John Gross, MD, MBA

Dr. John Gross – Providing Uncompromised Eye Care

Dr. John Gross is a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist with over 28 years of experience specializing in macular diseases, including Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), Diabetic Retinopathy, and Retinal Vascular Diseases. His approach is patient-centered, emphasizing early detection, prevention, and the latest advancements in eye care to ensure the best possible outcomes for his patients.

Committed to continuous learning and innovation, Dr. Gross stays at the forefront of modern ophthalmology by attending specialty conferences, engaging in ongoing medical education, and participating in weekly virtual training sessions with the renowned Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. This dedication allows him to bring the latest techniques, state-of-the-art therapies, and cutting-edge diagnostic tools to his practice, ensuring his patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.

Beyond his clinical expertise, Dr. Gross is passionate about patient education, empowering individuals to take an active role in their eye health. His collaborative approach fosters trust, ensuring that every patient understands their condition and treatment options.

Education & Training

  • Medical Degree: Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University

  • Ophthalmology Residency: University of Florida

  • Research Fellowship: Glaucoma & Retinal Disease, University of Florida

  • Fellowship Training: Refractive Surgery, LASIK, and Premium IOL Surgery

  • Retina Fellowship: Duke University Center for Macular Degeneration

  • Physician Executive MBA (PEMBA): University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Professional Experience

  • Founder, Carolina Macula and Retina

  • Former Head of Retina Service, Charleston Veterans Administration Medical Center

  • Chief of Veterans Administration Eye Clinic, Asheville, NC

  • Assistant Professor, Duke University Eye Center

  • Adjunct Professor, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC)

Leadership in Retinal Telemedicine

Dr. Gross is a recognized leader in retinal telemedicine, actively shaping the future of early detection and remote eye care. He serves as a consultant and reader for national teleophthalmology programs, helping to screen for retinal diseases and glaucoma. Additionally, he founded a Retinal and Macular Degeneration Reading Center to facilitate early detection and coordinated care for patients.

Contributions to Ophthalmology

  • Clinical Research Investigator in numerous clinical trials for Age Related Macular Degeneration and Diabetic Retinopathy

  • Published author and co-author of a chapter in Clinical Glaucoma Management

  • Regular presenter on retinal diseases, glaucoma, and refractive surgery at professional conferences

Professional Affiliations

  • American Board of Ophthalmology

  • American Academy of Ophthalmology

  • American Society of Retina Specialists

  • Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology

  • Christian Ophthalmology Society

  • South Carolina Ophthalmology Society

  • South Carolina Medical Society

  • Charleston Ophthalmology Society

Personal Interests

Outside the office, Dr. Gross enjoys quality time with his wife, Sara, and their two French Bulldogs, Winston and Lucy. He’s passionate about travel, fitness, and giving back to the community. For nearly 20 years, he’s been committed to caring for patients in the Charleston area and remains actively involved with Seacoast Church and his morning devotional group.

A proud University of Tennessee fan, Dr. Gross brings the same level of dedication, passion, and expertise to his practice as he does to everything in life. His mission is simple: to deliver Uncompromised Care to every patient he serves.

Committed to Excellence & Innovation

Dr. Gross’s commitment to staying ahead in ophthalmology is reflected in his continuous professional development. He regularly attends specialty conferences, participates in ongoing medical education, and, alongside his staff, engages in weekly virtual training sessions with the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, ranked as the #1 eye hospital in the U.S..

By integrating the latest advancements in retinal care, telemedicine, and surgical techniques, Dr. Gross ensures that his patients receive the best, most innovative treatments available today.