Matthew O'Sullivan, M.D., Ph.D.

Dr. Matthew O'Sullivan is a retina specialist and vitreoretinal surgeon whose career has been guided by a sense of commitment to helping patients maximize their sight. His journey to medicine began in the laboratory; he earned a Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of California San Diego in 2011 studying the cellular and molecular biology of synapse development. During his doctoral studies, he gained an appreciation for how research could advance medical treatment. He was inspired to pursue a medical degree at Duke University School of Medicine and ultimately transition from a career as a laboratory scientist to that of a physician directly serving patients. He was drawn to ophthalmology because of the unique role the sense of sight plays in the human experience and the relationship of the retina to his earlier research interests. His scientific background gives him a critical perspective used to devise treatment plans to maximize vision for his patients. He strives to deliver care with respect and compassion and is grateful for the opportunity to help people maintain quality of life and functional independence.
Dr. O'Sullivan's clinical training has prepared him for some of the most complex challenges in ophthalmology. He completed residency at the Duke University Eye Center and a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute. After finishing training, he began his independent practice as clinical faculty at Johns Hopkins for two years where he trained residents and fellows while also taking care of patients in the office and operating room. He is expert in treating a wide range of conditions affecting the retina and vitreous including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, retinal detachments, macular holes, epiretinal membranes/macular puckers, and complications after cataract surgery.
Now settled in Colorado Springs with his wife Holly, and their 3 sons, Dr. O'Sullivan is looking forward to becoming a part of the community here. As a family, they've been getting to know their new home by exploring the local parks and hiking trails. He is coaching his son’s baseball team and agreeing to make pancakes for breakfast as often as possible.
Certifications & Associations
- Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology
- Member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Member of the American Society of Retina Specialists
- Member of the El Paso County Medical Society


