Meet Dr. Jay Rudd:
Fellowship-Trained Refractive & Cataract Surgeon
Dr. Jay Rudd is a highly skilled, board-certified ophthalmologist with 25+ years of specialized experience in vision correction surgery. Based in Puyallup, Washington, and serving patients throughout the Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia regions, Dr. Rudd has performed over 25,000 vision correction surgeries, including LASIK, EVO ICL™, SMILE, Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), and advanced cataract surgery. As an early adopter of advanced refractive technologies, Dr. Rudd was among the first surgeons in the Pacific Northwest to offer SMILE and EVO ICL procedures, bringing cutting-edge vision correction options to patients in Washington. His precision, dedication to patient care, and commitment to advancing the field of refractive surgery are unparalleled in the Pacific Northwest.
Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Rudd is recognized as a thought leader and educator in ophthalmology. He currently serves as a member of the Alcon Speakers Bureau, where he educates surgeons nationwide on advanced multifocal lens implant techniques and surgical best practices. This role underscores his position as a trusted voice among his peers and his commitment to elevating the standard of care across the profession.
Education & Specialized Training
Dr. Rudd’s foundation in ophthalmology is built on training at some of the nation’s most prestigious institutions:
- Undergraduate: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – B.S. in Kinesiology
- Medical School: Jefferson Medical College (now Sidney Kimmel Medical College), Philadelphia – Doctor of Medicine, magna cum laude (1995)
- Residency: Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia – One of the top 3 ophthalmology residency programs in the United States for the past 30 years
- Fellowship: Cornea, Refractive, and Anterior Segment Surgery – University of Utah, John A. Moran Eye Center (1999-2000)
- Executive Education: Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University – Physician CEO Program (2018)
His fellowship training at the University of Utah’s prestigious John Moran Eye Center positioned him as a specialist in the most complex refractive and corneal cases, providing him with advanced expertise in cutting-edge surgical techniques.
Board Certification & Professional Recognition
Dr. Rudd maintains the highest standards of clinical excellence through continuous board certification:
- American Board of Ophthalmology: Board Certified (November 2000); Maintenance of Certification (July 2010, July 2020)
- World College of Refractive Surgery & Visual Sciences: Charter Fellow (January 2023)
His charter fellow status with the WCRSVS represents recognition from the most selective organization in refractive surgery, acknowledging his contributions to the field and his commitment to advancing patient outcomes.
Clinical Research & FDA Leadership
Dr. Rudd’s contributions to ophthalmology extend far beyond his surgical practice. As a Principal Investigator in multiple FDA clinical trials, he has played a central role in advancing the safety and efficacy of vision correction technologies. His research focus has centered on multifocal intraocular lenses and toric lens implants—innovations that have transformed outcomes for patients with complex vision needs.
FDA Clinical Studies (Principal Investigator):
- Advanced Medical Optics Custom Match Registry (2005-2006)
- Advanced Medical Optics Prism Clinical Study BBLK-102-PRSM (2006-2008)
- Advanced Medical Optics Clinical Study TIOL-103-TCNS (2010-2011)
- Advanced Medical Optics Clinical Study DIOL-106-ZMLA (2013-2014)
- Advanced Medical Optics Post Toric Study TIOL-202-TPAS (2015-2018)
- Advanced Medical Optics Post Toric Study TIOL-204-EPAS (2016-2018)
- Advanced Medical Optics Clinical Study VSCO-109-HLN5 (2016-2017)
- Advanced Medical Optics Clinical Study SUR-CAT-652-1001 (2017-2018)
- Johnson & Johnson Post Toric Study TIOL-205-STPA (2019-2022)
- Johnson & Johnson Clinical Study SUR-CAT-652-2001 (2019-2020)
- Johnson & Johnson Post Multifocal Study NXGT-201-TTL2 (2020)
This extensive research portfolio demonstrates Dr. Rudd’s commitment to evidence-based medicine and his role in shaping the future of refractive surgery.
Published Research & Academic Contributions
Dr. Rudd’s work has been published in peer-reviewed medical journals, contributing to the scientific literature on corneal surgery, refractive procedures, and complications management:
- Rudd JC, Weis J, Connors R, Olson RJ. “Introduction of corneal astigmatism through placement of a sclera fixation ring in eye bank eyes.” Cornea 2001 Nov; 20(8): 864-5.
- Rudd JC, Moshirfar M. “Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) keratitis after laser in situ keratomileusis.” J Cataract and Refractive Surgery 2001 Mar; 27(3): 471-3.
- Aldave A, Rudd JC, Cohen EJ, Rapuano CJ, Laibson PR. “The role of glaucoma therapy in the need for repeat penetrating keratoplasty.” Cornea 2000 Nov; 19(6): 772-6.
- Rudd JC. “A sixty-nine-year-old woman with a painful, red, right eye for two days.” Digital Journal of Ophthalmology July 9, 1999.
- Rudd JC, Section contributor. Rhee DJ and Pyfer MF, eds. The Wills Eye Manual: Office and emergency room diagnosis and treatment of eye disease. Third edition. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, PA 1999.
- Rudd JC, Fineman MF, Eagle RC Jr., Sergott RC. “Ischemic scalp necrosis preceding vision loss in giant cell arteritis.” Archives of Ophthalmology 1998; 116(12): 1690-91.
- Rudd, JC, Jaeger EA, Freitag SK, Jeffers JB. “Traumatically ruptured globes in children.” Journal of Pediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus 1994; 31(5): 307-311.
Teaching & Mentorship
Dr. Rudd has dedicated himself to advancing the next generation of ophthalmologists through teaching and mentorship:
- Faculty Appointment: Limited Term Instructor, John Moran Eye Center, University of Utah (1999-2000)
- Surgical Education: Presented DSAEK (Descemet’s Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty) techniques for beginning surgeons at LV Prasad Eye Hospital, Hyderabad, India (November 2014), where he instructed surgeons on advanced operative techniques
- Conference Presentations: Multiple presentations at prestigious venues, including:
- Wills Eye Hospital Annual Conference (1998, 1999)
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (1993)
- St. Peter’s Family Practice Residency “Eye Day” (2019)
His role as an Alcon Speakers Bureau member represents his ongoing commitment to surgeon education, traveling nationally to share his expertise in multifocal lens implantation and surgical innovation.
Professional Society Leadership
Dr. Rudd is an active member of leading professional organizations in ophthalmology and refractive surgery:
- World College of Refractive Surgery & Visual Sciences (2021-present)
- American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (1997-present)
- International Society of Refractive Surgeons (1997-present)
- Washington Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (2000-present; Executive Board 2021-2024)
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (1996-present)
- Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society (1994-present; President, Pennsylvania Alpha Chapter, 1994-1995)
His service on the Executive Board of the Washington Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons reflects his standing among his peers and his leadership in advancing ophthalmology in the Pacific Northwest.
Awards & Honors
Dr. Rudd’s contributions to medicine and education have been recognized through numerous awards:
- Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society – Junior Inductee (1994)
- Carroll R. Mullen Memorial Prize in Ophthalmology (June 1995) – Awarded for outstanding achievement in ophthalmology
- Hobart Amory Hare Honor Medical Society (June 1993)
- Magna cum laude, Jefferson Medical College (June 1995)
Humanitarian Work & Community Service
Beyond his clinical and research endeavors, Dr. Rudd is deeply committed to serving underserved populations and giving back to his community:
International Medical Missions:
- Haiti (April 2011) – Performed cataract surgeries for patients with limited access to eye care
- Bolivia (June 2014, June 2017, June 2019) – Multiple mission trips providing vision correction surgery
- India (November 2014) – Alphaeon Angels Mission Trip to Hyderabad, where he provided cornea transplant training to local surgeons
Community Leadership:
- Providence St. Peter Hospital Foundation Board (2003-2015)
- St. Martin’s University Board of Trustees (2013-2024)
- Pope John Paul II High School, Founding Board Member (2008-2017)
Dr. Rudd’s commitment to global health and community service reflects his belief that vision care is a fundamental human right and his dedication to making a difference in the lives of patients worldwide.
Professional Philosophy
Dr. Rudd chose ophthalmology because of his passion for innovation and the profound impact that restoring vision has on patients’ lives. He thrives on the fast-paced advancements in refractive surgery and is committed to staying at the forefront of ophthalmic technology and surgical techniques. His greatest professional satisfaction comes from building lasting relationships with his patients and enhancing their vision and quality of life.
As he often says, “Vision is the gateway to independence and opportunity. When we restore sight, we restore possibility.” This philosophy guides every patient interaction and surgical decision.
Personal Life
Outside of his professional commitments, Dr. Rudd is an avid golfer and snow skier who enjoys spending quality time with his family, including his three grown children, four grandchildren, and his nine-year-old Australian Shepherd. He and his family enjoy traveling, wake surfing, and volunteering at their church and local charities. Dr. Rudd speaks conversational Spanish, reflecting his commitment to serving diverse patient populations.
He has participated in several mission trips, providing cataract surgeries in Haiti and Bolivia and cornea transplant training in Hyderabad, India. These experiences have deepened his commitment to global eye health and his understanding of the transformative power of vision care.
Personal Investment in Vision Correction
Dr. Rudd practices what he preaches. He has personally undergone Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) and is eager to share his firsthand experience with patients considering the procedure. This personal investment in vision correction surgery gives him unique insight into the patient journey and allows him to authentically discuss outcomes, recovery, and the life-changing benefits of advanced vision correction procedures.
Credentials & Affiliations
Board Certification:
- American Board of Ophthalmology (Board Certified, November 2000; Maintenance of Certification, July 2010, July 2020)
- Charter Fellow, World College of Refractive Surgery & Visual Sciences (January 2023)
Professional Memberships:
- World College of Refractive Surgery & Visual Sciences
- American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons
- International Society of Refractive Surgeons
- Washington Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (Executive Board, 2021-2024)
- American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society
Current Positions:
- Refractive Cataract Surgeon, Rudd Vision, PLLC, Puyallup, WA (January 2024-Present)
- Alcon Speakers Bureau Member – Clareon/Panoptix-Pro Platform (March 2025-Present)
Dr. Jay Rudd has authored or reviewed and approved this content.
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