When Dalia Girgis, MD, PhD reflects on her time at the University of Wisconsin (UW) Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (DOVS), one thing stands out above all else: the people.
“I was struck by how genuine and kind everyone at the UW was, while still being part of a truly outstanding academic and research institution,” she said.
That sense of community helped shape her experience as a resident, influenced her approach to patient care, and continues to guide her today.
Dr. Girgis is a comprehensive ophthalmologist in Lighthouse Point, FL, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of dry eye disease, blepharitis, cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal conditions. She completed her ophthalmology residency with the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics in 2012, during which time she was elected chief resident.
“Having interviewed at residency programs all over the country, I felt that my training at the UW would provide for excellence in education while providing a comfortable atmosphere where everyone sincerely cared about the wellbeing of their residents,” Dr. Girgis recalled.
While she has many fond memories of her time with DOVS, what stands out most is caring for veterans at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital alongside Drs. Andrew Thliveris and Daniel Knoch.
After graduation, Dr. Girgis remained at the UW as an assistant professor, working with medical students and ophthalmology residents. In 2014, she relocated to Florida and joined a private practice in Fort Lauderdale. After eight years, she launched her own clinic, Insight Eye Institute in Lighthouse Point, FL. The practice has continued to grow, and she plans to open a second office in Fort Lauderdale later this year.
For new ophthalmologists entering the field, Dr. Girgis emphasizes the importance of maximizing every learning opportunity.
“Spend as much time as possible both inside and outside the operating room,” she advised. “Learn from as many attendings as you can and continue developing your surgical skills. The pearls you gain from each mentor will stay with you and help shape the surgeon you become after training.”
Dr. Girgis’ connection to the UW remains strong. She joined the DOVS Alumni Association Board in 2024.
“Having had such a rewarding experience as a resident, I wanted to stay connected with fellow alumni and help foster a strong sense of community,” she said. “Even though we practice in different parts of the country, it is rewarding to share that same sense of camaraderie while strengthening our ties to UW in both our local and national communities.”
“We are fortunate that ophthalmology is such a close-knit field,” she continued. “Continuing to build and maintain those relationships after training is incredibly important. The Alumni Association provides a wonderful opportunity to stay connected with mentors and peers while strengthening the professional community we all value.”