Ophthalmologist Serving Chilliwack & the Upper Fraser Valley
Dr. Aish Sundaram, MD FRCSC, provides specialist ophthalmology care right in downtown Chilliwack — serving Chilliwack, Hope, Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs, Sardis, Yarrow, and all surrounding upper Fraser Valley communities. No drive to Abbotsford or Vancouver required.
Our Chilliwack Clinic
Chilliwack residents and upper Fraser Valley communities now have access to a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist right in downtown Chilliwack — without the long drive to Abbotsford, Surrey, or Vancouver. Dr. Sundaram's clinic at 9181 Main St brings FRCSC-certified specialist care to the heart of the Fraser Valley.
Ophthalmology for the Upper Fraser Valley
Chilliwack is a rapidly growing community of over 90,000 people, yet ophthalmology specialist access has historically been limited. Residents of surrounding communities — Hope, Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs, Kent, Vedder Crossing, Yarrow, Rosedale, Cultus Lake, and Sardis — have even fewer local options. Dr. Sundaram specifically sought to serve this underserved corridor of the Fraser Valley.
As a fellowship-trained specialist in glaucoma and an FRCSC-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Sundaram provides the same level of care that patients would receive at a major academic centre — but in a setting that is far more accessible for upper Fraser Valley residents. All consultations are conducted in English, and our team is committed to ensuring every patient feels welcomed and understood.
Services Available to Chilliwack Patients
Chilliwack patients have access to the full range of ophthalmology services at the clinic, including cataract surgery, glaucoma management (diagnostic imaging, medical management, SLT laser, and surgical options), blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), diabetic retinal exams, comprehensive eye evaluations, and co-management of complex eye diseases.
Most medically indicated procedures are covered by BC's Medical Services Plan (MSP). Dr. Sundaram is committed to transparency — she will always clearly distinguish between MSP-covered and privately billed services, and will never pressure patients toward optional upgrades.
Premium IOL Upgrades for Cataract Patients
Standard cataract surgery — lens removal with a monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) — is fully covered by BC MSP when medically indicated. Many patients do very well with a standard IOL. However, for those who want the possibility of reduced dependence on glasses after surgery, premium lens upgrade options are available as a private-pay addition.
Premium IOLs include extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) and multifocal designs that aim to provide a broader range of functional vision. Dr. Sundaram will discuss whether a premium lens upgrade makes sense for your specific eyes, lifestyle, and expectations — there is never any pressure. All options are explained clearly before any decisions are made.
For Referring Physicians in Chilliwack
Family physicians and optometrists in Chilliwack, Hope, Agassiz, and surrounding communities are warmly encouraged to send referrals to Dr. Sundaram. Referrals can be submitted by fax to (604) 426-2720 or through the Ocean Health eReferral platform. Urgent cases are triaged quickly — please clearly mark the urgency level and include relevant clinical history.
After each consultation, Dr. Sundaram sends a detailed consultation letter to the referring provider within two weeks, supporting collaborative, shared care for your patients.
Services Available at Our Chilliwack Clinic
The full range of ophthalmology services is available right here in Chilliwack — all major services covered by MSP, with private premium IOL upgrades available for cataract surgery.
Cataract Surgery
MSP-covered lens removal and IOL implantation. Modern, safe, and efficient — most patients experience significant vision improvement within days.
✓ MSP CoveredGlaucoma Management
Advanced diagnostics, SLT laser therapy, medical management, and surgical options. Fellowship-trained expertise in this sight-threatening condition.
✓ MSP CoveredBlepharoplasty
Upper and lower eyelid surgery. Functional cases affecting vision or comfort are covered by MSP. Cosmetic options also available.
✓ MSP (Functional)Diabetic Eye Exams
Retinal screening for Chilliwack's diabetic population. Early detection and monitoring of diabetic retinopathy to protect long-term vision.
✓ MSP CoveredComprehensive Eye Exams
Full ophthalmological evaluation including anterior and posterior segment examination, IOP measurement, and vision assessment.
✓ MSP CoveredEye Disease Co-Management
Collaborative care with your Chilliwack family physician and optometrist for complex chronic conditions.
✓ MSP CoveredCommunities Served in the Upper Fraser Valley
Dr. Sundaram's practice serves a wide catchment area spanning from Chilliwack east to Hope and north to Harrison Hot Springs. Many of these communities have historically been underserved for ophthalmology specialist care — the nearest specialist was often a lengthy drive toward Vancouver or the Lower Mainland.
With Dr. Sundaram's clinic located right in downtown Chilliwack, residents of the upper Fraser Valley can access FRCSC-certified ophthalmology without the long commute — ensuring that postal code does not determine the quality of eye care you receive.
Chilliwack Ophthalmology — Your Questions Answered
Common questions from Chilliwack patients and referring providers about accessing care with Dr. Sundaram.
Where is the clinic — do I need to travel to Abbotsford?
No travel to another city is needed. Dr. Sundaram's clinic is located right in downtown Chilliwack at 9181 Main St, Unit 109 — a 6-minute walk from the District 1881 area along Yale Road. Chilliwack patients receive specialist care in their own community.
Can patients from Chilliwack see Dr. Sundaram?
Yes. Dr. Sundaram actively welcomes referrals from Chilliwack-area family physicians and optometrists. The clinic is conveniently located in downtown Chilliwack, making specialist ophthalmology accessible without the drive to Abbotsford or Vancouver.
Is cataract surgery MSP-covered for Chilliwack patients?
Yes. Standard cataract surgery with a monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) is fully covered by BC MSP when medically indicated — there is no cost to the patient. For patients interested in reduced glasses dependence after surgery, premium IOL upgrades are available as a private-pay option. All options are clearly explained during your consultation with no pressure involved.
Do you serve Hope, Agassiz, and Harrison Hot Springs patients?
Yes. Dr. Sundaram's Chilliwack clinic serves patients from Hope, Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs, Kent, and all surrounding upper Fraser Valley communities. The Chilliwack clinic is the closest specialist ophthalmology option for these patients — significantly more accessible than travelling to Vancouver or Burnaby.
How do Chilliwack physicians refer patients to Dr. Sundaram?
Chilliwack family doctors and optometrists can send referrals by fax to (604) 426-2720 or through Ocean Health eReferral. Please include patient demographics, MSP number, reason for referral, urgency level, current medications, and vision measurements where available. Urgent cases are prioritized — clearly indicate if same-day or 24-hour review is needed.
What premium lens options are available for cataract surgery?
MSP covers a standard monofocal IOL, which provides excellent vision at one focal distance (usually distance). Premium IOL upgrades — such as extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) or multifocal lenses — aim to reduce dependence on reading glasses after surgery. These are a private-pay upgrade beyond MSP coverage. Dr. Sundaram will review which options, if any, are appropriate for your eyes and lifestyle goals.
Expert Eye Care for the Upper Fraser Valley
Chilliwack residents and upper Fraser Valley communities deserve access to specialist ophthalmology close to home. Ask your family doctor or optometrist to refer you to Dr. Sundaram.