Dr. Carolina Mercado Acosta

Dr. Michelle Marie Falcone is a pediatric ophthalmologist and strabismus surgeon dedicated to helping children and adults achieve their best vision. She cares for amblyopia and the full spectrum of eye misalignment, offering both nonsurgical and surgical treatments. Patients and families value her calm explanations, thoughtful planning, and emphasis on comfort throughout the evaluation and recovery process. She sees patients from newborns through older adults and tailors care plans to each person’s needs and goals. An Assistant Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Dr. Falcone also serves as Clinical Director of the Pediatric Eye Care Community Outreach Program. Her clinical focus spans amblyopia, pediatric and adult strabismus—including complex cases—and strabismus surgery. She completed fellowship training in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus after residency in ophthalmology, and she remains committed to community outreach and patient education so families know what to expect at every step.

Dr. Ashley M. Crane is a retina specialist who cares for the full spectrum of medical and surgical retinal disease, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusions, and retinal detachment. She offers contemporary treatments such as intravitreal anti-VEGF injections, retinal laser, and vitrectomy when needed, and takes time to explain each diagnosis and option so patients can make confident decisions.Dr. Crane earned her medical degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, where she was elected to Alpha Omega Alpha. She completed ophthalmology residency and retina fellowship at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, serving as chief resident. Earlier in her training she studied art history and chemistry at Duke University. In addition to patient care, Dr. Crane has published and presented research at national meetings and serves as a sub-investigator in clinical trials related to macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease. She sees patients across Tampa Bay, including clinics in Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg.

Anne L. Kunkler, MD is a board-certified medical and surgical retina specialist. She treats the full range of vitreoretinal disease with a patient-first approach that favors careful diagnosis, clear counseling, and modern therapies to protect and restore sight. Dr. Kunkler completed ophthalmology residency and a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the renowned Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and is committed to bringing academic-level care to the community. Originally from Ohio, Dr. Kunkler earned her medical degree summa cum laude from The Ohio State University College of Medicine and completed her internship at The Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. She has published research in leading journals and received the prestigious Heed Ophthalmic Fellowship Award for scholarly excellence. Her clinical interests span urgent retinal problems and chronic conditions alike, and she partners closely with each patient to develop a precise plan tailored to their goals and daily life.