Dr. Austen
Knapp

Originally from the Midwest, Dr. Austen Knapp is a board-certified vitreoretinal surgeon. She attended medical school at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, where she excelled academically and developed a strong connection to the state of Michigan.

Dr. Knapp completed her ophthalmology training with a residency at Cleveland Clinic’s Cole Eye Institute and a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the Byers Eye Institute at Stanford University. Throughout her career, she has been actively involved in ophthalmic research, contributing to numerous publications in leading journals such as Retina and JAMA Ophthalmology. Dr. Knapp has presented her work at major conferences, including the American Society of Retina Specialists, the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, and the American Academy of Ophthalmology and has received several awards for her research endeavors.

In addition to research, Dr. Knapp is committed to advancing the field of ophthalmology through education and mentorship. She is a mentor for various ophthalmology and retina mentorship programs. Dr. Knapp completed a two-year training program for leadership in medical education at Stanford University and is excited to work with medical students in the Grand Rapids area. She also believes in improving access to retinal care and helped create a laser for diabetic retinopathy course that she taught and implemented to residents in Kumasi, Ghana.

She is passionate about providing personalized, high-quality care and is excited to help patients in Michigan navigate their retina health journey with the latest advancements in technology and research. Outside of work, Dr. Knapp enjoys traveling – visiting five continents – and is always eager for the next adventure. She loves outdoor activities, reading, and spending quality time with her fiancée, two cats, family, and friends.

Education

  • B.S. Southern Illinois University 2014
  • M.D. Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine 2018
  • Transitional Year Residency, Beaumont Hospital 2019
  • Ophthalmology Residency, Cleveland Clinic 2022
  • Leadership Education in Advancing Diversity (LEAD) Program 2024
  • Retina Surgery Fellowship, Stanford University Byers Eye Institute 2024