Dr Vanessa Vera

Dr. Vanessa I. Vera, MD, is an internationally recognized glaucoma, cataract, and advanced anterior segment surgeon, currently serving as Senior Medical Director for Glaucoma in US Medical Affairs at AbbVie in Irvine, California. With over two decades of clinical and leadership experience, Dr. Vera has held pivotal roles including Clinical and Surgical Consultant, Medical Director and Chief Medical Officer.
Dr. Vera completed advanced surgical fellowships in Glaucoma & Advanced Anterior Segment Surgery at the University of Toronto under Dr. Ike Ahmed, and in Glaucoma at Unidad Oftalmológica de Caracas/AVAO, Venezuela.
As a leader in ophthalmic innovation, Dr. Vera has authored numerous peer-reviewed papers, influential book chapters, and has been an invited lecturer and adjunct clinical professor. She is a named inventor on over 20 US patents and applications for advanced surgical and laser technologies to treat glaucoma and cataract.
Dr. Vera’s research focuses on novel glaucoma therapies—spanning medical, laser, surgical treatments, and device innovation. She has contributed to landmark studies in minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), intraocular stents, and real-world patient outcomes. Dr. Vera is an active member of multiple leading professional societies, including AAO, AGS, ASCRS, WIO, ARVO, and SVO, and is fluent in both English and Spanish.
Her dedication centers on advancing patient outcomes through innovative care, clinical research, and the development of new solutions for glaucoma and anterior segment therapies.