News

As seen on TV and in the papers...

Because of James Ball's reputation as a pioneer in the field of ophthalmology (eye surgery), the media routinely seek him out for interviews and he has been featured on several TV programs and in newspapers.

BBC Look North interviews James Ball on the dangers of contact lens wear

See the BBC clip here. (You'll need Real Player to play this video). Or, view the video clip on the BBC Look North Website.

James Ball appears on BBC Look North for laser eye surgery:

James Ball performing "the most advanced laser eye surgery in the country"

James Ball appears on BBC Look North for a new corneal transplant procedure:

James Ball has perfected a "ground-breaking procedure" to perform a corneal transplant that is "quicker, less risky and offers a better long-term outcome"

James Ball restores the sight of a world-champion rifle shooter

Clinic 'first' means Janet's eyesight is back on target

By Alison Bellamy - appearing in the Friday 20 April 2007 edition of the Yorkshire Evening Post

A world champion rifle shooter is one of the first people to beneift frmo a new laser eye clnic in Leeds. Janet Howden's eyesight is now bang on target after surgery at the St. James's Laser Vision centre - the first of its kind in Yorkshire as it treats both NHS and private patients.

The centre was opened by Martin Buckley, chairman of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, at St. Jame's Chancellor Wing.

The service will be provided by consultant eye surgeons Andrew Morrell and James Ball, who both specialise in corneal surgery.

Ms Howden, 43, of Birstall, deputy director of informatics for Leeds Hospitals, who paid £1,500 per eye for her treatment to correct short sightedness, said: "I have worn glasses and contact lenses all my life. Being short sighted and an Olympic standard target shooter is not good."

Ms Howden has shot for Great Britain for 15 years and holds three British records and an equal world record in her field of Ladies Prone Rifle shooting.

"After surgery I was back out shooting soon after and could see better than ever. I even brought Mr Ball my target poster to prove how good my eyesight is now," she said.

The unit is euipped with the latest refractive laser technology, meaning NHS patients no longer have to go to a private unit in Leeds. It also makes a considerable savings to the health trust.

No referral from a GP is needed.