Dr. Alexander Hacopian

Ophthalmology

Washington, DC

Alex Hacopian, MD, is a comprehensive ophthalmologist with a focus on modern vision correction and cataract care. He performs advanced LASIK and custom lens replacement, offers corneal cross-linking for keratoconus, and treats glaucoma using minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). He also performs laser-assisted cataract surgery with premium lens implants tailored to each patient’s lifestyle and visual goals. Dr. Hacopian graduated with honors from The University of Texas at Austin in neurobiology and psychology, completed medical school at the University of Texas at Houston, and trained in ophthalmology at The George Washington University, where he served as chief resident. He has also served on the surgical team at Abilene Eye Institute. Board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, he is known for thorough evaluations, clear explanations, and a collaborative approach to selecting procedures and lenses that best match each patient’s needs.

Dr. Mehdi Tavakoli Dastjerdi

Ophthalmology

Washington, DC

Dr. Mehdi Tavakoli is a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist specializing in neuro-ophthalmology, oculoplastic surgery, and strabismus care for adults and children. He treats complex disorders of the optic nerve and visual pathways, eyelids and orbit, and eye alignment, offering both medical therapies and advanced surgery. His practice also includes functional and cosmetic eyelid procedures and Botox injections for facial spasms and migraine. Patients appreciate his careful diagnostics, multidisciplinary coordination, and clear explanations of conditions that can affect both vision and overall neurologic health. Dr. Tavakoli completed ophthalmology residency at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, followed by an oculoplastic fellowship at Labbafinejad Medical Center (Shahid Beheshti University). At the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he completed two clinical fellowships—pediatric ophthalmology & adult strabismus and neuro-ophthalmology—along with research in oculoplastic surgery. He serves as Associate Professor at George Washington University and directs the division of Oculoplastics, Neuro-ophthalmology, and Adult Strabismus.

Dr. Ruth Tessema

Ophthalmology

Washington, DC

Dr. Ruth Kebede Tessema is a comprehensive ophthalmologist with the Wilmer Eye Institute who provides patient-centered care at Johns Hopkins Medicine locations in Howard County and Frederick. She believes that clear vision is essential to independence and well-being, and partners with patients to remove barriers to quality eye care. Dr. Tessema evaluates a full spectrum of medical and surgical eye conditions and tailors treatment plans to each person’s goals and daily needs. Her approach emphasizes education, shared decision-making, and respect for every patient’s health journey. She earned her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine and completed her ophthalmology residency at the UC Davis Eye Center. Prior to joining Wilmer, she served patients as an ophthalmologist with Kaiser Permanente in California. Whether managing chronic disease or planning cataract surgery, Dr. Tessema strives to deliver attentive, timely care that protects sight and supports long-term ocular health.