With more than two decades of experience in ophthalmology, Dr. Sonaram Kumawat has witnessed the transformation of eye care through advances in microsurgery, laser technology and modern diagnostic techniques. After beginning his medical journey in Jodhpur, pursuing postgraduate studies in ophthalmology at Government Medical College, Kota, and gaining experience in corporate hospitals, he established an eye-care hospital in Sikar in 2010 before expanding his services to Jaipur with Rajasthan Eye Hospital. In this interview, Dr. Kumawat discusses the changing landscape of eye surgery, the impact of digital lifestyles on vision, diabetes-related retinal complications, the emerging role of artificial intelligence in disease detection and the importance of preventive eye care.
You have been associated with ophthalmology for several years and recently expanded your eye-care services to Jaipur. Tell us about your professional journey and what inspired you to enter this field.
A: My medical journey began in 1993 when I started my graduation in medical sciences in Jodhpur. After completing my initial medical education, I joined Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi as a Junior Resident. I subsequently pursued postgraduate studies in ophthalmology at Government Medical College (GMC), Kota.
I also gained professional experience working with corporate hospitals in cities such as Chennai. In 2010, I established an eye-care hospital in Sikar, with the objective of providing specialised treatment to patients in the region. This year, I decided to expand my services to Jaipur, leading to the establishment of Rajasthan Eye Hospital.
Becoming a doctor was always my ambition. From the beginning, I was dedicated to medicine, and ophthalmology offered me an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives by helping them preserve and regain their vision.
What major changes have you witnessed in eye surgery and treatment over the past two decades?
A: The transformation has been remarkable. Surgical techniques have advanced considerably, particularly with the development of microsurgery and more precise procedures. Earlier, patients often had to remain hospitalised for several days after eye surgery. Today, many procedures are performed as day-care surgeries, allowing patients to return home within hours.
Recovery has also become faster, and many patients can resume routine activities within two to three days, depending on the procedure and their individual condition. These developments have improved patient comfort, surgical precision and overall treatment outcomes. The emphasis is increasingly on minimally invasive techniques, reduced recovery periods and better visual results.
What are the most common eye problems you encounter among different age groups?
A: The nature of eye problems varies with age. Among children, refractive errors are particularly common. These include conditions such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism, which can affect vision and, if left uncorrected, interfere with learning and everyday activities.
Among young adults, dry eye is becoming increasingly common, partly because of prolonged screen exposure and changing lifestyles. In middle-aged and older individuals, cataracts and glaucoma are important concerns. While cataracts can often be treated successfully through surgery, glaucoma requires timely diagnosis and continued monitoring because it can cause irreversible vision loss if not managed appropriately.
How is the modern digital lifestyle affecting eye health?
A: Increased dependence on mobile phones, computers and other digital devices is affecting eye health in several ways. Prolonged screen use can contribute to dryness, irritation and eye strain. Some individuals also experience headaches, discomfort and irritability after spending extended periods on digital devices.
People tend to blink less frequently while concentrating on screens, which can worsen dry-eye symptoms. Taking regular breaks, maintaining an appropriate viewing distance, adjusting screen brightness and ensuring adequate lighting can help reduce discomfort. However, persistent symptoms should not be ignored and require professional evaluation.
What effects can diabetes have on the retina, and why is regular screening important?
A: Diabetes can seriously affect the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. One of the major complications is diabetic retinopathy, in which high blood sugar levels damage the retinal blood vessels. This may lead to leakage, bleeding, swelling and, in advanced cases, significant vision loss.
The severity of the condition depends on factors such as the duration of diabetes, blood sugar control and the patient’s overall health. People with poorly controlled diabetes are particularly vulnerable to complications.
Regular retinal examinations are essential because diabetic retinopathy may develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Children and young people with diabetes also need appropriate screening, with the frequency determined by their age, type and duration of diabetes, and clinical recommendations. Patients with high blood pressure should also undergo regular eye examinations because hypertension can damage retinal blood vessels.
Cataracts are generally associated with ageing. Can they also develop at a young age?
A: Cataracts are predominantly associated with ageing, but they can develop in younger individuals under certain circumstances. Factors such as a family history of early cataracts, certain medical conditions, eye injuries and prolonged or inappropriate use of particular medicines, including steroids, may increase the risk.
Some children can also develop cataracts because of congenital or inherited conditions. Therefore, unusual changes in vision should be evaluated rather than automatically attributed to age or lifestyle. Early diagnosis helps doctors determine the cause and decide whether treatment is necessary.
How are laser technology and minimally invasive procedures changing cataract treatment and retinal care?
A: Laser technology and advances in surgical equipment have significantly changed the way several eye conditions are treated. Modern procedures can reduce the need for large incisions and improve precision in selected treatments. In cataract surgery, advanced techniques and small-incision approaches have contributed to faster recovery and shorter hospital stays.
Laser vision correction has also evolved, with modern systems offering greater precision and rapid visual recovery for suitable candidates. However, the appropriate procedure depends on the patient’s eye condition, medical history and clinical assessment.
What role does artificial intelligence play in detecting eye diseases?
A: Artificial intelligence has considerable potential in ophthalmology, particularly in analysing retinal images and identifying early signs of disease. AI-assisted systems can examine retinal scans and help flag abnormalities.
These technologies may support screening programmes, especially in areas where access to specialists is limited. They can help doctors prioritise patients who require further examination and intervention.
What are some promising areas of research in ophthalmology?
A: Research is progressing across several areas, including new treatments for retinal diseases, approaches to controlling inflammation and infection, and methods to slow the progression of glaucoma. Researchers are also exploring therapies that may offer improved outcomes with fewer adverse effects. Stem-cell research is another promising area, particularly for repairing or regenerating damaged ocular tissues.
What preventive measures would you recommend for maintaining healthy eyes?
A: Regular eye examinations are among the most important preventive measures. Even when vision appears normal, an examination can help detect conditions that may not produce symptoms in their early stages. Annual check-ups are a useful general guideline, although people with diabetes, glaucoma risk factors or other eye conditions may require more frequent assessments.
A balanced diet is also important. Green leafy vegetables, fruits and foods containing vitamins A and C, along with omega-3 fatty acids, can contribute to overall eye health. Eating nutritious, home-prepared meals and limiting highly processed foods can support general wellbeing. People should also avoid self-medication, protect their eyes from injury and seek professional advice when they notice persistent changes in vision.
How does access to eye-care facilities differ between metropolitan areas and smaller cities?
A: Major metropolitan centres generally have greater access to advanced medical infrastructure, specialised surgical facilities and research institutions. This can make complex procedures and specialised treatments more readily available.
Smaller cities have made progress in improving healthcare access, but gaps remain in infrastructure, specialist availability and advanced diagnostic facilities. Strengthening eye-care services in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities is essential to reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment.
What message would you like to share with young doctors aspiring to specialise in ophthalmology?
Answer: Ophthalmology is a specialised and rewarding branch of medicine that offers opportunities to achieve professional excellence while making a meaningful contribution to society. Restoring or preserving someone’s vision can transform their independence, confidence and quality of life.
Young doctors should approach the field with dedication, discipline and a commitment to continuous learning. Medical technology is evolving rapidly, so staying updated with new techniques and research is essential. Most importantly, doctors must remain focused on patient welfare and ethical practice. With the right approach, ophthalmology offers significant scope for professional growth and service to society.
