Ema Avdagic, MD
Ophthalmologist in Chicago
Dr. Ema Avdagic is an Ophthalmic surgeon specializing in Glaucoma, Cataract, and Advanced Anterior Segment Surgery. She was born in Sarajevo and moved to the United States in the early 90s. She graduated from Columbia University with Honors and remained in New York City for her medical degree from the State University of New York, where she was the Yudovsky Honor Scholar. In her final year of medical school, she won the “Excellence in Ophthalmology” award, given to the graduating senior who had demonstrated the most dedication to the field. She completed her Ophthalmology Residency at the University of Chicago, and then relocated to Toronto where she completed the prestigious Glaucoma and Advanced Anterior Segment Surgery (GAASS) Fellowship under the mentorship of world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Ike Ahmed. During her fellowship she completed a rigorous clinical and surgical training where she gained expertise in utilizing cutting-edge treatment and technology not yet available in the United States. She has published over 10 peer-reviewed publications and presented podium and poster presentations at several national conferences.
What is her specialty and treatment Philosophy?
Dr. Avdagic specializes in treating complex and routine cataract, glaucoma, and advanced anterior segment surgery. Dr. Avdagic’s philosophy is to provide the highest quality, patient-tailored care whether treating a routine cataract or a complex surgical case.
Why did Dr. Avdagic become an Ophthalmologist?
Dr. Avdagic had a passion for becoming a surgeon ever since high school, although she did not discover the beauty of Ophthalmology until early on in medical school. She was intrigued by the complexity of the eye and breadth of ocular pathology induced by systemic disease and the technologic advancements of the field . Glaucoma was particularly interesting due to the wide surgical armamentarium developed only in the last 10 years and the need for continued innovation in the field.
What does Dr. Avdagic do outside of being a doctor?
Outside of clinic, Dr. Avdagic has interests in modern art, ballet, opera, and house music. She also enjoys dancing, skiing, hiking, and exploring the rich cultural and culinary history of any city she travels to.