Find a Specialist

Dr. Garrison P. Wier is an oculoplastic surgeon at Jervey Eye Group in Greenville, South Carolina, specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids, orbit, and surrounding facial structures. He enjoys helping patients look and feel their best while preserving or restoring the health and function of the eyes. After earning dual degrees in biology and finance from the University of Georgia, Dr. Wier completed his MD at the Medical College of Georgia, followed by ophthalmology residency at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and an American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) fellowship in Kirkland, Washington. Known for his meticulous technique and approachable manner, he carefully reviews surgical options, expected recovery, and aesthetic goals so patients can make confident, informed decisions about their care.

Dr. Carl Bruce is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who provides personalized medical and surgical eye care for adults. His expertise includes cataract surgery and laser vision correction, and he has a special interest in advanced technology lens implants and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery. Patients appreciate his warm, straightforward communication and the way he partners with them to choose treatments that fit their goals—whether reducing dependence on glasses, controlling eye pressure, or addressing urgent eye concerns. Dr. Bruce earned his medical degree at Washington University School of Medicine, completed an internal medicine internship at The Jewish Hospital in Cincinnati, and finished ophthalmology residency at the University of Cincinnati, where he served as chief resident. Before joining Jervey Eye Group, he practiced at the Cincinnati Eye Institute. He’s delighted to care for patients in the Upstate and looks forward to helping you see your best.

Dr. Jeffrey Brown is a vitreoretinal surgeon who cares for adults with a wide range of medical and surgical retina conditions. He completed fellowship training in vitreoretinal diseases and surgery at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and previously served as Chief Resident during ophthalmology residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He earned his medical degree with honors from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and studied Spanish literature at Columbia University. Dr. Brown provides individualized treatment for complex retinal disease, including macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, retinal detachment, and macular surgery. He offers the latest in-office therapies and advanced surgical techniques and is committed to clear explanations and thorough follow-up so patients understand their diagnosis, options, and expected recovery. His clinical research has been published in leading ophthalmology journals, and he is an active member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Dr. Charles Pophal is a fellowship-trained cornea specialist who provides patient-centered care for cataracts and complex diseases of the cornea and ocular surface. He completed ophthalmology residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, followed by a cornea fellowship at Wake Forest University. His background also includes time with the World Health Organization in Switzerland, experience that informs a thoughtful, public-health-minded approach to care. Dr. Pophal offers modern surgical and nonsurgical options tailored to each patient’s vision goals—from advanced cataract surgery and astigmatism correction to corneal transplantation and cross-linking for keratoconus. He values clear explanations, realistic expectations, and collaborative decisions that fit each person’s lifestyle. Outside the clinic, he and his wife enjoy the outdoors with their two dogs.

Dr. Elise Steinberger is a skilled and compassionate ophthalmologist and Director of Ocular Trauma Services at MUSC Health. She specializes in clinical and surgical urgent eye care and has a strong foundation in comprehensive clinical practice and medical education. Dr. Steinberger is dedicated to providing expert care. Dr. Steinberger completed her medical education at Tufts University School of Medicine and specialized residency training at the prestigious Dean McGee Eye Institute in Oklahoma City. She also holds a Master's in Health/Science Journalism from Northwestern University, bringing a unique perspective to her medical practice through clear communication and advocacy. In addition to her clinical role, Dr. Steinberger is deeply involved in leadership and mentorship. She has mentored aspiring surgeons through the Association of Women Surgeons and advocated for key ophthalmic issues at national forums. Her leadership experience extends to serving on multiple committees focused on graduate medical education and residency accreditation. Dr. Steinberger is a recognized researcher with numerous publications in leading ophthalmology journals. Her diverse work has included epidemiologic study of invasive fungal infections and innovative approaches to orbital reconstruction. Through her clinical expertise, leadership, and commitment to advancing eye care, Dr. Steinberger is dedicated to improving patient outcomes and shaping the future of ophthalmology.

Eliza L. Barnwell is a fellowship-trained comprehensive ophthalmologist specializing in cataract and anterior segment surgery, particularly interested in complex cataract extraction and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery. Dr. Barnwell is a Charleston native who completed medical school and internship at the Medical University of South Carolina, followed by ophthalmology residency training at Wake Forest University, where she served as chief resident. She went on to complete a fellowship at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia, focusing on treating blindness in underserved communities at the local and international levels. She then returned to the Medical University of South Carolina, serving as the Director of the Ocular Trauma Service and completing additional training in the management of glaucoma. Throughout her training and career, Dr. Barnwell has been dedicated to global ophthalmology and humanitarian aid, collaborating with various institutions and non-profit organizations to combat eye disease. She has worked in Rwanda, Sierra Leone, India, Peru, Ecuador, and Belize. She enjoys teaching medical students and residents here and internationally and has been a course instructor in Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) at numerous ophthalmology meetings.

Dr. Ryan Mercer is a cornea and refractive-trained ophthalmologist who offers a full range of vision-correcting procedures alongside comprehensive eye care. He performs laser cataract surgery and implant options including astigmatism-correcting and multifocal lenses, and provides LASIK, PRK, and implantable collamer lens (ICL) surgery for patients who want to reduce their dependence on glasses or contacts. He also treats keratoconus with crosslinking and performs partial- and full-thickness corneal transplants. Dr. Mercer takes time to understand each patient’s visual goals, explains options in plain language, and builds a plan to maximize both quality of vision and long-term eye health. He manages dry eye with a stepwise approach and offers minimally invasive glaucoma procedures (MIGS) when appropriate, coordinating closely with referring providers to ensure smooth, timely care.

Dr. Adam E. Pflugrath is a vitreoretinal surgeon who cares for patients across the full spectrum of medical and surgical retina conditions. He enjoys helping individuals of all ages—from newborns to older adults—navigate complex diagnoses with clear explanations and evidence-based treatment plans. Patients appreciate his calm, collaborative style and his focus on restoring and protecting sight through the least disruptive options possible. After residency training and service as chief resident at VCU Health, Dr. Pflugrath completed a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the Charles Retina Institute. He now practices in Greenville, where he combines advanced imaging, laser therapies, and microincisional techniques to treat retinal tears, detachments, macular diseases, and diabetic eye disease. Outside the operating room, he values Greenville’s mix of outdoor spaces and city life and can often be found hiking, biking, or kayaking with his family. His goal at every visit is simple: meet patients where they are, explain the “why” behind each option, and partner on a plan that preserves vision and quality of life.

Dr. Aric Clegg is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who treats a wide range of eye conditions and offers both medical and surgical care. He performs small-incision cataract surgery, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, and procedures for common surface conditions such as pterygium. His visits emphasize education and shared decision-making so patients understand the plan and feel comfortable every step of the way. Dr. Clegg earned his medical degree from the West Virginia University School of Medicine, completed an internship at Unity Health–White County Medical Center, and finished ophthalmology residency at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. From preventive exams to problem-focused consultations, he prioritizes clear communication, timely access, and outcomes that restore vision and quality of life.

Sarah Lee, MD, is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who provides medical and surgical eye care for adults, with a particular focus on cataract evaluation and surgery. At Columbia Eye, she offers full-scope clinical services—from routine eye exams and management of glaucoma and dry eye to perioperative care—tailored to each patient’s vision goals. Dr. Lee completed her ophthalmology residency at Palmetto/Prisma Health University of South Carolina in Columbia, where she served as Chief Resident. She previously finished an internship at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and earned her medical degree from George Washington University. Her background also includes a master’s degree from Fordham University and a bachelor’s degree from Cornell University. Dr. Lee is an active member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery and is committed to clear communication, patient education, and evidence-based care close to home.

Dr. Taylor E. Rossow is a board-certified ophthalmologist who provides comprehensive medical and surgical eye care. She earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed internship at Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital. She returned to Michigan for ophthalmology residency through the Michigan State University/Ascension Health System, serving as Chief Resident in her final year. Dr. Rossow’s practice focuses on modern cataract surgery—including laser-assisted techniques and advanced lens options—as well as medical and surgical glaucoma care, functional eyelid procedures, and management of dry eye, diabetic eye disease, and age-related macular degeneration. She is known for a practical, patient-first style and clear communication throughout diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. Outside of clinic, she enjoys time with her family, tennis, and the outdoors. 

Dr. Vivek P. Vasuki is a cataract and dry eye specialist at Carolinas Centers for Sight, serving patients at the Florence (Cashua) office. He manages complex medical and surgical eye disease, with specific areas of interest including small-incision and bladeless femto laser cataract surgery. Dr. Vasuki earned his BS degree in Neuroscience at Emory University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He received his medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina, where he held numerous leadership positions. Dr. Vasuki completed his internship in internal medicine at Carolinas Medical Center/UNC Chapel Hill and his residency in ophthalmology at the Medical College of Virginia. He has been published in Ophthalmology, Clinical Ophthalmology, and Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science magazines and is a member of several professional organizations.

Dr. Brede Skillings is a general ophthalmologist who provides both comprehensive medical eye care and surgical services. He sees patients for routine and problem-focused eye exams, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, dry eye, and minor eyelid concerns. In addition to cataract surgery, he performs in-office and operative laser procedures and focuses on clear, practical guidance so patients know exactly what to expect before and after treatment. Dr. Skillings completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Florida and earned his medical degree from the Florida Atlantic University College of Medicine. He completed an internship at Rush University Medical Center and an ophthalmology residency at the Krieger Eye Institute at Sinai in Baltimore. Patients value his friendly manner and steady, step-by-step approach to restoring and protecting vision.

Dr. Robert A. Prinzi is a board-certified medical retina specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating complex retinal and macular conditions. He cares for patients with concerns such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, retinal vein and artery occlusions, macular edema, retinal holes and tears, and persistent floaters, with the goal of preserving and improving vision whenever possible. Dr. Prinzi earned his medical degree from the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo and completed ophthalmology residency training at Henry Ford Health System. He then completed a medical retina fellowship at Emory University. He has practiced in the Grand Strand area since 2017 and emphasizes a compassionate, patient-centered approach that matches treatment plans to each person’s needs and long-term eye health.

Dr. Catherine G. Doegg is a comprehensive ophthalmologist providing a wide range of medical and surgical eye care in Georgetown, South Carolina. She welcomes new patients for routine eye exams, diagnosis and management of common eye conditions, and cataract evaluation and surgery. Dr. Doegg’s approach is warm and practical—she takes time to explain findings, review options, and create a plan tailored to each patient’s needs and goals. Dr. Doegg graduated magna cum laude from the University of Georgia with a BS in Biology and Psychology and earned her medical degree at the Medical University of South Carolina in 2017. After an internship at Brookwood Baptist Health in Birmingham, she completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Callahan Eye Hospital, where she served as chief resident. She brings that training to everyday patient care, focusing on clear communication, careful surgical planning, and follow-up designed to help you see your best.

Dr. Mona Camacci is a fellowship-trained vitreoretinal surgeon who treats the full spectrum of retinal and macular disease. She helps patients with macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, vein occlusions, macular holes and puckers, and retinal tears and detachments. In clinic, she takes time to review imaging together, explain recommended therapies—such as injections, laser, or surgery—and outline a clear plan for follow-up. After medical school at Penn State College of Medicine, Dr. Camacci completed ophthalmology residency at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the University of Rochester. She also completed a Master of Science at University College Dublin and studied Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Health & Human Rights at Franklin & Marshall College. Dr. Camacci’s approach blends technical expertise with straightforward communication so patients understand options, timelines, and how to protect vision over the long term.

Dr. Shail Patel is a retina specialist whose practice focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases of the vitreous and retina, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears and detachments, macular holes, and epiretinal membranes. He completed ophthalmology residency at Nassau University Medical Center in New York, where he served as chief resident, and is continuing advanced fellowship training in vitreoretinal surgery at Palmetto Retina Center in South Carolina. His background also includes medical school at Sidney Kimmel Medical College (Thomas Jefferson University) and an undergraduate degree in Cell Biology & Neuroscience from Rutgers University. At Palmetto Retina Center, Dr. Patel provides patient-centered care that blends meticulous examination with state-of-the-art imaging, intravitreal therapies, laser procedures, and surgery when needed. He communicates clearly about risks, benefits, and recovery, and collaborates with primary eye care providers to coordinate timely, evidence-based treatment.

Dr. Matthew Wade Bickford is an ophthalmologist at Palmetto Eye & Laser with fellowship training in cornea and refractive surgery. A South Carolina native from Aiken, he studied microbiology at Clemson University, graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina, and completed ophthalmology residency at MUSC’s Storm Eye Institute. He then pursued advanced cornea and refractive training with mentors at Boston Vision and Harvard’s teaching hospitals, including Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Massachusetts Eye and Ear. Dr. Bickford offers modern cataract surgery with advanced intraocular lenses, LASIK and PRK, and surgical and medical management of corneal disease. He partners closely with each patient to align treatment with lifestyle and visual goals, whether managing chronic ocular surface disease or planning premium lens options. Patients appreciate his approachable style and clear explanations as he helps them navigate choices that optimize vision and comfort.

Cole Milliken, MD, is an ophthalmic surgeon specializing in cataract and refractive surgery, corneal transplantation, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, and anterior segment reconstruction. He completed his residency at the Storm Eye Institute where he served as Chief Resident, and he undertook a fellowship in corneal, refractive, and complex anterior segment surgery at the Moran Eye Center. Dr. Milliken earned his bachelor’s degree with honors from Clemson University and received his medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina. His educational journey was marked by awards including the Presidential Scholar Award, the Richard A. Saunders Award for Surgical Excellence, and the Promise in Surgical Teaching award. He is one of the few surgeons in South Carolina with comprehensive training in premium and complex cataract surgery, advanced corneal transplantation, minimally invasive glaucoma, and vision correction procedures. Dr. Milliken is active in professional committees and has presented his research on refractive technology and surgical techniques. He is committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care utilizing the latest technology to achieve optimal vision outcomes.

Dr. Stephen A. Cross is a board-certified ophthalmologist who provides comprehensive eye care and specializes in surgical treatments designed to improve both vision and eye comfort. His clinical work includes cataract and refractive surgery, along with cornea surgery and corneal transplantation when medically appropriate. Dr. Cross completed fellowship training at the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins University and finished his ophthalmology residency at UAB Callahan Eye Hospital. He earned his medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina and completed his undergraduate education at Clemson University. Patients often appreciate a careful, step-by-step approach to evaluation and surgical planning. Dr. Cross focuses on helping people understand their diagnosis, the benefits and risks of treatment options, and what to expect during recovery so they can make informed decisions with confidence.

Jennifer Hartel, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist with advanced fellowship training in cornea and refractive surgery. She provides comprehensive eye care with a focus on conditions that affect the cornea and ocular surface, and she offers modern cataract surgery tailored to each patient’s goals. Dr. Hartel completed medical school at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, followed by an ophthalmology residency at LAC+USC, where she also served in a chief role at Kaiser Los Angeles. She then pursued a cornea and refractive surgery fellowship at the University of South Carolina. In practice, Dr. Hartel enjoys partnering with patients to explain diagnoses in clear terms, outline options, and design practical treatment plans that fit their daily lives. She is experienced in endothelial keratoplasty techniques and other corneal transplant procedures, as well as the medical management of complex ocular surface disease. Her goal is simple: help patients see comfortably and confidently at every stage of life.

Dr. Adam Haines Pearlman is a comprehensive ophthalmologist at Prisma Health in Columbia, SC. He cares for adults, including adults 65 and up, and evaluates both routine and urgent eye concerns. His clinical interests include the full spectrum of glaucoma care and cataract surgery. Patients value his clear explanations, thoughtful counseling about options, and a collaborative approach that fits treatment to each person’s needs and lifestyle. Dr. Pearlman earned his medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina, completed an ophthalmology residency at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, and pursued fellowship training in glaucoma at West Virginia University. He is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. At Prisma Health Ophthalmology – 4 Med Park, he works closely with referring providers and the wider care team to coordinate testing, procedures, and follow-up so patients know what to expect at every step.

Alex Rider, MD, is a cornea and refractive surgeon who helps patients see clearly and comfortably using today’s most advanced techniques. He cares for a full spectrum of corneal and external eye diseases and offers individualized surgical plans for people considering vision correction or facing complex corneal issues. Patients appreciate that Dr. Rider explains options in plain language and focuses on outcomes that match their goals and lifestyles. After earning his medical degree at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Dr. Rider completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Louisville, where he developed a strong interest in corneal surgery and modern lens technology. He then completed subspecialty fellowship training in cornea and refractive surgery at the Storm Eye Institute in Charleston, South Carolina. In practice, he offers both surgical and non-surgical solutions and collaborates closely with referring doctors to ensure seamless care before and after procedures. Outside the clinic, he enjoys the outdoors and time with family, and brings that same steady, practical mindset into the operating room to deliver safe, precise results for each patient.

Dr. Nicole Ann Legare is a board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist at Mt. Pleasant Eye Surgeons. She cares for a wide range of eye conditions and offers cataract evaluation and surgery, pterygium removal, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). Patients value her calm, collaborative style and the time she takes to review exam findings, answer questions, and create practical plans to protect and improve vision. Dr. Legare graduated magna cum laude from Florida State University before earning her medical degree at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine, where she was elected president of the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She completed a medical/surgical internship in Orlando and ophthalmology residency with Louisiana State University, serving as Chief Resident in her final year. Dedicated to accessible, high-quality care for the Lowcountry community, Dr. Legare welcomes both routine and complex referrals.