The human eye is fascinating organ and a wonder of biological engineering. Packed into a volume of only 40 percent of a cubic inch, the 130 million rods and 7 million cones of the retina receive light rays transmitted through the transparent cornea, flexible lens and the jelly-like vitreous humor which fills the interior. These cells then convert light energy into electrical impulses which travel to the visual cortex of the occipital lobe of the brain via the optic nerves. The electrical “images” arrive upside down, having been oriented that way as the light passed through the lens. Neurons in the brain then right the image and interpret the signals.

Medical care of the eye requires many specialities and subspecialties, including anterior segment specialists (cornea, iris and lens), refractive specialists (think LASIK), glaucoma specialists, neuro-ophthalmologists, ocular oncologists and several others. 

The medical illustrations in the above portfolio were created for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Some are peer to peer illustrations, others patient education.