offered a discounted price for the additional eye exam. Hoping to see them back after a couple of years when my eye test is due.”
Edin Nueva
we’re here to Answer all your questions
Visiting the opticians can feel daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with terms like myopia, astigmatism, or the differences between glasses and contact lenses. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when asked about your prescription, lens preferences, or eye health history.
However, understanding your vision doesn’t have to be complicated—opticians are there to guide you, answer your questions, and help you find the best solutions for clear, comfortable sight.
What is myopia?
Myopia, or short-sightedness, means distant objects appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear.
How do I know if I need glasses?
If you struggle to see clearly at a distance, experience frequent headaches, or find yourself squinting, an eye test can confirm whether you need glasses.
Are contact lenses better than glasses?
It depends on personal preference. Contacts offer a wider field of vision, while glasses are easier to maintain and can be a stylish accessory.
How often should I get an eye test?
Most adults should have an eye test every two years, but if you notice vision changes, book an appointment sooner.