About Us

Retina Vision Consultants signage on the wall behind the reception desk in the office lobby

Retina Vision Consultants

Founded by three internationally recognized leaders in retinal care,
Retina Vision Consultants brings world-class expertise to Beverly Hills.
Our renowned retinal specialists deliver cutting-edge diagnostics and
treatments in a therapeutic environment that feels like home, because
at Retina Vision Consultants, you’re not just seen, you’re truly cared for
like family.

The RVC Difference

Our founding doctors, trained at the world’s elite medical institutions and having served as academic faculty at one of the top eye institutes in the country, have collectively published over 360 peer-reviewed papers, pioneered groundbreaking treatments, and trained over 160 fellows and residents worldwide. But credentials are only part of our story.

At Retina Vision Consultants, we believe that preserving sight requires both cutting-edge medicine and genuine human connection. That’s why we’ve built a practice where academic-level rigor meets the warmth of personalized attention. We apply the same safety protocols and quality standards used at top-tier academic medical centers, but in a welcoming environment where you’re never just a patient number.

Drs. Kirk Hou, Pradeep Prasad, and Steven Schwartz, founding surgeons of Retina Vision Consultants, posing together for a portrait

Three Minds, One Mission

Our founding doctors—Dr. Kirk Hou, Dr. Pradeep Prasad, and Dr. Steven 
Schwartz—each bring distinct expertise and decades of experience to 
your care. But what sets Retina Vision Consultants apart is how they 
work together.

Complex retinal cases often benefit from multiple perspectives. That’s 
why our surgeons regularly consult as a team, reviewing imaging, 
discussing treatment options, and collaborating to ensure the best 
possible outcome for each patient.

You're not just getting one of the world's leading retina specialists – you're getting a team of experts focused on preserving your vision.

RVC’s Team

Dr. Kirk K. Hou, MD, PhD

VITREORETINAL SURGEON

MD, PhD: Washington University

Residency and Fellowship: Jules Stein Eye Institute

Leading specialist in diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and complex vitreoretinal diseases. Actively conducting research on novel therapies and nationally recognized as a rising star in retina.

Dr. Pradeep Prasad, MD, MBA

VITREORETINAL SURGEON

MD: UCLA School of Medicine

Residency and Fellowship: Jules Stein Eye Institute

Renowned surgeon and educator who has trained over 100 residents and fellows. Principal Investigator on numerous international clinical trials and recipient of multiple teaching and clinical excellence awards.

Dr. Steven D. Schwartz, MD

Vitreoretinal Surgeon

MD: USC School of Medicine

Residency: Jules Stein Eye Institute
Fellowship: Moorfields Eye Hospital

Internationally recognized pioneer of anti-VEGF therapy and stem cell treatments for retinal disease. Author of over 250 publications, recipient of multiple prestigious international awards and a highly sought-after invited lecturer worldwide.

Robert D. Almanzor, CDOS

Director of Imaging
Director of Clinical Trials

Over 25 years of advanced ocular imaging and clinical trials expertise. Robert is a nationally-recognized expert in ocular ultrasonography for the evaluation and surveillance of ocular tumors.

Kathleen Keaton

Practice Manager

With over 25 years of experience in ophthalmology operations, Kathleen is the anchor of our practice: coordinating staff, systems and workflows to keep our team aligned and our clinic running smoothly.

Esther Moreno

Administrative Coordinator

An integral member of our administrative team, coordinating surgery scheduling, billing and daily clinic operations to ensure a seamless experience for both patients and physicians.

Advancing the Future
of Retinal Care

Beyond treating patients, our doctors are actively shaping the future of 
retinal medicine through clinical research and trials.

As investigators in multi-specialty clinical trials, we offer eligible 
patients access to cutting-edge treatments not yet widely available—
including stem cell therapies, novel pharmacologic approaches, and 
gene therapy protocols. These trials represent the frontier of retinal 
care, and participating means receiving research-driven treatment 
under the close supervision of internationally recognized experts.

This commitment to advancing the field ensures that our patients 
benefit not just from today’s best treatments, but from tomorrow’s 
breakthroughs as well.

Medical researcher examining a sample through a microscope in a clinical research laboratory

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