Today we would like to introduce you to Dr Nisha Shah, MD. your local ophthalmologist.
Hi Nisha, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I wanted to be a medical doctor since I was in high school, but I found my calling in ophthalmology (eye surgery) while volunteering at an eye camp in India. There, I saw the direct impact that something like cataract surgery can have on someone’s life. To be able to cure blindness was my life’s calling. Flash forward 13+ years of training; I became a Board-Certified Ophthalmologist. Now, I own my own practice and am the founder of Ophthalmology & Cataract Surgeons of Texas.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As a solo practice owner and as one of few female LASIK eye surgeons in the country, I thought, how am I going to stand out amongst corporate giants (mostly groups of men)? I found it hard not to compare myself to others. Then I learned that the only person you are competing with is yourself. You have to embrace every up and down in the journey. I remember those long nights of just trying to get on insurance panels (I’m on 100+ now!). Those days were rough. But there were fun moments, too, like when I got to design and furnish a beautiful office space! Some parts will always be more fun than others.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Ophthalmology & Cataract Surgeons of Texas?
As a practice owner, I have embraced an old-fashioned model. Patients see me (their doctor) for their pre and post-operative visits. They can reach me anytime. I limit the number of patients booked in a day, so I can spend time with them. I invest in the latest technology, whether it’s for diagnostics or for surgery because in a field like ophthalmology, precision is key.
I am one of a handful of ophthalmologists in the country that is fellowship trained in both cornea and refractive surgery. I specialize in comprehensive ophthalmology, as well as surgical care for cataracts, including laser cataract surgery with lens upgrades, LASIK/PRK, full and partial thickness cornea transplants (DSAEK, DMEK), ocular surface diseases and infections, medical and surgical treatment of glaucoma, dry eye management, and eye allergies. I also see patients for routine comprehensive medical eye exams, eye emergencies, diabetes, and macular degeneration.
Where did you train?
I’m originally from Florida–I graduated from the Honors Program in Medicine BS/MD program at the University of Miami with a major in biology and minor in chemistry. Following Medical School, I pursued a year of internal medicine and a 3-year ophthalmology residency at Tulane University in New Orleans. Then I went on to do a fellowship in Cornea, External Disease, and Refractive Surgery at the renowned Roski Eye Institute at the University of Southern California/Los Angeles County Hospital. During fellowship, I underwent additional refractive surgery training with the United States Navy at Camp Pendleton, California. So yes, that was at least 13 years of school since high school! But coming out of this kind of intensive training, I felt prepared to offer the best to my patients. I practiced in Houston for a few years before deciding to open up my own practice in a beautiful building in Bellaire.
We take hundreds of *medical* insurance plans (commercial PPO plans, HMO plans) and Medicare!
What do you do for fun?
Travelling, Spending time with my husband and son, and playing tennis! I was a former USTA-ranked tennis player and now play for fun. I love being a mother and feel it has made me a more caring doctor.
Anything else we should know?
LASIK evaluations with me are free! (And no strings attached). Having undergone the procedure myself, if you are interested in it, I recommend getting evaluated to see if you are a candidate.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
The best part of Houston is its diversity. I am trilingual and love meeting people from different backgrounds. People are so friendly here. Also, the food!!!
Pricing:
- LASIK evaluation FREE
- LASIK surgery (both eyes) $3800
- PRK surgery (both eyes) $3800
Contact Info:
- Website: www.eyedrshah.com
- Instagram: @eyesurgeonmom
