New faculty spotlight: Rao Chundury, M.D.

Rao Chundury, M.D., is a new faculty member at UNMC.

• Name: Rao Chundury, M.D.
• Hometown: Newburgh, Ind.
• Title and department at UNMC/Nebraska Medicine: Assistant professor, UNMC Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Truhlsen Eye Institute; eye plastic and reconstruction surgeon

Research/professional interests:

• Oculoplastic and orbital surgery;
• Lacrimal system;
• Thyroid eye disease;
• Injectable cosmeceuticals;
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques;
• Scar reduction; and
• Health care payment models.

How I fell in love with oculoplastic and orbital surgery: As a medical student, I had no idea what my calling was. My classmates seemed to have made these decisions years ago, leaving me well behind the curve. A good friend convinced me to try an ophthalmology rotation. Unfortunately, all the standard rotations were filled, and so I begrudgingly agreed to an oculoplastics rotation. Over the next few weeks my doubts were replaced with clarity, and I knew this field was perfect for me.

Oculoplastic and orbital surgery is the perfect mix of creativity, science and patient interaction. We see patients of all age groups, perform a variety of innovative functional and cosmetic surgeries and collaborate with many other services. Every day I am excited to come to work, and I plan on sharing this excitement with my patients, residents and staff members.

Degrees:

• M.D., Indiana University, Indianapolis – 2011
• M.B.A., Kelley School of Business, Indianapolis – 2011
• Residency, St. Louis University, St. Louis – 2014
• Fellowship, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland – 2016

Memberships:

• American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) – Board certified
• American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Board certified
• International Thyroid Eye Disease Society
• AAO Oculoplastics ONE Editor’s Choice Committee
• AAO Advocacy Ambassador

Three things people may not know about me:

• For months, I secretly learned how to ride a RipStik and then thoroughly impressed my kids with “natural” skills.
• I’m well versed in Leet vocabulary.
• I suddenly will cramp up when losing at any sport.

Clinic locations:

• Truhlsen Eye Institute, 3902 Leavenworth St., Omaha
• Village Pointe Truhlsen Eye Institute, 110 North 175th St., Suite 2700, Omaha

For appointments and referrals: Call 402-559-2020.