Dr. Sarah Michelson

Ophthalmology

Philadelphia, PA

Dr. Sarah J. Michelson is a board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist and Clinical Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the UPMC Vision Institute. A Philadelphia native, she graduated summa cum laude from Drexel University and earned her medical degree at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where she was elected to Alpha Omega Alpha as a junior. She completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, later serving as Graduate Chief Resident and receiving the Terry J. Bergstrom Faculty Teaching Award. After time on the Wills Eye Hospital staff, she returned to Pittsburgh to focus on patient care and resident education. Dr. Michelson cares for adults with a wide range of eye conditions and performs cataract surgery, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, and office-based laser procedures. She also treats urgent eye problems, performs ocular trauma repair and minor eyelid procedures, and partners closely with referring providers. Patients appreciate her clear communication, practical guidance, and emphasis on evidence-based, individualized care.

Dr. Kaitlyn Brettin

Ophthalmology

Philadelphia, PA

Dr. Kaitlyn ("Katie") Brettin is a glaucoma and cataract surgeon committed to delivering thoughtful, patient-centered care. She combines precise surgical skills with clear communication so people understand their options—from medical and laser therapies for glaucoma to advanced lens choices for cataract surgery. Her clinical interests include modern, minimally invasive approaches that can lower eye pressure while preserving vision and speeding recovery. Dr. Brettin earned her medical degree from Harvard Medical School and completed ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia. She is the 2025–26 Glaucoma Fellow at Minnesota Eye Consultants, where she focuses on complex and combined procedures and participates in ongoing clinical research on MIGS. Before medical school, she graduated summa cum laude from Tufts University with dual degrees in Biology and Psychology. Patients appreciate her calm bedside manner, careful explanations, and a care plan tailored to their daily life and long-term goals.

Dr. Mark Pyfer

Ophthalmology

Jenkintown, PA

Dr. Mark S. Pyfer is a cataract, anterior segment, and refractive surgeon on the staff of Wills Eye Hospital. A Philadelphia-area native, he graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania and earned his medical degree from the Perelman School of Medicine at Penn. He completed internship at Pennsylvania Hospital and ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye, where he served as Co-Chief Resident. Dr. Pyfer provides comprehensive ophthalmic care with a focus on advanced cataract surgery, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, and modern refractive procedures including LASIK, PRK, and ICL implantation. He enjoys teaching and mentoring trainees and has authored peer-reviewed work in neuroscience, neurosurgery, and ophthalmology. Patients describe his approach as personable and thorough, with clear explanations and an emphasis on outcomes that match each person’s visual goals.