Continuing Education, Reimagined

World-renowned cataract surgeon Dr. Uday Devgan offers a candid, behind-the-scenes exploration of what truly keeps patients safe before, during, and after cataract surgery. In this final episode of the cataract surgery series, Dr. Devgan provides a transparent look at the realities of surgical decision-making, emphasizing that even the most experienced surgeons continue to learn, refine, and improve.

Dr. Neda Shamie, a board-certified ophthalmologist and renowned expert in cornea and cataract surgery, offers an in-depth exploration of how cataract surgery has evolved from a vision-restoring procedure to a lifestyle-enhancing experience. In this discussion, Dr. Shamie highlights the growing sophistication of intraocular lens (IOL) options—from monofocal to premium and light-adjustable lenses—and underscores the importance of aligning lens selection with each patient’s lifestyle, visual goals, and ocular health.

Dr. Dagny Zhu, cornea and refractive surgery specialist, provides expert insight into the critical role of eyelid and ocular surface health in optimizing outcomes for cataract and refractive surgery. Eyelid inflammation and ocular surface disease, including blepharitis and Demodex infestation, are often underdiagnosed and undertreated, yet they can compromise tear film stability, affect preoperative measurements, and lead to suboptimal surgical outcomes. Many patients are asymptomatic, and early signs are frequently overlooked, making education on identification, diagnosis, and management essential.

In this session, Dr. Zhu shares evidence-based strategies to optimize the ocular surface before surgery, including in-office treatments, pharmacologic interventions, and patient-guided eyelid hygiene. She emphasizes how early recognition and management can improve surgical planning, postoperative results, and long-term patient satisfaction.

Dr. Neda Nikpoor, MD, is a fellowship-trained, board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in cataract, cornea, and LASIK surgery. With training from the prestigious Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and experience as a clinical instructor at Stanford University, she brings a wealth of expertise to her patients at Jenkins Eye Care in Hawai’i. Dr. Nikpoor is deeply committed to global eye health, having performed hundreds of surgeries through the Himalayan Cataract Project and other initiatives across Asia, Africa, the Philippines, and the Marshall Islands. She has published extensively in top ophthalmology journals, contributed to textbook chapters, and holds leadership roles in the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons, while serving as a section editor for the CRST Journal. Beyond her clinical work, she is passionate about patient-centered care, innovative surgical techniques, and advancing ophthalmic research. When she’s not in the clinic, Dr. Nikpoor enjoys surfing, yoga, sailing, and hiking, and considers Hawai’i home, proudly serving the local community through her practice and advisory work with Project Vision Hawaii.

Cindy Eckert, a trailblazing entrepreneur and champion for women’s health, shares her journey transforming the pharmaceutical landscape. Best known as the founder of Sprout Pharmaceuticals—the company behind Addyi, the first FDA-approved drug for female libido—Cindy has navigated the complex world of drug development, market access, and advocacy with determination and vision. She also founded The Pink Ceiling, an investment firm dedicated to supporting female-led businesses. While not a medical doctor, Cindy’s expertise in healthcare entrepreneurship and patient advocacy provides invaluable insight into the challenges innovators face and the strategies needed to empower patients and drive meaningful change in the industry.

 Dr. Priya Matthews, board-certified, fellowship-trained cataract, refractive, and corneal surgeon, provides an in-depth exploration of cataract surgery, demystifying the process for patients. She breaks down the different lens options available, including monofocal, multifocal, and the cutting-edge light-adjustable lens. She highlights the latest surgical techniques, such as laser-assisted cataract surgery, and emphasizes how modern procedures can help patients achieve vision better than 20/20. Her approach focuses on personalized care, matching lens technologies to individual patient lifestyles, and improving quality of life through precise surgical interventions.

Lisa Wong, MD, an endocrinologist in Honolulu, transitioned from a traditional practice to a concierge model seven years ago. She detailed the challenges of her previous practice, including high patient volumes and administrative burdens.

Lisa Schuman, a reproductive therapist with over 25 years of experience, discusses the five-step process of choosing a donor, emphasizing the importance of understanding stress in fertility treatment.

Dr. Anjali Malik, board-certified, fellowship-trained breast imaging radiologist and women’s health advocate, delivers a comprehensive lecture on breast imaging, highlighting the increasing breast cancer incidence across age groups and ethnicities.

Dr. Anjali Malik, board-certified, fellowship-trained breast imaging radiologist and women’s health advocate, provides comprehensive insights into breast cancer detection, emphasizing the importance of monthly self-exams and understanding individual breast changes.

Dr. Anjali Malik, board-certified, fellowship-trained breast imaging radiologist and women’s health advocate, delivers a comprehensive overview of breast cancer screening, highlighting the critical importance of early detection through mammograms and advanced imaging techniques.

Join Nick Rolnick, DPT, for an evidence-based exploration of blood flow restriction (BFR) training and its applications in fitness and rehabilitation. This innovative technique enables significant muscle growth and strength gains using low-intensity exercise, offering a practical and effective alternative for various populations.

Dr. Lauren Powell, a dynamic family medicine physician, shares her transformative journey and passion for using food as medicine. She highlights the alarming prevalence of chronic diseases in America and the healthcare system’s struggles to address the root causes. Dr. Powell unveils the undeniable power of diet to prevent, manage, and even reverse various health conditions, offering a refreshing and hopeful perspective on wellness.

Dr. Kumkum Patel, a board-certified gastroenterologist, provides an overview of digestive health, covering upper, small, and lower GI disorders. She discusses GERD management, types of dysphagia, and common causes of upper abdominal pain like gallstones and H. pylori. Small bowel conditions, including celiac disease and SIBO, are addressed alongside constipation and diarrhea, highlighting diagnostic tools and treatment options.