Dr. H. George Tanaka, MD

Expert Publications

• January consultation #6.
• July consultation #8.
• Early growth of regenerating neurites in acrylamide neuropathic mice: application of a film model.

Media Releases

Transforming Eye Care with Personalized Services and Advanced Techniques

San Francisco, California – H. George Tanaka, MD, a distinguished board-certified and fellowship-trained glaucoma and cataract surgeon, is proud to announce the launch of TanakaVision, the first concierge glaucoma practice in the Bay Area. With over two decades of experience in glaucoma diagnosis and management, Dr. Tanaka is dedicated to enhancing patient care through a personalized approach and advanced treatment options, ensuring optimal outcomes and satisfaction.

Dr. Tanaka, who currently serves as Co-Director of the Glaucoma Service at California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC), has earned a reputation for excellence in the field. His commitment to education has been recognized with the Clinical Faculty Teaching Award five times, showcasing his dedication to training the next generation of ophthalmologists.

Dr. Tanaka graduated with high honors from Princeton University, majoring in electrical engineering and computer science, where his senior thesis focused on developing a microprocessor-based distance estimation system for individuals with visual impairments. He earned his Medical Degree with honors from the prestigious Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology Program, a joint initiative of Harvard Medical School and MIT. During medical school Dr. Tanaka dedicated two years to eye research, exploring lens and corneal metabolism at the Howe Laboratory of the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary in Boston. He went on to complete his ophthalmology residency at CPMC in San Francisco, where he was awarded the Erdbrink Resident Research Award, followed by a glaucoma fellowship at Northwestern University in Chicago. Dr. Tanaka then entered private practice and has since been a member of the clinical faculty at CPMC. He has further enriched his expertise by completing the Physician CEO Program at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

Dr. Tanaka pioneered the use of all recently FDA-approved MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery) procedures, positioning himself at the forefront of the emerging field of interventional glaucoma. As a skilled refractive cataract surgeon, he also offers his cataract patients advanced options, including light-adjustable intraocular lens implants, which can significantly reduce dependence on glasses post-cataract surgery.

Dr. Tanaka is an Associate Examiner for the American Board of Ophthalmology, reflecting his commitment to advancing standards in his field. He is also a member of both the American Glaucoma Society and the American Academy of Ophthalmology, where he received an Achievement Award recognizing his professional contributions and dedication to ophthalmic care.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Tanaka is an active researcher and educator. He has lectured extensively on glaucoma and has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals. His current research interests include innovative methods to enhance the success rates of both traditional and interventional glaucoma procedures.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Dr. Tanaka is committed to giving back to the community. He volunteers on medical missions to Hospital de la Familia, a regional eye center which supports sustainable vision care in underserved regions of Western Guatemala and Southern Mexico.

In his free time, Dr. Tanaka enjoys hiking, cycling, working out in the gym, snowboarding, traveling, and playing the cello, maintaining a well-rounded lifestyle that reflects his passion for both health and the arts.

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