OOMC News

1. Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to specialize in oculoplastics?

I was raised in the Philadelphia suburbs by my parents, who were both physicians. When I was fifteen, my father passed away from a rare form of cancer called Ewing sarcoma, which inspired me to pursue a career in medicine. During medical school, I was fortunate to work with a research mentor, Albert Wu, MD, PhD, who introduced me to the field of oculoplastics. Dr. Wu and I traveled with a nonprofit organization to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on a mission trip, where I got to first assist on all of the oculoplastic surgeries. I fell in love with the specialty during this experience, particularly after working in a women’s and children’s hospital while there. I enjoy the wide variety of surgeries in the field, ranging from cosmetic cases to reconstructions for skin cancers and traumas, as well as the ability to treat both children and adults. The combination of medicine and surgery, as well as the creativity and excellence in technical skills required in oculoplastics, ultimately drew me to the specialty.

2. What are some of the most common procedures you perform, and how can they improve a patient’s quality of life?

The most common surgeries I perform are upper eyelid blepharoplasty, ptosis repair, and brow lifting procedures for improvement in patients’ peripheral vision and/or cosmetic appearance. I also commonly perform eyelid and facial reconstruction surgery after skin cancer removals and traumas in order to preserve the normal periocular anatomy and protect patients’ vision. Additionally, I provide medical and surgical treatment for tearing, including surgery for eyelid malposition such as ectropion and entropion, as well as surgical correction of blocked tear ducts in both adults and children. Finally, I offer both medical and surgical aesthetic procedures such as upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty, Botox and filler injections, brow lifting procedures, and laser resurfacing to improve cosmetic appearance and provide facial rejuvenation for patients of all ages.

3. What makes your approach to patient care unique, and how do you ensure the best outcomes for your patients?

My approach to patient care is unique due to my background in both humanities and science, having majored in Classical studies during college. Studying art and history in addition to medicine broadened my perspective on patient care and allows me to relate better to people of all backgrounds. I ensure the best outcomes for my patients by taking extra time to listen to their needs and connecting with them on a more personal level so that I can best understand and meet their surgical goals. I value providing my patients with a personalized care plan that allows them to achieve aesthetically pleasing and natural results.   

4. What advice would you give to someone considering oculoplastic surgery for the first time?

My advice to anyone considering oculoplastic surgery for the first time would be to thoroughly research the type of surgery you may be interested in and your potential surgeon to ensure they have the best training to meet your goals. I have completed over a decade of training including both ophthalmology residency and a highly competitive fellowship in oculofacial plastic surgery through the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS). ASOPRS trained surgeons are best equipped to improve facial aesthetics and function while also protecting ocular health and vision.

I would also advise patients that feeling comfortable and connected to your surgeon is of the utmost importance! I believe every patient should feel at ease with their surgeon and comfortable to ask any and all questions throughout the process. It is an honor and a privilege for me to be able to provide medical and surgical care to my patients and one which I take very seriously.

5. What made you want to join the Kremer team?

I wanted to join the Kremer team because of its outstanding reputation for providing excellent patient care and outcomes throughout the region. It was clear to me when meeting the team that all of the staff at Kremer are very dedicated to putting patients first. I am also thrilled to join a group of leaders in our field who are constantly striving to advance clinical and surgical care within ophthalmology.

6. What do you like to do when you are not at the office?

Outside of work, I love to spend time with my family, watch Philadelphia sports and women’s basketball, travel, and play tennis. I also enjoy many wellness practices such as yoga and meditation and am a certified level II Reiki practitioner.