Your child’s vision plays an essential role in development, learning, and overall quality of life. At WMCHealth, we help children like yours achieve and maintain the best possible vision at every stage of development. Our fellowship-trained pediatric ophthalmologists provide compassionate care, from routine eye exams to advanced surgical treatments.
Our pediatric ophthalmologists work closely with pediatricians and primary care providers (PCPs), ensuring families receive the right care at the right time. For many eye issues, your child’s pediatrician can help first. When more specialized care is needed, our team steps in to guide the next steps.
Melissa Suggs
Ophthalmology, Pediatric Ophthalmology
Locations:
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40 Saw Mill River Road Suite UL7
Hawthorne, NY 10532
WMCHealth Provider
Majida Abdul Gaffar
Ophthalmology, Pediatric Ophthalmology
Locations:
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40 Saw Mill River Road Suite UL7
Hawthorne, NY 10532
WMCHealth Provider
Marc Horowitz
Pediatric Ophthalmology
Locations:
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241 North Road
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
WMCHealth Provider
Our Approach to Pediatric Eye Care
Collaborative, Whole-Child Care
At WMCHealth, your child’s eye care is supported by pediatric specialists who collaborate closely to address vision and overall health. Within our ophthalmology department, subspecialists in neuro-ophthalmology, cornea, and oculoplastics work together to evaluate and manage complex eye conditions.
Because the eyes can reflect changes throughout the body, our team also partners with other pediatric specialists, including:
- ENT (ear, nose, and throat)
- Neurology and neurosurgery
- Rheumatology
- Genetics
- Endocrinology
- Plastic surgery
- Infectious disease
- Radiology
This team-based approach helps children with complex needs get seamless, expert care from all their specialists under one roof.
Long-term Support for Growing Children
Many of our patients and families build lifelong relationships with our specialists, receiving consistent support through every stage of growth. We’re committed to providing continuous care, helping your child thrive and adapt as their needs change over time.
Innovations in Pediatric Eye Care
WMCHealth is part of an academic hospital and Level I trauma center. This connection provides access to advanced technologies and research not always available in private practice settings:
- Enhanced OCT imaging: provides more accurate diagnoses, allowing for more conservative approaches when able
- Pediatric-specific imaging protocols: use child-friendly techniques to maximize safety and comfort
- Laser treatments and injections into the eye for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP): help stop disease progression and preserve vision in premature infants at risk for vision loss
A Message to Parents
Parents, trust your instincts. If something about your child’s eyes or vision seems unusual, call your pediatrician or our clinic for guidance. Early evaluation is important, especially because there is only a small window in early childhood when vision can be corrected.
We view pediatric eye care as a partnership with families. Parents are always included in treatment decisions, with clear explanations of risks, benefits, and alternatives.
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
Because every child’s vision is unique, your first visit may take up to two hours. Your child will receive a complete eye exam, with dilation and detailed vision testing. These steps allow our team to understand their eye health as clearly as possible.