Find a Specialist

Dr. Sidharth Puri is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in the medical and surgical care of retinal and vitreous disease. He evaluates sudden vision changes and chronic retinal conditions, and he tailors treatment plans to protect sight and support long-term eye health. His clinical interests include diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, macular hole, epiretinal membranes, and inherited retinal diseases. A New Orleans native, Dr. Puri completed undergraduate studies at Cornell University, earned his medical degree from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and trained in ophthalmology at the University of Louisville, where he served as Chief Resident. He then completed a vitreoretinal surgical fellowship at the University of California at Irvine. At Ochsner, he also participates in research and public health initiatives aimed at improving access to high-quality eye care.

Dr. Caroline Lieux Sowell is a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist who cares for adults seeking clear, comfortable vision and long-term eye health. A Baton Rouge native, she graduated from Louisiana State University and earned her MD from LSU Health Sciences Center–New Orleans, where she was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha and received the AMWA Glasgow-Rubin Citation for graduating first in her class. She completed ophthalmology residency at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at the University of Miami, consistently ranked among the nation’s top training programs, and went on to advanced fellowship training in cornea, external disease, and refractive surgery. Dr. Sowell offers individualized care that blends modern surgical options with thoughtful education, so patients understand their diagnosis and every treatment choice. From cataract surgery and premium lens technology to managing complex corneal disease and dry eye, her focus is helping each person see—and feel—their best. Outside the clinic, she enjoys running and spending time outdoors with her family and dog.

Dr. Ze Zhang is a board-certified ophthalmologist who specializes in the medical and surgical management of glaucoma. She cares for patients with open-angle glaucoma and focuses on protecting long-term vision by tailoring treatment plans that may include medications, laser options, and surgery. After earning her medical degree from Yale School of Medicine, Dr. Zhang completed ophthalmology residency training at Tulane University School of Medicine and then pursued fellowship training in glaucoma at the University of Iowa. She has advanced training in both traditional glaucoma procedures and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, including AB interno canaloplasty (ABiC) and gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy (GATT). Dr. Zhang is also active in glaucoma research, with interests in how fluid drains from the eye and how that impacts eye pressure and optic nerve health.

Gregory C. Long, MD, is an ophthalmologist at Eyecare Associates of New Orleans with clinical expertise in cataract surgery and anterior segment disease. He combines evidence-based medicine with a strong background in academic research and teaching to deliver clear, practical care plans. Dr. Long earned his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine, then completed an internship in internal medicine and an ophthalmology residency at Tulane University School of Medicine, where he served as Chief Resident. Dr. Long provides comprehensive evaluations for cataracts, dry eye, glaucoma, and refractive needs, and offers modern surgical options to restore clarity and comfort. He has authored peer-reviewed work and presented at regional and national meetings, including the New Orleans Academy of Ophthalmology. Patients value his thoughtful explanations and collaborative style, while trainees appreciate his commitment to mentorship and clinical teaching.

Dr. Rizwan Shaikh is a board-certified ophthalmologist with fellowship training in retina and vitreoretinal surgery. He provides both medical and surgical care for conditions that can affect central and peripheral vision. He works with patients who need ongoing monitoring as well as those who require timely care for urgent retinal problems. Patients often see Dr. Shaikh for macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears or detachment, new flashes and floaters, and uveitis. He completed medical school at the American University of Antigua College of Medicine, followed by ophthalmology residency training at the Cullen Eye Institute at Baylor College of Medicine, and advanced retina fellowship training at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation. Dr. Shaikh focuses on careful diagnosis, clear communication, and evidence-based treatment options to help patients preserve vision.

David P. Kennedy, MD is an ophthalmologist with advanced training in cornea and external disease. He specializes in cataract surgery, LASIK, and corneal transplantation, and he also provides comprehensive eye care for conditions such as glaucoma, dry eye, blepharitis, diabetic eye disease, and age-related macular degeneration. Dr. Kennedy completed undergraduate studies at The University of Texas at Austin and earned his medical degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. He completed both ophthalmology residency and a cornea and external disease fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. In addition to surgical care, he offers specialized therapies such as autologous serum tears for severe dry eye and corneal cross-linking for patients with keratoconus.

Dr. Sara J. Coulon is a glaucoma specialist who cares for adults and children with a full spectrum of glaucoma and related conditions. She focuses on practical education, personalized treatment plans, and close longitudinal follow-up so patients and families feel supported through every stage of care. Dr. Coulon earned her medical degree at LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, completed an internal medicine internship at LSU, ophthalmology residency at New York University, and fellowship training in glaucoma at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami. At Ochsner Health, she provides comprehensive glaucoma services and cataract surgery, coordinating seamlessly with referring optometrists and pediatric specialists when needed. Her practice blends advanced diagnostics with evidence-based therapies to protect vision while minimizing treatment burden.

Dr. Joshua Ford is a board-certified ophthalmologist with advanced fellowship training in ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery and orbital oncology. He cares for patients with eyelid, tear-duct, and orbital concerns, taking time to understand symptoms, goals, and how vision or appearance changes are affecting daily life. His clinical work includes evaluation and surgical treatment for droopy eyelids (ptosis), upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty, brow lift, and correction of eyelid malposition such as entropion and ectropion. He also treats tearing from blocked tear drainage with tear-duct surgery (dacryocystorhinostomy/DCR), and provides care for thyroid eye disease. When orbital tumors or eyelid cancers are suspected, he guides patients through diagnosis, biopsy when needed, and coordinated treatment planning. Dr. Ford completed medical training at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, an ophthalmology residency at Tulane University, and an ASOPRS fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center. He also serves Veterans through his clinical leadership and teaching roles.

Daniel R. Salisbury, MD, is a vitreoretinal surgeon with the Vitreoretinal Institute serving patients in Baton Rouge and surrounding communities. He provides comprehensive medical and surgical care for retinal and vitreous disorders, combining advanced diagnostics with leading-edge laser, pharmacologic, and microsurgical techniques. Dr. Salisbury graduated with honors from the University of Georgia before earning his medical degree from the University of South Alabama College of Medicine. He completed an internship and ophthalmology residency at Tulane University, where he was selected as Chief Resident. He pursued a rigorous two-year fellowship in vitreoretinal disease and surgery at Retina and Vitreous of Texas in Houston, refining expertise in the management of diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal tears and detachments, macular holes and puckers, uveitis, and complex vitreoretinal trauma. Dr. Salisbury is active in professional societies, including the American Society of Retina Specialists, and remains committed to bringing compassionate, prompt care to patients referred with urgent retinal problems. He believes in clear communication and collaborative care with referring providers to optimize vision outcomes and long-term follow-up for chronic retinal disease.

Dr. Mallika K. Doss is a vitreoretinal surgeon who treats complex conditions affecting the retina and vitreous, with a focus on preserving and restoring vision through individualized care. She evaluates vision changes such as distortion, floaters, and sudden vision loss and helps patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options at every step. Her clinical expertise includes age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vascular occlusive disease, retinal tears and detachments, macular holes, and macular pucker. She also performs secondary intraocular lens implantation for dislocated lenses and provides both medical and surgical retina care when advanced treatment is needed. Dr. Doss earned her M.D. at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine after completing a B.S. in Biochemistry at Southern Methodist University. She completed internship and ophthalmology residency training at the University of Texas at Houston, followed by a two-year vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. She has also served on the LSU Health Sciences Center faculty, supporting resident and fellow education.

Lena Al-Dujaili, MD, MS, is a board-certified ophthalmologist and glaucoma specialist. She offers medical, laser, and surgical treatments for the full spectrum of glaucoma, from early disease to complex, refractory cases. Dr. Al-Dujaili performs minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) as well as trabeculotomy, glaucoma drainage device implantation, and selective laser procedures, and she routinely combines glaucoma procedures with cataract surgery when appropriate. Her care is centered on safety, clear communication, and helping patients preserve vision and independence. Raised in Lafayette, Louisiana, Dr. Al-Dujaili completed advanced training in glaucoma and anterior segment surgery and serves as an assistant professor involved in resident education. She is active in professional societies and is committed to bringing the latest advances to her patients through thoughtful, individualized care.

Dr. John Paul Luckett III is an oculoplastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids, orbit, and tear drainage system. He enjoys partnering with patients to address functional concerns—like tearing, eyelid malposition, or the effects of thyroid eye disease—while also paying close attention to aesthetics and natural-looking results. Consultations with Dr. Luckett are thorough and reassuring, with a strong emphasis on safety, realistic expectations, and recovery planning. At Eye Medical Center in Baton Rouge, Dr. Luckett’s practice includes eyelid surgery, management of eyelid skin cancers, orbital and lacrimal (tearing) surgery, and care for thyroid eye disease. He earned his medical degree from LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (serving as Chief Resident), and advanced fellowship training in oculoplastic and reconstructive surgery with the American Society of Oculoplastic and Reconstructive Surgeons in Birmingham. Dr. Luckett works closely with multidisciplinary teams to restore comfort, function, and confidence for each patient.

Dr. Tyler C. Goff is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who provides personalized, down-to-earth care for routine and complex eye conditions. He enjoys helping patients understand their diagnoses, reviewing the pros and cons of each option—from medical therapy to laser or surgery—and aligning care with what matters most to them. His clinical interests include cataract surgery and the medical management of common anterior- and posterior-segment diseases. Dr. Goff earned his medical degree from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, completed ophthalmology residency at Wake Forest Baptist Health, and pursued fellowship training at Eye Consultants of Atlanta. Practicing in the greater New Orleans area, he strives to deliver accessible, evidence-based care with clear communication and dependable follow-up.

Dr. Daniel G. Nelson is a pediatric ophthalmologist and strabismus specialist at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans. He cares for infants, children and teens with conditions that affect sight and eye alignment, and he also treats adults with strabismus. Dr. Nelson offers both nonsurgical and surgical options and takes time to explain each step so families know what to expect before, during and after treatment. Dr. Nelson earned his medical degree from LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, completed ophthalmology residency at Emory University, and advanced fellowship training in Pediatric Ophthalmology and Adult Strabismus at Emory. He is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. Working closely with Ochsner Children’s specialists when needed, he tailors care for issues such as amblyopia, eye-muscle disorders and blocked tear ducts, as well as common infections and refractive problems. He welcomes new patients and sees children at Ochsner’s Jefferson Highway campus and affiliated clinics.

Dr. Jacob Grodsky is a vitreoretinal surgeon whose practice spans medical and surgical retina, including the evaluation and treatment of macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears and detachments, and complex macular disorders. He completed medical school at Louisiana State University School of Medicine, ophthalmology residency at SSM Health/Saint Louis University, and a surgical retina fellowship at Ochsner Clinic Foundation. His clinical approach emphasizes careful diagnostics, clear education about options, and evidence-based procedures designed to preserve or restore vision. Dr. Grodsky performs a full range of retina interventions—from office-based intravitreal injections and retinal laser to operating-room procedures such as macular hole repair and retinal detachment surgery. He works closely with referring providers to coordinate timely care and long-term follow-up for chronic retinal disease.

Dr. Nicholas Braud is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who enjoys caring for patients across the full spectrum of eye health, from routine exams to advanced surgical solutions. A Louisiana native, he studied biology at LSU and earned his medical degree at LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. He completed an internal medicine internship at Tulane and ophthalmology residency training with Ochsner/LSU Health in Shreveport before returning home to serve the Baton Rouge community. Dr. Braud’s practice emphasizes clear communication and practical, evidence-based guidance. He offers premium cataract surgery with multifocal lens options and performs minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). For appropriate candidates, he provides dropless cataract surgery to simplify recovery and reduce the burden of postoperative drops. He also offers refractive surgery and diabetic eye screenings alongside annual comprehensive eye exams. Patients appreciate his approachable style, attention to detail, and commitment to helping them see comfortably and confidently.

Dr. Rachel Calix is a neuro-ophthalmologist who helps patients with vision problems caused by neurologic conditions. She evaluates optic nerve disorders, double vision, visual field loss, and papilledema, and collaborates closely with neurology, neurosurgery, and primary care to coordinate testing and treatment. Patients value her careful exams, clear communication, and practical guidance for day-to-day challenges at work and home. Dr. Calix has been on staff at Ochsner since 2020 and is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She earned her medical degree from the University of Queensland, completed internship at the Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation, neurology residency at Yale New Haven Hospital, and a neuro-ophthalmology fellowship at New York University Medical Center. She sees patients at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans and welcomes referrals for complex neuro-ophthalmic disorders.

Kelli M. Coleman, MD, is a comprehensive ophthalmologist with fellowship training in cornea and refractive surgery. She enjoys the continuity of caring for patients in clinic and in the operating room, offering thoughtful explanations and careful follow-up so people feel informed and supported. Her practice includes advanced cataract surgery, anterior segment procedures, corneal transplantation, laser vision correction, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery. Dr. Coleman completed medical school and an ophthalmology residency at LSU Health Shreveport. She then pursued fellowship training in cornea and refractive surgery at Your Eye Specialists in Miami, Florida. At Willis-Knighton Eye Institute South, she provides thorough, family-centered care for a wide range of eye conditions, including diabetes-related disease and macular degeneration.

Dr. Rachel Fuerst is a pediatric ophthalmologist who helps children and families navigate eye problems with care, clarity and compassion. She treats the full spectrum of pediatric eye conditions and also cares for adults with strabismus, offering both nonsurgical and surgical options when appropriate. Parents appreciate her patient education and practical guidance—from first evaluations to follow-up—so they can make confident decisions for their child's vision. Board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, Dr. Fuerst earned her medical degree at LSU Health Sciences Center in Shreveport, completed an ophthalmology residency at LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, and advanced fellowship training in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus at the Medical University of South Carolina. At Ochsner, she collaborates with pediatric specialists and supports family-centered care to help young patients see their world more clearly.

Dr. Jorge Jiménez is a board-certified, fellowship-trained vitreoretinal surgeon specializing in the medical and surgical care of disorders of the macula, retina, and vitreous. He provides thoughtful, individualized treatment plans and explains complex conditions in plain language, aiming to protect and restore sight for people with both common and rare retinal diseases. In addition to clinical excellence, he has participated in educating trainees and in clinical trials. Dr. Jiménez earned his B.S. in Biochemistry with a piano performance concentration at Millsaps College (magna cum laude) and received his M.D. from the University of Mississippi Medical Center, where he also completed an internal medicine internship and an ophthalmology residency, serving as chief resident. He then completed a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where he also served as a clinical assistant professor. Dr. Jiménez is fluent in Spanish and welcomes patients seeking compassionate, expert retina care.

Lauren H. Lim, MD, is an ophthalmologist with subspecialty expertise in glaucoma care. She evaluates and treats the full spectrum of glaucoma, from ocular hypertension to advanced disease, and also performs cataract surgery for patients whose vision is limited by lens changes. Dr. Lim completed medical school at Tulane University School of Medicine, followed by ophthalmology residency and a glaucoma fellowship at Tulane, where she trained in both medical and surgical management. She enjoys helping patients understand their diagnosis and tailoring plans that may include drops, laser procedures, or surgery based on risk and lifestyle. In addition to glaucoma care, Dr. Lim provides comprehensive eye exams and coordinates closely with primary care teams for conditions such as diabetes. Her practice approach emphasizes clear education, preventive monitoring, and thoughtful follow-up so patients can protect their sight with confidence.

Cynthia Noguera, MD, is an oculofacial plastic surgeon at Ochsner LSU Health who specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids, tear duct system, orbit, and surrounding facial structures. A Louisiana native, Dr. Noguera first earned a biology degree at LSU in Baton Rouge, followed by a second bachelor’s in cardiopulmonary science at LSU Health Shreveport. She worked as a respiratory therapist and asthma educator before completing a master’s degree in medical science at Mississippi College. She then earned her medical degree and finished an ophthalmology residency at LSU Health Shreveport. Dr. Noguera pursued advanced, two-year fellowship training in oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center/Hamilton Eye Institute in Memphis and Tennessee Oculoplastics in Nashville. She is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and is a Fellow of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS). Her practice offers the full range of functional and aesthetic procedures involving the eyelids, lacrimal system, orbit, and periocular face. Patients value her blend of surgical precision, artistic judgment, and a warm, patient-centered approach that prioritizes natural-looking results and safe, individualized care.

Dr. Brett Budden is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained vitreoretinal surgeon who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the retina and vitreous. He completed his ophthalmology residency at Louisiana State University and Ochsner Clinic Foundation in New Orleans, serving as chief resident in his senior year, and then completed a two-year retina fellowship at Tulane University Medical Center and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Dr. Budden cares for patients with diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, macular degeneration, retinal tears and detachments, vitreous hemorrhage, macular hole and macular pucker, and other conditions that can cause symptoms like flashes or floaters. He continues to work part-time at the VA Hospital, where he helps train LSU and Tulane ophthalmology residents while providing retina care for Louisiana’s veteran community. He has practiced in the greater New Orleans and Metairie area since 2018.

Dr. Clay Bundrick, Jr. is an ophthalmologist at Highland Eye Clinic who joined the practice in 2014 to serve patients across Northwest Louisiana. He focuses on premium cataract surgery and comprehensive ophthalmology, with a special interest in refractive vision correction. In addition to medical eye care, he performs upper and lower eyelid procedures for both functional and cosmetic concerns. A Shreveport native, Dr. Bundrick earned a bachelor’s degree in biological engineering from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, then returned to Shreveport for medical school and ophthalmology training at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. He values timely appointments and careful diagnosis and treatment of conditions that can cause vision impairment. Outside the clinic, he enjoys farming, hunting, and spending time outdoors with his wife, Dr. Paige Bundrick, and their two children.