Dr. Fernando Ussa

Hello and welcome. I am Dr Fernando Ussa, an Ophthalmologist subspecialising in Glaucoma and Cataract Surgery, and I would like to tell you a little more about my career and my approach to caring for patients with glaucoma.

Since 1999, I have focused much of my career on the diagnosis, treatment and long-term follow-up of Glaucoma, a chronic condition that requires medical precision, appropriate technology and, above all, close and continuous patient support over time.

Vocation and Early Medical Training

I was born in Bogotá, Colombia, where I studied Medicine at the National University of Colombia, graduating with a Degree in Medicine and Surgery in 1991.

I then spent two years working intensively in General Medicine as a rural doctor in the Colombian Andes, providing care in areas including Obstetrics, Paediatrics, Internal Medicine and Trauma. This experience had a profound influence on the way I understand medicine: personal, compassionate and centred on the real needs of each patient.

Specialisation in Ophthalmology

In 1999, I qualified as a Specialist in Ophthalmology at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá. That same year, I continued my training at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, one of the world’s leading Ophthalmology centres, where I undertook subspecialist training in Glaucoma.

In 2000, I completed a further period of training in Glaucoma at Southern General Hospital, University of Glasgow.

Training and Professional Development in Spain

In 2002, I was awarded a Fundación Carolina scholarship to undertake a second period of advanced training in Glaucoma at IOBA, the Institute of Applied Ophthalmobiology at the University of Valladolid.

I subsequently obtained official recognition in Spain of my Degree in Medicine and my Specialist qualification in Ophthalmology from the Spanish Ministry of Education and Science, in 2003 and 2006 respectively.

At the University of Valladolid, I obtained a Master’s Degree in Vision Sciences in 2007 and later a PhD in Vision Sciences in the field of pharmacogenetics, awarded Cum Laude honours, in 2013.

Experience in Glaucoma and Academic Activity

In 2006, I became Director of the Glaucoma Unit at IOBA, University of Valladolid, a position I had the honour of holding until 2020.

Throughout my career, I have combined extensive clinical practice with academic work. I have served as an Associate Professor in the Department of Surgery at the University of Valladolid, participated in numerous national and international conferences, and contributed as a reviewer for international scientific journals.

International Experience in the United Kingdom

In 2015, I joined the NHS in England as a Consultant Ophthalmologist specialising in Glaucoma at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, one of the leading centres in the North East of England.

I held this position until the end of 2025, when I decided to return to Spain to continue my professional practice at Centro Oftalmológico del Llano and the Glaucoma Unit at IOBA, University of Valladolid.

Areas of Expertise

I have 26 years of experience in Glaucoma and Cataract Surgery. My main areas of interest include primary angle-closure glaucoma, neovascular glaucoma, valved glaucoma drainage devices, translational research and medical education.

My work focuses on providing specialist Glaucoma care, from early detection through to long-term follow-up, including medical, laser or surgical treatment when required.

My Approach to Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a lifelong condition. For me, treatment is therefore not only about controlling intraocular pressure, but also about supporting patients, clearly explaining their situation and helping them understand the importance of ongoing follow-up and treatment.

What I value most about treating Glaucoma is the close relationship with my patients. I take the time needed to ensure that each person understands their condition, has their questions answered and feels supported throughout the entire process.

My commitment to patients

My aim is to provide specialist, honest and personal care, based on medical expertise, experience and individualised follow-up. I want every patient to feel heard, understand their diagnosis and have the reassurance of being supported through a condition that requires ongoing care.

“My commitment is to help patients with Glaucoma understand their condition, support them over time and provide the most appropriate treatment at every stage.”