The History of Eyecare

• Tom Frinzi: Leadership, Mergers, and the Making of Modern Eyecare

  In this episode of The History of Eyecare, Dr. Morgan Micheletti sits down with legendary medtech executive Tom Frinzi to explore a remarkable career that has helped shape modern ophthalmology. With over 40 years of leadership across some of the most transformative eras in eye care, Tom reflects on his journey through legacy companies like Chiron Vision, WaveTec, and Johnson & Johnson Vision. From the transition to phaco and the birth of LASIK to the rise of premium IOLs and intraoperative aberrometry, Tom shares behind-the-scenes insights into the technologies, teams, and timing that defined an era. This episode is a deep dive into the business, culture, and innovation cycles that continue to move our field forward. Key Takeaways: Tom shares how a rep job in Houston and early exposure to ophthalmic microsurgery with Ralph Berkeley and Steve Slade sparked a lifelong passion. He witnessed and led through the shift from extracap to phaco, the emergence of refractive surgery, and the dawn of the premium cataract era. Whether working in big strategics or venture-backed startups, Tom's work has impacted everything from LASIK and IOL development to aberrometry and refractive platforms. He discusses lessons from leading WaveTec to acquisition, the early promise of CK, and how timing can make or break a great idea. Tom emphasizes culture, mentorship, and building a "reservoir of goodwill"—offering hard-won insights for aspiring leaders in the medtech space. Takeaways -Tom Frinzi has over 40 years of experience in ophthalmology. -He emphasizes the importance of mentorship in career development. -Innovation in ophthalmology can come from both internal and external sources. -The relationship between industry and practitioners is unique and beneficial. -Frinzi believes that lens-based refractive surgery is the future. -Patient fear and cost are significant barriers to elective surgeries. -Collaboration among ophthalmologists and industry is crucial for advancement. -Regulatory bodies have become more receptive in recent years. -The myopic epidemic presents ongoing opportunities for innovation. -Frinzi is optimistic about the future of technology in ophthalmology. Keywords ophthalmology, medical devices, innovation, refractive surgery, mentorship, patient care, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory changes, industry evolution, technology

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• Stephen Lane, MD: Chief Medical Officer of Alcon, Private Practice Research, Orbis

  Dr. Stephen Lane shares his journey into medicine and ophthalmology, his experiences in research, innovation, and teaching, as well as his involvement with Orbis. He discusses his father's influence, his decision to pursue ophthalmology, and his work with Alcon. Dr. Lane also highlights his research on corneal transplants, intraocular lenses, and bimanual INA, as well as his teaching experiences and involvement with Orbis. Dr. Stephen Lane discusses his experiences with Orbis, the establishment of a cataract program, and his transition to becoming CMO at Alcon. He also shares insights on industry innovation and the future of ophthalmology. Takeaways Dr. Lane's journey into ophthalmology was influenced by his father's experience and advice, leading him to pursue a career in medicine and ophthalmology. His research and innovation in corneal transplants, intraocular lenses, and bimanual INA have contributed significantly to the field of ophthalmology. Dr. Lane's dedication to teaching and his involvement with Orbis reflect his commitment to sharing knowledge and improving access to eye care globally. Dr. Lane's involvement with Orbis and the establishment of a cataract program highlights the importance of providing surgical care in disadvantaged communities. The transition to becoming CMO at Alcon allowed Dr. Lane to contribute to industry innovation and strategic decision-making. Efficiency and innovation in ophthalmology, particularly in diagnostic instruments and surgical procedures, are crucial for meeting the growing patient needs and expectations. The impact of life cycle innovation in Faco and the potential of AI and cell therapy in ophthalmology are significant areas of development and change in the field. Keywords medicine, ophthalmology, research, innovation, teaching, Alcon, corneal transplants, intraocular lenses, bimanual INA, Orbis, Orbis, cataract program, Alcon, chief medical officer, industry innovation, ophthalmology, future of ophthalmology

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• Samuel Masket, MD: Dysphotopsias, Astigmatism, Hyphema, and The Masket Foundation

  Dr. Samuel Masket shares his journey into medicine, from initially planning to become a veterinarian to discovering his passion for ophthalmology. He recounts the serendipitous events that led him to pursue a career in ophthalmology and the pivotal moments that shaped his path. Dr. Masket discusses his interest in ophthalmic diagnostics and the excitement of being at the forefront of cataract technology. He highlights the collaboration between surgeons and industry in advancing the field of cataract surgery. Despite initial resistance, Dr. Masket and his colleagues played a significant role in popularizing phoacoemulsification and revolutionizing cataract surgery. Dr. Masket discusses his early years in California, his work with IOLs, research on dysphotopsia, efforts to prevent endophthalmitis, and the establishment of the Mask It Foundation. Takeaways Serendipitous events can shape one's career path and lead to unexpected opportunities. Passion for a specific field can be sparked by personal experiences and exposure to innovative techniques. Collaboration between surgeons and industry can drive advancements in medical technology. Persistence and dedication to publishing research can contribute to the growth and development of a field. Dr. Masket's early years in California were marked by a progressive and supportive environment for ophthalmic advancements. His work with IOLs included the development of a goal wing haptic design and the study of dysphotopsia. Dr. Masket conducted research on endophthalmitis prevention, highlighting the importance of intracameral antibiotics. The Masket Foundation, established by Dr. Masket and his partner Dr. Nicole Fram, provides assistance to uninsured and underinsured patients in need of anterior segment surgery. Chapters 00:00 The Journey into Medicine 04:00 Discovering Ophthalmology 07:49 Research and Innovation in Eye Care 12:05 Military Service and Clinical Experience 15:56 Transitioning to California 21:46 The Rise of Cataract Surgery 29:57 Overcoming Resistance to Phaco Surgery 34:18 The Progressive Landscape of California Medicine 37:41 Innovations in Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) 50:19 Understanding Dysphotopsia in Eye Surgery 59:03 The Masket Foundation and Community Impact

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• Margeurite McDonald: Pioneering Laser Vision Correction, Overcoming Barriers, Retinoblastoma breakthroughs

  Dr. Marguerite McDonald shares her journey in medicine and ophthalmology, from her childhood experiences with poor vision to her groundbreaking work in refractive surgery. She recounts her introduction to ophthalmology through a retinoblastoma clinic and her research on isoenzyme patterns in retinoblastoma. Dr. McDonald discusses her residency and fellowship experiences, including her involvement in the PERK study on radial keratotomy. She then delves into the development of the excimer laser and the challenges and controversies she faced during the early stages of laser vision correction. Finally, she reflects on the current state of LASIK and the advancements in refractive surgery. In this conversation, Dr. Marguerite McDonald discusses her experiences and contributions in the field of ophthalmology. She talks about the challenges with LASIK and the importance of highlighting successful outcomes. Dr. McDonald also shares her journey as the first female president of ASCRS and ISRS, and her involvement with Ophthalmic Women Leaders (OWL). She reflects on her most meaningful contributions to the field, including her work on retinoblastoma and laser vision correction. Finally, Dr. McDonald discusses exciting developments in the field, such as the EVO ICL and temporary procedures for presbyopia. Takeaways Dr. Marguerite McDonald's journey in medicine and ophthalmology was shaped by her personal experiences with poor vision and her desire to help others see. Her research on isoenzyme patterns in retinoblastoma and her work on the PERK study on radial keratotomy were significant contributions to the field of ophthalmology. Dr. McDonald played a pivotal role in the development of laser vision correction, including the use of the excimer laser and the transition to LASIK. Despite facing controversy and skepticism, Dr. McDonald's dedication to data-driven research and patient care has helped shape the field of refractive surgery. Highlighting successful outcomes is important to counteract negative publicity and encourage more suitable candidates to proceed with LASIK. Dr. Marguerite McDonald's journey as the first female president of ASCRS and ISRS highlights the progress made in promoting diversity and gender equality in the field of ophthalmology. Ophthalmic Women Leaders (OWL) provides a platform for networking and professional development for women in the ophthalmology industry. Dr. McDonald's contributions to the field include her work on retinoblastoma, laser vision correction, and the development of the EVO ICL. Chapters with Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction and Early Life 00:40 - The Near-Drowning Incident and Discovery of Myopia 03:00 - First Glasses and Introduction to Optometry 05:23 - Medical School Challenges and Rotation in Retinoblastoma 07:45 - Research on Retinoblastoma Isoenzymes 10:06 - Internship at Lenox Hill and Residency at Manhattan Eye 12:23 - Residency Interview Experiences and Film Festival Award 14:45 - LSU Fellowship and Refractive Surgery Involvement 17:08 - Work on Epicardifakia and Radial Keratotomy Research 19:34 - Transition to Excimer Laser Development 21:59 - Early Laser Research Challenges 24:29 - Animal Testing, First Human Case, and FDA Interactions 26:52 - The Alberta Cassidy Case and Human Trials 29:18 - LSU Trailer Experiments and Data Findings 31:40 - Controversy Over Blind Eye Study 34:01 - Advances in Laser Technology and Flying Spot Lasers 36:26 - First Sighted Patients and Scrutiny 38:48 - Evolution of LASIK and Femtosecond Lasers 41:11 - Barriers to LASIK Adoption 43:36 - Leadership Roles and Breaking Barriers 46:02 - Founding of OWL and Professional Networking 48:21 - Reflections on Career Achievements 50:49 - Exciting Future Developments in Ophthalmology 51:52 - Closing Remarks and Sponsor Acknowledgments

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• Richard Lindstrom, MD: Diffractive Optics, Ocular Surgery News, Corneal Preservation, and the Shift in Glaucoma Management

  Dr. Richard Lindstrom shares his journey in ophthalmology, from initially intending to join his family's construction business to becoming a renowned ophthalmologist and innovator. He discusses how medicine chose him and his path to specializing in ophthalmology. Dr. Lindstrom shares his experience in private practice and academia, as well as his involvement in research, teaching, and industry collaboration. He also highlights the importance of being open to innovation and the challenges faced by pioneers in the field. Additionally, he discusses his patents and his role as president of various ophthalmology organizations. Dr. Richard L. Lindstrom discusses the path to becoming a Key Opinion Leader (KOL) in the field of ophthalmology. He emphasizes the importance of being involved in clinical trials, conducting research, and teaching colleagues. Dr. Lindstrom also shares his experience as the Chief Medical Editor of Ocular Surgery News and highlights the importance of education and innovation in the field. He discusses his most impactful publications and the advancements in various areas of ophthalmology, including cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment, corneal refractive surgery, and retinal diseases. Dr. Lindstrom encourages young ophthalmologists to embrace innovation and continue learning throughout their careers. Chapters 00:00 Dr. Richard Lindstrom's Journey in Ophthalmology 05:19 Balancing Private Practice, Academia, and Research 16:20 The Importance of Being Open to Innovation 28:53 Innovations in Ophthalmology: Accommodating IOLs 33:00 The Changing Landscape of Ophthalmology Education 35:00 Becoming a Key Opinion Leader 42:07 The Role of Education and Innovation 42:37 Dr. Lindstrom's Work with Ocular Surgery News 48:39 The Development of Diffractive Multifocal IOLs 53:16 The Most Influential Advances in Ophthalmology 59:00 The Shift in Glaucoma Treatment 01:03:22 Advice for Young Ophthalmologists Keywords ophthalmology, journey, medicine, private practice, academia, research, teaching, industry collaboration, innovation, patents, president, ophthalmology organizations, ophthalmology, Key Opinion Leader, clinical trials, research, education, innovation, cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment, corneal refractive surgery, retinal diseases

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