Dr. Brandon Johnson is the founder of the New York Retina Center and a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in the medical and surgical treatment of diseases affecting the retina and vitreous. With over 15 years of experience, he is recognized for his exceptional surgical skills and his patient-centered approach to care marked by genuine empathy.
Education
Dr. Johnson graduated Magna Cum Laude from Haverford College with dual majors in Biology and Music. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, one of the nation’s top medical institutions, where he received awards for outstanding research and academic excellence.
After a rigorous one-year internship in general surgery at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Johnson pursued ophthalmology training at the world-renowned Wills Eye Institute in Philadelphia, consistently ranked the best ophthalmology residency in the United States. To further refine his expertise, he completed a fellowship in vitreoretinal surgery at Emory Eye Center in Atlanta, which forms the foundation of his practice today.
Specialization
At New York Retina Center, Dr. Johnson focuses on diagnosing and managing complex retinal and vitreous disorders that threaten vision. His expertise includes retinal detachment, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, macular holes, retinal tears, and vitreous floaters: conditions that often require advanced surgical precision and specialized care.
He performs a wide range of cutting-edge procedures, including pars plana vitrectomy, membrane peeling, laser retinal treatments, and intravitreal injections for macular edema and diabetic eye disease. Dr. Johnson’s surgical precision and use of cutting-edge technology allow him to restore sight, alleviate symptoms, and maintain long-term eye health for his patients.
Dr. Johnson is also affiliated with NYU Langone Health and the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mt. Sinai, where he continues to perform advanced retinal surgeries.
Recognition
Dr. Johnson is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and licensed by the New York State Medical Board. He is also an active member of the American Society of Retina Specialists and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Johnson contributes to the education of future physicians through his work with Columbia University’s School of Graduate Studies, where he provides clinical experience to post-baccalaureate and medical students.
Philosophy
Dr. Johnson believes every patient deserves the same care and compassion he would offer a family member. He takes time to listen, explain, and guide patients through every step of their treatment, ensuring they feel entirely understood and supported. Patients often describe feeling reassured and genuinely cared for under his guidance, comforted by his calm demeanor, gentle touch, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for their well-being.
Inspiration
Dr. Johnson was inspired to pursue medicine by a simple desire: to help people live fuller, healthier lives. During his training, he became captivated by the remarkable complexity of the human eye and its vital role in how we experience the world. Realizing that restoring sight and preventing blindness could profoundly change lives, he devoted himself to retina surgery. He believes it’s his true calling to relieve suffering and help people see the world clearly again.
Music
A classically trained pianist since the age of seven, Dr. Johnson has spent decades developing the discipline and artistry that guide his work as a surgeon. He studied both piano performance and biology at Haverford College and continues to perform with the New York Choral Society, a semi-professional ensemble. Both music and medicine demand focus, precision, and creativity. The harmony he finds in music continues to inspire the care he brings to every surgery.
Schedule Your Consultation
Dr. Brandon Johnson is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained retina surgeon with over 15 years of experience treating complex retinal diseases. Having trained at the Wills Eye Institute, Emory Eye Center, and other renowned medical institutions, he offers expert care to all his patients. Whether you are experiencing vision changes, retinal disease, or require a second opinion, schedule your consultation at New York Retina Center in Manhattan today.
