Eye to Eye with Omar Punjabi, MD

At CEENTA, our physicians do more than just provide award-winning care. They have rich backstories that have led them to the Carolinas and our offices, and they'd love to share them with you. 

This week, we're debuting the ophthalmologist version of our interview series off our with a CEENTA retina specialist who specializes in retinal disease, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment. at our SouthPark and Matthews offices.

This is Eye to Eye with Omar Punjabi, MD:

Why did you choose to work in healthcare?
I was exposed to the medical field as a young child. My grandfather was a primary care physician who was very passionate about his work and caring for others. He often would work for free.

What was your first job?
My first job after training was at CEENTA in 2013. Prior to training, my first real paying job was when I was employed as a research fellow from 2005-2007. I was fortunate to do cutting edge research at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. We developed the first-ever spectral domain OCT, which is now used my millions of ophthalmologists worldwide.

What is your favorite homecooked or restaurant meal?
I love my wife's chicken quesadillas. I also love home cooked Indian food!

Outside of the office, you are...
A father to my two kids (10 and 8 years old). I try to be a good husband and an aspiring tennis player!

Which college/professional teams do you cheer for?
The Charlotte Hornets, Carolina Panthers, Golden State Warriors, and the Indian cricket team

What musician did you listen to as a child that you still enjoy?
AR Rahman (Bollywood).

What are the little things in life that we should enjoy?
Traveling, sports, spending time with family, vacations, good food

Schedule your next retina appointment with Dr. Punjabi in SouthPark or Matthews by calling 704-295-3000.