Today we’d like to introduce you to Elise Kramer.
Hi Elise, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Absolutely! My journey into optometry began with a deep passion for helping people see the world more clearly and comfortably. I earned my Doctorate in Optometry from the Université de Montréal in 2012, where I cultivated a strong foundation in eye care. During my fourth year, I completed an internship at the Eye Centers of South Florida, which ignited my interest in ocular disease.
Following this, I completed a residency at the Miami VA Medical Center, with training at the prestigious Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. This residency solidified my commitment to specializing in ocular surface disease and specialty contact lens design and fitting. After my residency, I became a fellow of the Scleral Lens Education Society (SLS) and currently serve as its vice president.
In addition to my work with the SLS, I am the vice president of Women in Eyecare (WiE) and hold memberships in the American Optometric Association (AOA) and the International Association of Contact Lens Educators (IACLE). I am also a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (AAO) and the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA), and I serve as the Delegate of International Relations for the Italian Association of Scleral Lenses (AILeS).
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of publishing several articles and participating in clinical research trials, which have further deepened my expertise. I also enjoy lecturing globally in various languages, sharing my knowledge on ocular surface disease and specialty lenses. My journey has been driven by a dedication to advancing eye care and improving the lives of my patients.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
While my journey has been incredibly rewarding, it certainly hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the initial challenges I faced was attending optometry school in French at the Université de Montréal, which was a significant shift since most of my education had been in English. This language transition required a considerable adjustment.
After moving to Miami, I encountered another language barrier—I had to relearn everything in Spanish to effectively communicate with my patients. This was essential for providing the best care and ensuring clear understanding between myself and my patients.
My residency at the Miami VA Medical Center, including my time at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, was both challenging and rewarding. The intensity of the training and the high standards pushed me to expand my skills and knowledge in ocular surface disease and specialty contact lenses.
Additionally, opening the Miami Contact Lens Institute from scratch presented its own set of challenges. Building a business involved navigating numerous logistical and administrative hurdles, but these experiences have ultimately strengthened my resolve and expertise in providing specialized eye care.
Despite these obstacles, each challenge has been an opportunity for growth and has led me to where I am today. I’m grateful for the journey and the lessons learned along the way.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Sure! At the Miami Contact Lens Institute, we specialize in ocular surface disease and the design and fitting of specialty contact lenses. Our mission is to provide customized eye care solutions that improve the quality of life for our patients, particularly those with complex eye conditions.
What sets us apart is our expertise in fitting specialty contact lenses, such as scleral lenses, which can significantly enhance comfort and vision for patients with corneal irregularities, severe dry eye, or other ocular surface diseases. Our dedication to staying at the forefront of advancements in contact lens technology and ocular surface treatments ensures that our patients receive the most effective and up-to-date care available.
Brand-wise, I am most proud of our commitment to personalized patient care. We take the time to understand each patient’s unique needs and challenges, offering customized solutions that truly make a difference in their daily lives. This patient-centric approach is a cornerstone of our practice and a key reason why many of our patients come to us through referrals.
We also place a strong emphasis on education, both for our patients and the wider eye care community. I frequently lecture around the world and publish articles on ocular surface disease and specialty lenses, sharing insights and advancements in the field.
For your readers, I want them to know that at the Miami Contact Lens Institute, they will receive compassionate, expert care tailored to their specific eye care needs. Whether they are struggling with a challenging ocular surface condition or seeking a better contact lens solution, we are here to help them achieve optimal vision and comfort.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have a number of mentors, supporters, and advocates who have played pivotal roles in my journey and the success of the Miami Contact Lens Institute.
My dad, a pediatrician and epidemiologist, has been a profound influence. Watching him tackle large investigations throughout his career instilled in me a sense of dedication and perseverance.
Dr. Langis Michaud, my professor at the Université de Montréal, provided foundational knowledge and guidance during my formative years in optometry. His expertise and teaching have been invaluable.
Dr. William Trattler, with whom I have the privilege of comanaging patients, constantly pushes me to reach my maximum potential. His encouragement and high standards have been crucial in my professional growth.
Dr. Edward Boshnick showed me the ins and outs of running a contact lens practice in Miami. His mentorship in the practical aspects of the business has been indispensable.
Dr. Kenneth Maller has demonstrated how transformative contact lenses can be in changing lives. His passion and commitment to patient care have deeply inspired me.
Each of these individuals has played a significant role in shaping my career and the success of the Miami Contact Lens Institute. Their mentorship, support, and inspiration have been essential to my growth and achievements.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.miamicontactlens.com
- Instagram: @drelisekramer
- Facebook: Miami Contact Lens Institute
- Twitter: https://x.com/drelisekramer
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/EyeclarityMiami
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/miami-contact-lens-institute-miami-2
Image Credits
Victoria Cooper is the headshot photographer
