Retina Today (RT): When did you first know you wanted to be a retina specialist?
My residency program director, Andrew Reynolds, MD, is a pediatric ophthalmologist who performs just about every type of surgery. He used complex surgical cases as opportunities to teach us how to stay level-headed in the OR and how novel surgical challenges could be approached with creative problem-solving. I knew I wanted to pursue a specialty that embraced this mindset. Retina is unique in that it draws on techniques from nearly every other specialty while introducing its own distinct set of surgical principles, making it a natural fit for this approach.
RT: Who do you look to as mentors?
I have been fortunate to have mentors such as Thomas Albini, MD; Audina Berrocal, MD; Harry Flynn Jr, MD; Basil K. Williams Jr, MD; and Nicolas Yannuzzi, MD. They helped shape my career by providing guidance and constantly pushing me to grow academically. They have also provided opportunities to present at conferences, contribute to leading retina journals, and refine my critical approach to scientific writing.
I’m also grateful for Jorge Fortun, MD; Luis Haddock, MD; Hong-Uyen Hua, MD; Ninel Gregori, MD; William Smiddy, MD; and Justin Townsend, MD, who have shaped my development as a retina specialist. Through their example, I learned the importance of delivering compassionate care, taking ownership of my patients, and approaching complex cases and complications with humility and composure. Their mentorship has fostered my commitment to continued growth as a surgeon and clinician.
RT: What was one of the most memorable experiences of your fellowship?
One afternoon Dr. Williams and I saw two patients who underscored the importance of being a physician first. The first was a referral for a suspicious choroidal nevus. Dr. Williams identified it as benign and reassured the patient, immediately dissolving all concerns and anxiety. Within minutes, the tension gave way to laughter. Next, we saw a patient with metastatic cancer who was losing vision from her immunotherapy. She was terrified she might have to choose between her life-saving treatment and her sight. Dr. Williams adjusted his approach; he listened with empathy, acknowledged her fears, and offered assurance that we would do everything possible to preserve her vision while she continued treatment. He is one of the most knowledgeable physicians I know, but those encounters reminded me that knowledge isn’t everything. Being the doctor each patient needs is what matters most.
RT: What advice can you offer to residents who are considering retina?
Embrace a craftsman’s mentality toward your training. Continuously push yourself out of your comfort zone, because that’s where real growth happens. Work diligently to refine your skills until you become, as Steve Martin said, “so good they can’t ignore you.” A commitment to constant improvement, combined with humility, will serve you well in retina.
