Richard Adler, MD, FACS | Cornea Specialist | Keratoconus Specialists of Maryland

Dr. Richard Adler, MD, FACS, is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained cornea specialist with decades of experience caring for patients with complex corneal disease. At Keratoconus Specialists of Maryland, he provides comprehensive medical and surgical evaluation for keratoconus and other challenging corneal conditions – working collaboratively with our advanced specialty lens team to ensure patients receive precise, coordinated care.

Education & Academic Distinction

Dr. Adler graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Pennsylvania, where he was selected for the prestigious University Scholars Program. He earned his medical degree from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, followed by an ophthalmology residency at the world-renowned Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins.

Johns Hopkins Wilmer Fellowship Training

Dr. Adler completed an advanced fellowship in Corneal, Refractive, and External Disease at the Wilmer Eye Institute. His fellowship training established a strong foundation in the diagnosis, medical management, and surgical decision-making required for progressive and complex corneal disorders.

This background allows Dr. Adler to guide patients through nuanced decisions regarding corneal stability, disease progression, and appropriate timing of interventions—while prioritizing long-term eye health and visual outcomes.

Board Certification & Professional Distinction

Dr. Adler is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). He is also a Diplomate of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Dr. Adler’s clinical focus includes:

• Keratoconus and corneal ectasia
• Corneal thinning and scarring
• Irregular astigmatism
• Ocular surface disease
• Post-surgical corneal evaluation
• Long-term corneal stability monitoring

For patients with moderate to advanced keratoconus, Dr. Adler provides detailed medical oversight and surgical consultation when appropriate, ensuring that every treatment recommendation is grounded in sound corneal science.

What distinguishes Keratoconus Specialists of Maryland is the integration of corneal medical expertise with advanced optical rehabilitation. Dr. Adler works closely with our keratoconus lens specialists to evaluate whether progression is present and to determine when procedures such as corneal crosslinking, Intacs, or corneal transplantation may be indicated.

At the same time, many patients achieve excellent outcomes through advanced specialty contact lens technologies, including custom scleral lenses, wavefront lenses, PVR PROSE, and impression-based scleral lenses. This team-based approach ensures that both structural corneal health and visual quality are addressed together.

A Thoughtful, Patient-Centered Approach

Patients value Dr. Adler for his clear explanations, measured guidance, and reassuring presence—especially when navigating high-stakes decisions about their vision. He takes time to review imaging, explain findings, and outline treatment pathways so patients feel informed and confident in their care plan.

His involvement adds an essential layer of expertise for individuals seeking comprehensive corneal care under one roof—from early diagnosis to advanced disease management.

Serving patients across Maryland and Virginia, and collaborating with referring eye care professionals throughout the region, Dr. Adler strengthens the practice’s commitment to delivering exceptional corneal and keratoconus care. His depth of experience, Wilmer training, and collaborative philosophy make him a trusted resource for patients seeking expert corneal guidance.