Dr. Blake Isernhagen

Dr. Aaron Ricca is a board-certified, fellowship-trained vitreoretinal surgeon at Retina Associates of Kentucky. He cares for the full spectrum of medical and surgical retinal disease and has a particular interest in diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of vision loss in working-age adults. Dr. Ricca values continuity and communication, taking time to educate patients and build long-term relationships throughout chronic disease management. With a background in mechanical engineering before medicine, Dr. Ricca appreciates the role of advanced imaging and evolving technology in diagnosing and treating retinal disorders. His training included extensive exposure to inherited retinal diseases, and he stays engaged with emerging approaches such as gene and cell-based therapies. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, baking, time outdoors with his family, and travel.

Dr. Leanne M. Clevenger is a fellowship-trained retina specialist at UK Advanced Eye Care. She diagnoses and treats the full spectrum of vitreoretinal disease, including diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal tears and detachments, macular holes, and epiretinal membranes. In clinic, she emphasizes education and shared decision-making, helping patients understand their condition and the expected course of treatment—whether that involves in-office injections, laser procedures, or surgery in the operating room. A Lexington native, Dr. Clevenger is committed to bringing advanced retina care to patients across Kentucky and surrounding states. She stays current with evolving techniques and evidence, and she works in close coordination with referring providers to ensure timely access and smooth follow-up. Her goal is to protect and, when possible, restore vision so patients can return to the activities they value most.

Dr. Romulo Albuquerque is an ophthalmologist and physician–scientist who cares for patients with complex retinal disorders and inflammatory eye disease. He believes that excellent outcomes come from listening carefully, explaining options in plain language, and partnering with patients and their families to choose treatments that fit their lives. In clinic, he uses advanced imaging and evidence-based therapies to preserve sight and reduce the burden of chronic disease. Dr. Albuquerque completed an MS at the University of Kentucky’s Orofacial Pain Center, followed by a PhD in Physiology/Ophthalmology focused on VEGF signaling and lymphangiogenesis. He earned his MD at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and stayed to complete ophthalmology residency at University of Kentucky Hospital, where he later joined the faculty. Patients appreciate his steady approach, clear communication, and focus on coordinated care with referring doctors and primary care teams.