Marc Shomer, MD, PhD

Dr. Shomer earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), graduating Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa, with Highest Departmental Honors and College Honors. He received the UCLA Alumni Association Outstanding Graduate Student Award, the Howard Hughes Fellowship, and the NIH National Research Service Award, and served as Commencement Speaker at his undergraduate graduation.
He was accepted into the prestigious NIH-funded Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) at the UCLA School of Medicine, earning both his M.D. and Ph.D. in Neurology. His doctoral research investigated neuronal repair mechanisms and stem-cell-based retinal regeneration, contributing to the scientific understanding of neural recovery in the adult brain.
Following his dual degrees, Dr. Shomer completed his ophthalmology residency at the Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA, a prestigious program consistently ranked among the top five ophthalmology training programs in the United States, where he trained under internationally recognized leaders in cataract and vision surgery.

Dr. Shomer holds an active Physician and Surgeon License in the state of California and is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology.

He serves as a Clinical Instructor of Ophthalmology at the Doheny Eye Institute (USC), where he has trained residents in both basic and advanced cataract surgery since 2009. In addition, Dr. Shomer is formally credentialed by the State of California as a Qualified Medical Examiner.  His mentorship emphasizes surgical precision, evidence-based medicine, and patient-centered care.

With two decades of surgical experience, Dr. Shomer’s clinical practice encompasses comprehensive ophthalmology with special expertise in:

• Advanced cataract surgery using the latest laser and lens technologies
• Premium and toric intraocular lens implantation to minimize dependence on glasses
• Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract procedures
• Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)
• Management of macular degeneration and complex ocular disease

His combination of clinical acumen and research-based insight allows him to deliver highly customized care that optimizes both visual and lifestyle outcomes for his patients.

Dr. Shomer has been actively involved in clinical trials and research initiatives aimed at improving outcomes in cataract and glaucoma surgery. His earlier NIH-supported research in neuro- and retinal regeneration helped establish foundations for ongoing innovation in ophthalmic science.

At the Doheny Eye Institute, he continues to mentor young physicians and contribute to academic discussions on surgical technique and patient safety.

• Doctor of Excellence (2011): Leading Physicians of the World
• Top Doctor Award in Ophthalmology
• Vitals Compassionate Doctor Award
• UCLA Alumni Association Outstanding Graduate Student Award
• NIH National Research Service Award
• Highly rated by patients: 5.0★ on Google and 4.8★ on Yelp

Dr. Shomer’s approach is guided by empathy, integrity, and education. He believes that patients make the best decisions when they are fully informed and supported. His goal extends beyond restoring sight; he strives to enhance each patient’s overall well-being and confidence, helping them experience the world with renewed clarity.

Dr. Shomer is an active volunteer with EyeCare America, providing free eye care to underserved communities throughout Southern California. His commitment to community service underscores his belief that access to quality vision care is a universal right, not a privilege.

A native of the San Fernando Valley, Dr. Shomer’s lifelong fascination with science and the human eye began early in his academic journey. Outside the clinic, he enjoys cycling, spending time outdoors, and engaging with local health outreach programs. He is also proficient in Spanish, allowing him to serve a diverse patient population with warmth and understanding.