We are delighted to feature Dr Maria Vittoria Cicinelli in our touchOPHTHALMOLOGY Future Leaders 2025. Dr Cicinelli, a distinguished clinician and researcher, is an Assistant Professor at the Vita-Salute San Raffaele University in Milan, Italy. Renowned for her contributions to advancing the field of ophthalmology, her work bridges innovative research and compassionate patient care.
Dr Cicinelli’s expertise spans key areas such as retinal diseases and vitreoretinal surgery, and research has been widely recognized, reflecting her passion for exploring innovative solutions in vision science.
In this Q&A, Dr Cicinelli shares her inspirations, career journey and insights into the future of ophthalmology and where she plans to make her mark.
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in ophthalmology?
I was captivated by how much complexity and potential for discovery lies within such a small organ. The eye is fascinating on its own and also offers a unique view into systemic health. By examining the eye, we can detect a wide range of conditions, including immune, endocrine, neurological and vascular diseases. This connection between the eye and overall health is what drew me to ophthalmology.
The field’s combination of medical, surgical, and technological advances is unmatched. Being able to diagnose, treat, and even restore vision is incredibly rewarding. What inspired me most is the life-changing impact we can have on patients, often through precise, evidence-based interventions. This mix of challenges and opportunities made ophthalmology the perfect choice for me.
2. How can aspiring ophthalmologists make a meaningful impact early in their careers?
Focus on building a solid foundation in clinical skills and actively seek mentorship. Someone once told me, “Observe and steal”—in a positive sense, meaning everyone has something to teach, whether it’s what to do or what to avoid. Stay curious and engage in research or collaborative projects to expand your understanding of the field and contribute to advancing knowledge.
Choose a focus that truly excites you and sparks your enthusiasm—it will keep you motivated. Embrace innovation and interdisciplinary approaches; technologies like AI and advanced imaging are reshaping ophthalmology, and getting involved in these areas early can set you apart. Lastly, learn to work independently so you don’t have to rely on others too much. Stay open-minded and adaptable; it’s the key to growth and making a difference.
3. Are there specific areas of research or clinical practice you aim to specialize in or advance?
I am particularly focused on retinal diseases and the use of imaging technologies, especially multimodal imaging, to better understand disease mechanisms and guide treatments. My work also explores inflammatory eye diseases and their complications, with the aim of improving diagnostic accuracy, understanding risk factors and natural history, and advancing therapeutic outcomes. Beyond that, I’m passionate about mentoring and building collaborative networks to help drive progress in ophthalmology as a field.
Disclosures: This short article was prepared by touchOPHTHALMOLOGY in collaboration with Dr Cicinelli. No fees or funding were associated with its publication.
touchOPHTHALMOLOGY is celebrating the brightest rising stars in the ophthalmology community, who are set to shape the future of the field.
Read more about touchOPHTHALMOLOGY Future Leaders 2025 here.
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