All Eyes on the Ophthalmologist: Dr. Tommy Apara

We bet a few of you are already familiar with this medical branch, even if you didn't recognize it at first. An ophthalmologist is the eye doctor! Get the title now? But we're here to do more than make more unfunny jokes: meet Dr. Apara, the expert on your vision and any disease that may affect it, who's shared with us some inside info on the life of an eye doctor. Watch and learn, and maybe some of Dr. Apara's answers to our interview questions will help you see the vision of a career in ophthalmology!

What does a typical day in your life look as an ophthalmologist look like?

"A typical day for me involves me getting to the office around 8:30 AM, then start seeing patients until approximately 12:30 PM, taking a 30-45 minute lunch break, then start seeing patients again until 5:30-6:00 PM in the evening. I operate once a week in an outpatient surgery center where I perform between 1-3 surgeries. My surgeries typically take between 1-3 hours start-to-finish. Most of my week is spent in the clinic where I see patients, answer questions, and perform procedures. A typical patient typically takes 5-10 minutes to see, longer if they require a procedure performed to their eye."

What advice would you give to a high school student interested in pursuing your career?

"It's a long road but a rewarding experience. Study hard, stay focused but also try to enjoy the journey along the way. Find some time to do the things you enjoy and take your mind and physical wellness seriously."

What was your primary reason for pursuing a healthcare profession?

"I come from a family of doctors. I think being well-trained to help people in their time of greatest need is one of the most rewarding things a person can do."

What qualities do you think are essential for success in your line of work?

"Discipline, work-ethic, dedication and a good network of support."

Would you mind sharing how your salary has changed over time after educational experience?

"During training, most residents make between $50-65K, depending on their level of training and the particular city and program. Fellows may make a little more than that, around $65-75K. Once you are finished training, in ophthalmology, your pay may vary again depending on the region of the country and the subspecialty. Oculoplastics physicians probably make the most with salaries in the $500-750K range. Retina specialists (like me) make somewhere in the $300-$500K range. You make more if you work in rural areas where the need is greatest and less in urban areas where the need is less."

Now, that's a sight for sore eyes! See the vision yet? 

And don't forget to keep an eye peeled for our next article!