University of Louisville School of Medicine Program

The fellowship in Oculofacial Plastic and Orbital Surgery offered by the University of Louisville's School of Medicine is an ACGME-accredited program that is designed to provide advanced education and research training in the clinical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and conditions affecting the orbit and periorbital area. This two-year fellowship accepts one new fellow each year and is a collaborative effort between the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Louisville and St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis.

During the first year of training, fellows spend time at both the University of Louisville and the Kentucky Lions Eye Center, and they also engage in clinical practice within the private practices of attending physicians. The second year of training is primarily conducted at St. Vincent Hospital under the guidance of Dr. Harold Lee, the site director. Throughout their fellowship, participants perform or assist in approximately 800 surgical procedures per year, ensuring ample exposure to clinical responsibilities under appropriate faculty supervision.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum integrates extensive clinical and surgical exposure across a variety of settings. Fellows benefit from hands-on training in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery focusing on the face, eyelids, orbits, and the lacrimal system. The fellowship includes opportunities to instruct residents through hands-on anatomy courses and to take part in teaching activities.

Faculty and Mentorship

The fellowship guarantees individualized mentorship, allowing fellows to work closely with esteemed faculty, thus gaining from their extensive experiences. Faculty members facilitate access to specialized knowledge and resources across various aspects of ophthalmology. The fellowship director in Louisville, William R. Nunery, MD, has over 35 years of surgical experience and specializes in areas such as orbitofacial trauma and oculofacial cosmetic surgery. Additionally, Dr. Harold Lee, who oversees the second year of training, further contributes to the fellows' education through his surgical expertise and management of complex cases at a Level 1 Trauma Center.

Scholarly Activities and Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to participate actively in scholarly activities, including presenting at the weekly Ophthalmology Grand Rounds and at national meetings of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. Research is a key component of the fellowship, with access to cadaver labs, animal research labs, and support for publishing findings.

Application Process and Eligibility

For application considerations, the program prefers candidates who have completed their Ophthalmology residency in the U.S. or Canada. International candidates must have completed USMLE Step 1, 2, and 3 to be eligible for a travel visa.

Competitiveness and Visa Support

The fellowship is recognized as a highly competitive opportunity, attracting both U.S. applicants and international medical graduates (IMGs). The program provides visa support for international fellows, typically sponsoring J-1 or H-1B visas, allowing a diverse array of candidates to apply.

Careers After Fellowship

Upon completion of the fellowship, graduates have successfully secured prestigious positions across various institutions, including academic roles and private practices. Notable past fellows have advanced their careers at renowned institutions such as the University of California-Irvine, University of Chicago, and Indiana University, indicating strong placement prospects.