Australian ophthalmologists Professor Stephanie Watson, Dr Ben LaHood, Professor David Mackey AO, and Professor Mingguang He, and New Zealand ophthalmologist Professor Helen Danesh Meyer, have been named in The Power List of the top 100 ophthalmologists globally, published by The Ophthalmologist magazine.
Now celebrating its 10-anniversary, this list is a benchmark that recognises the genuine giants of clinical practice and vision research. Nominated by surgeons worldwide, it throws a spotlight on individuals who have demonstrated “ten years of excellence and impact in ophthalmology”.
At just 39 years old Dr Ben LaHood, who trained in New Zealand before moving to South Australia, is the youngest person in the world to be named on list. He has been recognised for his surgical services professionally as a consultant ophthalmologist at Adelaide Eye and Laser Centre, ParkView Day Surgery and The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Adelaide, and Senior Lecturer at University of Adelaide.
I had never assumed I would be at this stage in my career and still not be 40! Selection on this list has been a career goal and is clearly a highlight for me
Considered a leader in the subject of cataract and refractive surgery, Dr LaHood has attended multiple conferences across Asia and America to educate his peers. Additionally, he is a driving force through his highly engaged digital and social media presence, newsletters, blogs, two podcasts and regular webinar events.
“I am incredibly humbled to be included in this group of the world’s top 100 ophthalmic minds. I had never assumed I would be at this stage in my career and still not be 40! Selection on this list has been a career goal and is clearly a highlight for me. I could not have got to where I am today, without the many opportunities I have been provided by my professional community. Thank you.
“It is a personal goal of mine to challenge the current system that often restricts ‘advanced technology’ (toric and multifocal intraocular lenses) in cataract treatment for private patients only.
“I believe we should be thinking about the wider benefits and long-term health benefits of these technologies as there are wider reaching communities who would benefit including those with dementia and other disabilities. These technologies have been the focus of my research, PhD and publications over the past five years.”
Jon Greenway, Editor of The Ophthalmologist says “We have never had a nominee as young as Ben, which is fantastic news for Australian ocular health, and for inspiring the next generation of ophthalmologists”.
