Ophthalmology

Respected Leaders
Our doctors lecture and train others on the latest advances in eye care, publish research, and help develop treatment guidelines that are followed around the world. As a patient at Duke Eye Center, you are cared for by respected leaders in the field of ophthalmology.

Specialists in the Full Spectrum of Eye Care
As a regional referral center, we have specialists in a wide range of eye care needs -- from common conditions to rare disorders. These include:

• An ocular immunologist -- a specialist in immunological diseases of the eye, including autoimmune disorders
• Experts in retinal degeneration, both genetic and nongenetic
• Oculofacial plastic surgeons -- ophthalmologists specially trained to improve the appearance of your eyes and face and protect your vision following cancer, trauma, or congenital defects.

Experts in Pediatric Eye Care
Our pediatric eye-care specialists work with children with serious eye concerns and eye muscle disorders. Many of our pediatric patients travel to Duke from around the country.

Routine Eye Care for Children
We offer routine eye care for children, including annual exams and contact lens fittings, in Durham, North Durham, and Cary.

Comprehensive Care for Multiple Eye Conditions
Many of the people we treat experience more than one eye concern. Our specialists work together to manage eye diseases. If you need multiple visits for different eye disorders, we make every effort to coordinate your care and maximize your convenience.

Bionic Eye for Total Blindness
We are one of the few U.S. facilities to offer this exciting advancement. It allows people with end-stage retinitis pigmentosa to gain improved functioning in their daily lives.

Compassionate, Supportive Environment
We offer patient support services, including educational materials and programs, a low vision specialist, and a dedicated social worker to help you and your loved ones manage your condition and maximize your quality of life.

Specialized Staff and Surgical Facilities
Our skilled surgeons work closely with anesthesiologists and surgical nurses who have focused their training and experience on caring for people with eye conditions. Our surgical suites are expertly equipped to treat complex and multiple eye problems including retinal and corneal diseases.

Powerful Imaging Devices
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) offers 3-D views of the eye’s internal structures. Our researchers are pioneering new uses for OCT, including ways to prevent blindness in premature babies. Our work with OCT means we can more accurately diagnose your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment.