DR. JOHN MALES
Principal Surgeon, Corneal, Cataract & Refractive Surgeon
M.B B. Sc. (Med)(Hons) MMed (Clin Epi) F.R.A.N.Z.CO
Languages Spoken: English, Croatian

Dr John Males is the Principal surgeon at Envision Eye Centre and is a leader in laser vision correction, cataract and corneal surgery. He has 15 years experience in laser vision correction and has pioneered the latest procedure known as SMILE® in Australia.
He also performs the latest micro-incision laser-assisted cataract surgery, partial or full corneal transplants (DSAK, DSAEK, DALK), keratoconus treatments including collagen cross linking, corneal rings, phakic intraocular lenses, and anterior segment reconstruction among other surgeries.
Clinical Positions
- Consultant Ophthalmologist at Sydney Eye Hospital, St Vincent's Hospital, Concord Hospital & Liverpool Hospital.
- Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at St Vincent's Hospital.
- Formerly the Head of the Corneal Unit at Sydney Eye Hospital.
Training
Dr Males underwent his medical training at the University of Sydney and his Ophthalmic training in both Sydney Eye Hospital and Bristol Eye Hospital in the United Kingdom.
Achievements
Dr Males has been at the forefront of ophthalmology and has introduced numerous surgical techniques in Australia. His achievements include:
- The first in Australia to perform DSAEK endothelial corneal transplantation
- The first in Australia to perform collagen cross linking (C3R, UVX) for the stabilisation of keratoconus.
- The first in Australia to perform custom iris implant surgery with the Human Optics iris prosthesis.
- Amongst the first surgeons to perform laser-assisted cataract surgery in Australia.
- Amongst the leading group of surgeons performing SMILE laser vision correction in Australia.
Academic & Research
- Clinical Senior Lecturer at both the University of Sydney and Macquarie University.
- Co-ordinator for the Masters of Refractive Surgery at the University Sydney, the first post graduate degree in refractive surgery in the world.
Affiliations
- Fellow of the Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (FRANZCO).
- Member of Australian Corneal Society
- Member of European Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS)
- Member of the European Society of Ocular and Surface Disease Specialists (EUCornea)
- Member of American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS)
- Board Member of Ophthalmic Research Institute of Australia (ORIA)
- Member of the research committee Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) Australia
Areas of Speciality
Recent articles
SMILE® Pro – Introducing the ZEISS VISUMAX® 800
SMILE® Pro is the latest evolution in laser eye surgery being enabled by the ZEISS VISUMAX® 800 Femtosecond laser. A pioneer in laser eye surgery technology.
Top 5 Presbyopia Treatment Options
Presbyopia occurs as you age and makes it hard to see things up close. We explore the options for people to restore their near vision as they get older.
Am I Too Old for Laser Eye Surgery?
If you’re over 50 you may no longer be eligible for laser eye surgery. However, a Refractive Lens Exchange may remove the need for glasses as you age.
How do I know if I have glaucoma?
Glaucoma is the silent sight stealer as it progresses slowly with no symptoms. Learn how you can detect glaucoma earlier to protect your vision.
Managing Keratoconus & Thinning Corneas
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that can severely affect vision. Find out all about Keratoconus and the latest treatment collagen cross-linking.
Top 5 Benefits of PRK Laser Eye Surgery
PhotoRefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is the original form of laser eye surgery. PRK is versatile, safe and cost-effective treatment.