This month in our “Meet the Doctors” series, we get to know Dr. Saxton Moss. Dr. Moss specializes in advanced laser cataract surgery using the latest techniques available. He also provides medical and surgical management for a variety of eye diseases and performs routine eye exams. Dr. Moss received his medical education at the University of South Florida College of Medicine in Tampa and went on to fulfill an internship at Carilion Health System in Roanoke. Dr. Moss completed his ophthalmology training at Emory University in Atlanta, GA., and is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology.
What made you want to become an ophthalmologist?
I wasn’t the typical kid who dreamt of being a firefighter, police officer or pro athlete. I always knew I wanted to work in medicine. It was around the age of 12 that I knew I definitely wanted to be a doctor. While in medical school I became very interested in Ophthalmology. Most doctors are treating chronic conditions for their patient but in Ophthalmology we are able to cure many problems and give patients a better quality of life.
How did you come to Piedmont Eye Center?
My wife is from Rocky Mount, Virginia and we wanted to be closer to her family since we were just starting our family. My wife and I now have three girls and this community has definitely become our home.
Why did you choose your subspecialty?
Being a general ophthalmologist, I see a little bit of everything from glaucoma to macular degeneration to more basic eye conditions like cataracts. If you have been diagnosed with cataracts, they are going to gradually impair your reading, night-time driving, the vividness of colors you see and more. The odds are if you live long enough, you are going to get cataracts. As a cataract surgeon, I enjoy seeing how surgery can quickly and easily restore patients vision and how so many patients benefit from it.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is the being able to see firsthand the impact of improved vision in my patients lives. Most people don’t realize just how precious their sight is until something happens and their vision fades. My favorite moments in the clinic are cataract post-op days when I hear patients say that they haven’t seen this well in years. Knowing that I have been able to make that kind of impact on someone’s life is an amazing feeling.
What do you like to do when you aren’t at work?
My three daughters definitely keep me very busy with all of their activities. I have a passion for fishing, especially with my family. I also enjoy playing tennis and watching college football.
