Strutha C. Rouse, II, MD
Providing expert retinal care to Charlotte, NC patients at Horizon Eye Care’s Cotswold and Huntersville locations.
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Meet the Doctor
Dr. Strutha Rouse is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in the diagnosis and surgical management of vitreoretinal diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachments, and macular degeneration. With nearly two decades of experience, he combines scientific precision with a warm, personable approach, ensuring every patient fully understands their condition and treatment options.
His early work in gene therapy and retinal disease has laid the foundation for a distinguished career focused on restoring and preserving vision. Dr. Rouse remains deeply committed to advancing retinal surgery techniques and to mentoring future generations of ophthalmologists.
Expertise & Specialities
Dr. Strutha Rouse is a fellowship-trained vitreoretinal surgeon with nearly two decades of experience in the surgical and medical management of complex retinal disease. His practice spans the full spectrum of vitreoretinal conditions, backed by a strong foundation in research and academic contribution.
Retinal conditions he treats include:
- Diabetic retinopathy — comprehensive management and laser therapy for diabetic eye disease
- Retinal detachments — surgical repair using advanced vitreoretinal techniques
- Vascular abnormalities — diagnosis and treatment of retinal vein and artery occlusion
- Macular degeneration — care for both wet and dry forms of AMD
- Macular holes and puckers — microsurgical repair of vitreomacular traction disorders
- Infectious and noninfectious uveitis — medical and surgical treatment for inflammatory eye conditions
Dr. Rouse’s research background, including early work in gene therapy at Yale, and his contributions to landmark ophthalmology texts ensure patients benefit from the most current and evidence-based retinal care available.
Education & Training
Dr. Rouse earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology, Magna Cum Laude, from Clark Atlanta University as a Howard Hughes and MARC Scholar. He completed his Doctor of Medicine at Emory University School of Medicine as a recipient of the Medical Student Research Fellowship, and conducted research at Yale University School of Medicine on polypeptide drug delivery and intracellular signaling mechanisms.
He completed his ophthalmology residency at McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University and went on to complete a two-year vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at Northwestern University in Chicago, focused on complex retinal diseases and the advanced surgical procedures that define his practice today.
Memberships & Recognition
Dr. Rouse is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Retina Specialists, and the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology. He has coauthored papers and textbook chapters on vitreoretinal diseases, including contributions to the renowned Albert & Jakobiec’s Principles and Practice of Ophthalmology.
His published research explores complex inflammatory retinal conditions, including posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy, serpiginous choroiditis, and relentless placoid choroiditis, reflecting a career dedicated to advancing both the science and practice of retinal care.
Insights From Dr. Rouse
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Vision Restored, Lives Transformed
“Dr. Wang ia a miracle worker!”
“Dr. Cameron was friendly yet quite professional. His exam seemed thorough and his recommendations sound. He answered questions I had and took his time - he was not rushed to get to…”
“All staff from checking in at the front desk, throughout my appointment were very helpful. Dr.Minkowski did a great job of explaining options/the process of cataract surgery with me, especially given my…”
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“Great visit… all issues resolved”
“Very good eye doctor!”
“I highly recommend Horizon Eye Care! My first experience will definitely not be my last! Dr. Nicholas Beaupre is one the most kindest, caring, and professional doctor I have ever met. Not…”
“Very thorough and answered all my questions. Very pleased to have Dr Minnal as my eye Dr.”
“Very professional and thorough!”
“Dr Hoffman was great - professional, thorough, answered my questions, attentive to my concerns.”
“This was the most detailed and thorough eye examination I have had in 30 to 40 years! Dr. Mahendar was absolutely terrific”
“Caring thorough service”
“I have been a patient of Horizon for 20 years. During that time I have experienced two doctors that were excellent care givers. After they subsequently retired I had the pleasure of…”
“Very thorough and personable.”
“She was very professional and very nice at the same time.She is thorough in her exam. Her techs were especially warm and friendly”
“Bien”
“Extremely professional and knowledgeable. She took the time to explain things to me and answer all of my questions. She truly cares about her patients.”
“Good doctor! Waited a long time and felt rushed when I finally got to see him but I do believe he is a good doctor.”
“Great experience at Horizon Eyecare Center. Especially please with Dr. Minnal.”
“Very positive experience.”
Conveniently Located Across Charlotte
You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Rouse at any of these two convenient Charlotte-area locations.
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