Find a Top Ophthalmologist Near Me – Book an Appointment Instantly

Dr. Navid Hakimian is a board‑certified ophthalmologist specializing in medical and surgical diseases of the retina. With more than three decades of experience, he is known for his thorough diagnostic approach and his commitment to preserving vision in patients facing complex retinal conditions.

A graduate of Tufts University School of Medicine (1991), Dr. Hakimian completed his ophthalmology residency at Stony Brook University Hospital from 1991 to 1995, followed by advanced fellowship training in retinal diseases and surgery from 1995 to 1997.

Since 1997, he has been an Associate at Retina Group P.C., where he provides comprehensive care for diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal vascular disease, and surgical retinal disorders across multiple New York locations. His long-standing tenure reflects a deep commitment to continuity of care and to helping patients navigate chronic, often vision‑threatening retinal disease with clarity and confidence.

Dr. Vijay Battu is a board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist with over 25 years of experience. Dr Battu was the youngest graduate in the history of Albany Medical College, who went on to complete his ophtalmology training there as well. He is having a stellar career as a past Chief of Ophthalmology at The Brooklyn Hospital Center and now in private practice. Dr Battu has vast experience in general ophthalmology, from contact lenses to diabetic eye disease, cataracts, glaucoma and dry eye. His focus on using the latest technology and his vast skillset to improve patients care and vision. He lives in New York City.

David J. Fuerst, MD is an experienced, board-certified ophthalmologist who specializes in cataract, corneal, and refractive surgery at his practice, Fuerst Eye Center, in Glendale, California. He is one of few refractive surgeons specializing in surgery of the cornea — the part of the eye treated by LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) and most other types of refractive surgery. 

Because of his training, experience, and outstanding results, Dr. Fuerst receives many referrals from other eye care specialists for both routine and complex eye surgery, as well as referrals from his satisfied patients.

After completing his ophthalmology residency at the prestigious University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary in Chicago, Dr. Fuerst continued his training at the University of California, San Francisco’s (UCSF) Proctor Foundation for Research in Ophthalmology, completing his fellowship in cornea and external disease. 

Dedicated to his profession, Dr. Fuerst is a recognized mentor and educator. He served as the residency program director at White Memorial Medical Center and as an on-staff teacher at the University of Southern California (USC), which are both located in Los Angeles.

Dr. Fuerst provides compassionate care and treats each patient like a member of his family.

Dilys Bart, MD is an expertly trained ophthalmologist in the Presidio Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, California.

Dr. Bart earned her undergraduate degree from Stanford University, where she graduated with honors and distinction. She graduated medical school from the University of California at San Francisco and completed residency training at Washington University. She is Board-Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and the California Medical Association.     

Dr. Bart is committed to exceptional eye care, optimal vision, and lifelong eye health for her patients, from children to older adults, in her recently renovated office. She respects their time and keeps waits to a minimum. 

Dr. Bart offers comprehensive eye exams, vision correction with contact lenses and glasses, and treatment for cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears, dry eye, blepharitis, allergies, uveitis, pterygium, and many other eye diseases. She also performs Botox® to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. 

Dr. Bart has advanced expertise in sutureless and small incision cataract surgery, femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery, and premium intraocular lens technology, including toric, light-adjustable, multifocal, and accommodating lens implants. 

We are honored that Dr. Bart has been named a Castle Connolly Top Doctor for several years, as featured in San Francisco Magazine. For over 25 years, Castle Connolly has been a trusted resource in identifying the nation’s best doctors — a recognition that only goes to the top 7% of all US board-certified physicians.   

Dr. Bart is married with two children. She enjoys swimming, learning new languages, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

QUESTION AND ANSWER WITH DR. BART

How did you decide on a career in medicine? 

I decided to become an ophthalmologist when I was a junior in high school. Getting my first pair of eyeglasses had a surprisingly profound effect on my life. Clear vision gave me a new — found confidence and sense of well-being. In my case, proper vision meant more than just seeing things clearer; its effect was energizing and transformative. I have always wanted the same experience for each my patients. Excellent vision can offer a new lease on life.

At Stanford University, I studied human biology, with a concentration on vision and perception. I was fascinated by the human visual system. The more I learned about ophthalmology, the more I realized how well-suited I was for this specialty. Ophthalmology requires precision and attention to detail. Complex analytical thought is a necessity. Eye surgery calls for very fine dexterity as well as an aptitude for 3D mechanics.  Fortunately, these characteristics came to me naturally. No one from my childhood was surprised when I became an ophthalmologist.(!)

What do you find fulfilling about your work?

I love practicing medicine — the fascinating complexity of the human body and the continual innovations of modern medicine.  But the most fulfilling aspect of my work is seeing my patients living healthier, more productive, and happier lives. I enjoy helping others see clearly, treating disease and eliminating pain. It may be an elaborate exam for an eyeglass prescription employing refined techniques many doctors don’t use. It may be performing a procedure or giving medication that stops a disease process and restores good health. Seeing both their improved vision and their resultant joy is satisfying.

Tell us about the culture and values of your practice.

Our practice is patient-centered. We work as a team to ensure that the most advanced medicine is combined with the best experience in our office. We want each patient to feel comfortable, informed, and happy with the care we provide. 

What makes your practice different from others’?

My patients tell me I am more communicative than other doctors they have seen. I welcome questions and give thorough explanations. I invite patient participation in forming treatment plans. I get to know my patients. My patients choose me because I care.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bart, call or request an appointment online today.

Dr. Brian Herschorn is a board-certified ophthalmologist with fellowship-training in ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery. He received both his undergraduate and his medical degrees from McGill University in Montreal. Following postgraduate medical training at the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre of the University of Toronto, Dr. Brian Herschorn completed his ophthalmology residency at the Scheie Eye Institute of the University of Pennsylvania.

Fellowship training was completed at the Manhattan Eye Ear & Throat Hospital, here in New York City. Dr. Herschorn became a fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology in 1983 and has practiced ophthalmology in New York City since that time. Dr. Herschorn has almost 30 years of extensive experience on the forefront of cataract surgery and almost 10 years of experience providing LASIK and refractive surgery to the community. His unique skills in the fields of oculoplastic, orbital, lacrimal, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery have been an asset to Ophthalmology Associates of Bay Ridge since 1985, when he began his affiliation.

Dr. Brian Herschorn has published a number of scholarly articles in peer-reviewed journals such as the British Journal of Ophthalmology and Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Dr. Herschorn has held teaching posts at the Manhattan Eye Ear & Throat Hospital and, then, at the Mount Sinai Medical Center where he is affiliated. He is also on staff at the New York Eye & Ear Infirmary of the Beth Israel Medical Center and through the Manhattan Eye Ear & Throat Hospital at the Lenox Hill Hospital.

Adam M. Katz, MD, is an ophthalmologist at Center for Advanced Eye Care, located in Vero Beach, Florida. He is board certified by the prestigious American Board of Ophthalmology, and dual fellowship-trained in disorders of the retina and vitreous.

After receiving his undergraduate degree from Union College in New York, graduating summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa, he was awarded his medical degree from Albany Medical College in New York. Dr. Katz completed his internship in internal medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. After completing a three-year residency in ophthalmology at Saint Vincent’s Hospital, in Manhattan, he went on to complete a one-year medical retina fellowship at NYU and a second two-year retina fellowship in Memphis with world-renowned retinal surgeon Steve Charles, MD. 

He is an Assistant Clinical Professor at Florida State University and was recently elected as President of the Florida Society of Ophthalmology. Dr. Katz has more than 20 years of clinical experience treating patients with retinal and vitreous disorders.

He is a fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and a member of the American Society of Retina Specialists and Indian River Medical Society.

William J. Mallon, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist and ophthalmic surgeon providing patient-centered care at Center for Advanced Eye Care, located in Vero Beach, Florida.

Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, Dr. Mallon received his Bachelor of Science in physiology from Michigan State University and his Medical Degree from Wayne State University, where he graduated as a member of the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society.

After a one-year internship at Methodist Hospital in Memphis, Dr. Mallon completed a three-year ophthalmology residency at the University of Tennessee. He then completed a one-year fellowship in ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery with Ophthalmic Plastic Surgical Associates of Memphis.

He is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and fellowship-trained in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and a member of the American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery. He is the past president of the Florida Society of Ophthalmology and also served on a task force for the American Academy of Ophthalmology regarding surgical ethics.

Derek Ohlstein, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist with a focus on cataract surgery and glaucoma treatment. He sees patients at Center for Advanced Eye Care, located in Vero Beach, Florida. 

Dr. Ohlstein is a native of New Orleans and graduated from Tulane University Medical School. He then completed his ophthalmology residency at the University of Florida. Dr. Ohlstein has published several peer-reviewed articles including Case Reports in Ophthalmology, Diabetes, and Metabolism. He has also lectured extensively on ocular surface disease and developments in minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries.

Dr. Ohlstein’s clinical interests include glaucoma, cataracts, and dry eye. This includes helping glaucoma patients to decrease their need for daily drops with minimally invasive clinic lasers and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Ohlstein’s goal with cataract surgery is to ensure that his patients see clearer, drive safer, and are less dependent on glasses. He also enjoys helping dry eye patients treat the underlying cause of their condition and find relief from their symptoms.

He is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Florida Society of Ophthalmology.

Dr. Ohlstein was inspired to pursue medicine by his grandfather who was a practitioner in North Florida. Prior to his career in ophthalmology, he worked as a professional photographer and in the development of new medications. Dr. Ohlstein lives in Palm City and enjoys spending time with his wife and 2 children. They are often found outside gardening together. He also enjoys fishing, photography, golf, and cooking.

Alexander D. Blandford, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist with a special focus in oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery. He sees patients at Center for Advanced Eye Care, located in Vero Beach, Florida. Dr. Blandford completed his residency in ophthalmology at the University of Florida where he served as Chief Resident and was elected the Resident of the Year. He completed a two-year fellowship approved by the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (ASOPRS) at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute. While a fellow at the Cleveland Clinic he was awarded the Outstanding Clinical Fellow Award and the Knights Templar Research Award by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology. 

Dr. Blandford has published over 20 peer-reviewed papers and has served as a reviewer for Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He has also lectured locally, nationally, and internationally on oculofacial plastic surgery.

Dr. Blandford’s clinical interests include cosmetic and reconstructive surgery around the eyes and face. This includes upper eyelid surgery (eyelid lift and blepharoplasty), lower eyelid surgery (cosmetic removal of bags under eyes and reconstructive), brow/forehead lifts, cheek lifts, cancer removal and reconstruction, tear drainage system surgery, orbital surgery, and non-surgical treatments such as Botox, dermal fillers, and skin treatments.

He is a fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgeons and the American Society for Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. He is a member of the American Medical Association and the Florida Society of Opthalmology. 

Logan T. Vander Woude, DO, MPH, is a board-certified ophthalmologist who is fellowship trained in cataract, cornea, refractive and glaucoma surgery. 

Dr. Vander Woude graduated as valedictorian of his medical school class at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL, where he was given the Dean’s Award and was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society. He completed his three-year ophthalmology residency at University of Florida in Gainesville, during which he was elected as chief resident. He then completed a one-year dual fellowship in cornea, refractive and glaucoma surgery at Your Eye Specialists in Plantation, FL.

Born and raised in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Dr. Vander Woude completed his undergraduate degree at University of Wisconsin-Madison. After which, he completed a Masters in Public Health and Fellowship in Global Health, leading projects in Nepal, India, Ghana, and here in south Florida.

Dr. Vander Woude’s interests include: 

• Cataract surgery to help you see clearly and be less dependent on glasses
• LASIK surgery, which he has had himself
• Corneal transplants and dry eye disease
• Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery and reducing your burden of glaucoma drops
• Global health, which he recently traveled to Paraguay to perform corneal transplants and cataract extractions for people who could not otherwise afford the surgeries

Rodrigo Belalcazar, MD, is an ophthalmologist and aesthetic surgeon at Advanced Eye Center located in Hialeah, Florida. He has performed thousands of the most innovative treatments to improve vision and eye health, as well as facial aesthetics for people in South Florida, the United States, and all over the world.

Dr. Belalcazar is one of several leading researchers in glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, refractive surgery, and keratoconus. He performs laser cataract surgery at Larkin Community Hospital in Miami, North Miami Beach Surgical Center, Beraja Medical Institute in Coral Gables, and Palm Springs General Hospital in Hialeah. At his clinic, Dr. Belalcazar treats eye patients across the globe performing procedures such as: corneal transplants, laser glaucoma surgeries – of which he has performed over 3,000, and refractive surgeries – of which he has performed over 10,000, including LASIK, LASEK, PRK, RK, and EPI-LASEK. Besides offering cataract, LASIK, glaucoma, and numerous other eye surgeries, Dr. Belalcazar also performs cosmetic procedures and treatments, including: red eye treatment, eyelid procedures, skin rejuvenation, skin tightening, dermal fillers, and Botox®. 

A native of Colombia, Dr. Belalcazar received his Doctor of Medicine there and completed his residency at the Colombian Institute of Ocular Surgery, affiliated to the Pontifical Xavierian University in Bogotá. He underwent refractive surgery training at the world-famous Barraquer Institute of America in 1993, The Myopia Ocular Center in Madrid in 1996, and after becoming a naturalized US citizen, completed a refractive laser surgery fellowship in 2008 at Park Avenue Laser Vision in New York with Emil W. Chynn, MD, world-renowned refractive surgeon. Dr. Belalcazar has also completed a pediatrics residency at Driscoll Children’s Hospital, Texas A&M is certified by the Educational Council for Foreign Medical Graduates of Medical Examiners, and is licensed by the Florida, Georgia, New York, and Texas State Medical Boards. He is a Member of The American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and The International Society of Refractive Surgery. All these qualifications, alongside his lifetime of experience, make Dr. Belalcazar one of several leading researchers in the field of ophthalmology.

He has been the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, including the Colombian Culture & Heritage Award for his professional achievement and service to the national community, and has multiple recognitions for Outstanding and Professional Excellence from the State Senate, Council, and Assembly of New York.

He enjoys mountain and rock climbing, marathons, triathlons, hiking, scuba diving, and skydiving.

Stephen Khachikian, MD, is a dedicated and experienced ophthalmologist serving patients in the Rapid City, South Dakota, area. As a cornea, cataract, and refractive specialist, Dr. Khachikian offers LASIK, corneal surgery, cataract surgery, PRK, and many other types of advanced eye care.

Dr. Khachikian earned his undergraduate degree at Siena College in Loudonville, New York, and went on to graduate from Albany Medical College in Albany, New York. He completed his ophthalmology residency and a fellowship in cornea, external disease, and refractive surgery in Albany as well.

Throughout his career, Dr. Khachikian has completed extensive research in the areas of eye disease, medical eye equipment advances, and state-of-the-art surgical techniques. Dr. Khachikian continues to participate in clinical research trials, and he’s a published author who’s well-known for his insightful articles on corneal and cataract surgeries.

For the best in ophthalmology care from a board-certified eye health specialist, book an appointment online or by calling the office of Stephen Khachikian, MD, today.

About Retina Eye Specialists

Retina Eye Specialists was founded by Dr. Raghu Murthy, MD, FACS, in 2004. Located in South Pasadena, California, the team at Retina Eye Specialists includes ophthalmology and retina specialists who provide comprehensive eye care, including a dilated fundus exam and digital imaging studies.

The team uses in-office-based treatments when appropriate for the treatment of retinal detachments, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and other vitreoretinal diseases. The provider also does outpatient microsurgical procedures when necessary at the leading hospitals and surgery centers in the Los Angeles area.

Retina Eye Specialists is committed to ensuring patients understand their condition and treatment options. The provider takes time to answer any questions and provide high-quality care in a warm and welcoming environment.

Retina Eye Specialists is currently accepting new patients and accepts most major insurances. Same-day appointments are available for emergencies and same-week appointments for non-emergencies.

Feel free to call the South Pasadena office at (626) 202-2446. You can also book an appointment online today.

Learn More About Dr. Murthy

Kavita Surti, MD, is a lead physician and cosmetic specialist at Rancho Wellness Aesthetic, a state-of-the-art cosmetic medicine practice located in Rancho Cucamonga, California. With nearly 15 years in the medical field, Dr. Surti is passionate about using her expertise and experience to help patients in the San Bernardino area look and feel their absolute best.

Dr. Surti provides a full scope of cosmetic services, including advanced laser procedures for skin rejuvenation and tattoo removal, and Botox® and dermal fillers for long-lasting wrinkle reduction. As a board-certified ophthalmologist, she specializes in blepharoplasty, a cosmetic eyelid surgery designed to lift loose or droopy eyelids.  

To help her patients get the aesthetic results they’re seeking, Dr. Surti always strives to maintain the highest level of communication. She believes that listening to patients’ concerns, educating them on their options, and placing their goals at the forefront of her treatment recommendations are all part of delivering of first-rate care.

After graduating with highest honors from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Dr. Surti received her medical degree, also with highest honors, from Wayne State School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan. She then went on to complete a three-year residency program in ophthalmology at the nationally renowned program of Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas.

Dr. Surti is also the founder and medical director of Citrus Valley Eye Care in Covina, California. She’s fluent in Spanish and welcomes all patients.

Dr. Ling Bei MD is a fellowship -trained glaucoma and cataract surgeon with a particular interest in minimally invasive glaucoma surgery. She provides the most advanced medical, laser, and surgical techniques personalizing care for the individual's needs and lifestyle. She also performs laser-assisted cataract surgery with specialty intraocular lenses to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses.

Dr. Bei graduated magna cum laude from Duke University with a double major in Biomedical Engineering and English. She completed her medical school training at the University of Pittsburgh and her ophthalmology residency at Washington University in St. Louis where she was honored to receive the Resident Research Award. She further received dedicated glaucoma surgical training at the University of California - San Diego with world-renowned leaders in the glaucoma field and was chosen to receive the Fellow Teaching Award for her contributions to mentorship of other ophthalmologists. She has published numerous papers in peer-reviewed ophthalmology journals and is a member of the American Board of Ophthalmology and the American Glaucoma Society.

In her free time she enjoys fitness, travel, and water-sports with her two children and husband.

Dr. Audrey Mok is a board-certified ophthalmologist whose clinical and surgical expertise is focused on Cataract Surgery, Oculoplastics and Neuro-ophthalmology. She strives to bring her patients excellent and compassionate care.

Dr. Mok’s initial exposure to eye care started when she was a young child, when she realized that she could “actually see the leaves on the trees” after obtaining her first pair of glasses. She grew up locally in Southern California, attending St. Joseph High School in Lakewood. She began to think about a career in medicine during this time and during her undergraduate studies at UCLA, where she graduated cum laude with a B.S. in Psychobiology. Dr. Mok attended medical school at Georgetown University, and then decided to return to California to complete an internship in Internal Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.

She then moved to Chicago to train at the University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary for her ophthalmology residency. During that time, she realized that she wished to specialize even further, and continued training at the University of California, Irvine, to complete a fellowship in Oculoplastics and Neuro-ophthalmology. During her fellowship, she gained additional experience in medical and surgical treatments for patients with eyelid disorders, eyelid reconstruction, thyroid disease, strokes, and other neurological conditions which can affect eyesight. Dr. Mok also performs cosmetic procedures such as upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), and is skilled in the use of Botox and Xeomin for both cosmetic and medical (i.e. for eyelid and facial spasms). She has extensive experience in injecting soft-tissue fillers such as Belotero, Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse, and Sculptra. She has presented posters and papers at international ophthalmological meetings, and since joining Eye Treatment Center in 2005 she has served as a primary or sub-investigator in multiple cutting-edge clinical research trials.

Dr. Mok was eager to return to the Southern California community that she grew up in, and is committed to her patients and to the area. In her current practice, she is also a skilled cataract surgeon well-versed in small-incision and laser cataract surgery and premium intraocular lens technology. Dr. Mok has been named by her peers to the Super Doctors® Rising Stars list in the past, and to Los Angeles Magazine’s Top Doctors list for 2018. In the past, she has served as Chair for the Department of Ophthalmology at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their two sons, traveling, running, and reading.

Dr. Irene Fong Sasaki is a caring and highly skilled, board-certified surgeon who specializes in Cataract and Glaucoma Surgery. She has practiced in Long Beach since 1995 and has built her practice through word of mouth referrals from satisfied patients and referring physicians.

Dr. Sasaki loves to care for people and is dedicated to providing her patients with the highest quality eye care.

Dr. Sasaki is a native Angelino and received her undergraduate degree from the University of California at Berkeley. She earned her medical degree at the Medical College of Pennsylvania and then completed her internship at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco and a residency in ophthalmology at King Drew Medical Center. Dr. Sasaki wanted to increase her ability to diagnose and treat glaucoma and went on to pursue more extensive training by completing a fellowship in glaucoma at the Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA.

She is Board Certified and is current with new advances in sutureless, microincisional, laser cataract surgery and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery. She has expertise with premium lens implants including toric, multifocal and accommodating intraocular lens implants for patients who want to reduce their dependence on glasses after cataract surgery.

Dr. Sasaki is dedicated to investing in our communities. She volunteers and supports numerous organizations that promote women’s issues, youth sports and public education. Dr. Sasaki, her husband Ned, and their two sons, Matt and Will, are all baseball fans. Their home team is the Los Angeles Dodgers. She enjoys cooking, exploring new cuisines, traveling and sharing time with her family.