Dr. Marguerite McDonald shares her journey in medicine and ophthalmology, from her childhood experiences with poor vision to her groundbreaking work in refractive surgery. She recounts her introduction to ophthalmology through a retinoblastoma clinic and her research on isoenzyme patterns in retinoblastoma. Dr. McDonald discusses her residency and fellowship experiences, including her involvement in the PERK study on radial keratotomy. She then delves into the development of the excimer laser and the challenges and controversies she faced during the early stages of laser vision correction. Finally, she reflects on the current state of LASIK and the advancements in refractive surgery. In this conversation, Dr. Marguerite McDonald discusses her experiences and contributions in the field of ophthalmology. She talks about the challenges with LASIK and the importance of highlighting successful outcomes. Dr. McDonald also shares her journey as the first female president of ASCRS and ISRS, and her involvement with Ophthalmic Women Leaders (OWL). She reflects on her most meaningful contributions to the field, including her work on retinoblastoma and laser vision correction. Finally, Dr. McDonald discusses exciting developments in the field, such as the EVO ICL and temporary procedures for presbyopia.

Takeaways
Dr. Marguerite McDonald’s journey in medicine and ophthalmology was shaped by her personal experiences with poor vision and her desire to help others see.
Her research on isoenzyme patterns in retinoblastoma and her work on the PERK study on radial keratotomy were significant contributions to the field of ophthalmology.
Dr. McDonald played a pivotal role in the development of laser vision correction, including the use of the excimer laser and the transition to LASIK.
Despite facing controversy and skepticism, Dr. McDonald’s dedication to data-driven research and patient care has helped shape the field of refractive surgery. Highlighting successful outcomes is important to counteract negative publicity and encourage more suitable candidates to proceed with LASIK.
Dr. Marguerite McDonald’s journey as the first female president of ASCRS and ISRS highlights the progress made in promoting diversity and gender equality in the field of ophthalmology.
Ophthalmic Women Leaders (OWL) provides a platform for networking and professional development for women in the ophthalmology industry.
Dr. McDonald’s contributions to the field include her work on retinoblastoma, laser vision correction, and the development of the EVO ICL.

Chapters with Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction and Early Life
00:40 – The Near-Drowning Incident and Discovery of Myopia
03:00 – First Glasses and Introduction to Optometry
05:23 – Medical School Challenges and Rotation in Retinoblastoma
07:45 – Research on Retinoblastoma Isoenzymes
10:06 – Internship at Lenox Hill and Residency at Manhattan Eye
12:23 – Residency Interview Experiences and Film Festival Award
14:45 – LSU Fellowship and Refractive Surgery Involvement
17:08 – Work on Epicardifakia and Radial Keratotomy Research
19:34 – Transition to Excimer Laser Development
21:59 – Early Laser Research Challenges
24:29 – Animal Testing, First Human Case, and FDA Interactions
26:52 – The Alberta Cassidy Case and Human Trials
29:18 – LSU Trailer Experiments and Data Findings
31:40 – Controversy Over Blind Eye Study
34:01 – Advances in Laser Technology and Flying Spot Lasers
36:26 – First Sighted Patients and Scrutiny
38:48 – Evolution of LASIK and Femtosecond Lasers
41:11 – Barriers to LASIK Adoption
43:36 – Leadership Roles and Breaking Barriers
46:02 – Founding of OWL and Professional Networking
48:21 – Reflections on Career Achievements
50:49 – Exciting Future Developments in Ophthalmology
51:52 – Closing Remarks and Sponsor Acknowledgments