Dr. Rachel Downes

Rachel Downes, MD, is a vitreoretinal surgeon who treats the full spectrum of medical and surgical diseases of the retina and vitreous. She cares for adults with conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, epiretinal membrane, and macular hole, and performs advanced microsurgery when needed. Patients value her clear explanations, evidence-based recommendations, and steady hands in the operating room. Dr. Downes completed medical school at New York University, an internship at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, ophthalmology residency at Cleveland Clinic, and a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the Cole Eye Institute. She is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. In addition to her clinical work, she remains engaged in research and education, and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to deliver timely retinal care across Northeast Ohio.