Dr. Deepinder Dhaliwal | Trusted LASIK & Cataract Surgeon® in Pittsburgh, PA

Dr. Deepinder K. Dhaliwal has extensive qualifications that we estimate put her among the top 1% of LASIK, refractive and cataract surgeons in the United States.  With over 30 years of surgical mastery, Dr. Dhaliwal is Pittsburgh’s premier choice for LASIK and cataract surgery, serving Pennsylvania with precision and care.

• Over 30 years of experience in laser vision surgery, including LASIK
• Over 30 years of experience in refractive surgery (laser vision, lens implants, and RK)
• Over 30 years of experience in cataract surgery with lens implants
• Performed over 10,000 LASIK and laser vision procedures
• Performed over 5,000 cataract surgery procedures
• Principal Investigator for 2 FDA Studies for VISX and Sunrise as well as a Co-Investigator for several other FDA Studies.
• Medical Director, CRS Study: Investigated Intacs for keratoconus and Sunrise Laser Thermokeratoplasty for hyperopia
• Principal Investigator in a Phase 3 study for dry eye disease with Kala Pharmaceuticals   
• Medical Director, CRS Study Investigating Intacs for the Treatment of Keratoconus.

P rocedures, Advanced Technologies, and Premium IOLs

At Pittsburgh’s UPMC Vision Institute, Dr. Dhaliwal delivers a full spectrum of advanced vision correction procedures tailored to Pennsylvania patients’ needs.

• Laser Vision Correction Surgery:
  • LASIK Eye Surgery
    • All-Laser (Bladeless) LASIK
    • Custom LASIK: Wavefront-Optimized and Topography-Guided
    • Use of iLASIK Procedure- WaveScan Technology, Intralase, and Visx Advanced CustomVue treatments
  • PRK: Topography-Guided
•  Lens Implants:
  • Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) / Clear Lens Exchange (CLE): With premium lenses (multifocal, EDOF, toric IOLs).
    • Light Adjustable Lenses 
  • EVO ICL™: For high myopia
• EVO ICL™: For high myopia

• Cataract Eye Surgery:
  • Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery: Catalys® Precision Laser System
  • Premium IOLs: Multifocal, toric, and Light Adjustable Lenses
• Corneal Specialties:
  • Corneal Transplants: DMEK/DSAEK
  • Corneal Cross-Linking: For keratoconus
• Astigmatic Incisions  

Patient-Centered Care Philosophy

In Pittsburgh, Dr. Dhaliwal’s patient-first philosophy ensures every Pennsylvania patient receives personalized and compassionate eye care.

• Comprehensive Consultations: Thorough assessments and tailored options
• Education: Ensures patients understand their conditions and treatments
• Safety and Outcomes: Prioritizes optimal results with proven techniques

Dr. Dhaliwal’s reputation as a trusted surgeon is further evidenced by her selection by fellow ophthalmologists, optometrists, and eyecare professionals in Pittsburgh who rely on her to perform LASIK, cataract surgery, and other vision correction procedures on themselves and their families, reflecting her unparalleled skill and community trust at UPMC Vision Institute. 

Additionally, her extensive experience in managing complications from eye surgeries performed by other surgeons makes her a sought-after specialist for complex cases in Western Pennsylvania. Drawing on her academic appointments, published research in journals like Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and leadership in FDA studies, she can expertly resolve issues such as post-LASIK complications as well as  cataract and IOL surgery challenges, minimizing risks for her patients and treating patients who have complications including those from surgeries performed by another eye surgeon.  

 Her expertise and accomplishments support our estimation that she is among the top 1% of LASIK and cataract surgeons, ensures exceptional outcomes. Dr. Dhaliwal’s holistic approach and use of cutting-edge techniques provide Pittsburgh patients with premier vision care.  

Her dedication to patient satisfaction makes her a top choice in Western Pennsylvania—contact her today to experience exceptional care firsthand. 

For Pittsburgh residents seeking a highly credentialed eye surgeon, Dr. Dhaliwal’s qualifications position her as a leader in Pennsylvania ophthalmology.

• Board Certification: American Board of Ophthalmology (1996)
• Faculty Appointments:
  • University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Professor (since 2015)
    • James R. Carl “Clinical Instructor of the Year” Award presented by the senior residents (2000 and 2004)
    • Operations Committee
    • Credentialing Committee, University Physician Practice Associates
    • Faculty Advisory Committee for Continuing Medical Education
    • Resident Selection Committee
    • Standing Committee for Non-Tenured Faculty Promotions and Appointments
  • UPMC Vision Institute, Vice Chair, Communication and Wellness
  • Past Faculty Appointments
    • Medical Director, Casebeer Education Foundation
    • Visiting Professor, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
• Hospital Staff: UPMC Hospitals, The Western Pennsylvania Hospital
• Professional Societies:
  • AAO: ISRS/AAO International Council (since 2004)
  • ISRS: President (current)
  • Cornea Society: President-Elect (current)
  • ASCRS: CME Committee (since 2003)
  • Eye Bank Association of America: Medical Advisory Board
  • CLAO: Board of Directors (since 2010)
• Editorial Roles:
  • Journal of Refractive Surgery (since 2001
  • EyeNet Magazine (2005-2010)
  • Eye and Contact Lens (since 2013)
  • Reviewer: CORNEA
  • Guest Editor, Seminars in Ophthalmology: Excimer Laser Part I, Vol. 11(3), 1996 and  Excimer Laser Part II, Vol. 11(4), 1996
• Awards:
  • America’s Top Doctors by Castle Connolly since 2006
  • Senior Achievement Award, AAO
  • The Ophthalmologist Power List, Top 100 globally
• Consulting Positions:
  • Dr. Dhaliwal has served as a consultant for:
    • Johnson & Johnson Vision: Laser platforms for refractive surgery
    • Kala Pharmaceuticals: Dry eye disease treatments
    • Alcon: Intraocular lenses (IOLs) and laser systems
    • Bausch + Lomb: Ophthalmic devices and surgical products
    • STAAR Surgical: EVO ICL™ implantable lenses
• Certifications to Train Other Surgeons:
• Dr. Dhaliwal is certified to train other eye surgeons for:
• Johnson & Johnson Vision: VISX excimer laser platforms for refractive surgery
• Johnson & Johnson Vision: Catalys® Precision Laser System for laser-assisted cataract surgery.  

Her globally recognized credentials and consulting roles with leading manufacturers assure Pittsburgh patients of elite care—reach out now to consult with this award-winning surgeon.

Research & Innovation Contributions

Pittsburgh benefits from Dr. Dhaliwal’s groundbreaking research, bringing innovative eye care solutions to Pennsylvania patients.

• FDA Studies:
  • Principal Investigator, Phase 3 dry eye study with Kala Pharmaceuticals (since 2016)
  • Medical Monitor, CRS Study (Intacs, Sunrise Laser Thermokeratoplasty)
• Publications: Over 50 articles, 6 textbook chapters, 2 CD-ROMs
• Presentations: Over 25 lectures at major eye meetings
• Technology: VISX Trainer for excimer laser platforms

Her pioneering work elevates vision care standards in Pittsburgh—contact Dr. Dhaliwal today to access these cutting-edge advancements.

• Over 50 peer-reviewed scientific journal articles published
• Over 6 text book chapters and/or books published as well as 2 CD-Roms for Physician Education, Inc.
• Over 25 lectures on research topics at major national and international eye meetings

Pittsburgh patients trust Dr. Dhaliwal’s elite education, which underpins her exceptional eye care services across Pennsylvania.

• Undergraduate: Northwestern University, B.S.M. (1988)
  • Honors Program in Medical Education
• Medical School: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, M.D. (1990)
  • Alpha Omega Alpha
• Internship: Transitional Medicine, Northwestern University, McGaw Medical Center
  • Intern of the Year
• Residency: Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh Eye & Ear Institute (1991-1994)
  • Chief Resident in Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
• Fellowship: Refractive Surgery, Cornea/External Disease, University of Utah (1994-1995)
  •   Cornea/External Disease, and Anterior Segment Surgery

• Awards:
  • America’s Top Doctors by Castle Connolly since 2006
  • Senior Achievement Award, AAO
  • The Ophthalmologist Power List, Top 100 globally
  • Named in “Best Doctors in America” beginning in 2001
• Member, Eyecare America National Eye Care Project (NECP)
• Cataract Mission, Montserrat, West Indies 2002
• Member, Minute Men of the Medical School, University of Pittsburgh
• Adventures in 3D at the Carnegie Science Center
• ZAP! Surgery Exhibit at the Carnegie Science Center
• Robert Miller Memorial Lecturer, Northwestern University Residents’ Day, 2005

TV/Magazine Interviews 

Dhaliwal, Deepinder K. Techitis: Constantly Using Smartphones Causing Widespread Health Problems. Interview by Kim Gable, KDKA TV News, May 19, 2015. 

In this interview, Dr. Dhaliwal discusses "Techitis," a term she uses to describe health issues, particularly eye-related, caused by constant smartphone use. This reflects growing concerns about digital eye strain and its impact on Pittsburgh residents and beyond.

Dhaliwal, Deepinder K. Structural Disorders Contributing To Dry Eye Symptoms. Interviewed by Maxine Lipner, EyeWorld Magazine, November 5, 2015. 

Dr. Dhaliwal explains how structural eye disorders contribute to dry eye symptoms, offering insights into causes and potential treatments. This interview underscores her expertise in managing complex eye conditions.

Dhaliwal, Deepinder K. Interviewed by Jolie Higazi, Ophthalmology Times, October 17, 2016.

This interview covers Dr. Dhaliwal’s contributions to ophthalmology, including advancements in eye surgery and patient care. It highlights her leadership in the field and her work improving vision care globally.

Why Choose Dr. Deepinder Dhaliwal as you Trusted Vision Correction Expert?

Choosing Dr. Deepinder K. Dhaliwal means selecting a surgeon whose professional expertise and accomplishments place her among the top 1% of LASIK, cataract, and refractive surgeons nationwide. Her 30+ years of experience include over 10,000 LASIK procedures and 5,000 cataract surgeries, showcasing her surgical mastery. Dr. Dhaliwal employs the latest technologies, such as the Catalys® Precision Laser System and premium IOLs, ensuring precision and optimal outcomes. Her leadership as President of the International Society of Refractive Surgery (ISRS) and her role in training other ophthalmologists on excimer laser platforms demonstrate her influence in the field. Patients, including fellow eye care professionals, trust her for their own vision correction, a testament to her exceptional skill. At UPMC Vision Institute, her commitment to patient education, safety, and satisfaction sets her apart as Pittsburgh’s premier eye surgeon

For Pittsburgh-area residents in Squirrel Hill, Oakland, and beyond, Dr. Dhaliwal offers unmatched expertise in Pennsylvania vision correction. Why Choose a Trusted Vision Correction Expert?

Screening Criteria Explanation: Dr. Dhaliwal’s inclusion in the Trusted LASIK Surgeons™ and Trusted Cataract Surgeons™ Directories reflects her adherence to our rigorous screening criteria that exceed industry standards. These criteria evaluate her  leadership in clinical research (e.g., FDA studies with VISX and Kala Pharmaceuticals), extensive publications of peer-reviewed research,  lectures and presentations of research, faculty appointments and service at UPMC.  Her experience including (over 30 years and thousands of successful surgeries), safety record (consistently high patient satisfaction and low complication rates), and use of FDA-approved, state-of-the-art technology. Her board certification, advanced certifications in refractive surgery to train other surgeons and use the latest technologies further validate her elite status. Patient outcomes are a key metric—her success rate and ability to manage complex cases including the management and treatment of refractive and cataract surgeries originally performed by another ophthalmologist distinguish her as a top-tier eye surgeon in Pittsburgh and beyond.

Connect with Dr. Dhaliwal

• UPMC Eye Center Profile
• University of Pittsburgh Profile
• LinkedIn
• VIDEO: Podcast 52: Deepinder Dhaliwal MD

Call (412) 647-2214 or Schedule an Appointment Online Today.

Dr. Deepinder K. Dhaliwal’s path to becoming one of the top 1% of LASIK, cataract, and refractive surgeons in the United States is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and innovation in ophthalmology. 

Her journey began at Northwestern University, where she earned her B.S.M. and M.D. degrees with distinction, receiving several prestigious awards for her academic excellence. She continued her training at the University of Pittsburgh Eye & Ear Institute, completing her ophthalmology residency and serving as chief resident, which sharpened her skills in eye care. Her pursuit of specialization led her to fellowships in refractive surgery under Dr. J. Charles Casebeer, a pioneer who founded the first refractive surgery center in the U.S., and in anterior segment surgery at the University of Utah. This rigorous education laid the foundation for her remarkable career. 

Today, Dr. Dhaliwal is a trusted leader at the UPMC Eye Center in Pittsburgh, where she oversees cutting-edge vision correction procedures as the director of Refractive Surgery and the Cornea Service. 

She also serves as the medical director of the UPMC Laser Center, ensuring patients have access to the latest technologies. A pioneer in holistic eye care, she founded and directs the Center for Integrative Eyecare at UPMC, integrating acupuncture treatments for dry eye conditions as a licensed acupuncturist, blending traditional and modern approaches to enhance patient outcomes. 

Her influence extends beyond her clinical practice. As an associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, she is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and is a sought-after educator, teaching refractive surgery techniques to ophthalmologists both nationally and internationally. She has authored numerous book chapters and journal articles, serves on the editorial boards of leading ophthalmology journals, and conducts groundbreaking research. 

Her peers have recognized her excellence by selecting her for the “Best Doctors in America” honor for several years, a testament to her impact and reputation. With over 30 years of surgical mastery, Dr. Dhaliwal has performed more than 10,000 LASIK and laser vision procedures and over 5,000 cataract surgeries. Her expertise is further validated by her leadership roles, such as serving as President of the Contact Lens Association of Ophthalmologists (CLAO) and President-Elect of the Cornea Society. 

She is also a certified trainer for other ophthalmologists, ensuring the next generation of surgeons is equipped with the latest techniques. Her commitment to advancing eye care is evident in her pioneering research, including her work as a principal investigator in FDA studies and her innovative use of acupuncture for eye health. Dr. Dhaliwal’s dedication to patient care is unparalleled. Known for her patient-first philosophy, she offers comprehensive consultations, personalized treatment plans, and a focus on safety and optimal outcomes. 

Her ability to manage complex cases, including complications from surgeries performed by other surgeons, has made her a sought-after specialist in Pittsburgh and beyond. Patients, including fellow eye care professionals, trust her for their own vision correction, a testament to her exceptional skill and reputation. At the UPMC Vision Institute, she uses state-of-the-art technology, such as the Catalys® Precision Laser System and premium intraocular lenses (IOLs), to ensure precision and optimal outcomes for Pittsburgh patients. 

Her leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence make her the premier choice for vision correction in Western Pennsylvania.

View Pittsburgh LASIK Surgeon's Deepender Dhaliwal's Curriculum Vitae

Meet Dr. Deepinder Dhaliwal: Your Trusted Eye Surgeon in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh’s own Dr. Deepinder K. Dhaliwal brings over 30 years of expertise in LASIK, cataract, and corneal surgery to Pennsylvania patients. As a Professor at the University of Pittsburgh and Division Chief at UPMC Eye Center, she uses advanced technologies like EVO ICL and Light Adjustable Lenses.

Meet Pittsburgh’s trusted vision expert and take the first step toward clearer vision—contact Dr. Dhaliwal today!  

Common Questions (FAQ)

Pittsburgh patients often ask about Dr. Dhaliwal’s services, reflecting her prominence in Pennsylvania eye care.

Q: What laser vision correction does Dr. Dhaliwal offer?
A: All-Laser LASIK, Custom LASIK, and PRK.

Q: Does she perform laser-assisted cataract surgery?
A: Yes, using the Catalys® System.

Q: What premium IOLs are available?
A: Multifocal, EDOF, toric, and Light Adjustable Lenses.

Q: Is she experienced in corneal transplants?
A: Yes, she specializes in DMEK.

Q: Where is her practice?
A: 203 Lothrop Street, 8th floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15213.

Q: How do I book an appointment?
A: Call (412) 647-2214 or use the UPMC form (Enter Dr. Dhaliwal).

Having reviewed Dr. Dhaliwal's extensive accomplishments, you've found a true expert and one of the best laser vision correction, lens implant, cataract and corneal surgeon in the United States—contact her Pittsburgh office today for personalized vision solutions! 

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