Meet Dr. Ankit Desai, Ophthalmology - Advocate Health Care
Welcome to this episode of our podcast, where we explore the fascinating world of ophthalmology with Dr. Ankit Desai, a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in the treatment of vitreoretinal diseases. Dr. Desai is affiliated with Advocate Sherman Hospital and has dedicated his career to restoring vision and improving the lives of his patients. Dr. Desai’s Journey to Ophthalmology Dr. Desai’s path to becoming an ophthalmologist was unexpected but deeply rewarding. “Ophthalmology wasn’t even on my radar until I did a rotation during medical school,” Dr. Desai shares. “It was the most engaging experience I had, and I realized the profound impact I could have on people’s lives by restoring their vision.”This pivotal moment shaped his career, leading him to specialize in vitreoretinal diseases—conditions affecting the back of the eye, such as diabetes-related complications, vascular occlusions, and age-related macular degeneration. Common Conditions Dr. Desai TreatsDr. Desai focuses on treating complex retinal conditions, including: Diabetic Retinopathy: A leading cause of vision loss in people with diabetes, requiring meticulous management to prevent progression. Vascular Occlusions: Often linked to high blood pressure, these blockages can lead to severe vision impairment if untreated. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): A common condition in older adults that can significantly impact quality of life. Each of these conditions presents unique challenges, but the advancements in treatments today allow us to achieve life-changing outcomes for our patients,” Dr. Desai explains. A Philosophy Rooted in Compassion For Dr. Desai, patient care is deeply personal. “My basic philosophy for practicing medicine is to treat my patients like family,” he says. “If I’d recommend a treatment for my loved ones, I’d offer the same options to my patients.” This compassionate approach extends to his team, fostering a collaborative environment where every patient receives the care they need. “We ensure that the right doctor sees the right patient,” Dr. Desai notes. “And if another specialist in the practice is better suited to treat a condition, we make those referrals quickly and seamlessly. The Rewards of Restoring Vision One of the most fulfilling aspects of Dr. Desai’s work is witnessing the transformation in his patients’ lives. “Retinal diseases take time to treat,” he explains. “But when patients return a month or two after surgery or treatment and share how their vision has improved, it’s incredibly rewarding. Many of them describe it as life-changing. Tips for Maintaining Eye Health Dr. Desai emphasizes the importance of regular eye exams, particularly for individuals at risk of retinal diseases: For people with diabetes: Schedule yearly dilated eye exams to catch diabetic retinopathy early. For those with high blood pressure: Monitor your vision and consult an ophthalmologist if you notice any changes. For older adults: Stay vigilant about symptoms like blurry vision or difficulty reading, which could indicate AMD. Listen to the Full Episode Hear more about Dr. Desai’s inspiring journey, his expert insights into retinal care, and his dedication to improving patients’ lives. Tune in to the full podcast episode now. Connect with Dr. Ankit Desai If you or a loved one are experiencing vision issues or need specialized care for retinal conditions, Dr. Desai is here to help. Schedule an appointment today: Location: 15905 S Frederick St #105, Plainfield, IL 60586 Website: https://www.windycityretina.com Phone: (815)714-9115 Transforming lives through vision is not just a profession for Dr. Desai—it’s his passion. Join us on this journey of eye health and care, and don’t forget to subscribe for more expert insights.
Episodes

Tuesday Oct 07, 2025
Tuesday Oct 07, 2025
The retina is a thin, light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that plays a vital role in vision by sending signals to the brain. Conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and macular holes can cause blurred vision, floaters, or even permanent vision loss. Early diagnosis using advanced imaging and timely treatments like laser therapy, anti-VEGF injections, or vitrectomy can help protect sight.

Monday Mar 31, 2025
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We specialize in diagnosing and treating retinal diseases with advanced care for macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment. Led by experienced retina specialists, we use state-of-the-art technology and personalized treatment plans to ensure high-quality eye care. We dedicated to preserving and restoring vision with expert surgical solutions.

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Friday Dec 13, 2024
Friday Dec 13, 2024
Explore ophthalmology with Dr. Ankit Desai, a board-certified specialist in vitreoretinal diseases affiliated with Advocate Sherman Hospital. His passion for restoring vision stems from a life-changing medical school rotation.
