Jorge L. Alio

Professor and Chairman of Ophthalmology Miguel Hernandez University Founder, Vissum Miranza Alicante, Spain

Why did you decide to pursue ophthalmology/your subspecialty?

The capability of this specialty to start from the beginning and to finish the case, using investigational, clinical, surgical tools and knowing and studying the outcomes.

Who is your role model?

George Waring III; he was an innovator, extremely systematic clinical researcher and had a wonderful personality.

What is your proudest contribution to ophthalmology/your subspecialty?

The promotion of refractive surgery, corneal and intraocular, in Spain and in Europe in general. The description and creation of platelet rich plasma use in corneal disease.

The promotion of small and minimal incision cataract surgery and being the pioneer in corneal stromal regeneration as an alternative to corneal graft.

What do you credit most for your success over the course of your career?

High standard of corneal and intraocular refractive surgery. New phakic IOLs, minimal incision cataract surgery, corneal regeneration techniques, the development of modern accommodative lenses.

What would you like to see change in ophthalmology/your subspecialty over the next 10 years – and why?

The move from corneal graft to corneal regeneration procedures. The accomplishment of accommodative lenses.

If you could restart your career, would you do anything differently? 

No. 

When you are no longer practicing, what do you want your legacy to be?

My fellows, the students that I have educated, my family, and my books and papers published worldwide in scientific literature.

Do you have any advice for young, aspiring ophthalmologists?

Rely on your talent and vocation. Rely on written studies that are scientifically well developed and sound. Do not believe in what you hear but rather in what you read with supporting evidence.