Northwest Eye

John S. Berestka, M.D.

John S. Berestka, M.D., is a comprehensive ophthalmologist and partner at Northwest Eye, specializing in corneal, glaucoma, cataract and refractive surgery. He has been a member of Northwest Eye’s respected team of doctors since 1996. Dr. Berestka received his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and his Doctor of Medicine degree from Johns Hopkins University. After an internship at Hennepin County Medical Center, he completed an ophthalmology residency at the Harvard Medical School’s Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. He also traveled to India for an externship at the Aravind Eye Hospital in Madurai. Following his residency, Dr. Berestka completed a fellowship in cornea, glaucoma, and refractive surgery at the Phillips Eye Institute in Minneapolis.

Education: University of Notre Dame , John Hopkins University , Harvard Medical School

Certifications: American Board of Ophthalmology

Services: Corneal , Glaucoma , Cataract , Refractive Surgery

Alejandra Decanini, M.D.

Alejandra Decanini, M.D., the newest pediatric ophthalmologist at Northwest Eye, will be providing routine and specialty eye care for premature babies through adolescents out of our Maple Grove Minnetonka, and Woodbury offices. Dr. Decanini has extensive experience and sub-specialty training in diagnosing and treating young patients with all types of strabismus (misaligned eyes) and double vision. She is an award-winning doctor, recognized with the Harry Plotke Award for her clinical skills, compassion, and patient-centric approach. She proudly won the Best Teaching Faculty Award and has earned a spot-on Minnesota Monthly’s Top Doctors list for the last four consecutive years. Dr. Decanini joins us from the Hennepin Healthcare Ophthalmology department here in Minnesota where she’s specialized in Pediatric care since 2015. Dr. Decanini completed her internship and residency in ophthalmology at the University of Minnesota where she continued on to complete a Fellowship in Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus at the Lions Children’s Clinic in Minneapolis. Dr. Decanini is passionate about working with families to find treatment solutions that maximize vision and quality of life in even the youngest of patients. She speaks Spanish and is excited to be part of the Northwest Eye team.

Services: Pediatric Ophthalmology , Eye Alignment , Eye Surgery

Jesse Dovich, M.D.

“It is my goal to compassionately educate our patients so they can make informed decisions to ensure they are receiving the highest quality of eye care.” Jesse A. Dovich, M.D., is a comprehensive ophthalmologist specializing in Glaucoma and Cataract Surgery. Dr. Dovich grew up in the small orchard town of Tonasket Washington. He graduated Suma Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an Emphasis in Science from Union College in Lincoln Nebraska. He was distinguished as a top student in the business department and awarded an all-expense paid trip to Chicago to attend a national conference for Students in Free Enterprise. He completed medical school in 2003 at Loma Linda University Medical School followed by a transitional year internship at the San Bernardino County Hospital and then an Ophthalmology residency at Loma Linda University Eye Institute. During his residency Dr. Dovich presented five different clinical research projects at both national and international meetings, including The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (2005, 2006, 2007), The North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society (NANOS), and the Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology (PAAO). Dr. Dovich is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and maintains a prominent role in the Ophthalmology community as an active member of both American Society of Cataract-Refractive Surgeons and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. He also held a Clinical Instructor position in the Department of Ophthalmology at Loma Linda University in Southern California from 2007 through 2021. Among others, his most notable achievements include being recognized as “Most Compassionate Doctor” (2011, 2013, 2017, 2018) and “Top Doctor Honors Edition” in the community on multiple occasions. Dr. Dovich was previously a managing partner of Pacific Eye Institute in Southern California where he combined advanced training with a wealth of knowledge and experience to provide extraordinary patient care in the treatment of both common and complex eye diseases –including both cataracts and glaucoma. Dr. Dovich is passionate about international ophthalmology and has led surgical expeditions to Dominican Republic (2007), Peru (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014), Mexico (2013), and Tanzania (2014). He serves on the Board of Directors for Adventist International Eye Services and the Board of Directors for Sight Restoration International. He is also president-elect of the Alumni Association of the School of Medicine at Loma Linda University. Joining the Northwest Eye family in 2021, Dr Dovich offers patients routine and specialty eye care out of our Golden Valley, Maple Grove, St. Anthony, and Wayzata offices. When Dr. Dovich is not providing exceptional care to his patients in the office he likes to spend his free time playing on the swing set with his young family, golfing, backcountry skiing, cycling, and traveling. Dr. Dovich speaks both English and Spanish.

Services: Comprehensive Eye Care , Glaucoma , Cataract

Emily Ellingson, O.D.

Emily Ellingson is an optometrist serving Northwest Eye’s Golden Valley and Wayzata offices, specializing in comprehensive eye care. Dr. Ellingson graduated from State University of New York College of Optometry. As a student, she was an active member of the optometric community serving on multiple boards for student organizations, including SUNY Student Council, College Vice President Search Committee, National Liaison for the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry, and Gold Key Honor Society. She went on to complete three externships at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center, Chu Vision Institute, and Compton Eye Associates, along with an internship at University Eye Clinic at SUNY Optometry. Dr. Ellingson completed her residency in Ocular and Refractive Surgery at Chu Vision Institute. Her education and work history are representative of her commitment to provide the best vision possible for all her patients. In her spare time, Dr. Ellingson and her husband like to spend time with family and friends, try new restaurants in the Twin Cities, cook, and travel.

Services: Eye Care , Eye Exams

Timothy J. Ehlen, M.D.

Timothy J. Ehlen, M.D., is a comprehensive Ophthalmologist and partner at Northwest Eye in Minnesota, specializing in cataract and refractive surgery, including LASIK and PRK. He has been a member of Northwest Eye’s respected team of doctors since 1998. Dr. Ehlen received his undergraduate B.A. degree in chemistry from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. After a year of post undergraduate work in the discipline, his true calling for medicine became apparent. He received his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School. It was in medical school when his calling to the ophthalmologic field was realized. After an internship at Hennepin County Medical Center, he went on to complete his ophthalmology residency at the University of Minnesota, and received additional training in LASIK refractive eye surgery. He maintains a position at the University of Minnesota as a clinical assistant professor of ophthalmology.

Education: St. Olaf College , University of Minnesota

Certifications: American Board of Ophthalmology

Services: Cataract , Refractive Surgery , LASIK , PRK

W. Keith Engel, M.D.

W. Keith Engel, M.D., is a pediatric Ophthalmologist at Northwest Eye Clinic in Minnesota, providing routine and specialty eye care for children from infants through teens. He joined Northwest Eye’s respected team of doctors in June 2013, bringing more than 20 years in practice and teaching experience in pediatric ophthalmology. Dr. Engel received his undergraduate degree, Summa Cum Laude, in History and Biology from Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine. He went on to complete his Doctor of Medicine degree at McGill University School of Medicine in Montreal, Quebec. After a rotating medical internship at the Montreal General Hospital, Dr. Engel completed an ophthalmology residency at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, in Rochester, New York, serving as Chief Resident. During that time, he also completed the Lancaster Course in Ophthalmology in Waterville, Maine. This is where he met his wife, Dr. Polly McCormack, who is also an ophthalmologist. Following his residency, Dr. Engel completed two fellowships. His first was an International Ophthalmology Fellowship with Project ORBIS, where he participated in medical education work in 20 countries around the world. He then went on to complete fellowship training in Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus at Indiana University School of Medicine and Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis.

Education: Bowdoin College , McGill University , University of Rochester School , Indiana University School

Certifications: American Board of Ophthalmology

Services: Pediatric Ophthalmology

Marni G. Feldmann, M.D.

Marni Feldmann, M.D. is an ophthalmologist at Northwest Eye specializing in diagnosis and treatment of retinal diseases with a particular interest in age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinal vascular diseases. She also specializes in retinal angiography and ocular imaging as well as office treatments, including lasers and intravitreal injections. Dr. Feldmann has been practicing ophthalmology for ten years. Dr. Feldmann completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire and earned her Doctor of Medicine at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She completed her residency in ophthalmology at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, and a fellowship in Diseases of the Retina at Northwestern University. Dr. Feldmann is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and is a member of several medical professional societies including the Minnesota Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Retina Specialists. She is also a fellow with the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Education: University of Wisconsin–Eau Clair , University of Wisconsin–Madison

Certifications: American Board of Ophthalmology

Services: Macular Degeneration , Retinal Disorders

Richard S. Freeman, M.D.

Richard S. Freeman, M.D., is a pediatric Ophthalmologist and partner at Northwest Eye in Minnesota, specializing in adult and pediatric eye alignment and the treatment of pediatric eye diseases. He joined Northwest Eye’s respected team of doctors in 1998 after a decade in practice locally. Dr. Freeman grew up in St. Paul, and received his undergraduate degree in neurobiology from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, followed by his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School. After an internship at Emanuel Hospital in Portland, Oregon, he traveled around the world with his wife, Linda, before completing his ophthalmology residency at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. A fellowship in ocular genetics, pediatric ophthalmology, and advanced strabismus at UCLA’s Jules Stein Eye Institute followed. Today, he serves both at the University of Minnesota as a clinical associate professor of ophthalmology and at St. Catherine’s University as the medical director of two training programs.

Education: Cornell University , University of Minnesota , Emory University

Certifications: American Board of Ophthalmology

Services: Eye Alignment , Pediatric Eye Care

Mila Heersink, M.D.

“I enjoy taking care of patients with complex eye problems and viewing things on a holistic level.” Mila J. Heersink, M.D., joined the Northwest Eye family in 2021 as a leader in the treatment of corneal conditions, cataract removal, glaucoma (MIGS), Dry Eye and general ophthalmology. She provides routine and specialty eye care out of our Golden Valley, Maple Grove, St. Anthony and Wayzata offices. Her patient-first approach to care includes helping her patients find treatment plans uniquely suited to them. Dr. Heersink combines her experience with the most advanced technologies to help produce positive results for her patients. Dr. Heersink received her undergraduate degree and her Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. After an internship at Harbor Hospital in Baltimore, she completed both her residency and cornea fellowship at the number one training program in the country for ophthalmology, Wills Eye Hospital. During those years of training, she was fortunate to learn from world-renowned leaders in the eye care field. Dr. Heersink is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, a member of the American Society of Refractive and Cataract Surgery, and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Dr. Heersink was born in Alabama but spent part of her childhood in the Netherlands. She was accepted into medical school as a high school student and graduated college a year early. She has spent a significant portion of her education abroad through volunteering or work-study programs and has devoted time to ophthalmology mission work internationally.

Services: Comprehensive Eye Care , Cornea , Dry Eye , Cataracts

Catherine Origlieri, M.D.

Catherine Origlieri, M.D., is a Pediatric Ophthalmologist at Northwest Eye, specializing in pediatric ophthalmology and pediatric eye alignment. She followed her graduation from New Jersey Medical School with an internal medicine internship at Georgetown University and then an ophthalmology residency at New Jersey Medical School. Dr. Origlieri then completed a fellowship in pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington D.C., where she worked as a pediatric ophthalmologist for another three years following the completion of her training. Her role as an Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology and Pediatrics at George Washington University gave her the responsibility of training surgical and clinical fellows and residents. After returning to her home state of New Jersey, Dr. Origlieri worked in private practice for four years as a pediatric ophthalmologist. In addition to training future doctors, Dr. Origlieri is very dedicated and well-published in the ophthalmology field. She has written multiple peer-reviewed journal articles, two textbook chapters, and has presented at national and international meetings. She is also certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and a member of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus. Her education, work history, and devotion to the advancement of ophthalmology reflect her commitment to providing the best vision possible for all her patients. Dr. Origlieri is accepting new patients and is excited to provide routine and specialty eye care for infants, children, and teens out of our Minnetonka and Woodbury offices. If you are looking for a partner in your family’s eye care, schedule an appointment today!

Education: Bachelor of Arts in Art History, New York University, New York, NY (1998 – 2002) , Doctor of Medicine, New Jersey Medical School (Rutgers), Newark, NJ (2004 – 2008) , Internal Medicine Internship, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington DC (2009 – 2010) , Ophthalmology Residency, New Jersey Medical School (Rutgers), Newark, NJ (2010 – 2013) , Pediatric Ophthalmology Fellowship, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington DC (2013 – 2014)

Matthew R. Ramsey, M.D.

Dr. Matthew R. Ramsey, M.D. is an Ophthalmologist at Northwest Eye Clinic in Minnesota practicing comprehensive ophthalmology. Dr. Ramsey joined Northwest Eye’s team of respected doctors in 2010. Dr. Ramsey earned his Bachelor of Science degree from St. Olaf College and his Doctor of Medicine at St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies. He went on to complete residency programs at Mercy Catholic Medical Center in Darby, PA, and Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Dr. Ramsey is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Minnesota Academy of Ophthalmology.

Education: St. Olaf College , St. George’s University School , Drexel University College of Medicine

Certifications: American Board of Ophthalmology

Services: Cataracts , Comprehensive Eye Care , LASIK

Janice M. Sinclair, M.D.

Janice M. Sinclair, M.D., is an Ophthalmologist and partner with Northwest Eye Clinic in Minnesota, practicing comprehensive ophthalmology, with particular interests in medical ophthalmology, refractive surgery, and oculoplastics, including BOTOX® treatments. She has been a member of Northwest Eye’s respected team of doctors since 2000. Dr. Sinclair grew up in the Battle Creek area of St. Paul. She completed her undergraduate education in pre-medicine at the University of Minnesota, receiving a Bachelor of Arts summa cum laude in piano performance and a minor in French. She received her Doctor of Medicine degree at the University of Minnesota Medical School, and was awarded both the Minnesota Medical Foundation Medical Student Achievement Award and the Metropolitan-Mount Sinai Outstanding Senior Medical Student Award. After an internship at Hennepin County Medical Center, Dr. Sinclair completed her residency in ophthalmology at the University of Minnesota. While in residency, she received the Department of Ophthalmology Best Teaching Award for Residents. She maintains an active interest in teaching as a clinical assistant professor at the University of Minnesota.

Education: University of Minnesota

Certifications: American Board of Ophthalmology

Services: BOTOX , Comprehensive eye care , LASIK

Nicholas J. Schmitt, M.D.

Nicholas J. Schmitt, M.D., is an Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon and partner at Northwest Eye Clinic in Minnesota, specializing in the medical and surgical management of conditions affecting the eyelids, lacrimal (tear) system, the orbit (the bony cavity surrounding the eye), and the adjacent face. He also specializes in cosmetic eyelid surgery as well as dermal fillers and Botox, helping patients look and feel their best with products such as BOTOX®, Restylane®, and JUVÉDERM™. He has been a member of Northwest Eye’s respected team of doctors since 2005. Dr. Schmitt completed his undergraduate studies with a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Guitar Performance at the University of Miami and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at the State University of New York at Buffalo. He obtained his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. Dr. Schmitt completed an internship in Internal Medicine and a residency in Ophthalmology at the University of Rochester Medical Center. He completed a fellowship in Oculoplastic, Reconstructive, and Orbital Surgery at Drexel University of Pennsylvania – Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA.

Education: University of Miami , State University of New York at Buffalo , University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry

Certifications: American Board of Ophthalmology

Services: Oculoplastic , Orbital & Reconstructive Surgery

Brian J. Hamann, O.D.

Dr. Brian Hamann is an Optometrist at Northwest Eye practicing comprehensive optometry, including the treatment and management of ocular pathology with a specialty in contact lenses. He is certified by the Minnesota Board of Optometry and the National Board of Examiners in Optometry. Dr. Hamann has been an active member of Northwest Eye’s respected team of doctors for ten years. Dr. Hamann earned his undergraduate degree at Bethel College and his Doctor of Optometry at Michigan College of Optometry. After obtaining his O.D., he served as an optometrist for the U.S. Air Force, during which time he was also an adjunct clinical professor for Indiana University and the University of Houston.

Education: Bethel College , Michigan College of Optometry

Certifications: Minnesota Board of Optometry

Services: Comprehensive eye care

Emily Hutchins, O.D.

Emily L. Hutchins is an optometrist serving Northwest Eye’s Golden Valley, St. Anthony, and Wayzata offices, specializing in comprehensive eye care. Dr. Hutchins graduated summa cum laude from the Illinois College of Optometry in 2017. As a student, she was an active member of the optometric community serving on multiple boards for student organizations and holding membership with several honor societies including Gold Key International honor society, Tomb and Key honor society, and Beta Sigma Kappa honor fraternity. She went on to complete a one-year intensive residency at the Minneapolis VA hospital specializing in brain injury, low vision, and primary care optometry. Her education and work history are representative of her commitment to provide the best vision possible for all her patients. Dr. Hutchins grew up in Le Mars, Iowa and was an avid percussionist from childhood through college. She completed her undergraduate education at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota with Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Music and Biology. In her free time, she enjoys playing her marimba, drinking fancy coffee, antiquing, and exploring new places.

Education: Concordia College – Moorhead, Minnesota Bachelor of Arts in Biology & Music, Minor in Chemistry, Graduated Magna Cum Laude with Biology Honors 2013 , Medical School Illinois College Of Optometry – Chicago, Illinois, Doctor of Optometry, Graduated Summa Cum Laude, 2017 , Residency Minneapolis V.A. Health Care System – Minneapolis, Minnesota, 2017-2018 , Fellowship Refractive Surgery, Cornea and Glaucoma, Lindstrom, Samuelson and Hardten Phillips Eye Institute, Minneapolis (1995-1996)

Certifications: Minnesota Optometric Association 2017-Present , Gold Key Honor Society 2017-Present , Beta Sigma Kappa Honor Society 2017-Present

Services: Comprehensive Eye Care

Christopher Kruthoff, O.D., FAAO

Christopher Kruthoff, O.D., FAAO, is an optometrist serving Northwest Eye’s Golden Valley and Wayzata offices. As a true partner in his patients’ eye care, Dr. Kruthoff is committed to helping patients ‘Be Eye Wise’ and fully understand the unique situations of their eyes. Dr. Kruthoff specializes in routine checkups, treatment of acute eye problems, management of ocular disease, perioperative care, glaucoma, cornea, and pre and post-operative cataract care. Dr. Kruthoff completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Iowa, majoring in Biomedical Engineering. He earned his Doctor of Optometry degree at the Illinois College of Optometry, where he graduated Cum Laude. Following graduation, he completed a residency in ocular disease at Omni Eye Services of Atlanta, further building experience in the medical management of cornea, glaucoma, cataract, and retinal conditions. Before starting at Northwest Eye, he worked at a multispecialty ophthalmology clinic in Virginia, working with surgeons in all specialties to provide co-managed care for patients. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and is a member of the American Optometric Association, the Minnesota Optometric Association, and the Optometric Cornea, Cataract, and Refractive Society. When not in the office, Dr. Kruthoff is an avid sports enthusiast, both as a fan and as a participant in recreational sports. He also enjoys cycling and traveling.

Education: Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE), Biomedical Engineering, graduated with distinction, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA (2010) , Doctor of Optometry, Illinois College of Optometry, Chicago, IL (2015) , Omni Eye Services of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA (2015 – 2016)

Certifications: American Optometric Association , Association Virginia Optometric Association , Tidewater Optometric Society, Board Member 2018 , American Academy of Optometry , American Optometric Student Association Trustee, 2013-2014; Trustee-Elect, 2012-2013

Dane M. Peterson, O.D., F.A.A.O.

Dane Peterson, O.D., F.A.A.O., is an Optometrist at Northwest Eye practicing comprehensive optometry, including the treatment and management of ocular pathology with a specialty in dry eye, contact lenses and family eye care. He is certified by the Minnesota State Board of Optometry, National Board of Examiners in Optometry and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry. He is also a member of the Minnesota Optometric Association and American Optometric Association. Dr. Peterson has been an active part of Northwest Eye’s respected team of doctors since summer of 2013. A Minnesota native and graduate of Cannon Falls High School, Dr. Peterson attended Syracuse University and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Biology. He earned his Doctorate of Optometry at the University of Missouri-St. Louis College of Optometry, during which time he received awards for excellence in contact lens patient care and clinical skills.

Education: Cannon Falls High School , Syracuse University , University of Missouri-St. Louis College of Optometry

Certifications: Minnesota State Board of Optometry , American Academy of Optometry

Services: Comprehensive Eye Care

Nicole N. Scheffer, O.D.

Nicole Sheffer earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Minnesota, majoring in ecology, evolution, and behavior and minoring in neuroscience. She then received her Doctor of Optometry degree from Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago, IL. Dr. Sheffer recently completed externships at Eye Care Associates in CT, Illinois Eye Institute in Chicago, IL, Pine Cone Vision Center in Sartell, MN, and Providence VA Medical Center in Providence, RI. She gained experience working in a variety of settings, including working with patients who have traumatic brain injuries and other disabilities. Dedicated to providing superb patient care, Dr. Sheffer offers comprehensive eye care for all ages and has a passion for working with young adults and special needs patients. In addition to general eye care, Dr. Sheffer also has a special interest in computer-related eye strain, contact lenses, and myopia control. Although originally from South Florida, Dr. Sheffer loves all things Minnesota (especially Lake of the Woods).

Services: Teen and Adult Speciality Contact Lenses , Myopia Control , Comprehensive Eye Care

Ijeoma S. Chinwuba, M.D.

Dr. Ijeoma S. Chinwuba is a fellowship-trained, board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in Comprehensive Eye Care at Northwest Eye. Dr. Chinwuba received her undergraduate degree in Neuroscience from Dartmouth College, where she also pursued interests in global health and health equity. She was then a research assistant in Massachusetts General Hospital’s Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery before attending the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania where she earned her medical degree. During medical school, she was awarded the James Herbert Robinson four-year scholarship and discovered her love of ophthalmology through her time as a research assistant at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Department of Ophthalmology. Dr. Chinwuba completed an ophthalmology residency at NYU followed by a pediatric ophthalmology fellowship with Emory University and thus has experience with your eye care needs at any stage of life. She grew up in Chicago and practiced comprehensive ophthalmology there prior to moving to Minneapolis. Dr. Chinwuba is accepting new patients at our Wayzata, Maple Grove, and Golden Valley offices. Dr. Chinwuba is proud to partner with you and your entire family on whatever your vision goals may be.

Education: Dartmouth College: A.B. Neuroscience (2006 – 2010) , Internship: Crozer-Chester Medical Center: transitional year (2015 – 2016) , New York University: ophthalmology residency (2016-2019) , Emory University Dept. of Ophthalmology: Pediatric Ophthalmology Fellow (2019-2020)

Services: Opthalmology