Dr. Unnikrishnan Nair R. is a globally recognized Vitreo-Retinal surgeon and a pioneering healthcare executive with over two decades of distinguished experience. As the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Medical Officer, and Managing Partner of the Chaithanya Group of Eye Hospitals, he has masterminded the expansion of the institute from a premier clinical facility into a powerhouse network of 13 state-of-the-art branches across Kerala, India. Combining world-class clinical excellence with astute business leadership, Dr. Nair has dedicated his career to advancing ophthalmology, fostering cutting-edge research, and ensuring accessible, high-quality eye care for diverse populations.
Specialization: Advanced Retina Imaging and Macular Surgery.
Experience: Consultant Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon since 2007.
Technique: Expert in complex retinal detachments and diabetic macular edema management.
CEO, CMO & Managing Partner: Directing the growth and operational excellence of the Chaithanya Group and KGR Visionary LLP.
Hon. Consultant:Serving at the prestigious Sree Chitra Thirunal Institute of Medical Science and Technology.
Chairman, CITE: Leading ophthalmic research and postgraduate training (NBE).
Fellowship Director:Mentoring the next generation of retina specialists.
Retina Imaging: A pioneer in "The Imaging Correlation," focusing on outer retinal and choroidal microvascular changes.
Clinical Trials:Principal Investigator for Phase IV studies in Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) and Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO).
Surgical Innovation:Recognized for novel findings like the "Plume Sign" in macular cysts and macular morphometrics following surgery.
Dr. Unnikrishnan Nair R brings over two decades of distinguished experience in vitreo-retinal surgery, with advanced training from premier institutions in India and internationally. His career spans clinical excellence, research, and leadership roles, currently serving as Medical Director, CEO, and Managing Partner of Chaithanya Eye Hospital & Research Institute. Through his expertise and vision, he has been instrumental in advancing high-quality retinal care and expanding eye care services across South Kerala.
Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai (2003–2005)
Advanced training in retinal diagnostics, surgical techniques, and management of complex vitreoretinal disorders.
Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai (2005)
Specialized exposure to advanced ophthalmic practices and clinical research in retinal diseases.
Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney (2006–2007)
International fellowship focusing on cutting-edge vitreoretinal surgical procedures and clinical excellence.
Save Sight Institute, UNSW, Sydney (2006–2007)
Engaged in translational research and advanced retinal imaging studies.
Chaithanya Eye Hospital & Research Institute, Trivandrum (2007–Present)
Leading advanced retinal care and surgical services, contributing to the institution’s growth as a premier eye care center.
Sree Chitra Thirunal Institute of Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum (2010–Present) Providing expert consultation in complex retinal cases and contributing to multidisciplinary clinical care.
V
National Board of Examinations Actively involved in training and mentoring postgraduate students in clinical ophthalmology and surgical practices.
Leads structured fellowship training in vitreo-retinal surgery, fostering advanced surgical skills and academic excellence among emerging specialists.
Led clinical trials focusing on the safety and efficacy of treatments for Diabetic Macular Edema.
Contributed to multicentric research on therapeutic outcomes in Retinal Vein Occlusion.
Trained in Good Clinical Practice, ensuring adherence to international ethical and regulatory standards in clinical research.