Hawaii’s Trusted Retina Specialists

Meet the compassionate experts dedicated to preserving sight across the islands.

Board-Certified. Fellowship-Trained. Patient-Focused.

At Retina Consultants of Hawaii, our physicians are more than leading experts in retinal care — they are passionate partners in your healthcare journey. Each member of our team brings years of specialized training, a strong commitment to innovation, and a shared belief in treating every patient with empathy and respect. We believe world-class care is built not just on knowledge, but on relationships. That’s why we take time to listen, explain, and guide — every step of the way.

Exceptional Retina Specialists. Compassionate Island Care.

Our team of board-certified, fellowship-trained retina specialists brings together decades of experience, clinical leadership, and heartfelt dedication to patient care. With deep roots across the islands and a shared mission to preserve sight and improve lives, each physician offers advanced expertise in diagnosing and treating retinal conditions — along with a personal commitment to care for every patient with clarity, compassion, and aloha.

Gregg T. Kokame, MD

Gregg T. Kokame, MD

Founding Physician, Clinical Research Leader

Dr. Gregg Kokame is the founding physician of Retina Consultants of Hawaii and a nationally recognized expert in retinal disease care. With extensive experience managing macular degeneration and other complex retinal conditions, he has led pioneering clinical research trials and authored numerous publications that continue to shape retina care today. Dr. Kokame’s dedication to excellence and innovation has made him a leader not only in Hawaii but across the field of ophthalmology.
James C. Lai, MD

James C. Lai, MD

Managing Partner, Expert in Surgical Retina

Dr. James Lai is the managing partner of Retina Consultants of Hawaii and a highly accomplished retina specialist. He is known for his skill in treating complex conditions such as retinal detachments, diabetic retinopathy, and dislocated intraocular lenses. Dr. Lai combines surgical precision with a patient-first approach, ensuring each person receives the best care possible at every step of their retinal journey.

Sarah P. Read, MD, PhD

Sarah P. Read, MD, PhD

Retina Surgeon, Researcher, Educator

Dr. Sarah Read brings both deep clinical experience and academic rigor to her role as a retina specialist. With dual training in medicine and research, she provides advanced surgical and medical care for conditions like macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Dr. Read’s patients benefit not only from her exceptional care but also from her dedication to education and evidence-based innovation.

Elysse S. Tom, MD

Elysse S. Tom, MD

Retina Specialist with a Focus on Comprehensive Care

Dr. Elysse Tom provides personalized treatment plans for a wide range of retinal conditions, including diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal detachments. Trained at the University of Washington and The Retina Institute in St. Louis, Dr. Tom is passionate about building strong doctor-patient relationships and ensuring each patient feels supported and informed throughout their care.

Raymond Wee, MD

Raymond Wee, MD

Harvard-Trained, Committed to Patient Education

Dr. Raymond Wee is a highly trained retina specialist with education from Yale, Washington University, and Harvard. His expertise spans the full spectrum of retinal disorders, from surgical to medical care. Dr. Wee is deeply committed to clear communication and empowering patients with the knowledge they need to understand their condition and treatment options. His compassionate, educational approach is appreciated by patients of all backgrounds.

More Than Specialists — Partners in Your Vision Journey

Our team collaborates closely with referring physicians and support staff to ensure patients receive coordinated, timely, and personalized care. We are also involved in cutting-edge clinical research, helping shape the future of retina treatment — right here in Hawaii.

Retina Expertise

Fellowship-trained in retina and vitreous diseases

Advanced Care

Experienced in advanced diagnostics and surgical techniques

Clinical Research

Active participants in clinical research and continuing education

Culture & Care

Culturally sensitive and deeply rooted in the community

Serving Patients Across Oʻahu, Maui & Kauaʻi

With multiple locations across the islands, our doctors provide the same level of expertise and care in every community we serve. No matter where you’re located, you’ll have access to Hawaii’s leading retina specialists — without compromise.

Ready to Meet Your Doctor?

We welcome new patients by referral. If your eye care provider has recommended specialized retina care, we’d be honored to be part of your care team. If you have questions about our doctors, services, or how the referral process works, we’re here to help.