Make SMILE Routine: Proven Scripts and Systems from Top Practices

Drs. Brandon Ayres, MD; Julie Schallhorn, MD, MS; Amir Moarefi, MD; Tiffany Tseng, OD; and Sima Tabanfar, OD discuss complex SMILE cases and lessons learned.

Eyecare experts share cases demonstrating how they’ve utilized advanced diagnostics to illuminate complex ophthalmic conditions

Coming to a diagnosis is typically a process of iteratively collating information to build a clear picture of the underlying pathology; however, sometimes the answer is found in one particularly illuminating modality that divulges the key identifier hidden everywhere else. In this session, experts share complex ophthalmic cases, the game-breaking images that helped them reach the correct diagnosis—and insights to take into your own practice.

How collaboration between ophthalmology and optometry can lead to more effective glaucoma management and care

For around 12 years, Shalini Sood, MD, managed every patient presenting to her Cole Eye Institute practice alone. However, two years ago, she felt change was needed. “My practice is very mature—some patients I’ve seen since it began,” she explains. “But patients often need to see us 2–4 times per year, which can put a heavy load on our clinics. Facing this challenge, we took the step of integrating an optometrist within my practice.”

In this session, Dr. Sood teams up with Danica Marrelli, OD, FAAO, Dipl. Glaucoma Section AAO, Dipl. ABO; Director of the Ocular Diagnostic and Medical Eye Service at the University of Houston’s College of Optometry, to share case studies with Michael Boland, MD, PhD, that highlight how this collaboration—alongside Glaucoma Workspace—can benefit glaucoma practitioners and patients alike.

Sit down with Rishi P. Singh, MD, FASRS, and Caroline Awh, MD, as they discuss a case of uveal effusion syndrome (UES).

Dr. Brandon Ayres, MD, and Julie Schallhorn, MD, MS, discuss optimizing astigmatism management in cataract surgery with VERACITY Surgery Planner.

Drs. Amir Moarefi, MD, Sima Tabanfar, OD, and Tiffany Tseng, OD, highlight the benefits of SMILE, a minimally invasive eye surgery. It offers quicker recovery and fewer complications than LASIK, making it ideal for active patients. Studies show it achieves similar visual outcomes while reducing dry eye symptoms.

Sit down with Dr. De Rojas as he discusses the current and future impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in ophthalmology and how he uses AI in his practice.

Review the principles of effective leadership and tips for managing an eyecare practice to foster employee satisfaction and long-term practice growth.

Consider expert advice on how to open an ophthalmology practice, with pearls on building a business plan, staffing, and more.