Find a Specialist

John P. Gorham, MD, is a pediatric ophthalmologist who cares for children with strabismus, amblyopia, refractive errors, and other eye conditions, and also treats adult strabismus. He uses adjustable sutures when appropriate to improve outcomes in complex cases and partners with families to build care plans that are clear, manageable, and centered on the child’s daily life at school, play, and home. Dr. Gorham trained at Emory University for medical school, internship, and residency before completing fellowship training at the University of Michigan. In addition to surgical care, he manages nasolacrimal duct obstruction, screens for retinopathy of prematurity, and offers practical guidance for glasses and patching therapy. Families appreciate his approachable style, careful measurements, and emphasis on teamwork to support the best long-term visual development.

Narine Viruni, MD, is a vitreoretinal surgeon who cares for the full spectrum of medical and surgical retina conditions. She partners closely with patients to explain diagnoses in plain language, outline evidence-based options, and tailor treatment plans to protect and improve vision. Her practice includes advanced imaging, in-office therapies, and microsurgical techniques for complex retinal disease. Patients appreciate her calm, thorough approach and her commitment to timely access and coordinated follow-up.Dr. Viruni completed ophthalmology residency at the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute, where she later served as Assistant Chief of Service and codirector of the ocular trauma unit. She then pursued subspecialty fellowship training in vitreoretinal surgery at Wilmer. She earned her medical degree from the University of California, Davis School of Medicine and graduated in physiology from the University of California, Los Angeles. At Retina Consultants of Southern Colorado, she welcomes referrals for both urgent problems and longitudinal retinal care, and collaborates closely with referring optometrists and ophthalmologists to support seamless care for each patient.

Dr. Murtaza K. Adam is a vitreoretinal surgeon at Colorado Retina Associates who treats the full range of medical and surgical retina conditions for adults. In addition to common diseases such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusions, he has special expertise in managing complications of cataract surgery, dislocated intraocular lenses, and complex anterior–posterior segment reconstruction. Patients describe his care as meticulous, evidence-based, and collaborative. A Wisconsin native, Dr. Adam completed both ophthalmology residency and vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at Wills Eye Hospital, where he served as co-chief resident and received the William Tasman Outstanding Fellow Award. His research and education activities include more than 40 peer-reviewed publications and over 100 abstracts, with interests spanning SFIOL techniques, tele-ophthalmology, novel imaging, and ocular infectious disease.

Dr. Cristos Ifantides, MD, MBA is a fellowship-trained, board-certified anterior segment surgeon specializing in routine and complex surgeries of the front of the eye. He offers modern cataract care—including laser-assisted techniques and advanced lens options—as well as surgical and laser treatments for glaucoma. Known for surgical innovation and medical education, Dr. Ifantides has published extensively, delivered dozens of invited talks, and pioneered techniques that help surgeons manage challenging anterior segment problems. Before entering private practice, he served on the faculty of an academic medical center, where his NIH-funded lab explored 3D printing, materials science, and drug delivery to solve unmet needs in ophthalmology. Dr. Ifantides completed an Academic Global Ophthalmology/Anterior Segment fellowship at Wills Eye Hospital after ophthalmology residency at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. He earned his MD and MBA at the University of Florida. Patients appreciate his calm, collaborative style and the way he pairs state-of-the-art technology with clear, step-by-step guidance before and after surgery.

Dr. Andrew Zheng is a fellowship-trained retina and uveitis specialist who helps patients navigate the stress of sight-threatening disease with clear explanations and compassionate care. He treats the full range of vitreoretinal disorders—from retinal detachment and macular disease to diabetic retinopathy and inflammatory or infectious uveitis—and offers both office-based therapies and advanced surgery. His practice emphasizes precise diagnosis, state-of-the-art imaging, and tailored treatment plans focused on the best possible visual outcome. Dr. Zheng studied chemistry and biology at Duke University and earned his MD from Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons. He completed ophthalmology residency and a uveitis fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute, followed by a two-year vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the Emory Eye Center, where he was named Fellow of the Year. Outside the clinic, he enjoys Colorado’s outdoors and cooking at home with family.

Dr. Scott Butikofer is a board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist caring for patients in Pueblo and Southern Colorado since 2017. He specializes in cataract surgery and precise intraocular lens planning, and manages a wide range of eye conditions with a calm, attentive manner. Dr. Butikofer completed his ophthalmology residency at the UMKC School of Medicine, where he was twice voted Consultant of the Year, following medical school at the University of Washington and a transitional year at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center. Patients see Dr. Butikofer for everything from routine evaluations to advanced surgical and medical care. He tailors recommendations to each person’s goals and lifestyle, explaining findings and options in straightforward terms so patients can make confident decisions about their vision.

Dr. Rebecca Edwards Mayhew, MD, PhD is a pediatric ophthalmologist and strabismus specialist who cares for children and adults with eye misalignment and related vision concerns. She believes early, thoughtful eye care sets kids up for success and partners closely with families to create a safe, friendly and collaborative experience. For adults with strabismus or double vision, she offers comprehensive evaluation and a personalized, multifaceted plan to improve function, comfort and confidence. Dr. Edwards Mayhew completed medical school at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, residency in ophthalmology at the University of Colorado, and fellowship at the University of Michigan. Her clinical interests include complex strabismus, pediatric uveitis, inherited eye disease and amblyopia, and she also manages conditions such as keratoconus, herpetic eye disease and thyroid eye disease. She cares for patients on the Anschutz Medical Campus and at additional Children’s Hospital Colorado locations, bringing academic expertise together with clear communication so families understand options and next steps.

Dr. Alexandra Levitt is a board-certified, fellowship trained specialist who focuses on oculofacial plastic surgery and treatment of related diseases. Dr. Levitt graduated from University of Miami Medical school in 2016 as both a Medical Doctor (MD degree) and a Master of Public Health (MPH degree). She was first in her class. After medical school, she finished an internship in Indianapolis, and then returned to Miami to the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute for ophthalmology residency. After residency, Dr. Levitt completed a fellowship in oculofacial plastic surgery at the University of Colorado in 2022 and joined our team in Denver. She is a candidate for membership in the prestigious American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Levitt has proven to be a very talented surgeon and a caring, empathetic doctor, according to her patients and peers. She is particularly drawn to the artistry of facial reconstructive and cosmetic surgery and she enjoys spending time with each of her patients. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring Colorado’s beautiful outdoors through hiking and photography.

Dr. Nora Muakkassa is a board-certified ophthalmologist and medical retina specialist. She provides comprehensive ophthalmic care with a special focus on diseases of the retina. She has been serving patients in Colorado since 2019. Dr. Muakkassa completed her medical degree at New York University School of Medicine and her ophthalmology residency and medical retina fellowship at Tufts Medical Center. She was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. She previously served as an assistant professor at Tufts Medical Center, where she led the retina curriculum and trained residents and fellows. Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Muakkassa co-founded OphthoGenie, an educational ophthalmology company, in 2019. She has published several scientific articles and presented her research at national meetings. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, cooking, and gardening.

Dr. Cameron L. Clarke is a glaucoma and cataract surgeon who offers the full spectrum of modern glaucoma care—from in-office laser options to minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) and traditional procedures when needed. He also performs complex cataract surgery and helps patients choose advanced lens technologies to match their visual goals. Patients value his clear explanations, attention to safety, and thoughtful follow-up. Originally from southern Utah, Dr. Clarke completed medical school at Baylor College of Medicine and ophthalmology residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. He has presented research at national meetings and is trained in SLT, sustained-release drug implants, MIGS, and cyclophotocoagulation, allowing him to personalize care for each stage of disease.

Jonathan Noguchi, MD, is a fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon at Denver Eye Surgeons who cares for conditions affecting the eyelids, tear drainage system, and orbit. He offers both functional and cosmetic procedures, including eyelid reconstruction after skin-cancer removal, ptosis repair, and facial rejuvenation with injectables. In addition to oculoplastics, Dr. Noguchi provides comprehensive eye care and performs cataract surgery, focusing on treatments that restore comfort, function, and natural-looking results. Dr. Noguchi completed medical school at the University of California, San Diego, followed by ophthalmology residency at Loyola Medical Center and Hines VA in Chicago. He then pursued an oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery fellowship at the University of Calgary, where he performed a high volume of advanced procedures. He enjoys collaborating closely with patients to understand their goals, explain options clearly, and personalize care for each situation.

Dr. Rachel Chaoran Chen is a retina specialist and vitreoretinal surgeon who treats the full spectrum of medical and surgical retinal disease. She provides individualized care for conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears and detachments, and epiretinal membranes and macular holes—explaining each option so patients feel confident in the path forward. Her surgical training includes complex vitreoretinal procedures as well as advanced imaging and injection therapies. Dr. Chen earned her medical degree at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, completed ophthalmology residency at the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute, and pursued fellowship training in vitreoretinal surgery at the University of Colorado. She has presented research at national meetings and authored book chapters and peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Chen is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and is a member of leading retina societies. She is dedicated to evidence-based, compassionate care tailored to each patient’s goals.

Michael A. Puente Jr., MD, is a pediatric ophthalmologist who cares for children with a full range of eye conditions and provides strabismus care for adults. He founded and directs UCHealth’s Special Care Eye Clinic, a monthly clinic designed for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who benefit from a more pediatric-style exam environment. Dr. Puente partners with families to set goals, explain options, and create treatment plans that prioritize function, safety, and quality of life. Dr. Puente earned his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine, completed internship and ophthalmology residency at Tulane University, and pursued fellowship training in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus at the University of Colorado. He speaks English and Spanish and advocates for improved access to eye care for patients with special needs.

Dr. Gregory Fliney is a comprehensive ophthalmologist with a focus on cataract, glaucoma, and eyelid surgery. He combines modern surgical technology with a thoughtful, educational style so patients understand their choices—whether that’s premium cataract lens options, minimally invasive glaucoma procedures, or rejuvenating eyelid surgery. His goal is clear: safer surgery, smoother recovery, and vision that supports the way you live. Dr. Fliney graduated from the University of Colorado School of Medicine, completed ophthalmology residency at Yale University, and studied biology and psychology at the University of Colorado Denver, graduating summa cum laude. He offers MIGS alongside medical therapy to reduce drop burden, and performs functional and cosmetic eyelid procedures, including blepharoplasty and brow lift. Patients value his approachable manner and the time he takes to tailor care plans around their visual needs.

Dr. Grant Gebhard provides comprehensive ophthalmic care with a focus on helping people see comfortably at work, on the trail, and at home. He offers advanced cataract surgery, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), medical and laser glaucoma care, refractive corneal procedures, and selected oculoplastic services. His style is collaborative and down-to-earth—patients can expect plain-spoken guidance, careful counseling about lens and procedure options, and steady hands in the OR. A Colorado native, Dr. Gebhard studied Italian at Brigham Young University, earned his MD from the University of Colorado School of Medicine, completed an internal-medicine internship at the University of Utah, and finished ophthalmology residency at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. He enjoys caring for families across the Four Corners region and speaks both Italian and Spanish. Whether the goal is sharper distance vision or lowering eye-drop burden, he works with each patient to map a plan that fits their life.

Mariam Ahmad, MD, is a pediatric ophthalmologist and strabismus specialist who provides family-centered care for children and adults with alignment disorders. She manages conditions such as amblyopia, strabismus, retinopathy of prematurity, and pediatric ocular surface disease, and offers surgical correction for pediatric and adult strabismus when needed. Dr. Ahmad’s approach blends careful examination with age-appropriate testing and clear communication with families about goals, options, and expected recovery. An associate professor of clinical practice, Dr. Ahmad completed fellowship training in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus and remains active in research and education. Her publications and presentations span pediatric ocular infections, inflammatory conditions, and surgical outcomes, all aimed at improving vision and quality of life for young patients.

Dr. Ameay Naravane is a fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist and board-certified ophthalmologist. He provides comprehensive medical and surgical care for the full spectrum of glaucoma and offers advanced anterior segment procedures when cataract or lens problems complicate disease management. Patients value his calm, collaborative style and the way he explains risks, benefits, and recovery so they can make confident decisions together. Originally from St. Paul, he completed undergraduate studies at Georgetown University, earned his MD from the University of Minnesota, and stayed in Minnesota for internship and ophthalmology residency, where he served as Chief Resident. He then completed a fellowship in Glaucoma and Advanced Anterior Segment Surgery at Washington University in St. Louis. His surgical experience includes MIGS, trabeculectomy and tube shunts, complex cataract surgery, and iris and lens reconstruction. Dr. Naravane partners closely with each patient to personalize care, integrating proven techniques with the latest innovations to protect vision over a lifetime.

Lauren Mehner, MD, MPH, is a pediatric ophthalmologist and strabismus specialist at the University of Colorado. She cares for children with a wide range of eye conditions and treats adults with strabismus, tailoring medical and surgical plans to each patient’s needs. Her practice emphasizes creating a welcoming, kid-friendly environment, partnering with families, and helping patients build lifelong visual health. Dr. Mehner earned her MD and MPH at the University of Colorado, completed residency at the University of Colorado (serving as chief resident), and pursued fellowship training in pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus at Indiana University. She is an assistant professor of ophthalmology, speaks English and Spanish, and has authored peer-reviewed work on pediatric eye disease and global health in ophthalmology.

Dr. Amit Reddy is a retina and uveitis specialist who cares for patients with inflammatory eye disease and complex retinal conditions. He believes people do best when they understand their diagnosis and options, and he takes time to align treatment with each patient’s needs—whether that involves targeted medications, immunosuppression, or surgery in collaboration with retina colleagues. His goal is to control inflammation, protect the macula and optic nerve, and help patients maintain the activities they love. Dr. Reddy earned his medical degree at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Colorado, and pursued fellowship training at the University of California, San Francisco. His clinical interests span uveitis, scleritis, retinal vasculitis, infectious retinitis, and macular edema. At UCHealth’s Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, he works within a multidisciplinary network to deliver evidence-based, personalized care.

Dr. Lynn Hassman, MD, PhD is a uveitis and ocular immunology specialist who cares for patients with all forms of eye inflammation. As an Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Colorado, she helps people navigate complex inflammatory eye diseases with clear explanations, thoughtful second opinions, and treatment plans tailored to each person’s goals. When needed, she prescribes steroid-sparing immunomodulatory therapy and collaborates closely with rheumatology and other specialists to protect vision while minimizing medication side effects. Dr. Hassman completed the Medical Scientist Training Program at the University of Virginia (MD 2012, PhD 2010), ophthalmology residency at the University of Rochester, and a dedicated uveitis fellowship at the University of Utah. Her research focuses on ocular immune responses, precision medicine, and health equity, and she has authored peer-reviewed studies spanning HLA-B27 anterior uveitis, neurosarcoidosis, birdshot chorioretinitis, and granulomatous uveitis. Patients describe her as attentive, collaborative, and evidence-based—someone who meets them where they are and stays with them through each step of care.

Menachem Weiss, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained cornea specialist at ICON Eyecare. He offers advanced cataract surgery with modern lens technologies, performs corneal transplantation, and provides a full range of refractive procedures, including LASIK, PRK, and EVO ICL. Dr. Weiss also treats pterygium and dry eye disease and enjoys delivering clear, practical explanations so patients feel confident in their choices. Dr. Weiss graduated from The Ohio State University and earned his medical degree with distinction in research from the University of Rochester. He completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Texas in San Antonio and a cornea fellowship at the University of Miami’s Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. He has authored publications in peer-reviewed journals and is committed to patient-centered, evidence-based care.

Dr. Ellen R. Miller is a board-certified ophthalmologist who specializes in pediatric eye care and adult strabismus. She completed her undergraduate education at The Ohio State University, graduating magna cum laude, and earned her Doctor of Medicine degree from The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Miller then completed her ophthalmology residency at the Havener Eye Institute at OSU and pursued advanced fellowship training in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Miller is an active member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, and the El Paso County Medical Society. She has presented her research at national meetings, including the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) and the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS). Dr. Miller is excited to provide comprehensive eye care to children and adults in Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas.

Dr. Troy Teeples is an ophthalmologist who provides comprehensive medical and surgical eye care with a focus on restoring and protecting vision. He enjoys helping patients understand their diagnoses and options, from cataract surgery planning to in-office treatments for common retinal and glaucoma conditions. His approach centers on treating each person’s goals and tolerances as unique, and partnering as a doctor-patient team to choose the right path forward. Raised in Colorado, Dr. Teeples completed medical school at the University of Utah and ophthalmology residency at the University of Colorado, with additional training in internal medicine. He offers modern cataract surgery and minimally invasive glaucoma procedures along with medical retina care such as injections for macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Outside of clinic, he stays active outdoors with his family.

Dr. Niranjan Manoharan is a vitreoretinal surgeon and Associate Professor of Ophthalmology who specializes in both medical and surgical care of retinal disease. He strives to make complex topics understandable, using imaging and clear visuals to help patients see what he sees and choose the plan that best matches their needs. His clinical interests span diabetic and vascular retinal disease, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and complex vitreoretinal surgery.Dr. Manoharan earned his MD from the Medical College of Wisconsin, completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Colorado, and pursued fellowship training in vitreoretinal disease and surgery at the UCLA Jules Stein Eye Institute. He also holds a BS from the University of California, San Diego. His scholarly work includes publications on age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, imaging biomarkers, and surgical outcomes, and he has received teaching and service recognitions at both UCLA and the University of Colorado. Patients appreciate his data-driven approach, careful follow-up, and compassionate communication.