Dr. Leanne Clevenger

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. 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.

Dr. Osama Sabbagh is a retina specialist and vitreoretinal surgeon who provides comprehensive care for macular, diabetic, and surgical retinal disease. His philosophy is simple: the patient always comes first. He listens carefully, tailors treatment to each person’s needs, and explains every step—from imaging findings to the benefits and risks of injections, laser, or surgery—so patients can make confident decisions. Dr. Sabbagh earned his medical degree from West Virginia University School of Medicine, completed ophthalmology residency at The George Washington University where he served as Co-Chief Resident, and pursued fellowship training in vitreoretinal surgery at the University of Kentucky/Retina Associates of Kentucky. He has presented nationally, authored peer-reviewed work, and is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. Patients value his clear communication, technical skill, and steady, compassionate approach to complex retinal problems.