Introduction
Dr. Sun Xiaodong (孙晓东) is the Director of the Department of Ophthalmology at Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and one of China's most distinguished vitreoretinal surgeons. With over 25 years of specialized experience, Dr. Sun is nationally and internationally recognized for his expertise in macular diseases, vitreoretinal surgery, and minimally invasive posterior segment surgery. He is one of China's foremost authorities on the surgical and medical management of macular conditions — including macular hole, epiretinal membrane, macular degeneration, and diabetic macular edema — and a leading practitioner of advanced minimally invasive vitreoretinal surgery (23-gauge, 25-gauge, and 27-gauge microincision vitrectomy). His commitment to surgical precision, evidence-based retinal medicine, and advancing minimally invasive techniques has made Shanghai General Hospital's Department of Ophthalmology one of the premier retinal care centers in China, and a trusted destination for international patients seeking expert vitreoretinal care in Shanghai.
Academic Distinctions & Leadership
- Director, Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
- Professor of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
- Chief Physician, Shanghai General Hospital
- Vice Chairman, Ophthalmology Branch, Chinese Medical Association
- Chairman, Vitreoretinal Surgery Group, Chinese Medical Association Ophthalmology Branch
- Member, American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
- Member, American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS)
- Member, European Society of Retina Specialists (EURETINA)
- Member, Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO)
- Editorial Board Member, multiple leading ophthalmology and retina journals (Chinese and international)
- Recipient, National Science and Technology Progress Award
- Recipient, Shanghai Science and Technology Award (multiple times)
- Recipient, Chinese Medical Science and Technology Award
Specializations & Expertise
Macular Diseases
- Macular hole surgery (idiopathic, myopic, traumatic, secondary)
- Epiretinal membrane (macular pucker) surgery
- Vitreomacular traction syndrome surgery
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) — wet and dry — anti-VEGF therapy (ranibizumab, aflibercept, bevacizumab, faricimab)
- Myopic macular degeneration and myopic CNV — anti-VEGF therapy
- Diabetic macular edema (DME) — anti-VEGF injections, laser, and combination therapy
- Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) — laser and photodynamic therapy (PDT)
- Retinal vein occlusion (branch and central) with macular edema — anti-VEGF and laser
- Submacular hemorrhage management
- Macular dystrophies (Stargardt, Best disease) — diagnosis and management
Minimally Invasive Vitreoretinal Surgery
- 23-gauge, 25-gauge, and 27-gauge microincision vitrectomy surgery (MIVS)
- Macular hole repair (ILM peeling, gas tamponade)
- Epiretinal membrane peeling
- Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair (vitrectomy ± scleral buckle)
- Tractional retinal detachment repair (diabetic vitrectomy)
- Combined tractional and rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair
- Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) surgery
- Vitreous hemorrhage surgery
- Endophthalmitis vitrectomy
- Dropped nucleus and dislocated IOL retrieval
- Silicone oil injection and removal
- Subretinal surgery (submacular hemorrhage displacement, subretinal membrane removal)
Retinal Detachment Surgery
- Pneumatic retinopexy for selected retinal detachments
- Scleral buckle surgery for retinal detachment
- Vitrectomy for complex retinal detachment
- Combined scleral buckle and vitrectomy
- Retinal detachment in high myopia
- Pediatric retinal detachment surgery
- Retinal detachment after cataract surgery
- Recurrent retinal detachment surgery
Diabetic Eye Disease
- Diabetic retinopathy — all stages — diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment
- Diabetic macular edema — anti-VEGF and laser
- Proliferative diabetic retinopathy — panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) and vitrectomy
- Diabetic vitreous hemorrhage — vitrectomy
- Tractional retinal detachment from diabetic retinopathy
- Neovascular glaucoma from diabetic retinopathy
Intravitreal Injection Therapy
- Anti-VEGF injections (ranibizumab, aflibercept, bevacizumab, faricimab, conbercept)
- Intravitreal steroid injections (triamcinolone, dexamethasone implant)
- Treat-and-extend and pro re nata (PRN) anti-VEGF protocols
- Long-term anti-VEGF management for wet AMD and DME
Retinal Laser Treatment
- Panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) for proliferative diabetic retinopathy
- Focal and grid laser for diabetic macular edema
- Laser retinopexy for retinal tears and lattice degeneration
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) for CSC and selected AMD
- Subthreshold micropulse laser for DME and CSC
Other Posterior Segment Conditions
- Uveitis with posterior segment involvement
- Ocular trauma — posterior segment injuries
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) — laser and anti-VEGF treatment
- Inherited retinal dystrophies — diagnosis and management
- Choroidal tumors — diagnosis and management
- Posterior segment complications of cataract surgery
Clinical Excellence & Innovation
Dr. Sun has performed thousands of vitreoretinal procedures throughout his distinguished career at Shanghai General Hospital, establishing himself as one of China's most technically accomplished and innovative vitreoretinal surgeons. His department is one of the highest-volume retinal surgery centers in Shanghai, managing the full spectrum of posterior segment diseases with outstanding outcomes.
- Minimally Invasive Vitrectomy Leadership: As Chairman of the Vitreoretinal Surgery Group of the Chinese Medical Association Ophthalmology Branch, Dr. Sun has been a driving force in standardizing and advancing minimally invasive vitrectomy (25-gauge and 27-gauge microincision surgery) across China. His extensive experience with sutureless microincision vitrectomy offers patients faster recovery, less postoperative inflammation, and superior outcomes compared to conventional 20-gauge vitrectomy
- Macular Surgery Expertise: Particular expertise in the most technically demanding macular surgeries, including macular hole repair with ILM peeling, epiretinal membrane surgery, and vitreomacular traction syndrome management. His meticulous surgical technique and attention to preserving the delicate macular architecture result in excellent visual outcomes
- Anti-VEGF Therapy Program: One of Shanghai's most experienced practitioners of intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy for wet AMD, diabetic macular edema, and retinal vein occlusion, with extensive experience in treat-and-extend and PRN protocols to optimize outcomes while minimizing injection burden
- Complex Retinal Detachment: Extensive experience with the most challenging retinal detachment cases, including those with PVR, giant retinal tears, high myopia, and previous failed surgery
- Diabetic Vitreoretinal Surgery: Comprehensive diabetic vitreoretinal surgery program covering the full spectrum from panretinal photocoagulation to complex diabetic vitrectomy for tractional retinal detachment
- Collaborative Ophthalmology: Works closely with Dr. Zou Haidong's diabetic retinopathy screening program at Shanghai General Hospital, providing seamless integration between population-level screening and expert surgical intervention
Research & Academic Contributions
Dr. Sun is a prolific researcher with over 200 peer-reviewed publications in leading Chinese and international ophthalmology and retina journals. His research focuses on:
- Minimally invasive vitrectomy techniques and outcomes
- Macular hole surgery — techniques and visual outcomes
- Anti-VEGF therapy for wet AMD and diabetic macular edema
- Retinal detachment surgery outcomes
- Diabetic vitreoretinal surgery
- Epiretinal membrane surgery outcomes
- Retinal imaging (OCT, OCT-A, fluorescein angiography)
He has been the principal investigator on multiple National Natural Science Foundation grants and national clinical research projects. Dr. Sun regularly presents at major international conferences including the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) Annual Meeting, the European Society of Retina Specialists (EURETINA) Annual Meeting, and the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) Congress.
Training & Education
As a professor at Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and Chairman of the Vitreoretinal Surgery Group of the Chinese Medical Association Ophthalmology Branch, Dr. Sun is deeply committed to advancing vitreoretinal surgical education in China. He supervises doctoral and master's degree students and directs one of Shanghai's premier vitreoretinal surgery fellowship programs at Shanghai General Hospital.
Hospital Affiliation
Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital)
Affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
100 Haining Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai 200080
Shanghai General Hospital's Department of Ophthalmology features:
- Dedicated vitreoretinal surgery operating rooms with 25-gauge and 27-gauge microincision vitrectomy systems (Alcon Constellation, DORC)
- Advanced retinal laser systems (Pascal, NAVILAS navigated laser)
- Intravitreal injection suite
- Comprehensive retinal imaging center (OCT, OCT-A, fluorescein angiography, fundus photography, wide-field imaging)
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) capability
- Diabetic retinopathy screening program (in collaboration with Dr. Zou Haidong)
- Electrophysiology laboratory (ERG, VEP)
- International patient services with English-speaking coordinators
Patient Care Philosophy
- Patient-Centered Care: Every treatment plan individualized based on diagnosis, disease severity, visual potential, and patient goals
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: 25-gauge and 27-gauge microincision vitrectomy prioritized to minimize surgical trauma and accelerate recovery
- Vision Preservation Priority: Committed to preserving and restoring the best possible vision through timely, precise intervention
- Anti-VEGF Optimization: Treat-and-extend protocols to maximize visual outcomes while minimizing injection burden for chronic conditions
- Evidence-Based Practice: Treatment decisions guided by the latest international guidelines (AAO, EURETINA, ASRS) and Dr. Sun's own research
- Transparent Communication: Clear, honest communication about diagnosis, prognosis, treatment options, and realistic expectations for visual outcomes
- Long-term Partnership: Committed to long-term monitoring and support for patients with chronic retinal diseases
Why Choose Dr. Sun Xiaodong?
- China's Vitreoretinal Surgery Group Chairman: Chairman of the Vitreoretinal Surgery Group of the Chinese Medical Association — the national leader in vitreoretinal surgery standards in China
- Minimally Invasive Vitrectomy Pioneer: One of China's foremost advocates and practitioners of 25-gauge and 27-gauge microincision vitrectomy for faster recovery and superior outcomes
- Macular Surgery Expertise: Exceptional expertise in macular hole, epiretinal membrane, and vitreomacular traction surgery
- Comprehensive Retinal Care: Full spectrum from anti-VEGF injections and laser to complex vitreoretinal surgery within a single expert department
- Diabetic Retinal Surgery: Comprehensive diabetic vitreoretinal surgery program integrated with Shanghai General Hospital's diabetic retinopathy screening program
- Cost-Effective Excellence: Vitreoretinal surgery costs in Shanghai are typically 60-75% lower than in the US or Europe
- International Patient Experience: Experienced in coordinating care for patients from overseas
Conditions Treated
Macular Conditions
- Macular hole (idiopathic, myopic, traumatic)
- Epiretinal membrane (macular pucker)
- Vitreomacular traction syndrome
- Wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Dry AMD (geographic atrophy)
- Diabetic macular edema (DME)
- Myopic macular degeneration and CNV
- Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC)
- Macular dystrophies (Stargardt, Best)
Retinal Detachment
- Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
- Tractional retinal detachment (diabetic)
- Combined tractional-rhegmatogenous detachment
- Retinal detachment with PVR
- Retinal detachment in high myopia
- Pediatric retinal detachment
Diabetic Eye Disease
- Diabetic retinopathy (all stages)
- Diabetic macular edema
- Proliferative diabetic retinopathy
- Diabetic vitreous hemorrhage
- Tractional retinal detachment
Retinal Vascular Conditions
- Branch and central retinal vein occlusion
- Retinal artery occlusion
- Retinal vasculitis
Other Posterior Segment Conditions
- Vitreous hemorrhage
- Endophthalmitis
- Ocular trauma (posterior segment)
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)
- Uveitis with retinal involvement
- Inherited retinal dystrophies
International Patient Services
China Medical Concierge - Shanghai (CMCS) provides comprehensive support for international patients seeking vitreoretinal care with Dr. Sun Xiaodong at Shanghai General Hospital.
Pre-Treatment Support
- Medical Record Review: Review of your OCT scans, fluorescein angiography, fundus photographs, and clinical history
- Virtual Consultation: Video consultation with Dr. Sun's team to discuss your retinal condition and treatment options
- Pre-operative Assessment: Coordination of OCT, OCT-A, fluorescein angiography, and other imaging as needed
- Second Opinion: Expert second opinion on diagnosis and optimal treatment strategy
- Cost Transparency: Detailed cost estimate including evaluation, injections or surgery, and follow-up
- Visa Assistance: Guidance on obtaining medical visa and invitation letters
- Accommodation: Help finding suitable housing near Shanghai General Hospital
During Treatment
- Professional Medical Interpretation: Experienced interpreters for all medical interactions
- Hospital Admission Support: Assistance with registration, payment, and navigation
- Family Support: Accommodation and support for accompanying family members
- Procedure Coordination: Support during intravitreal injections, laser treatments, or surgical procedures
- Post-procedure Care: Comprehensive support during recovery including positioning requirements after vitrectomy
- 24/7 Emergency Support: Round-the-clock assistance throughout your stay
Post-Treatment Care
- Discharge Planning: Coordination of post-discharge care and monitoring schedule
- Medical Report Translation: Complete translation of examination reports, OCT results, and discharge summaries
- Follow-up Coordination: Arrange post-operative clinic visits and imaging surveillance
- Long-term Monitoring Plan: Clear guidance on ongoing surveillance for chronic conditions (AMD, DME)
- Telemedicine Follow-up: Virtual consultations for ongoing monitoring after returning home
- Coordination with Home Ophthalmologists: Communication with your local retinal specialist for ongoing management
Schedule Your Consultation
If you or a loved one has a macular hole, epiretinal membrane, macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, retinal detachment, or another retinal condition, Dr. Sun Xiaodong at Shanghai General Hospital offers world-class vitreoretinal surgical expertise at a fraction of Western costs.
Contact China Medical Concierge - Shanghai today to:
- Request a review of your OCT scans and retinal imaging
- Schedule a virtual consultation with Dr. Sun's vitreoretinal team
- Receive a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate
- Start your journey toward preserved and restored vision in Shanghai
Bridging international patients with China's finest vitreoretinal surgeons — because your central vision is irreplaceable, and it deserves the most precise surgical care.
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