Jonathan Sears, MD
Primary Location
Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
- Appointment:
- 216.444.2020
- Desk:
- 216.444.7152
- Fax:
- 216.445.8475
Treatment & Services
- Epiretinal Membrane Surgery
- Fluorescein Angiography
- Intravitreal Injections for Retinal Disease
- Laser for Diabetic Retinopathy
- Macular Degeneration Evaluations
- Management of Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
- Microincision Vitrectomy Surgery
- Ophthalmic Surgery
- Ophthalmology
- Optical Coherence Tomography
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy
- Pediatric Ophthalmology
- Retinal Laser Surgery
- Scleral Buckle
- Surgical and Medical Treatment of the Retina
- Sutureless (Small Gauge) Retinal Surgery
- Vitreoretinal Surgery
Specialty in Diseases & Conditions
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration
- Diabetic Retinopathy
- Diseases of the Vitreous
- Lens Dislocation
- Macular Hole
- Macular Pucker
- Pediatric Retinal Detachment
- Retinal Detachment
- Retinal Diseases
- Retinal Disorders
- Retinal Hemangioma
- Retinal Pigment Epithelium-Choroid Complex
- Retinal Vein Occlusion
- Retinitis
- Traumatic Retinal Detachment
Insurance
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View All PlansAbout Jonathan Sears, MD
Jonathan Sears, MD, is Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at the Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic. He received his undergraduate education at Yale College, graduating cum laude with a BS in chemistry. He continued with medical school at Yale University School of Medicine, where he developed a novel method of screening B-cell epitopes, which was used to help develop the Lyme vaccine. He was a Resident in Ophthalmology at Yale as well, and next completed a two-year surgical fellowship at Emory University, where he developed an interest in pediatric retinal detachment and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
Dr. Sears' research interest is in ROP. He uses a mouse model of ROP to test the hypothesis that small-molecule activators of hypoxia-inducible factor are able to drive retinal development early in life to prevent ROP detachment.
Education & Professional Highlights
Appointed
1998
Education & Fellowships
Fellowship - Emory Eye Clinic
Vitreoretinal Fellowship
Atlanta,
GA USA
1998
Residency - Yale-New Haven Hospital
Ophthalmology
New Haven,
CT USA
1996
Internship - Yale-New Haven Hospital
Internal Medicine
New Haven,
CT USA
1993
Medical Education - Yale University School of Medicine
MD
New Haven,
CT USA
1992
Undergraduate - Yale University
Chemistry
New Haven,
CT USA
1988
Professional Highlights
- AAO Achievement Award
- The Hartwell Foundation Research Fellow
- Matilda Zeigler Foundation Research Fellow
Certifications
- Ophthalmology
Specialty Interests
retinal detachment secondary to degenerative disorders such as myopia or trauma or diabetes, retinopathy of prematurity and other acquired vitreoretinal diseases, vitreoretinal diseases, pediatric retina
Awards & Honors
- Distinction in Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Yale University, 1988$0$0Cum Laude, Yale University, 1988
- Yale Medical Student Research Fellowship, sponsored by National Institutes of Health; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Section of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, 1990-1992
- Harold J. Lamport Prize, awarded for the most creative biomedical research by a Yale medical student, Department of Biochemistry, Yale School of Medicine, 1992
- Yale Resident Research Prize, Department of Ophthalmology, 1995 and 1996
- Heed Ophthalmic Fellowship, in support of clinical research, 1997
- Emory Medical Care Fellowship, in support of basic science research, Emory University School of Medicine, 1997
- Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology, Fellow Research Competition, Finalist, 1998
- Clinical Teacher of the Year Award, Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1998
- Clinical Investigator Development Award, Cleveland Clinic, 2003
- Best Doctors in America, 2005-2009
- Best Doctors in Cleveland, 2005-2009
- American Academy of Ophthalmology Achievement Award, 2007
- Editorial Board Member Online News and Education (O.N.E.), 2007
- Editorial Board Member British Journal of Ophthalmology
- Best Research, Poster American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2008
- Strathmore Who's Who 2009
Innovations & Patents
- Stimulating angiogenesis to prevent ischemic retinopathy
Memberships
- American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Association of Research in Vision and Ophthalmology
- International Congress of Eye Research
- Association of Pediatric Retinal Surgeons
- Cleveland Ophthalmic Society
- Heed Ophthalmic Society$0$0
Research & Publications
See publications for Jonathan Sears, MD.
(Disclaimer: This search is powered by PubMed, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. PubMed is a third-party website with no affiliation with Cleveland Clinic.)
Industry Relationships
Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists may collaborate with the pharmaceutical or medical device industries to help develop medical breakthroughs or provide medical expertise or education. Cleveland Clinic strives to make scientific advances that will benefit patient care and support outside relationships that promise public benefit. In order for the discoveries of Cleveland Clinic physicians' and scientists' laboratories and investigations to benefit the public, these discoveries must be commercialized in partnership with industry. As experts in their fields, Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists are often sought after by industry to consult, provide expertise and education.
To assure professional and commercial integrity in such matters, Cleveland Clinic maintains a program that reviews these collaborations and, when appropriate, puts measures in place to minimize bias that may result from ties to industry. Cleveland Clinic publicly discloses the names of companies when (i) its physicians/scientists receive $5,000 or more per year (or, in rare cases, equity or stock options) for speaking and consulting, (ii) its physicians/scientists serve as a fiduciary, (iii) its physicians/scientists receive or have the right to receive royalties or (iv) its physicians/ scientists hold any equity interest for the physician's/scientist's role as inventor, discoverer, developer, founder or consultant.* In publicly disclosing this information, Cleveland Clinic tries to provide information as accurately as possible about its physicians' and scientists' connections with industry.
As of 8/17/2023, Dr. Sears has reported no financial relationship with industry that is applicable to this listing. In general, patients should feel free to contact their doctor about any of the relationships and how the relationships are overseen by Cleveland Clinic. To learn more about Cleveland Clinic's policies on collaborations with industry and innovation management, go to our Integrity in Innovation page.
Public Health Service-Reportable Financial Conflicts of Interest. Cleveland Clinic scientists and physicians engage in basic, translational and clinical research activities, working to solve health problems, enhance patient care and improve quality of life for patients. Interactions with industry are essential to bringing the researchers' discoveries to the public, but can present the potential for conflicts of interest related to their research activities. Click here to view a listing of instances where Cleveland Clinic has identified a Public Health Service (PHS)-Reportable Financial Conflict of Interest and has put measures in place to ensure that, to the extent possible, the design, conduct and reporting of the research is free from bias.
* Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists subscribe to the guidance presented in the PhRMA Code on Interactions with Healthcare Professionals and the AdvaMed Code of Ethics on Interactions with Health Care Professionals. As such, gifts of substantial value are generally prohibited.
358 Patient Satisfaction Reviews
The Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our nationally-recognized Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.
Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.
The comments are submitted by patients and reflect their views and opinions. The comments are not endorsed by and do not necessarily reflect the views of Cleveland Clinic.
Overall | Star Ratings | |
---|---|---|
Explains | 4.9 | |
Courtesy, Respect & Concern | 4.9 | |
Patient Rating of Doctor | 4.9 |
61 Patient Comments
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Reviewed on Feb 22, 2024
Dr. Sears took the time to discuss my eye concerns and I left feeling that I knew exactly what was happening with my eyes.
Reviewed on Feb 22, 2024
Outstanding communication skills, very well prepared as far has past medical history, highly competent provider
Reviewed on Feb 15, 2024
Dr Sears Is approachable, experienced, and explained things in terms I could understand. I appreciate that.
Reviewed on Feb 8, 2024
Dr. Sears is a great man. He is so personable. He explains every issue.
Reviewed on Jan 30, 2024
Dr. Sears is the best!
Reviewed on Jan 30, 2024
I routinely recommend Dr. Sears to friends and family.
Reviewed on Jan 25, 2024
Dr. J. Sears, is an awesome "Ophthalmologist". I would recommend him to others. Thank you
Reviewed on Jan 18, 2024
Overall, appointment with Dr Sears was very good. I guess I would have felt a little better knowing waht to expect after the surgery. What improvements are we looking for? Better vision incrementally? I know the risks and I am not expecting a miracle but what is the best case and worse case out come.
Reviewed on Jan 9, 2024
Dr Sears is kind and extremely knowledgeable. His skill has saved my sight. I will be eternally grateful for the exceptional care I received at Cleveland Clinic
Reviewed on Dec 12, 2023
Dr. Sears is very easy to communicate with and provides exceptional care. One can not expect more.
Reviewed on Dec 12, 2023
Our family feels that Dr. Sears is very professional and trust him with our daughter's medical care. The Fellow at this visit was also very kind & confident. Thank you.
Reviewed on Dec 7, 2023
Dr. Sears always discusses his decisions about my treatments which I appreciate
Reviewed on Dec 5, 2023
The Dr usually seems rushed and I would like to have more time to discuss my complicated case even if it resulted in higher charges. All of my questions do not always get answered.
Reviewed on Dec 5, 2023
Dr. Sears has treated my late Father and myself for 20 years. He is superb in every way. The doctors, nurses, and technicians that assist him are equally excellent. I consider myself to be most fortunate to be in his care.
Reviewed on Dec 5, 2023
Dr. Sears is the best!
Reviewed on Nov 28, 2023
Dr. Sears was very understanding when I raised a wish to find a practitioner closer to my home. He offered to work with any specialist I may find for eye injections.
Reviewed on Nov 9, 2023
Dr. Sears and Laura were very professional, knowledgeable and attentive to my needs. The only negative comment that I would add was the long wait time.
Reviewed on Nov 9, 2023
Dr. Sears always explains clearly to me information about my results and condition and informs me about what steps I need to consider concerning my condition. Never had a bad experience with Dr. Sears' ability
Reviewed on Nov 9, 2023
First saw a fellow. She was great. Sure how she stays with CCF. Then met Dr Sears. A++ for his time and talents. He will be doing my surgery.
Reviewed on Nov 7, 2023
Dr Sears is always very kind . He truly cares about this patients.
Reviewed on Nov 7, 2023
Dr. Sears is an excellent physician
Reviewed on Nov 7, 2023
Because of driving distance, scheduler is good working with us for appointments. Staff is respectful, professional and caring. Dr Sears is an outstanding specialist.
Reviewed on Nov 7, 2023
Dr has shown professional concern with my condition. Dr encourages me and has a positive attitude despite the issues I have experienced.. My journey with Dr Sears began in May. Two surgeries and many trips to Cleveland Clinic. He is the BEST
Reviewed on Nov 7, 2023
Dr. Sears encourages frequent follow-ups and addresses problems without delay. When I needed next day surgery, Dr. Sears didn't hesitate to add me on his busy surgery schedule to prevent further damage to my eye.
Reviewed on Nov 7, 2023
Dr. Sears' team is amazing, nurses and schedulers work there for a long time and have experience and compassion
Reviewed on Oct 24, 2023
Very pleased with my appointment. Dr Sears did a great job informing me about my condition and the results of my tests He explained everything very well. Dr Sears was very courteous and friendly. Look forward to seeing him at my next appointment.
Reviewed on Oct 24, 2023
The doctor that performed the eye injection was the best yet. Almost no eye irritation or pain.Blood in eye minimal.
Reviewed on Oct 19, 2023
Staff and Dr Sears are wonderful.
Reviewed on Oct 12, 2023
Dr. Sears is very good. His resident was very helpful and listened.
Reviewed on Oct 5, 2023
Dr. Sears is excellent in explaining treatment options and his manner is encouraging and calming.
Reviewed on Oct 5, 2023
For Dr. Sears' services, I would not mind travelling from any part of the world. Absolutely a great doctor. He treats me like one of his own family members. I am quite at ease to avail his services. I am extremely lucky to have him as my doctor. Thanks a lot Dr. Sears and Cleveland Clinic.
Reviewed on Sep 26, 2023
Dr Sears is a wonderful doctor but scheduling patients close together and having them wait inordinate amounts of time is unfair to the patient
Reviewed on Sep 26, 2023
Dr. Sears treats me like his own family member. For his care, I would travel from anywhere in the world.
Reviewed on Sep 5, 2023
You have the best in dr sears my fear of drs is lessened through his compassionate care
Reviewed on Sep 5, 2023
Dr. Sears gave me showed me graphs, and gave me good explanations of my visual problems, as well as a good outlook in the future.
Reviewed on Aug 29, 2023
Great Doctor. Very Compassionate with great Communication.
Reviewed on Aug 29, 2023
Dr sears is one of the best physicians I have ever had. I have 100% trust of his care of me.
Reviewed on Aug 29, 2023
Phone wait time is often frustrating when trying to schedule an appointment or reach the doctor's office.
Reviewed on Aug 29, 2023
Dr sears is a great doctor
Reviewed on Aug 17, 2023
I continue to greatly appreciate Dr Sears' technical expertise AND the manner in which he deals with patients. He Is a real person and makes you feel like a real person who is being taken care of.
Reviewed on Aug 17, 2023
I completly trust Dr. Sears, he always takes time to do thorough exam, answer questions and schedules regular follow-ups
Reviewed on Aug 8, 2023
Dr. Sears is very patient and he listens to any concerns. No rushing.
Reviewed on Aug 1, 2023
Dr. Sears is THE BEST!
Reviewed on Jul 13, 2023
Dr Sears is the consummate doctor. He does a great job. Covers all questions & explains things such that a nonprofessional understands
Reviewed on Jul 13, 2023
Dr. Sears and his staff have always been outstanding in their care for me and my family.
Reviewed on Jul 6, 2023
Dr Sears has always been very thorough in explaining the procedure and the follow through Instructions. He cares about the patient and works to ensure the best outcome. MHe shows compassion and care that he is truly concerned about you as his patient. Would highly recommend Dr Sears for his knowledge and procedure to restore vision after an injury
Reviewed on Jul 6, 2023
So glad I was referred to Dr Sears! Although the drive is 2 1/2 hours, it is worth every minute knowing his care is helping to restore/improve my vision. He is one amazing Dr.
Reviewed on Jul 6, 2023
The wait to see the doctor is to long. Appointment was at 9:30 didn't see doctor for three hours. To long for a senior citizen to sit.
Reviewed on Jun 22, 2023
My experience with both Dr. Sears and his staff is always excellent.
Reviewed on Jun 20, 2023
Dr. Sears is truly exceptional!!
Reviewed on Jun 6, 2023
Dr. Sears shows compasion and listens.
Reviewed on Jun 6, 2023
I always recommend Dr. Sears to those who have vision Issues and could benefit from his skills.
Reviewed on Jun 6, 2023
Dr. Sears is terrific. I always recommend him and Cole Eye Institute whenever I know of someone needing help.
Reviewed on Jun 1, 2023
Dr sears always makes me feel very comfortable with him He is very pleasant to talk to and I trust his medical opinions! His interns have also treated me very nicely !
Reviewed on May 25, 2023
Dr Sears is the Absolute best
Reviewed on May 16, 2023
Dr Sears was very attentive to my eye condition. He listens in detail to my concerns and told us what to expect on our next visit. Very informative.
Reviewed on May 9, 2023
Great experience! Dr Sears and his staff are awesome!!! Dr. Sears is an outstanding Ophthalmologist with wisdom and caring spirit.
Reviewed on May 9, 2023
STAFF AND DR. ALWAYS VERY HELPFUL PLEASENT
Reviewed on Apr 4, 2023
Dr. Sears was wonderful. He explained my situation and course for going forward.
Reviewed on Mar 30, 2023
Dr Sears is doing everything possible to treat and save my vision
Reviewed on Mar 28, 2023
Dr. Sears saved my eyesight. He is always courteous, informative and a good listener.