Business Details
14 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Independent Opticians in Thornaby
Mellis Eyecare is a family-run, independent optometry practice serving the Teesside area with a commitment to modern, patient-focused eye care. Established in 2012 by brothers Iain and Robert Mellis, the practice combines traditional expertise with cutting-edge technology, including digital retinal imaging and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans. Our services extend beyond standard NHS sight tests to include advanced eye examinations, low vision assessments, emergency eye care, and a wide range of contact lens fittings. We pride ourselves on offering tailored advice, a diverse selection of designer spectacles, and a welcoming environment for patients of all ages. With two accessible locations in Thornaby and North Ormesby, our team of experienced optometrists and optical assistants prioritises patient education, preventative care, and long-term eye health. Our founder, Iain Mellis, holds advanced professional certifications in low vision, glaucoma, and medical retina, reflecting our dedication to clinical excellence. We actively engage in community outreach, including mentoring optometry students and providing specialist care for children and individuals with complex visual needs.
Services
Eye Exams
Contact Lenses
Low Vision Assessments
OCT Scans
Emergency Eye Care
Children's Eye Tests
Dry Eye Treatment
Myopia Control
Spectacle Fittings
Blepharitis Management
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We offer advanced diagnostics including OCT scans for early eye disease detection
- Our team includes specialists in low vision and contact lens fittings
- We provide emergency eye care appointments within 24 hours
- We stock over 100 designer spectacle frames including Ray-Ban and Oliver Goldsmith
- Our practice has wheelchair-accessible facilities and free local parking
What people say
Excellent service
Thorough examinations
Friendly staff
Great selection
Prompt appointments
Services
OCT 3D Retinal Scans
Our Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans provide detailed 3D images of the retina, enabling early detection of conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration. This non-invasive test takes less than a minute and is recommended for patients over 40 or those with a family history of eye disease. The technology allows us to monitor eye health changes over time with exceptional precision.
Low Vision Assessments
For patients with sight loss uncorrectable by standard glasses, we offer specialist assessments using high-grade optical magnifiers with LED lighting. Our certified optometrists evaluate visual needs and recommend adaptive equipment to maximise remaining vision. This free NHS service includes loan of magnification devices and tailored advice for daily living.
Children's Eye Tests
We provide comprehensive eye examinations for children from age 6 months, using age-appropriate techniques including picture charts and 3D vision testing. Our cycloplegic refraction pathway detects hidden focusing issues that could affect development. All under-16s receive free NHS tests with spectacle vouchers covering most frame choices.
Contact Lens Fittings
We specialise in fitting complex contact lenses including silicone hydrogel, multifocal, and mini-scleral designs. Our practitioners provide thorough training in insertion/removal techniques and offer ongoing aftercare. We stock daily disposables, monthly lenses, and myopia control options like MiSight 1 day lenses for children.
Dry Eye Management
Our dry eye clinic uses diagnostic dyes and tear production tests to identify causes of ocular discomfort. Treatment plans may include BlephEx lid cleaning, prescription eye drops, or lifestyle modifications. We offer both NHS and private consultation options with follow-up support to manage chronic symptoms effectively.
People
Iain Mellis
Optometrist & Practice Owner
BSc (Hons) MCOptom with specialist qualifications in low vision and glaucoma. Leads clinical services at both practices while continuing professional development in medical retina. Combines optometry expertise with technology innovation.
Robert Mellis
Dispensing Optician
FDSc qualified dispensing optician managing spectacle selections and practice operations. Focuses on frame styling and patient education about lens options. Brings business management experience from prior hospitality industry career.
Annette
Optical Manager
Manages spectacle inventory and customer service. Specialises in helping patients choose frames that complement facial features. Has over a decade of experience in optical retail and team leadership.
James Elder
Locum Optometrist
BSc (Hons) MCOptom providing relief cover at North Ormesby practice. Experienced in both NHS and private optometry services. Maintains professional development through regular clinical training updates.
Wendy
Optical Assistant
Experienced optical assistant with decades of industry experience. Provides spectacle adjustments, repairs, and patient guidance on lens care. Known for her patient-centred approach and attention to detail.
Questions
Do you offer emergency eye appointments?
Yes, we provide urgent eye care assessments within 24 hours for conditions like sudden vision loss or eye pain.
Can children have eye tests here?
Yes, we conduct child-friendly eye exams from age 6 months using picture charts and 3D vision testing.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept card payments, NHS optical vouchers, and online payments through our booking system.
Do you stock designer glasses?
We offer over 100 designer frames including Ray-Ban, Oliver Goldsmith, and Bench collections.
Are OCT scans included in eye tests?
OCT scans are an additional £45 diagnostic service, not included in standard eye examinations.
Reviews (15)
sophie
Jul 17, 2020
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I had never been to Mellis before, but needed to be seen quite quickly. I phoned on the Friday and was booked in for the Monday (despite covid pressures) all the staff were friendly and professional. The two ladies (sorry I can't remember names) spent a long time with me helping me chose frames. Nothing was too much trouble. My glasses came within 72 hours. Would definitely recommend
Lisa Bond
Apr 27, 2020
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Big thank you Mellis eye care my son broke his glasses and he is virtually blind and useless without them, Mellis collected at six tonight returned at 730 could not repair but gave him some new frames which his lenses fit thank you so so much no excuse now for not doing his school work.
Richard Bown
Mar 13, 2020
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Fabulous family run opticians. Took my two children for their first sight tests and you sense immediately that Ian and the staff here genuinely care. My wife and I have registered as patients now.
Xiu Chen
Jan 06, 2020
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I started wearing glasses since I was 11 years old, I have tried a few opticians in Middlesbrough area before, then I tried a company called Mellis looks family run to do my prescription. I went to Mellis Eyecare in North Ormesby a few years ago and were happy with their service, they found I needed reading glasses with my near eyesight prescription. Mellis provided me my most comfortable and best fitting glasses I have ever worn, they were very professional and have high standards. Thanks to the team very kind and helpful.
Rosine Pybus
Apr 25, 2019
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The staff were extremely professional, polite and friendly. I needed to make a last minute appointment to have my sight classified for IBTA (International Blind Tennis Association) and the staff squeezed me in with less than 24hrs notice. Mr Mellis showed a genuine interest and radiated warmth and passion for getting the best for those he supports, as long as taking the time to explain and explore different sight-related issues that is previously not felt comfortable asking other opticians/optometrists. Id highly recommend getting your sight classification / eye tests here, it was a smooth, stress free experience!
Donna Holland
Mar 19, 2019
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I am very happy with Iain and the other staff they are all brilliant and made me feel very happy and welcome and I found that my son with his disabilitys found himself very happy and would love to back again i have never felt so happy and having everyone understand and help my son I'm defo and gointing to use this opticians for both my kids and my self in future I'm a very happy mummy
Shaun Latham
Sep 27, 2018
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Fantastic service - can't thank Wendy and Sharon enough for their help in obtaining glasses for our son - had some difficulties with a well known highstreet optician but Mellis Eyecare managed to source frames for my son within 24 hours of our initial enquiry. Their service is second to none. Will certianly be recommending them to others.
Elaine Headlam
Jun 09, 2016
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Hubby and myself have been going to Mellis Eyecare Thornaby for a couple of years for eye tests and glasses. We have good and sound advice about our up to date eye health, and very reasonable pricing on their glasses and products offered. The service is excellent and very friendly, and children's eye care is also very important to this optical team. Nothing is too much trouble, and they are very thorough in checking eye health.
Michelle Noble
May 02, 2016
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Can't fault the care and attention given to me and my young children at Mellis Eyecare yesterday. Very understanding and explained everything brilliantly. Even watching my little girl while I had my eye test. Thank you all x
Alan Smith
Feb 23, 2016
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Had to share my experience of Mellis' Eyecare! After years of attending the big High Street chains and being fed up of returning time after time with problems with my vision or faulty specs I thought it was time to try one of the smaller independent opticians. It was by far the most thorough exam I've ever had in fantastic, relaxed surroundings. The whole experience made me feel like a person, rather than a number and my problems were genuinely listened to and investigated. Easily the comfiest, clearest glasses I've ever had as well - I'll def be back and be telling all my friends.
Helen Newton
Feb 15, 2016
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Iain put me at ease and explained everything to me. There was no pressure to choose glasses and I must have tried about 30 pairs on! The ones I bought in the end are a jazzy purple pair and I love them! See you at my next eye test.
Michael Johnson
Feb 08, 2016
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I went to see Mr Mellis on recommendation of a friend and really glad I did because he was great. My eyes aren't straightforward and the highstreet opticians where they rush you always get it wrong. Now I have the best glasses I have ever worn. Its like having my eyes back. Thank you Iain.
Darren Holliday
Jan 26, 2016
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Great service. The eye test was thorough yet fairly quick and they listen if you have questions. Professional but friendly staff.
Michelle Noble
Excellent experience. Went to N. Ormesby branch, staff were fantastic with my 2 little ones and optician was very thorough and knowledgable. Great service. Would recommend to anyone
Marc Bould
Absolutely fantastic service provided. After visiting this business I wouldn't dream of using a 'faceless' national again. These guys really care and go the extra mile in customer service.