ASCRS YES Connect Newsletter July 2025

Get to Know Your YES Clinical Committee Member:

Taj Nasser, MD

Medical Director of Tylock George Eye Care in Dallas, Texas
Social Media: LinkedIn: taj-nasser-md; Instagram: @tajnassermd; X (formerly Twitter): @tajnassermd

Why did you go into ophthalmology?
I chose ophthalmology because I was inspired by the incredible impact restoring sight can have on someone’s life. In medical school, I was unsure of what specialty to pursue and came across a story of a frail, old lady in dire need of help with limited resources. She was blind for decades from something reversible, cataracts, and unable to perform even the simplest of daily activities without assistance. It was amazing to read about how eye surgeons can change a patient’s life fundamentally and liberate them from complete disability in a matter of minutes. Vision is so central to how we experience the world, and the ability to help someone regain that gift is powerful and deeply meaningful.
I was also drawn to the blend of medical and surgical care, the chance to use advanced technology, and the precision required in microsurgery. There’s something very satisfying about having measurable, life-changing results that can restore independence, confidence, and quality of life for patients. It’s a privilege I never take for granted.

If you weren’t an ophthalmologist or even a doctor, what career would you like to try?
If I weren’t an ophthalmologist, I think I’d find purpose in working with an international humanitarian organization, providing aid and support to underserved communities around the world. The chance to help people in vulnerable situations, whether through education, clean water projects, or disaster relief, feels deeply meaningful. Making a positive impact beyond the walls of a clinic and meeting people from every walk of life would be an incredible and fulfilling way to serve.

What do you look forward to most at the ASCRS Annual Meeting?
The ASCRS Annual Meeting is always one of the biggest highlights of my year. I look forward most to reconnecting with friends and colleagues from around the world, sharing ideas, and being inspired by the innovations coming down the pipeline. It’s an incredible environment of energy and passion, where we all push each other to keep raising the bar for patient care. I always leave with new perspectives, practical pearls to bring back to my patients, and a renewed sense of purpose.

What place is still on your travel wish list?
Japan is high on my list. I’ve always been fascinated by its rich history and unique cultural traditions, from centuries-old temples to its culinary scene and cutting-edge technology. Experiencing cherry blossom season, exploring Kyoto’s shrines, and sampling authentic Japanese cuisine would be amazing. I also think seeing the contrast of the peaceful countryside with the vibrant energy of Tokyo would be unforgettable.

What’s your go-to movie theater snack?
Sour Patch Kids are my go-to movie theater snack. I love how they hit you with that perfect sour punch before turning sweet—just like life. It reminds me of an Arabic proverb that resonated with me growing up, “If patience is bitter, then its result is sweet.” It keeps things interesting, and I also find it impossible to eat just one at a time. There’s something about their bright colors and chewy texture that feels playful and nostalgic, making them the ideal treat to enjoy during a great movie.

ASCRS Live! Continues 2025 City Tour
Next Up: Seattle

ASCRS Live!, an educational dinner and networking program for ophthalmologists, is back on the road, and its next stop is Seattle, Washington, on July 24.

This evening CME program is targeted for a smaller audience, with discussion focusing on refractive cataract surgery. In addition to complimentary dinner and CME education, there will be ample time for open discussion and networking. Open to both ASCRS members and nonmembers, this is a great opportunity to engage on current topics and learn about ASCRS.

Faculty will include Winston Chamberlain, MD, PhD, ABO, Alexander Knezevic, MD, Mitra Nejad, MD, ABO, and Audrey Rostov, MD.

According to recent surveys, 100% of attendees who responded said they learned something new in the program and would recommend attending ASCRS Live! to their colleagues.

2026 ASCRS Annual Meeting Submissions Open Now

The call for submissions for the 2026 ASCRS Annual Meeting opened on June 16. Now is your chance to make your submission for an instructional course, paper, film, or poster. You can also review the 2026 Annual Meeting Submission Guide and other important information for submission requirements for instructional courses, papers, posters, and films. Submission deadline is September 1, 2025.

We hope to see you in Washington, D.C., for ASCRS 2026 April 10–13! Annual Meeting registration will open in the fall. Sign up for early information about the 2026 meeting here.

Book your hotel for 2026! Hotel reservations are now available through the official housing provider of the ASCRS Annual Meeting, onPeak. Reserve early to ensure you get your preferred hotel.

ASCRS Foundation Awards and Grants

The ASCRS Foundation offers several awards and grant opportunities for young eye surgeons.

Resident Excellence Award submissions open September 1–November 14

The ASCRS Foundation makes 10 awards annually to enable ophthalmology residents exhibiting exemplary performance to attend the ASCRS Annual Meeting. The categories for consideration include research, patient care, leadership, and education.

Young Eye Surgeons (YES) International Service Grant submissions open August 11–October 1

The Young Eye Surgeons International Service Grant was created to inspire young eye surgeons to become involved with global eyecare on a long-term basis. The grant affords the opportunity to participate in healthcare systems, including teaching institutions and community programs, in developing countries.

ASCRS Member Fun Fact

Austin Nakatsuka, MD, an ASCRS member and YES Clinical Committee member, sent us this great photo of himself and Kandon Kamae, MD. They performed the hula at the recent World Glaucoma Congress in Honolulu, Hawaii. Dr. Nakatsuka said he and Dr. Kamae are the only two ethnically Native Hawaiian glaucoma surgeons in the world! Representation is important, and Dr. Nakatsuka is proud to demonstrate his culture and diversity in the field. “I just wanted to share a piece of our Native Hawaiian culture and demonstrate the joy and beauty of diversity in our field and hopefully encourage others to do the same,” he said.

Take Advantage of These Educational Opportunities with ASCRS

ASCRS Grand Rounds: Click here to see the most recent episode of ASCRS Grand Rounds, “Shallow Waters and Nailed It,” featuring Kamran Riaz, MD, Aakriti Garg Shukla, MD, Asim Farooq, MD, Samir Jabbour, MD, Ahmed Omar, MD, Daniella Schochet, MD, and Philip Zhou, MD.
ASCRS Cornea Clinical Committee Webinar: In “Antibody Drug Conjugates—An Emerging Class of Cancer Therapeutics Which Pose Risks to Corneal and Anterior Segment Health,” moderators Naveen Rao, MD, and Winston Chamberlain, MD, along with speakers Kamran Riaz, MD, Stella Kim, MD, and Asim Farooq, MD, discuss just what antibody drug conjugates are and what they’re used for. The faculty then reviews the possible complications and adverse reactions within the anterior segment that are associated with these drugs. They also provide a communication algorithm with the oncologist, including considerations for dose or frequency changes.
EyeWorld: Have you read this? The latest issue of EyeWorld is available now! Content in this issue focuses on mindsets that are changing within anterior segment surgery. Flip through the issue.

Helpful Links and Resources

Remember you can always find additional information and resources on our website.

Want to get involved with YES activities? Send us an e-mail and let us know!