Gary Wortz

As well as running his own successful practice in Kentucky, Wortz helps run a free eye clinic for those in need. A specialist in cataract surgery, he has been published in numerous trade journals, given several lectures at the AAO and ASCRS annual meetings and participates in FDA studies for new ophthalmic therapeutics.

A nominator said: “A progressive surgeon, Gary is the most innovative young cataract surgeon currently in the US. He started his own practice after his residency, and in a very short time built it to become one of the largest cataract providers in the state of Kentucky. He then joined Commonwealth Eye, one of the largest providers in the state, and is now providing care to thousands every year. At the same time, he has worked with industry to develop and improve devices and disposables with companies such as Alcon, AMO, Lenstec and Ocular Therapeutix. He also recently received patents on a novel IOL design that could have far-reaching implications.”

Part of the Power List 2015

In 2014, we compiled a list of the Top 100 most influential people in ophthalmology – an endeavor that received a significant amount of attention and, it’s fair to say, caused more than a little controversy. For our 2015 Top 40 Under 40 list we’ve taken a different approach, asking: who are the young, up-and-coming individuals set to rise to the top of their field? That’s the question we posed to ourselves – and then to you – ahead of open nominations and a painstaking judging process. Our list this year almost halves the average age of the celebrated individuals, with many of them born in the same year as the iconic Sex Pistols cover – 1977. Though we admit that no list of this type can be definitive, it does clearly show that the future of ophthalmology is very bright indeed. And so, without further ado, we celebrate the movers and shakers aged 40 or under who show what can be achieved with determination, passion and inspiration.

Go to The Power List 2015