Texas Retina was fortunate to have board-certified ophthalmologist and retina specialist Rene Choi, MD, PhD, join our team in September 2020, and he currently cares for patients in our Denton and Frisco offices.
Dr. Choi is also actively involved in research focused on improving treatments for retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, uveitis and retinal vein occlusions. Additionally, he is working on developing and refining advanced surgical techniques for complex retinal cases to improve patient outcomes. Let’s get to know him better:
What do you enjoy most about your work?
“I love the challenge and satisfaction of tackling difficult retina cases. There’s something deeply rewarding about this work, whether it’s managing intricate surgeries or finding innovative solutions to preserve or restore vision. Being able to treat or even restore sight in cases that many might consider hopeless is an experience that is hard to match. Daily, I am driven by the ability to make a real difference, especially for patients suffering from blinding retinal diseases. Each surgery or treatment is not just about fixing a condition—it’s about giving someone back their ability to experience the world with their eyes, and that’s incredibly fulfilling. It’s the patient relationships that keep me grounded and motivated.”
What do you think is most important in caring for a patient?
“Every patient deserves to be heard, respected and treated with compassion. I truly believe that the foundation of great care starts with listening—understanding not only the medical aspects of a patient’s condition but also their concerns, fears and goals. Communication is key, and it’s essential that patients feel informed and confident in their treatment decisions.”
“I also believe in treating my patients like family. The relationship between physician and patient is incredibly special, and it’s built on trust, mutual respect and understanding. Working together as a team to navigate their care, providing clear explanations and ensuring they feel supported at every step leads to the best outcomes. I’ve seen firsthand that when patients feel comfortable and engaged, they are more empowered to take an active role in their treatment, which ultimately leads to better results.”
Why did you become a physician? What inspired you?
“I became a physician because of the profound impact that healthcare professionals can have on people’s lives, especially during their most vulnerable moments. My time as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) was a turning point for me. In those high-pressure situations, I saw firsthand how much it mattered to not only provide medical care but also to show genuine empathy. When patients are scared, just offering a sense of calm and understanding can make a huge difference. That experience really solidified my desire to pursue medicine, where I could combine my passion for science with the ability to care for people in meaningful, life-changing ways.”
Why did you choose to sub-specialize in retina?
“While working on retinal regeneration research as an MD/PhD student, I was drawn to the complexity of the retina and its critical role in vision. The more I learned, the more I became fascinated by the significant impact that effective treatment can have on a patient’s life. I was also drawn to the surgical aspects of retina care, which felt like a natural fit for me, given my lifelong interest in working with my hands. From building computers as a child to fixing up cars, I’ve always enjoyed hands-on activities that require precision and problem-solving.”
What brought you to Texas Retina?
“I chose to join Texas Retina because of its renowned reputation for advanced, patient-centered retina care and groundbreaking research. I love being part of a team that values collaboration, innovation and compassion. The commitment to pushing the boundaries of retinal care and leveraging the latest surgical techniques and technologies to improve patient outcomes aligns seamlessly with my own clinical expertise and research background.”
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
“I really enjoy spending quality time with my family. They are a big source of support and joy in my life, and I cherish our time together. I also like to stay active, and one of my favorite ways to do that is by playing tennis. I’m also an avid reader, whether it’s exploring new topics in medicine or diving into a good novel for some relaxation. In addition, I love playing the piano, which is a great way for me to unwind and express myself creatively. And when I can, I get outdoors—whether it’s hiking, cycling or just enjoying nature. Being outside helps me recharge and stay balanced, which is important for both my personal well-being and professional focus.”
How do you like to give back?
“I am deeply committed to sharing knowledge and contributing to the professional growth of others in the field. I give lectures to both the optometry and ophthalmology communities, focusing on retina-specific topics. I find it incredibly rewarding to educate and collaborate with other healthcare professionals as it not only helps raise awareness about emerging treatments and technologies but also strengthens the overall quality of care patients receive.”
Click here to learn more about Dr. Rene Choi.