Allison Harmel, MD

Comprehensive Ophthalmologist & Laser Cataract Surgery Specialist

Dr. Allison Harmel delivers comprehensive ophthalmologic care with specialized expertise in complex cataract surgery, glaucoma management, and retinal disease treatment at Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons. As a board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist, Dr. Harmel provides complete eye care services from routine examinations to advanced surgical interventions for patients throughout Northeast Florida.

Areas of Specialization

Complex and Refractive Cataract Surgery
Advanced cataract surgery techniques, including complex cases requiring specialized surgical approaches, represent a core area of Dr. Harmel’s expertise. Her specialization encompasses refractive cataract surgery with premium intraocular lens implantation, enabling patients to achieve optimal vision correction while addressing both cataracts and refractive errors. Through her comprehensive approach, Dr. Harmel ensures personalized treatment plans for each patient’s unique visual needs.

Medical and Surgical Glaucoma Management
Comprehensive glaucoma care combining medical therapy with advanced surgical interventions forms a cornerstone of Dr. Harmel’s practice. Her expertise includes traditional glaucoma surgery and cutting-edge minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) procedures. This dual approach allows for customized treatment plans based on disease severity, patient lifestyle, and visual preservation goals.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
Dr. Harmel utilizes state-of-the-art minimally invasive glaucoma surgery techniques to reduce intraocular pressure while minimizing surgical trauma. These advanced procedures offer faster recovery times and reduced complications compared to traditional glaucoma surgery, making them ideal for patients seeking effective pressure control with minimal disruption to daily activities.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Comprehensive management of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) represents another specialty area, with Dr. Harmel providing both monitoring and treatment services. Her approach includes advanced diagnostic imaging, anti-VEGF injection therapy, and lifestyle counseling to preserve central vision and slow disease progression in patients with wet and dry AMD.

Diabetic Retinopathy
Specialized care for diabetic retinopathy is delivered through Dr. Harmel’s utilization of advanced screening techniques and treatment protocols to preserve vision in diabetic patients. Her comprehensive approach includes laser therapy, anti-VEGF injections, and coordinated care with endocrinologists to optimize both ocular and systemic health outcomes.

Dry Eye and Ocular Surface Disease
Comprehensive evaluation and treatment of dry eye syndrome and ocular surface disorders are provided through Dr. Harmel’s multimodal approach. This combines advanced diagnostic testing with targeted therapies including prescription medications, punctal plugs, and lifestyle modifications to restore ocular comfort and visual clarity.

Pterygium Surgery
Precise pterygium removal surgery using advanced techniques to minimize recurrence and optimize cosmetic outcomes is performed by Dr. Harmel. Her surgical expertise ensures both functional improvement and aesthetic restoration for patients experiencing vision obstruction or ocular irritation from pterygium growth.

Education & Training

• Medical Degree
  University of Florida, College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL
• Residency
  Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC

Certifications

Board Certification
Board Certified Ophthalmologist, American Board of Ophthalmology

Professional Memberships

• American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
• American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS)
• Women in Ophthalmology
• Clay County Medical Society (CCMS)
• Duval County Medical Society (DCMS)

Comprehensive Eye Care Philosophy

Complete Vision Health
Comprehensive ophthalmology practice encompasses the full spectrum of eye care, from preventive screenings to complex surgical interventions. Her training at the University of North Carolina provides her with expertise in managing both common and rare ocular conditions affecting patients of all ages.

Advanced Surgical Techniques
Dr. Harmel’s surgical expertise spans multiple subspecialties within ophthalmology, enabling her to provide coordinated care for patients with complex ocular conditions. Her proficiency in both anterior and posterior segment procedures allows for comprehensive treatment planning and optimal visual outcomes.

Patient-Centered Care
Dr. Harmel’s approach emphasizes thorough patient education and shared decision-making. She ensures patients understand their conditions and treatment options, empowering them to make informed decisions about their eye health and vision correction needs.

Technology & Innovation

Laser Cataract Surgery
Utilizes advanced laser technology for precision cataract surgery, offering patients enhanced accuracy and improved visual outcomes. Her expertise with laser-assisted techniques ensures optimal lens positioning and reduced healing time compared to traditional manual approaches.

Advanced Glaucoma Technology
Dr. Harmel employs cutting-edge diagnostic equipment and minimally invasive surgical devices to provide comprehensive glaucoma care. Her access to the latest MIGS technologies enables her to offer patients effective pressure reduction with minimal recovery time.

Retinal Imaging and Treatment
With state-of-the-art retinal imaging systems for precise diagnosis and monitoring of macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Her expertise with anti-VEGF injection therapy provides patients with effective treatment options for preserving central vision.

Why Choose Dr. Harmel

Dr. Allison Harmel’s comprehensive training and broad expertise make her an ideal choice for patients seeking complete eye care under one roof. Her ability to manage both medical and surgical aspects of ophthalmology eliminates the need for multiple referrals while ensuring continuity of care. Patients benefit from her conservative approach to treatment, utilizing the least invasive effective therapies while maintaining readiness to perform advanced surgical interventions when necessary.

Dr. Harmel’s commitment to staying current with the latest advances in ophthalmology ensures patients receive cutting-edge care based on the most recent clinical evidence and technological innovations.