Find a Specialist

Dr. Aaron Ricca is a board-certified, fellowship-trained ophthalmologist at Retina Associates of Kentucky. He specializes in vitreoretinal diseases and has a great interest in the medical and surgical management of retinal disease due to diabetes, which is the leading cause of vision loss in working-aged adults. Dr. Ricca finds that caring for patients with chronic illnesses allows him to build meaningful doctor-patient relationships, which he finds both rewarding and important in good medical care. Dr. Ricca also has an interest in inherited retinal disease. His fellowship experience allowed him exposure to one of the most robust inherited retinal disease clinics in the nation. Medicine has entered the era of gene and stem cell therapies, with ophthalmology at the forefront. As a previous mechanical engineer, Dr. Ricca greatly appreciates the ever-evolving imaging technologies that Retina Associates of Kentucky uses to diagnose and manage patients. Outside of work, Dr. Ricca and his wife have two young kids, a daughter and a son. As a family, they love to cook, bake, and play outdoors. When traveling, they look to the local cuisine to experience different cultures. Depending on the time of year, Dr. Ricca likes to fly fish or hunt as frequently as he can.

Dr. Christopher Areephanthu provides comprehensive ophthalmic care for adults, from routine examinations to surgical treatment. Patients value his straightforward, educational approach and the way he discusses options for both immediate concerns and long-term eye health. His services include diagnostics and medical therapy as well as procedures delivered with modern technology. Dr. Areephanthu earned his medical degree from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and completed ophthalmology residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. At Med Center Health Eye Care, he offers cataract evaluation and surgery, minimally invasive glaucoma procedures when appropriate, and treatment plans for common retinal and ocular surface conditions. He partners with each patient to align care with personal goals and to preserve comfortable, dependable vision.

Dr. Casey O’Shea is a comprehensive ophthalmologist and refractive surgeon committed to clear communication, meticulous technique, and results that match each patient’s goals. She earned her BSE and MSE in biomedical engineering and her MD from the University of Michigan, then completed a transitional year at St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Michigan followed by ophthalmology residency at the University of Louisville. She is board-eligible with hands-on experience across cataract, laser vision correction, and eyelid procedures. Dr. O’Shea offers a full spectrum of care—from routine exams and dry eye management to advanced cataract surgery and LASIK. She enjoys partnering with patients to design a personalized plan, explaining options in plain language and using modern technology to optimize outcomes. Outside of work, she and her family enjoy sports, running, cooking, and animal welfare.

Dr. Sergei V. Dmitruk is a board-certified ophthalmologist who cares for adults seeking clear, comfortable vision through modern cataract and anterior segment surgery. He offers comprehensive eye care with a special interest in premium lens options and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), pairing up-to-date technology with practical guidance so patients can choose confidently. Dr. Dmitruk studied Integrative Physiology with a certificate in Neuroscience at the University of Colorado Boulder and earned his MD at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. He completed internship at Riverside Regional Medical Center and ophthalmology residency at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he developed interests in cataract outcomes and ocular trauma. His quality-improvement work has included optimizing care for patients at risk of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome and building laser training curricula for junior surgeons. He is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and welcomes new patients.

Dr. James M. Huffman is an ophthalmologist with advanced training in cornea, external disease, and refractive surgery. A Kentucky native, he earned his medical degree with high distinction from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and completed ophthalmology residency training at the University of Kentucky Advanced Eye Care Clinic. He then completed a fellowship in Cornea, External Disease, and Refractive Surgery at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. In clinic and in the operating room, Dr. Huffman focuses on helping patients see more clearly through advanced cataract surgery and vision correction options such as LASIK and PRK. He offers minimally invasive corneal transplant techniques—including partial-thickness corneal procedures and DMEK—along with care for conditions such as Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy and keratoconus. He also helped bring corneal collagen cross-linking to Central Kentucky for progressive keratoconus and post-refractive ectasia, and he works with the Kentucky Lions Eye Bank to support eye donation and transplantation.

Dr. Leanne Clevenger is a fellowship-trained and board-certified ophthalmologist at UK Advanced Eye Care, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of retinal conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment and tears, macular holes, and epiretinal membranes. She performs an array of surgical procedures including retina surgery and vitrectomy, and in clinic emphasizes education and shared decision-making to help patients understand their condition and treatment options, which may involve in-office injections, laser procedures, or surgery. A Lexington native, Dr. Clevenger is grateful to provide retina care to the people of Kentucky and surrounding states. She earned her medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine and completed her residency and fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic’s Cole Eye Institute, where she served as Chief Resident from 2021 to 2022. As an Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology, she prioritizes her patients’ personal goals while applying the most advanced treatments and surgical techniques, and she is passionate about trainee education and advancing ophthalmology research at UK HealthCare with the goal of protecting and, when possible, restoring vision.

Dr. Guru Pattar is a board-certified ophthalmologist at The Eye Care Institute in Louisville. He provides comprehensive ophthalmology care and performs cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation, while also caring for patients with glaucoma and vitreoretinal conditions. Dr. Pattar completed an ophthalmology residency at Indiana University School of Medicine after a transitional year at St. Vincent Hospital. He earned his MD and PhD in Cellular & Integrative Physiology at Indiana University School of Medicine and previously completed an MS in the same field. His background in research supports a thoughtful, evidence-based approach to diagnosing vision problems and tailoring treatment plans. He works closely with patients to explain options and support long-term eye health, from routine concerns to more complex medical and surgical care.

Dr. J. Parker DuPree is a board-certified ophthalmologist and retina specialist who cares for adults with medical and surgical diseases of the retina. One of the only full-time retina specialists serving Clay County, he treats age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusions, uveitis, and urgent problems such as retinal tears, detachments, and sudden flashes or floaters. He offers laser and injection therapies and performs advanced microsurgery to help protect and restore sight. Dr. DuPree earned his medical degree from the University of Florida College of Medicine and completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Kentucky, followed by fellowship training in surgical retina and vitreous at the University of Kentucky and Retina Associates of Kentucky. Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, he is committed to clear communication, thoughtful second opinions, and evidence-based care guided by current techniques and diagnostics. Patients value his calm, approachable style and the time he takes to explain each diagnosis, treatment option, and what to expect before and after procedures.

Dr. Aparna A. Shah is a board-certified cornea, cataract, and refractive surgeon with Bennett & Bloom Eye Centers. She partners with patients to restore and protect vision, from cataract evaluation and surgery to advanced care for corneal and inflammatory eye conditions. Dr. Shah earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and completed medical school at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She then completed internship and ophthalmology residency training at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan. She pursued subspecialty fellowship training at the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute in Cornea, External Disease, and Refractive Surgery, where she trained in modern corneal transplant and laser vision correction techniques, including DMEK, DSAEK, PKP, LASIK, and PRK. She has presented research at national ophthalmology meetings and received the Best Fellow Research Paper and Presentation Award for her work on innovative DMEK techniques.

Dr. Lucy Franklin is a board-certified, comprehensive ophthalmologist with UK HealthCare. She provides broad adult eye care and performs cataract surgery, focusing on helping patients see more clearly and stay active in daily life. Dr. Franklin completed her undergraduate education at the University of Virginia, earned her medical degree at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, and completed ophthalmology residency training at the University of Kentucky. In clinic, she emphasizes listening closely, answering questions in plain language, and making sure patients understand their diagnosis and options. Her goal is for each person to feel supported before, during, and after treatment.

Dr. Amanda L. Marzolf is an ophthalmologist who cares for children and adults with eye alignment and vision-development concerns. At UK HealthCare’s Advanced Eye Care program, she evaluates and treats amblyopia (lazy eye), pediatric anterior segment disorders, retinopathy of prematurity, and both pediatric and adult strabismus. Dr. Marzolf earned her medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina, College of Medicine, and completed an ophthalmology residency at the Medical University of South Carolina/Storm Eye Institute. She pursued fellowship training at Indiana University’s Riley Hospital for Children and completed a pediatric ophthalmology fellowship at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute. She focuses on clear explanations and practical next steps, partnering with families so they understand the diagnosis, the treatment options, and what to expect over time.

Dr. Mark A. Ihnen is a board-certified ophthalmologist with Kentucky Eye Care. He completed his medical training at the University of Louisville and finished residency training in ophthalmology at the University of Louisville. In practice, Dr. Ihnen provides comprehensive eye care, from routine eye exams to evaluation and treatment of common eye conditions. Patients often seek his care for concerns such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration, as well as cataract evaluation. He is active in professional medical organizations and has co-authored publications in ophthalmology. Dr. Ihnen values thoughtful, patient-centered conversations so people understand their options and what to expect from treatment.

Mohamed Khodeiry, MD, MSc, is an ophthalmologist at UofL Health who specializes in glaucoma, cataract, and neuro-ophthalmology. He completed medical school and a Master of Science at Benha University in Egypt, followed by residency at the Research Institute of Ophthalmology. Dr. Khodeiry pursued three fellowships: neuro-ophthalmology at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, and glaucoma at the University of Kentucky. His clinical interests include surgical and medical management of glaucoma, cataract surgery, and evaluation of optic neuropathies. He is active in research on glaucoma outcomes, childhood glaucoma, and applications of artificial intelligence in ophthalmology. Dr. Khodeiry focuses on early diagnosis, individualized treatment plans, and consistent follow-up, working closely with patients and families to protect vision over the long term.

Melis Kabaalioglu Guner, MD, FEBO, is a uveitis and medical retina specialist at UofL Health’s Eye Institute. She cares for patients with inflammatory eye disease and retinal conditions, offering evidence-based diagnostics and treatments to preserve sight. After residency, Dr. Guner completed a research fellowship at UT Southwestern, a uveitis fellowship at Mayo Clinic, and a medical retina fellowship at the University of Kentucky. Her clinical interests include diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and complex uveitis, and she performs cataract surgery when lens changes limit vision. In the academic setting, Dr. Guner enjoys teaching residents and engaging in research related to imaging biomarkers, choroidal melanoma features, and the role of artificial intelligence in retinal disease. She partners closely with rheumatology and primary care to coordinate systemic therapy when needed and emphasizes education so patients understand their diagnosis, monitoring plan, and treatment options.

Dr. Paras Vora is a vitreoretinal surgery fellow at Retina Associates of Kentucky, where he cares for patients with medical and surgical diseases of the retina and macula. He earned a dual-degree Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering and Computer Science from Washington University in St. Louis, then completed medical school at the University of Kentucky. Dr. Vora remained at UK to finish his ophthalmology residency, where he was recognized with the Mark Gross Research Award and the Outstanding Leadership and Community Service Award. In fellowship, Dr. Vora evaluates and treats conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal tears and detachments, and inflammatory disorders of the eye. His training includes laser procedures, intravitreal injections, and retinal surgery. He is committed to patient-centered care—explaining diagnoses clearly, outlining treatment options step-by-step, and partnering with patients and families to protect and improve vision.

Dr. Romulo Albuquerque is an ophthalmologist and physician–scientist who cares for patients with complex retinal disorders and inflammatory eye disease. He believes that excellent outcomes come from listening carefully, explaining options in plain language, and partnering with patients and their families to choose treatments that fit their lives. In clinic, he uses advanced imaging and evidence-based therapies to preserve sight and reduce the burden of chronic disease. Dr. Albuquerque completed an MS at the University of Kentucky’s Orofacial Pain Center, followed by a PhD in Physiology/Ophthalmology focused on VEGF signaling and lymphangiogenesis. He earned his MD at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and stayed to complete ophthalmology residency at University of Kentucky Hospital, where he later joined the faculty. Patients appreciate his steady approach, clear communication, and focus on coordinated care with referring doctors and primary care teams.

Dr. Zach Tarter is a comprehensive ophthalmologist at Bennett & Bloom Eye Centers serving patients in Elizabethtown, Louisville, and nearby communities. He cares for a wide range of conditions and offers cataract surgery with modern lens options, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), and the medical management of retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. He also evaluates and treats corneal and conjunctival problems, partnering closely with each patient to set clear goals for vision and comfort. A Kentucky native, Dr. Tarter graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in Human Health Sciences from the University of Kentucky, earned his medical degree with High Distinction from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, and completed his ophthalmology residency at the University of Kentucky. He joined Bennett & Bloom in 2025 as a surgical and consultative ophthalmologist. Patients value his clear explanations, practical guidance, and team-based approach to long-term eye health—whether considering cataract surgery, optimizing glaucoma control, or navigating chronic retinal conditions.

Dr. Brian Bodnarchuk is a board-certified ophthalmologist with The Ophthalmology Group in Paducah, Kentucky. He provides comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including diabetic eye exams and retinopathy screening, glaucoma diagnosis and management, and treatment for common vision and eye health concerns. When surgery is the best option, he offers cataract surgery with premium intraocular lenses, laser-assisted procedures, and eyelid surgery to help patients see and feel their best. Dr. Bodnarchuk earned a biology degree from Union University and received his medical degree from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. He completed a transitional year internship at Indiana University Methodist Hospital and an ophthalmology residency at Louisiana State University Health Science Center in New Orleans. He is committed to clear communication and helping patients understand their options and next steps.

Dr. Nicole M. Jody is a pediatric ophthalmologist with Norton Children’s Advanced Eye Care. She earned her medical degree from the University of Louisville School of Medicine and completed an ophthalmology residency at Wayne State University in Detroit. She pursued fellowships in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus at the Shiley Eye Institute (UC San Diego) and in ophthalmic pathology at the University of Wisconsin. Dr. Jody is dedicated to providing compassionate, child-centered care that focuses on the unique visual needs of each child. She aims to create a comfortable and playful environment where children feel safe and families are heard and understood. Her clinical interests include strabismus, amblyopia, pediatric cataracts, pediatric glaucoma, high myopia, and retinopathy of prematurity. She works closely with pediatricians, neonatologists, and therapists to support healthy visual development and tailors care plans from observation and glasses to surgery when appropriate. Families value her thoughtful counseling and focus on long-term vision and quality of life.

Dr. Jeremy Dustin Clark is an ophthalmologist with fellowship training in oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery. He focuses on evaluating and treating conditions that affect the eyelids, orbit, and lacrimal (tear drainage) system, with an emphasis on restoring both comfort and function while also addressing appearance when appropriate. His clinical interests include thyroid eye disease (ophthalmic Graves’ disease), repair of oculofacial and orbital trauma, reconstruction of the anophthalmic socket, correction of eyelid malposition, and care for tearing and lacrimal outflow problems. Dr. Clark completed his undergraduate and medical education at the University of Louisville, followed by an ophthalmology residency at the University of Louisville. He then pursued additional oculofacial plastic and orbital surgery fellowship training at the University of Louisville and Indiana University. He also has research interests in surgical outcomes for idiopathic intracranial hypertension and severe eye trauma.

Matthew Pfannenstiel, M.D., is a retina fellow at Retina Associates of Kentucky, serving patients in Lexington, KY. He diagnoses and treats the full spectrum of medical and surgical retina conditions, including diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal tears and detachments, and complex macular disorders. Dr. Pfannenstiel grew up in Lawrence, Kansas, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Neuroscience from the University of Kansas. He then earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Kansas City and remained to complete an internship in Internal Medicine and his residency in Ophthalmology at the University of Kansas Medical Center. During residency, he was awarded the Nellie V. Warren Rising Star Award and was selected by the faculty to serve as Chief Resident during his final year. He has presented his research on vitreoretinal surgery at several national conferences, including AAO, ASRS, and ARVO. Outside of ophthalmology, he enjoys playing guitar in a 1960s and 1970s cover band, golfing, and cheering on the Kansas Jayhawks and Kansas City Chiefs.

Dr. Julia Thomas Elpers is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained oculoplastic and reconstructive surgeon at Midwest Eye Center in Louisville. She specializes in medical and aesthetic care of the eyelids, eyebrows, tear ducts, and orbit, combining meticulous surgical technique with a natural-looking approach to facial rejuvenation. Patients see her for functional concerns such as eyelid malposition, trauma, and tumors, as well as for cosmetic treatments tailored to their goals. A Louisville native, Dr. Elpers completed her ophthalmology residency and an oculoplastic and reconstructive surgery fellowship at the University of Louisville after earning her medical degree from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and an undergraduate degree from Bellarmine University. In clinic and the operating room, she prioritizes safety, clear communication, and durable results. She offers comprehensive evaluations, discusses both surgical and non-surgical options, and partners closely with dermatology, oncology, and comprehensive ophthalmology colleagues when needed to deliver coordinated, patient-centered care.

Garrett Oberst, MD, is a glaucoma specialist at UK Advanced Eye Care. He treats glaucoma and cataracts using the full toolbox of contemporary care—medications, in-office laser procedures, and surgery—tailored to each patient’s goals and lifestyle. A lifelong Kentuckian, Dr. Oberst earned a Bachelor of Science from Butler University and his medical degree from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, where he was elected to Alpha Omega Alpha. He completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Kentucky, serving as Chief Resident and receiving multiple departmental honors, and then finished a glaucoma fellowship at UK. Dr. Oberst values long-term partnerships with patients and clear, practical education about a chronic disease often called the “thief of sight.” His academic role includes mentoring residents and advancing evidence-based care. Patients appreciate his thoughtful counseling on when to observe, when to use drops or laser, and when surgery offers the best path to preserve vision.

Dr. Osama Sabbagh is a retina specialist and vitreoretinal surgeon who provides comprehensive care for macular, diabetic, and surgical retinal disease. His philosophy is simple: the patient always comes first. He listens carefully, tailors treatment to each person’s needs, and explains every step—from imaging findings to the benefits and risks of injections, laser, or surgery—so patients can make confident decisions. Dr. Sabbagh earned his medical degree from West Virginia University School of Medicine, completed ophthalmology residency at The George Washington University where he served as Co-Chief Resident, and pursued fellowship training in vitreoretinal surgery at the University of Kentucky/Retina Associates of Kentucky. He has presented nationally, authored peer-reviewed work, and is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. Patients value his clear communication, technical skill, and steady, compassionate approach to complex retinal problems.