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Dr. Bertil Damato
Ophthalmology
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Dr. Bertil Damato
Ophthalmology
San Francisco, CA
Areas of Expertise
Choroidal Melanoma
Conjunctival Melanoma
Intraocular Lymphoma
Plaque Brachytherapy
About Me
Dr. Bertil E. Damato is an internationally recognized ocular oncologist who cares for adults and children with eye tumors. Trained in Malta and Glasgow, he later helped build and lead one of the world’s foremost ocular oncology programs in Liverpool before bringing his expertise to the Bay Area. Patients see him for comprehensive evaluation and treatment of uveal and conjunctival melanoma, retinoblastoma, and other rare intraocular cancers, with an emphasis on preserving vision whenever safely possible.Dr. Damato offers evidence-based, eye-sparing therapies such as plaque brachytherapy and collaborates closely with radiation oncology, medical oncology, pathology, and genetics to personalize care and surveillance plans. He is widely published and has contributed to international guidelines in ocular melanoma. Patients appreciate his clear explanations, thoughtful counseling about prognosis, and shared decision-making that balances tumor control, vision, and quality of life.
Training
- Ph.DUniversity of GlasgowMasters / PhD1987
- Surgery/MedicineGlasgow Royal InfirmaryResidency1979
- M.DUniversity of MaltaMedical School1977
Awards & Honors
Wings of Hope Award
CURE Ocular Melanoma2016Achievement Award
American Academy of Ophthalmology2015Ashton Medal
Royal College of Ophthalmologists (UK)2012Watson Medal
Cambridge Ophthalmological Symposium2012Jerry Shields Award
Asia-Pacific Society of Ocular Oncology and Pathology2012
Publications, Presentations & Press
- Inadvertent Scleral Perforation During Choroidal Melanoma Surgeries: Incidence, Risk Factors, Management, and OutcomesAmerican Journal of Ophthalmology2025
- Posterior uveal biopsy and the trans-scleral Essen forceps biopsy techniqueEye (Lond)2025
- Prognostic Biopsy of Choroidal Melanoma Before and After Ruthenium-106 Plaque Brachytherapy: Impact on Success of Cytogenetic AnalysisCancers (Basel)2025
- Uveal Melanoma UK national guidelines: 2023 updateEuropean Journal of Cancer2025
- Improved Staging of Ciliary Body and Choroidal Melanomas Based on Estimation of Tumor Volume and Competing Risk AnalysesOphthalmology2024
Certifications & Licensure
- Licensed In:CA
- License Numbers:SFP24


