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Dr. Christopher R Fortenbach
Ophthalmology – Retina Specialist
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Dr. Christopher Fortenbach
Ophthalmology – Retina Specialist
Seattle, WA
Areas of Expertise
Retinal Detachments and Tears
Macular Holes
Epiretinal Membranes
Retinal Vascular Diseases
About Me
Dr. Christopher R. Fortenbach is a vitreoretinal surgeon and physician-scientist who cares for the full range of retinal and macular disease. As an Assistant Professor at the University of Washington, he treats conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment and tears, macular holes, and inherited retinal dystrophies, and manages complex inflammatory and vascular diseases of the retina. Patients can expect clear explanations, evidence-based treatment plans, and close follow-up tailored to preserving sight and quality of life.
Dr. Fortenbach completed ophthalmology residency and a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. He earned an MD and a PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology at UC Davis, where his research explored how retinal neurons encode light. Board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, he continues laboratory work focused on therapies to restore vision loss. In clinic and in the lab, his goal is the same: compassionate care informed by rigorous science.
Training
Vitreoretinal SurgeryUniversity of Iowa Hospitals and ClinicsFellowship2023
OphthalmologyUniversity of Iowa Hospitals and ClinicsResidency2021
Doctor of MedicineUniversity of California, DavisMedical School2017
PhD, Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental BiologyUniversity of California, DavisMasters / PhD2015
BS, Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of California, DavisUndergraduate2008
BS, Food Science and TechnologyUniversity of California, DavisUndergraduate2008
Awards & Honors
Career Development Award
Research to Prevent Blindness2025Addressing Health Disparities Grant Recipient
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics2023Fellow Teaching Award
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Iowa2022Stacy L. Thompson Resident Leadership Award
2021
Certifications & Licensure
- Licensed In:WA
- License Numbers:MD61443591


