Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan: A Visionary In Optometry & Ocular Prosthetics, Blending Science & Art To Transform Lives
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan
Optometrist & Ocularist
Being a distinguished figure in the field of ophthalmology, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan is renowned for his pioneering work and immense contributions to eye care both in India and internationally. With rich expertise in Scleral lenses, Orthokeratology, Myopia and Presbyopia, Consultant Optometrist & Ocularist, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan has not only revolutionized the treatment of several eye conditions through the introduction of advanced technologies but his efforts have also been instrumental in providing new hope to countless patients suffering from chronic eye diseases, enabling them to regain their vision and confidence. He is dedicated to the prevention and control of myopia progression in children with his innovative Orthokeratology and MyoKiddo optical lenses.
Transformative Contributions to Eye Care
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s journey in ophthalmology is marked by several noteworthy achievements. One of his significant contributions is the introduction of scleral lens technology to India in 2004. Scleral lenses have proved to be a game-changer for patients with keratoconus, a condition where the cornea becomes thin and bulges outward, causing distorted vision. This condition can lead to severe visual impairment and psychological distress. Stevens Johnson Syndrome patients benefit immensely from his large diameter scleral lenses. His recent addition of OVITZ x-wave technology to measure and correct HOA -High Order Aberrations on impression-based Custom Scleral Contact lenses is a game changer to give crisp and clear vision to Keratoconus patients. Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s work with scleral lenses has provided a much-needed solution, offering clear vision and restoring confidence to those affected by this debilitating disease. To add, he recently invented tinted and photo-chromatic scleral contact lenses for patients suffering from glare and light sensitivity. His ‘Cosmetic’ Scleral Contact lenses add extra confidence to Scleral lens wearers and improves their quality of life.
In addition to scleral lenses, Dr. Chandrashekhar has brought several other advanced technologies to India. His pioneering efforts in custom-made artificial eyes have provided a lifeline to individuals who have lost their eyes due to accidents, cancer, or congenital conditions. These prosthetic eyes are meticulously designed to match the natural eye, enhancing both the appearance and confidence of the patients. They even appear to change pupil diameter and give a more natural look.
Master of Painted Scleral & Soft Contact Lenses
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan stands as a beacon of innovation and dedication in the world of optometry and ocular prosthetics. With a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Bombay and numerous prestigious fellowships, including those from the Boston Foundation for Sight, the Scleral Lens Education Society, and the American Academy of Optometry, his credentials are as extensive as they are impressive. As a former professor of Physics at Bhawan’s College in Mumbai and a trained Ocularist from Moorfield’s Eye Hospital in London, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s academic and professional journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. Currently, he operates ‘Shekhar Eye Research’ in Thane and practices in California, US at Shekhar Eye LLC.
Expanding his horizons even further, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan pursued formal training in Sculpture and Modeling at Sir J.J. School of Arts in Mumbai. This diverse background laid the groundwork for his pioneering work in designing customized 3D artificial eyes. His most remarkable talent, however, is his ability to paint and tint on scleral and soft contact lenses, making him a singular figure in his field. This exceptional skill has led to collaborations with the film industry in both Bollywood and Hollywood, where he creates bespoke lenses with special effects for movies and performances. Dr. Chandrashekhar has provided special effects lenses for movies such as Srikanth, Krish3, Ek thi Dayan, Pari, Tumbad, Hyder, ZERO, Fighter, and more. He has also worked with numerous film stars such as Anupam Kher, Rishabh Sawhney, Shahrukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Anushka Sharma, Nana Patekar, Zishan Aub, and late Irrfan Khan to name a few. His hand pinted large diameter soft contact lenses are used in Numerous TV serials. He is wellknown around the world for his Gold and real diamond studded on gold scleral contact lenses as a new fashion of Eye Jewelry.
Overcoming Challenges & Inspiring Others
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s path has not been without challenges. One of his significant hurdles was the financial and physical strain he endured while training in the UK. Despite these hardships, his determination and passion for ophthalmology saw him through. His experiences have shaped him into a resilient and compassionate professional, always ready to extend help to patients regardless of their financial status. Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s commitment to his profession and his willingness to share his knowledge has set him apart from his peers. By setting up prosthetic departments in various institutions across India, Singapore, & Thailand and training numerous optometrists and ophthalmologists, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan has ensured that his expertise benefits a wider population.
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s work has touched many lives, one of the most poignant being the case of a 12-yearold girl from Singapore suffering from Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. This severe condition causes painful rashes, sores and blisters on soft tissues, affecting the eyes and leading to significant discomfort, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s use of scleral lenses brought instant eye pain relief to the girl. Another 33-year-old keratoconus patient from Bangalore saw his wife and daughter’s face clearly for the first time in his life with his HOA - High Order Aberration Control Custom Scleral lenses, a moment that underscores the profound impact of his work. Such stories
highlight his dedication to patient care and his ability to bring about life-changing improvements through innovative treatments. Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan regularly conducts conferences, and training programs to transfer his skills to other optometrists and ophthalmologists.
Shekhar Eye Research: Restoring Smiles through Vision
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s Shekhar Eye Research is dedicated to restoring confidence and improving the quality of life for individuals with disfigured faces. Using state-ofthe-art technology, they specialize in creating 3D custom artificial eyes and hand-painted scleral lenses, offering both aesthetic and functional enhancements for patients who have undergone enucleation or evisceration procedures. At Shekhar Eye Research, advanced 3D technology is employed to replicate the realistic anatomy of a natural eye,providing social, psychological, and cosmetic rehabilitation for individuals with disfigured eyes. The Silicon Impression Method, a painless procedure utilizing special medical-grade, non-toxic silicon, is used to take precise impressions of the eye socket. This allows for the custom design and fitting of 3D ocular prostheses, particularly beneficial for patients with sensitive eye sockets or corneal opacity.
Crafted from high-density medical-grade acrylic plastic, the prostheses are both durable and safe. Non-toxic pigments are used in the customization process to ensure a natural appearance, with the option for oxygen-permeable materials available for those requiring Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) materials. Each prosthesis is meticulously fabricated, tinted, molded, and cured under controlled conditions to ensure longevity, with detailed iris and scleral veining meticulously painted to match the patient’s existing eye.
In addition to specialized treatment for conditions like Anophthalmia and Microphthalmia, Shekhar Eye Research offers a range of services to meet the diverse needs of patients. This includes tinting scleral lenses for light sensitivity, painting on RGP scleral lenses, and providing crutch glasses for severe ptosis. Through innovative solutions and compassionate care, Shekhar Eye Research continues to make a profound difference in the lives of patients, helping them regain their confidence and improve their quality of life.
Contribution to india
On appeal of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan came back to India form US in 2001 and contributed in ophthalmic field on technology transfer of Custom Made Artificial Eyes, Scleral Contact Leses, Orthokeratology, Myopia Control and High Order Aberration control Scleral lenses. His name is enlisted in World Who’s Who directory in US.
Pioneering Orthokeratology in India
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan has profoundly influenced the field of eye care in India through his pioneering efforts in Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) and myopia control at Shekhar Eye Research. Ortho-K, a groundbreaking non-surgical method, allows patients to achieve clear vision by wearing specially designed rigid gas-permeable lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while sleeping, correcting refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and even presbyopia.
Under Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s guidance, Shekhar Eye Research conducts detailed eye examinations and utilizes advanced corneal mapping to customize Ortho-K lenses for each patient. This personalized approach ensures optimal vision correction tailored to individual eye anatomy. The benefits of Ortho-K extend beyond convenience, offering athletes, individuals with active lifestyles, and those seeking an alternative to surgical procedures like LASIK an effective solution for daytime freedom from glasses or contacts.
Moreover, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s research emphasizes Ortho-K’s role in managing myopia progression, particularly in children, contributing to global efforts to address the rising prevalence of near-sightedness. Additionally, Shekhar Eye Research has developed specialized Ortho-K designs for presbyopia correction, enabling patients to enjoy clear vision at varying distances without daytime corrective aids.
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s visionary leadership and commitment to innovation have made Orthokeratology a cornerstone of modern eye care in India, offering safe, noninvasive alternatives that enhance quality of life through improved vision and reduced dependency on traditional eyewear.
Author, Speaker, & Global Influencer
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s ingenuity shines through his numerous inventions, such as the Chawan Keratoprosthesis, a synthetic artificial cornea, and Presbyopic Orthokeratology for life beyond forty. His innovative spirit extends to the creation of the MyoKiddo Mobile Specs to manage myopia progression and HyperKiddo spectacle lenses for hyperopia management in children. Additionally, he developed a method to tint or paint on RGP scleral contact lenses, creating oxygen-permeable prosthetic scleral shells, and invented light-sensitive dilating pupil custom artificial eyes. Moreover, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan ‘s contributions are not limited to optometry. He holds patents for diamond and gold contact lenses, the MyoKiddo 360 bifocal lenses, and the HyperKiddo glasses for hyperopia management, Chawan Maskati Keratoprosthesis. His patent for a coal catalyst for pollution control and energy enhancement underscores his versatility and commitment to environmental solutions.
He has developed innovative products like water tree to capture water from thin air, technology to Convert Carbon Dioxide to Ethanol with proprietary Catalyst that can help environment reduce global warming. Futuristic noiseless non combustible weapon systems that works on Electromagnetic forces.
Moving forward, an author of two books on ocularists and a prolific contributor to scientific literature, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan is a sought-after speaker at Ophthalmology and Optometry conferences worldwide. His expertise spans ophthalmology, optometry, ocularists, and environmental and energy technologies. Recognized with numerous national and international awards, Dr. Chandrashekhar’s influence is far-reaching. His leadership in Rotary International District 3140 and his presence in the World Who’s Who directory in the US further attest to his global impact.
He credits his remarkable success to the unwavering support and encouragement of Dr. Quresh Maskati and Dr. B.T. Maskati, who stood by him during his formative years and inspired him to reach great heights. Apart from this, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan established Ocular Prosthesis Units at prestigious institutions like L V Prasad Eye Institute, Shankar Nethralaya, Narayana Nethralaya, Shankar Deva Nethralaya, Vitthala Eye Institute and National University Hospital Singapore, King Sangokhla Eye Hospital Thailand. He also supports units at Arvind Eye Institute, Madurai, and Vasan Eye Hospital, Coimbatore, enhancing ocular prosthesis care across India and internationally. Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan has trained numerous optometrists and ophthalmologists to become Ocularists.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan envisions a future where advanced technologies and innovative procedures continue to enhance the field of ophthalmology. His ongoing projects, such as the development of a synthetic cornea to replace human corneal transplants, reflect his commitment to making cutting-edge treatments accessible and affordable. Further, about commitment to social responsibility, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s work is not just about technological advancements; it is also about giving back to society. Inspired by a call to action from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan has dedicated a significant portion of his work to serving the underprivileged. His efforts to provide eye care services to those in need, regardless of their financial situation, highlight his deep sense of social responsibility.
In conclusion, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s journey in ophthalmology is a testament to his unwavering dedication, innovative spirit, and compassionate care. His contributions have transformed the lives of many, offering new hope and improved vision to patients around the world. Through his continued efforts, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan not only advances the field of ophthalmology but also inspires others to pursue excellence and make a positive impact in their communities.
Shekhar Eye Research: Restoring Smiles through Vision
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s Shekhar Eye Research is dedicated to restoring confidence and improving the quality of life for individuals with disfigured faces. Using state-ofthe-art technology, they specialize in creating 3D custom artificial eyes and hand-painted scleral lenses, offering both aesthetic and functional enhancements for patients who have undergone enucleation or evisceration procedures. At Shekhar Eye Research, advanced 3D technology is employed to replicate the realistic anatomy of a natural eye,providing social, psychological, and cosmetic rehabilitation for individuals with disfigured eyes. The Silicon Impression Method, a painless procedure utilizing special medical-grade, non-toxic silicon, is used to take precise impressions of the eye socket. This allows for the custom design and fitting of 3D ocular prostheses, particularly beneficial for patients with sensitive eye sockets or corneal opacity.
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s most remarkable talent is his ability to paint / tint on scleral contact lenses, making him a singular figure in his field
Crafted from high-density medical-grade acrylic plastic, the prostheses are both durable and safe. Non-toxic pigments are used in the customization process to ensure a natural appearance, with the option for oxygen-permeable materials available for those requiring Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) materials. Each prosthesis is meticulously fabricated, tinted, molded, and cured under controlled conditions to ensure longevity, with detailed iris and scleral veining meticulously painted to match the patient’s existing eye.
In addition to specialized treatment for conditions like Anophthalmia and Microphthalmia, Shekhar Eye Research offers a range of services to meet the diverse needs of patients. This includes tinting scleral lenses for light sensitivity, painting on RGP scleral lenses, and providing crutch glasses for severe ptosis. Through innovative solutions and compassionate care, Shekhar Eye Research continues to make a profound difference in the lives of patients, helping them regain their confidence and improve their quality of life.
Contribution to india
On appeal of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan came back to India form US in 2001 and contributed in ophthalmic field on technology transfer of Custom Made Artificial Eyes, Scleral Contact Leses, Orthokeratology, Myopia Control and High Order Aberration control Scleral lenses. His name is enlisted in World Who’s Who directory in US.
Pioneering Orthokeratology in India
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan has profoundly influenced the field of eye care in India through his pioneering efforts in Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) and myopia control at Shekhar Eye Research. Ortho-K, a groundbreaking non-surgical method, allows patients to achieve clear vision by wearing specially designed rigid gas-permeable lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while sleeping, correcting refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and even presbyopia.
Under Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s guidance, Shekhar Eye Research conducts detailed eye examinations and utilizes advanced corneal mapping to customize Ortho-K lenses for each patient. This personalized approach ensures optimal vision correction tailored to individual eye anatomy. The benefits of Ortho-K extend beyond convenience, offering athletes, individuals with active lifestyles, and those seeking an alternative to surgical procedures like LASIK an effective solution for daytime freedom from glasses or contacts.
Moreover, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s research emphasizes Ortho-K’s role in managing myopia progression, particularly in children, contributing to global efforts to address the rising prevalence of near-sightedness. Additionally, Shekhar Eye Research has developed specialized Ortho-K designs for presbyopia correction, enabling patients to enjoy clear vision at varying distances without daytime corrective aids.
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s visionary leadership and commitment to innovation have made Orthokeratology a cornerstone of modern eye care in India, offering safe, noninvasive alternatives that enhance quality of life through improved vision and reduced dependency on traditional eyewear.
Author, Speaker, & Global Influencer
Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s ingenuity shines through his numerous inventions, such as the Chawan Keratoprosthesis, a synthetic artificial cornea, and Presbyopic Orthokeratology for life beyond forty. His innovative spirit extends to the creation of the MyoKiddo Mobile Specs to manage myopia progression and HyperKiddo spectacle lenses for hyperopia management in children. Additionally, he developed a method to tint or paint on RGP scleral contact lenses, creating oxygen-permeable prosthetic scleral shells, and invented light-sensitive dilating pupil custom artificial eyes. Moreover, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan ‘s contributions are not limited to optometry. He holds patents for diamond and gold contact lenses, the MyoKiddo 360 bifocal lenses, and the HyperKiddo glasses for hyperopia management, Chawan Maskati Keratoprosthesis. His patent for a coal catalyst for pollution control and energy enhancement underscores his versatility and commitment to environmental solutions.
He has developed innovative products like water tree to capture water from thin air, technology to Convert Carbon Dioxide to Ethanol with proprietary Catalyst that can help environment reduce global warming. Futuristic noiseless non combustible weapon systems that works on Electromagnetic forces.
Moving forward, an author of two books on ocularists and a prolific contributor to scientific literature, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan is a sought-after speaker at Ophthalmology and Optometry conferences worldwide. His expertise spans ophthalmology, optometry, ocularists, and environmental and energy technologies. Recognized with numerous national and international awards, Dr. Chandrashekhar’s influence is far-reaching. His leadership in Rotary International District 3140 and his presence in the World Who’s Who directory in the US further attest to his global impact.
He credits his remarkable success to the unwavering support and encouragement of Dr. Quresh Maskati and Dr. B.T. Maskati, who stood by him during his formative years and inspired him to reach great heights. Apart from this, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan established Ocular Prosthesis Units at prestigious institutions like L V Prasad Eye Institute, Shankar Nethralaya, Narayana Nethralaya, Shankar Deva Nethralaya, Vitthala Eye Institute and National University Hospital Singapore, King Sangokhla Eye Hospital Thailand. He also supports units at Arvind Eye Institute, Madurai, and Vasan Eye Hospital, Coimbatore, enhancing ocular prosthesis care across India and internationally. Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan has trained numerous optometrists and ophthalmologists to become Ocularists.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan envisions a future where advanced technologies and innovative procedures continue to enhance the field of ophthalmology. His ongoing projects, such as the development of a synthetic cornea to replace human corneal transplants, reflect his commitment to making cutting-edge treatments accessible and affordable. Further, about commitment to social responsibility, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s work is not just about technological advancements; it is also about giving back to society. Inspired by a call to action from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan has dedicated a significant portion of his work to serving the underprivileged. His efforts to provide eye care services to those in need, regardless of their financial situation, highlight his deep sense of social responsibility.
In conclusion, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan’s journey in ophthalmology is a testament to his unwavering dedication, innovative spirit, and compassionate care. His contributions have transformed the lives of many, offering new hope and improved vision to patients around the world. Through his continued efforts, Dr. Chandrashekhar Chawan not only advances the field of ophthalmology but also inspires others to pursue excellence and make a positive impact in their communities.
