Dr. Robert Welch

Dr. Joel Welch is a board-certified specialist in vitreoretinal surgery and ocular oncology who joined Retina and Vitreous Surgeons of Utah in 2025. He has extensive expertise in managing complex retinal conditions and ocular tumors, such as macular degeneration, retinal detachment, epiretinal membrane, macular hole, diabetic retinopathy, and ocular melanoma. Dr. Welch is dedicated to guiding patients and their families with compassion and clarity through even the most challenging eye conditions.

A native of Northern Utah, Dr. Welch earned his degrees in biomedical engineering and medicine from the University of Utah. His comprehensive training includes an internship in San Francisco, an ophthalmology residency in Omaha, a prestigious two-year ocular oncology fellowship at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia, and a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship in Sacramento. Prior to joining his current practice, he served as a retina surgeon and ocular oncologist at Spokane Eye Clinic from 2020 to 2025.

Dr. Welch is an active researcher, having authored more than 30 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters, with his work featured in leading ophthalmology journals. He has presented at national and international meetings and contributed to pivotal clinical trials in areas like macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and uveal melanoma. He is a member of professional societies including the International Society of Ocular Oncology, the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and the American Society of Retina Specialists. Outside of his medical practice, he enjoys photography, music, cycling, and spending time with his family.