Chirag J. Patel, MD

Lake Nona Ophthalmology 

With roots in the small central Florida town of Fruitland Park, Chirag J. Patel, MD, FACS, developed a passion for people and the community at an early age. As a first-generation Indian-American, he learned life’s most important lessons from his parents, who operated a local business in the small town.  The ability to help people and develop long-lasting relationships was a strong impetus for Dr. Patel’s pursuit of medicine.

After graduating as the Valedictorian of his high school, Dr. Patel attended the University of Florida for his undergraduate and medical degrees. He then completed an internship in Internal medicine at Richmond University Medical Center and a three-year residency in Ophthalmology at the prestigious Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City.  During his residency, Dr. Patel had the privilege of learning under renowned leaders in the field and worked with his mentor, Dr. Elahi, a recognized Ophthalmic Plastic surgeon, who taught him advanced functional and cosmetic eyelid surgery.  Dr. Patel then decided to pursue an additional year of Fellowship training in Medical Retina and Research at the University of Florida – Jacksonville.  Back in his home state, Dr. Patel gained expertise in the treatment and diagnosis of retinal diseases, participated in nationally recognized clinical trials, such as DRCR.net and AREDS, published in peer-reviewed journals, and actively taught residents clinical and surgical concepts in Ophthalmology.

Ultimately, Dr. Patel founded Lake Nona Ophthalmology in 2013 as a unique, patient-first practice founded on the core principles of compassion, community, and cutting-edge care.

As a comprehensive Ophthalmologist with a sub-specialty in medical retina, and years of experience in non-invasive facial cosmetic rejuvenation, Dr. Patel performs surgeries involving the eye and eyelids, such as laser cataract surgery, pterygium surgery, Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery, and upper and lower eyelid surgery; additionally, he performs non-invasive aesthetic procedures. He is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Medical Association, New York Academy of Medicine and Florida Society of Ophthalmology.

Outside of the office, Dr. Patel enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, photography, playing sports and rooting for his Gators!