Rising Stars in Retina: Suzie A. Gasparian, MD

Retina Today: When did you first know that you wanted to become a retina specialist?

My experiences as a resident at our county hospitals inspired me to become a vitreoretinal surgeon.

In witnessing the range of retinal disease manifestations—local to systemic and acute to chronic—the beautiful complexity of the retina was revealed to me, and treating these patients filled me with excitement.

Seeing the most advanced stages of retinal pathology and having the ability to safeguard and restore vision as a retina specialist was truly eye-opening.

RT: Who do you look to as mentors in the field?

I am extremely grateful for the mentorship I received throughout my residency at Loma Linda University and fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine. During my fellowship training, Christina Y. Weng, MD, MBA, has been particularly influential, empowering and inspiring me as a clinician and surgeon. She is continuously exploring the latest scientific advancements, imparting her exceptional surgical expertise, and sharing her innovative ideas with me.

Her mentorship has flourished into a lifelong friendship, and for that I am forever grateful.

RT: What has been one of the most memorable experiences of your fellowship thus far?

I vividly recall receiving a phone call from a resident at 2:00 AM regarding an elderly patient who presented with a macula-on rhegmatogenous retinal detachment—a patient whose VA of 20/20 was actively being threatened by this complication. Within an hour, we made it to the OR to repair his retinal detachment. And within the month, he could see perfectly again. This singular experience encapsulates the essence of hope in times when hope seems to be rapidly fading.

As a vitreoretinal surgeon, possessing the unique skills to combat serious retinal conditions and profoundly affect patients’ lives by preserving their vision is truly an honor.

RT: What are you hoping to accomplish once you are in practice?

I am passionate about providing exceptional care to my patients with retinal diseases in both the clinic and the OR. With an unwavering curiosity, I am motivated to participate in clinical trials to fuel the advent of novel sight-saving therapies. Additionally, I look forward to the opportunity to mentor aspiring retina specialists.

RT: What advice can you offer to residents who are considering retina?

I encourage residents to seize any opportunity they have to witness the breathtaking view of the intricate retina through the OR microscope. If you weren’t already convinced about pursuing a career in retina, the sight of it might sway your decision!