Emily Li joined Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medicine in July 2021 as an assistant professor in Wilmer’s oculoplastics division. She specializes in functional and cosmetic surgeries of the eyelids, forehead and face. She also performs surgeries of the tear drainage system, surgeries in the eye socket and endoscopic procedures. Li sees patients of all ages at Wilmer Eye Institute’s East Baltimore and Bel Air locations.

What attracted you to the field of ophthalmology?

There is incredible capacity to have a direct positive impact on patients through medical and surgical management in ophthalmology. I was particularly drawn to the art of reconstructive and aesthetic procedures in oculoplastic surgery.

What drew you to Wilmer?

Wilmer embodies excellence in patient care, research and medical education. It is a privilege to be a part of Wilmer and to uphold its exemplary standards in all areas of academic medicine.

What are you working on right now and how will it contribute to the advancement of ophthalmology?

I am currently running a clinical trial to assess the role of the drug bimatoprost in the treatment of Graves’ periorbitopathy, with the aim of establishing a noninvasive alternative to surgery for patients who are dissatisfied with their appearance because of Graves' disease.

Where do you see opportunities for advancement or innovation in your specialty?

There are always opportunities to refine surgical techniques and improve outcomes in oculoplastics, especially for relatively new procedures such as corneal neurotization and the growing use of tranexamic acid to reduce bleeding in certain surgeries. In addition, the introduction of the drug teprotumumab, a human monoclonal antibody FDA-approved medication to treat thyroid eye disease, has been very exciting for the field. It’s a first-in-class agent whose full clinical profile remains to be fully defined.

Is there anything else you’d like others to know about you or your work?

I am ecstatic to join the Wilmer team and to have the opportunity to collaborate with innovative leaders in ophthalmology for patient care, research and medical education.