Tetsuro Oshika

Professor and Chairman, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan

Why did you decide to pursue ophthalmology/your subspecialty?

As a medical student, I was incredibly impressed by the efficient and beautifully designed notation method for visual acuity and ocular refraction. It was simple, yet contained sufficient information. From that point on, I became fascinated by the optical and mathematical aspects of ophthalmology. Additionally, I firmly believe that eye surgeries are more logical compared with other surgical fields. A prime example is Georg Eisner's "Eye Surgery" textbook, which interprets and illustrates each surgical step from scientific perspectives, emphasizing the mechanics involved.

Do you have any strong opinions with which the rest of the field tends to disagree?

I am very conservative when it comes to refractive surgery. As a moderately myopic and presbyopic individual myself, I am highly satisfied with spectacles and contact lenses. If refractive surgery and contact lenses had already existed in this world and someone had invented spectacles for refractive errors and presbyopia, that invention would deserve a Nobel Prize. They are so safe, non-invasive, reversible, changeable, convenient, and suitable for everyone, including children and seniors.

Do you have any personal missions for the next 10 years?

Despite its crucial role in maintaining and improving people's quality of life, ophthalmology is sometimes seen as less significant than other medical professions, mainly because it doesn't usually involve life-or-death situations. I aim to change this perception and elevate the status of ophthalmology within the medical community by emphasizing the importance of quality of vision/quality of life.

My two sons are currently medical students aspiring to become ophthalmologists. By the time they enter the workforce, I wish to see a world where ophthalmologists and ocular science researchers are highly respected, with society fully appreciating the valuable contributions they make to the health and well-being of individuals worldwide.