Ophthalmic community mourns loss of Robert M. Sinskey

Robert M. Sinskey, MD, a pioneer, mentor and innovator in cataract surgery, died recently.

Sinskey earned his medical degree and served his residency in ophthalmology at Duke University School of Medicine, according to a biography on the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery website. He was the first full-time instructor at the University of California at Los Angles’ eye clinic in 1955.

Sinskey spoke at conferences worldwide and published many journal articles and textbook chapters.

He patented a modified J-loop IOL, invented several surgical instruments, and pioneered the use of low-power IOLs and the use of IOLs in infants and children with cataracts, according to the biography.

Sinskey served as president of the ASCRS in 1999 and 2000.

Tribute to Robert M. Sinskey, MD:

Bob Sinskey was a unique talent as an ophthalmic surgeon, innovator of products and practice patterns, and teacher. I was privileged to meet him early in my career while doing an anterior segment fellowship with his close friend Bill Harris, MD, from Dallas. He remained a mentor, and we remained friends for nearly 40 years. He was a master surgeon with a high-volume practice in a demanding market, Santa Monica. He adopted new technologies and techniques early, including phacoemulsification and posterior chamber lenses. He focused his innovative mind on advancing the art and science of cataract surgery. Along with his colleague Dick Kratz, he taught the “official” West Coast course in phacoemulsification, training a generation of surgeons. He invented the Sinskey posterior chamber IOL, which was a market leader for nearly a decade. He built an outpatient surgery center early, allowing him to practice efficiently, and shared his practice management learnings openly. Unknown to many, he was also a pioneer in pediatric surgery, both in the field of pediatric cataract but also nystagmus and complex strabismus. He lived life fully, enjoying and successfully investing in the wine business. Robert Sinskey Vineyards still generates extraordinary wines under the direction of his talented son. He was a giver, funding the development of the Sinskey Eye Center in Addis Ababa , Ethiopia, along with his beloved wife, Lorraine. His contributions were significant, and his legacy is large. For me and many other ophthalmologists, he is an unforgettable and extraordinary man and surgeon.

Richard L. Lindstrom, MD, OSN Chief Medical Editor

With Dr. Sinskey’s passing, ophthalmology has lost one of its innovative and significant members. From IOLs to Pinot Noir, he always strove for nothing but the best. He will be sorely missed.

David W. Parke II, MD, CEO, American Academy of Ophthalmology