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Dr. Mark S. Pyfer is a cataract, anterior segment, and refractive surgeon on the staff of Wills Eye Hospital. A Philadelphia-area native, he graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania and earned his medical degree from the Perelman School of Medicine at Penn. He completed internship at Pennsylvania Hospital and ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye, where he served as Co-Chief Resident. Dr. Pyfer provides comprehensive ophthalmic care with a focus on advanced cataract surgery, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, and modern refractive procedures including LASIK, PRK, and ICL implantation. He enjoys teaching and mentoring trainees and has authored peer-reviewed work in neuroscience, neurosurgery, and ophthalmology. Patients describe his approach as personable and thorough, with clear explanations and an emphasis on outcomes that match each person’s visual goals.

Dr. Faheem Ahmed is a board-certified ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon who provides comprehensive medical and surgical eye care for patients in Northern Virginia. He completed his undergraduate studies at Rice University, earned his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine, and went on to an ophthalmology residency at the world-renowned Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia, following internship at Einstein Medical Center. Dr. Ahmed specializes in advanced cataract surgery using femtosecond laser technology and premium lens implants, as well as LASIK and PRK for vision correction. He also manages glaucoma, external eye disease, and a wide range of general ophthalmology needs. Patients appreciate his calm, detailed explanations and his focus on helping them choose the treatment option that best fits their goals, whether that means reducing dependence on glasses, protecting long-term vision, or both.

Dr. Sarah J. Michelson is a board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist and Clinical Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the UPMC Vision Institute. A Philadelphia native, she graduated summa cum laude from Drexel University and earned her medical degree at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where she was elected to Alpha Omega Alpha as a junior. She completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, later serving as Graduate Chief Resident and receiving the Terry J. Bergstrom Faculty Teaching Award. After time on the Wills Eye Hospital staff, she returned to Pittsburgh to focus on patient care and resident education. Dr. Michelson cares for adults with a wide range of eye conditions and performs cataract surgery, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, and office-based laser procedures. She also treats urgent eye problems, performs ocular trauma repair and minor eyelid procedures, and partners closely with referring providers. Patients appreciate her clear communication, practical guidance, and emphasis on evidence-based, individualized care.

Dr. Ayan Chatterjee is a glaucoma and cataract specialist who helps patients protect and restore vision with individualized, evidence-based care. He treats glaucoma with medical, laser, and surgical options, including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) and other procedures designed to lower eye pressure while supporting a smooth recovery. He also performs cataract surgery, including laser-assisted techniques and lens options that can address astigmatism and reduce dependence on glasses when appropriate. Dr. Chatterjee earned his undergraduate degree from Princeton University and received his medical degree from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. He completed ophthalmology residency training at Wills Eye Hospital and additional fellowship training at Duke University Medical Center. In the clinic, he focuses on clear communication and shared decision-making so patients understand their choices and feel confident in their care plan.

Dr. Kaitlyn ("Katie") Brettin is a glaucoma and cataract surgeon committed to delivering thoughtful, patient-centered care. She combines precise surgical skills with clear communication so people understand their options—from medical and laser therapies for glaucoma to advanced lens choices for cataract surgery. Her clinical interests include modern, minimally invasive approaches that can lower eye pressure while preserving vision and speeding recovery. Dr. Brettin earned her medical degree from Harvard Medical School and completed ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia. She is the 2025–26 Glaucoma Fellow at Minnesota Eye Consultants, where she focuses on complex and combined procedures and participates in ongoing clinical research on MIGS. Before medical school, she graduated summa cum laude from Tufts University with dual degrees in Biology and Psychology. Patients appreciate her calm bedside manner, careful explanations, and a care plan tailored to their daily life and long-term goals.

Aditya Kanesa-thasan, MD, is a fellowship-trained cataract, cornea, and anterior segment surgeon with the Wills Eye Cornea Service. He partners closely with patients to understand their goals and to tailor medical and surgical plans, explaining options in clear, practical terms. His surgical practice spans routine and complex cataract care with modern lens technologies, laser vision correction, corneal transplantation, cross-linking for keratoconus, and repair of iris or corneal trauma. Dr. Kanesa-thasan completed undergraduate studies in biomedical engineering at Northwestern University (magna cum laude) and earned his medical degree at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (AOA). He then finished ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye Hospital followed by a cornea, refractive, and external disease fellowship at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. Beyond patient care, he is interested in device innovation and surgical education, including use of video and simulation to improve outcomes and the overall patient experience.

Dr. Tomas E. Meijome is a comprehensive ophthalmologist committed to delivering high-quality, equitable eye care. He provides full-scope medical and surgical services with a special interest in global health and education. During a global ophthalmology fellowship at Wills Eye Hospital, he cared for patients locally and internationally and taught trainees in a variety of practice settings. Patients value his clear explanations, collaborative decision-making, and focus on practical results that fit their daily lives. Dr. Meijome completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center after medical school at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. His approach blends academic rigor with genuine empathy, aiming to restore and protect vision through evidence-based, patient-centered care.

Dr. Tapan P. Patel, MD, PhD, is a board-certified vitreoretinal surgeon at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania. He specializes in medical and surgical care of the retina and vitreous, including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal tears and detachments, macular holes, and epiretinal membranes. Dr. Patel completed a two-year vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins University after ophthalmology residency at the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center. He earned his MD and PhD in Bioengineering from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and graduated summa cum laude from the University of Delaware. Dr. Patel provides individualized, evidence-based care that may include advanced imaging, intravitreal injections, retinal laser, or vitrectomy. He works closely with referring doctors and primary eye care providers to coordinate timely treatment and clear follow-up, helping patients make confident decisions about their vision.

Dr. Shelley X. Mo is a glaucoma specialist and comprehensive ophthalmologist at Eye Doctors of Lancaster. She graduated summa cum laude from Northwestern University with a dual focus in Biological Sciences and Mathematics, earned her MD at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and completed internship at Mount Sinai St. Luke’s–West. She went on to ophthalmology residency and glaucoma fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, developing advanced skills in medical, laser, and surgical glaucoma care as well as cataract surgery. Dr. Mo offers the full spectrum of glaucoma management, including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery and laser therapies, and performs cataract surgery with advanced technology lens options for patients seeking to reduce dependence on glasses. She enjoys partnering with patients through clear education and thoughtful, personalized treatment plans designed to preserve vision and support long-term eye health.

Dr. Tina Xia is a glaucoma specialist at Wills Eye Hospital who provides medical, laser, and surgical care for patients with all stages of glaucoma. She partners closely with each patient to protect vision over the long term, explaining test results and tailoring treatment—whether a new drop, in-office laser, or surgery—to individual risk and lifestyle. In addition to caring for patients in the Philadelphia region, she teaches residents and fellows and contributes to glaucoma research. Dr. Xia graduated from Brown University and earned her medical degree from Yale School of Medicine, where she received honors for ophthalmology research. She completed internship and ophthalmology residency at Washington University in St. Louis, followed by a glaucoma fellowship at Wills Eye Hospital. Her clinical practice spans minimally invasive glaucoma surgery and traditional procedures, guided by the latest evidence and a calm, communicative approach.

Dr. Jordan Deaner is a board-certified ophthalmologist and retina specialist at Wills Eye Hospital, where he cares for patients with complex retinal and uveitis conditions. He graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh and Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, where he was elected to both Alpha Omega Alpha and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. Dr. Deaner completed his ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye Hospital, serving as co-chief resident, followed by a fellowship in uveitis and ocular inflammatory disease at the Cole Eye Institute of the Cleveland Clinic and a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at Duke University Eye Center. His practice focuses on macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, macular holes and puckers, retinal detachments, complications of cataract surgery, and inflammatory and infectious diseases inside the eye. Dr. Deaner is active in clinical research, has authored numerous book chapters and peer-reviewed publications, and frequently presents at national meetings. He is dedicated to patient-centered care, carefully explaining diagnoses and treatment options so patients feel confident in their plan.

Dr. Lindsay Machen is a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist who cares for adults with glaucoma and a full range of general eye conditions. A Pennsylvania native, she enjoys helping patients understand their diagnoses and options, from monitoring early disease to planning surgery when needed. She offers cataract surgery with advanced technology lens options and provides medical and surgical care for conditions such as dry eye and diabetes-related eye disease. Dr. Machen graduated magna cum laude from Bucknell University before earning her medical degree at the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, where she was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha. She completed an internship at Reading Hospital, ophthalmology residency at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary—serving as chief resident—and a glaucoma fellowship at Wills Eye Hospital. In addition to her clinical work, she has led efforts to modernize ophthalmology education and uses clear, practical teaching to guide patients through every step of care.

Dr. Brian Shafer is a cornea, cataract, refractive, and glaucoma surgeon known for meticulous technique and a warm, patient-focused style. After undergraduate studies in molecular genetics at the University of Rochester, he earned his MD from Temple University, where he was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. He completed internship at Pennsylvania Hospital and ophthalmology residency at the University of Pennsylvania/Scheie Eye Institute, serving as chief resident, then pursued a high-volume fellowship at Vance Thompson Vision focused on cornea, refractive surgery, glaucoma, and complex cataract care. At Shafer Vision Institute, he offers advanced technology cataract surgery, modern corneal transplantation, comprehensive glaucoma surgical options, and the full spectrum of laser vision correction, along with second-opinion consultations for complex cases. Dr. Shafer maintains academic appointments and regularly contributes to peer-reviewed research and education.

Dr. Joseph Matz is a highly skilled ophthalmologist with a special focus on standard and premium cataract surgery. At SightMD Pennsylvania, he provides medical and surgical eye care with expertise in cataract and glaucoma management, offering a full range of services including advanced cataract surgery, minimally invasive glaucoma procedures, and care for macular degeneration, uveitis, and dry eye. He completed his ophthalmology residency at Temple University Hospital after earning his medical degree from the Temple University School of Medicine. He holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Franklin and Marshall College and completed his internship at Abington Jefferson Hospital. Patients value his clear explanations and thoughtful approach to personalized treatment plans. In his free time, Dr. Matz is an avid downhill skier and marathon runner. He is always eager to discuss gastronomy, technology, music, and philosophy, and he especially enjoys time at home with his wife and three children, who bring him joy and endless entertainment.

Dr. Meghan Lockwood is a comprehensive ophthalmologist at the Scheie Eye Institute who sees adults for routine and medical eye care. She helps patients manage dry eye, eyelid inflammation, and common infections, and also evaluates visual changes such as floaters or sudden redness. Her approach emphasizes education and shared decision-making so people feel confident about their treatment and follow-up. Dr. Lockwood serves as an Assistant Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology. She earned her medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania and completed her ophthalmology residency at Montefiore Medical Center. She provides timely, evidence-based care and coordinates closely with patients’ primary and specialty teams when systemic conditions affect eye health.

Dr. James Benjamin is an ophthalmologist specializing in the medical and surgical care of retinal diseases. He is committed to clear communication, thoughtful counseling, and evidence-based treatment plans tailored to each person’s goals. Having trained and worked across the region, Dr. Benjamin values the diverse experiences that shaped his approach to patient care and is excited to be in the Philadelphia area long-term caring for adults and children with complex retinal conditions. Dr. Benjamin completed his ophthalmology residency at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia, where he served as chief resident, followed by a two-year vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the West Virginia Eye Institute. As a sub-investigator on multicenter clinical trials, he has engaged in research on uveitis, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, retinal vein occlusions, retinopathy of prematurity, and geographic atrophy. Outside the operating room, he enjoys teaching and helping patients understand their diagnoses and treatment options so they can make confident, shared decisions.

Tim Arlow, MD, PhD, is a board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist who delivers thoughtful, technology-forward care for cataracts, glaucoma and eyelid concerns. He offers individualized surgical plans that may include advanced lens options to reduce dependence on glasses, laser and minimally invasive glaucoma treatments, and functional or cosmetic eyelid procedures. Patients appreciate his clear explanations, practical guidance before and after surgery, and a welcoming office experience in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands. Dr. Arlow completed ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye Hospital after earning his MD at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and a PhD in Molecular Biology at Princeton. He also holds dual undergraduate degrees in Biomedical Engineering and Molecular Biology from Syracuse University. Beyond surgery, he enjoys educating patients through easy-to-follow videos about common eye problems and recovery expectations. Whether you need a routine medical exam, cataract surgery with premium lens options, or help with tearing or eyelid malposition, Dr. Arlow focuses on safe outcomes, modern techniques, and care that fits your goals.

Dr. Rupak K. Bhuyan is a vitreoretinal surgeon who treats the full spectrum of medical and surgical retina disease. He cares for patients with diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal vascular occlusions, and complications such as epiretinal membranes and macular holes. His surgical practice includes repair of retinal tears and retinal detachments, with a focus on visual recovery and durable results. Dr. Bhuyan’s approach emphasizes clear education and the principle that every patient always deserves the best care. Dr. Bhuyan graduated summa cum laude from Harvard University and earned his medical degree at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. He completed ophthalmology residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York and a fellowship in vitreoretinal surgery at the University of Iowa. He joined Lancaster Retina Specialists in 2024 and is excited to serve patients across central Pennsylvania.

Dr. Erin O’Neil is an attending pediatric ophthalmologist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. She cares for children with a wide range of eye and vision concerns, with special training in retinal degeneration, ophthalmic genetics, and medical retina. Families appreciate her thoughtful explanations, practical guidance, and team-based approach to helping children see and function their best at home and school. Dr. O’Neil earned her medical degree at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and completed ophthalmology residency at the Scheie Eye Institute, followed by a fellowship in Retinal Degeneration, Ophthalmic Genetics, and Medical Retina at Scheie. She also completed a Certificate in Medical Education. In the clinic, she collaborates closely with genetic counselors, pediatric specialists, and low-vision resources across CHOP to personalize each child’s care plan. Whether a child needs answers about a suspected inherited retinal disease or support for common pediatric conditions, Dr. O’Neil strives to make every visit comfortable, informative, and family-centered.

Dr. Jaclyn Gurwin is an oculoplastic surgeon specializing in functional and aesthetic surgery of the eyelids, orbit, and lacrimal system. She cares for patients seeking rejuvenation as well as those needing reconstruction for eyelid malpositions, trauma, skin cancer, thyroid eye disease, and tearing disorders. Her philosophy is to listen closely, align care with each person’s goals, and deliver natural-looking results that preserve comfort and safety. Dr. Gurwin graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania, where she studied Communication and Fine Arts and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. She earned her medical degree from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and completed an internship at a Harvard University affiliated hospital. She then completed her ophthalmology residency at the Scheie Eye Institute at the University of Pennsylvania, where she received a resident teaching award. Dr. Gurwin further completed an ASOPRS-accredited fellowship in Oculofacial and Orbital Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgery at the University of Wisconsin–Madison under Mark Lucarelli, MD. She has received several academic and research awards and has authored numerous publications, with her groundbreaking work on art education in medical training gaining international acclaim and leading to elective art curricula at multiple medical schools. Outside of work, she enjoys painting, traveling, and spending time with her husband and children.

Dilru Amarasekera, MD, is a glaucoma specialist whose work bridges hands-on patient care with outcomes-focused research. At Wills Eye Hospital she serves as a Clinical Instructor in Ophthalmology for Sidney Kimmel Medical College and investigates risk factors for glaucoma development and progression using large data registries. Her scholarly interests include surgical outcomes after filtering procedures and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery as well as harmonizing glaucoma testing data across systems. She has presented and published on topics ranging from angle-closure and surgical techniques to trends in authorship and representation in ophthalmology. Dr. Amarasekera trained at Wills Eye Hospital, where she was elected chief resident, and is committed to thoughtful, collaborative care for patients with complex glaucoma. Recognized with awards from the American Glaucoma Society and others, she brings an approachable style and clear communication to every visit. Patients can expect careful monitoring, discussion of medical and surgical options—including MIGS and traditional filtering surgery—and a plan tailored to their goals and daily life.

Dr. Phoebe Mellen is an ophthalmologist who cares for adults at the Scheie Eye Institute. As an Assistant Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology, she blends academic rigor with a friendly, collaborative style so patients feel informed and supported at every step. She provides thorough evaluations and personalized treatment plans for common and complex retinal and glaucoma-related conditions, and she welcomes new patients seeking second opinions or ongoing eye care. Dr. Mellen earned her medical degree from Jefferson Medical College and completed her ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye Hospital. She is board certified in Ophthalmology and stays active in research and education, with published work on diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) toxicity, and uveitic glaucoma. Her goal is to deliver clear explanations, evidence-based options, and compassionate follow-up so patients can make confident decisions about their vision and eye health.

Dr. Stephen Armenti is a comprehensive ophthalmologist at the Scheie Eye Institute who provides routine and surgical eye care for adults. He enjoys caring for cataracts, diabetic eye disease, glaucoma, and urgent problems such as flashes, floaters, and ocular surface disease. Patients describe his manner as personable and precise, with a focus on education and practical next steps. Dr. Armenti earned his MD and PhD at New York University School of Medicine, trained in ophthalmology at the University of Michigan, and serves as Assistant Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology at Penn Medicine. As Medical Director of Scheie at Penn Presbyterian, he works closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure safe, efficient care across sites. He welcomes new patients and values long-term relationships that prioritize clear communication and prevention.

Iga N. Gray, MD, PhD is a comprehensive ophthalmologist with a specialization in glaucoma. She provides medical and surgical care for patients with open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma, and collaborates closely with optometrists and primary physicians to protect vision over the long term. Dr. Gray enjoys educating patients about their diagnosis and tailoring treatment plans that balance effectiveness, safety, and quality of life. Dr. Gray earned her MD and a PhD in Neuroscience from Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine. She completed an ophthalmology residency and a glaucoma fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania’s Scheie Eye Institute/Wills Eye Hospital. She also holds an MPhil in Pharmacology from the University of Cambridge and a BS in Biology, magna cum laude, from Georgetown University.