Edward F. Smith

Edward F. Smith, MD, is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. He concurrently serves as the Local Director of Ophthalmology at the Department of Veterans Affairs, New York Harbor Healthcare System, Brooklyn Campus. With fellowship training in neuro-ophthalmology, Dr. Smith practices comprehensive ophthalmology and specializes in anterior segment procedures, including cataract surgery, refractive surgery, pterygium excision, and corneal transplantation. Over his 20-year academic career, he has trained all graduating SUNY Downstate ophthalmology residents, many of whom have become national leaders in the field.

Education:

• Undergraduate: CUNY Brooklyn College – B.S. Chemistry, Magna Cum Laude
• Medical School: SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Cum Laude
• Residency: Ophthalmology – SUNY Downstate/Kings County
• Fellowship: Neuro-ophthalmology – SUNY Downstate/Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center

Research Interests:
Dr. Smith investigates collagen crosslinking for infectious keratitis, intraocular lens-based antibiotic delivery systems, and frequency doubling perimetry for neurological visual field defects. His clinical research focuses on optimizing surgical outcomes, antimicrobial efficacy in ophthalmic procedures, and diagnostic innovations for neuro-ophthalmic conditions.

Publication Trends:
His scholarly work emphasizes surgical innovation (cataract techniques, corneal transplantation), antimicrobial strategies in ophthalmic surgery (antibiotic-soaked lenses, riboflavin/UV therapies), and neuro-ophthalmic disorders (optic neuropathies, viral complications). Recent publications demonstrate a focus on improving intraoperative safety and infection prevention.

Awards & Honors:

• New York Magazine 'Best Doctors' (1991)
• Castle Conelly 'Best Doctors in New York' (1999-2010)
• New York Times 'Superdoctors' (2008-2010)

Teaching & Clinical Practice:
As primary surgical instructor for SUNY Downstate residents, Dr. Smith has trained over two decades of ophthalmologists. He accepts new patients at the Brooklyn VA, managing conditions including diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment.