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Charles Lin, MD
Cornea specialist, Cataract specialist
Clinical Assistant Professor, Ophthalmology
Bio:
Dr. Lin is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained cornea specialist, focusing on the medical and surgical management of cornea conditions, as well as cataract surgery. He spearheads the cornea transplant program at Stanford University and has launched cutting edge surgical procedures including ultra-thin DSAEK, DMEK and DALK at Stanford. He leads clinical trials at Stanford focusing on cornea transplantation and ocular infections. Dr. Lin sees patients at the Byers Eye Institute at Stanford University. If you wish to make an appointment, please call 650-723-6995 and ask to speak with Ruby Huang.
Charles Lin, MD received his AB in Environmental Science and Public Policy from Harvard University, graduating summa cum laude. He attended medical school at the University of California, San Francisco, where he received his M.D. with honors. Following an internship in Internal Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Hospital, he completed his ophthalmology residency at the University of California, San Francisco. Upon graduation, he was awarded the Heed Fellowship, a prestigious national award for ophthalmologists entering a career in academic medicine. He received subspecialty Cornea, External Disease, and Refractive Surgery training at the F.I. Proctor Foundation and University of California, San Francisco, one of the premier fellowships in the country.
He has extensive clinical and surgical experience in the following diseases:
•Cataract including complex cataract surgery
•Fuchs’ Dystrophy
•Cornea edema
•Keratoconus & Pellucid Marginal Degeneration
•Herpetic keratitis
•Cornea ulcers
•Pterygium
•Episcleritis & scleritis
•Allergic, Vernal & Atopic keratoconjunctivitis
•Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid & Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
•Corneal Dystrophies
•Corneal & Conjunctival tumors
•Blepharitis & Dry Eye
Charles Lin, MD received his AB in Environmental Science and Public Policy from Harvard University, graduating summa cum laude. He attended medical school at the University of California, San Francisco, where he received his M.D. with honors. Following an internship in Internal Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Hospital, he completed his ophthalmology residency at the University of California, San Francisco. Upon graduation, he was awarded the Heed Fellowship, a prestigious national award for ophthalmologists entering a career in academic medicine. He received subspecialty Cornea, External Disease, and Refractive Surgery training at the F.I. Proctor Foundation and University of California, San Francisco, one of the premier fellowships in the country.
He has extensive clinical and surgical experience in the following diseases:
•Cataract including complex cataract surgery
•Fuchs’ Dystrophy
•Cornea edema
•Keratoconus & Pellucid Marginal Degeneration
•Herpetic keratitis
•Cornea ulcers
•Pterygium
•Episcleritis & scleritis
•Allergic, Vernal & Atopic keratoconjunctivitis
•Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid & Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
•Corneal Dystrophies
•Corneal & Conjunctival tumors
•Blepharitis & Dry Eye
- 2452 Watson Court
- Palo Alto , CA 94303
- Phone: 650-723-6995
Practice Areas
Professional Education
- Board Certification: Ophthalmology, American Board of Ophthalmology (2012)
- Board Certification, American Board of Ophthalmology (2013)
- Internship: Cedars Sinai Medical Center Pediatric Residency Ended 2004 (2008) CA
- B.A., Harvard University, Environmental Science & Public Policy, summa cum laude (2001)
- Fellowship: UCSF Dept of Ophthalmology (2012) CA
- Medical Education: University of California at San Francisco School of Medicine (2007) CA
- Residency: University of California at San Francisco School of Medicine (2011) CA
Honors & Awards
- Alpha Omega Alpha, University of California, San Francisco (2007)
- Best Poster, UCSF Global Health Symposium (2004)
- Dean's Study Abroad Grant, University of California, San Francisco (2003)
- Editors' Choice, American Academy of Ophthalmology (2016)
- Fogarty-Ellison Fellowship for Global Health, National Institutes of Health (2005)
- Garcia/Asbury Award, University of California, San Francisco (2010)
- Harvard-Yenching Fellowship, Harvard University (2001)
- Heed Fellowship, Heed Ophthalmic Foundation (2011-2012)
- International Health Travel Grant, Rainer's Fund (2003)
- John Harvard Scholarships, Harvard University (1998-2001)
- Paul Langer Award, University of California, San Francisco (2011)
- Phi Beta Kappa, Harvard University (2001)
- Phi Beta Kappa Graduate Scholarship, Northern California Phi Beta Kappa (2006)
- Steiner Community Service Grant, Cabot House, Harvard University (2000)
- Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship, California Institute of Technology (1998)
- Thomas Hoopes Prize, Harvard University (2001)
Administrative Appointments
- Director of Cornea Fellowship, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University (2016 - Present)
- Operating Room Committee, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University (2016 - Present)
Publications
-
Rapid photochemical generation of ubiquinol through a radical pathway: An avenue for probing submillisecond enzyme kinetics
Schultz, B. E., Hansen, K. C., Lin, C. C., & Chan, S. I. (2000). Rapid photochemical generation of ubiquinol through a radical pathway: An avenue for probing submillisecond enzyme kinetics. JOURNAL OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY, 65(10), 3244–3247. -
Determinants of bone and blood lead levels among minorities living in the Boston area
Lin, C., Kim, R., Tsaih, S. W., Sparrow, D., & Hu, H. (2004). Determinants of bone and blood lead levels among minorities living in the Boston area. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES, 112(11), 1147–1151. -
Syphilis in China: results of a national surveillance programme
Chen, Z.-Q., Zhang, G.-C., Gong, X.-D., Lin, C., Gao, X., Liang, G.-J., … Cohen, M. S. (2007). Syphilis in China: results of a national surveillance programme. LANCET, 369(9556), 132–138. -
Trachoma control - Is azithromycin the answer for trichiasis too?
Lin, C., & Lietman, T. (2007). Trachoma control - Is azithromycin the answer for trichiasis too? ARCHIVES OF OPHTHALMOLOGY, 125(6), 819–820.
-
Acanthamoeba Keratitis in South India: A Longitudinal Analysis of Epidemics
Lalitha, P., Lin, C. C., Srinivasan, M., Mascarenhas, J., Prajna, N. V., Keenan, J. D., … Porco, T. C. (2012). Acanthamoeba Keratitis in South India: A Longitudinal Analysis of Epidemics. OPHTHALMIC EPIDEMIOLOGY, 19(2), 111–115.
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Seasonal Trends of Microbial Keratitis in South India
Lin, C. C., Lalitha, P., Srinivasan, M., Prajna, N. V., McLeod, S. D., Acharya, N. R., … Porco, T. C. (2012). Seasonal Trends of Microbial Keratitis in South India. CORNEA, 31(10), 1123–1127.
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Rapid corneal adrenochrome deposition from topical ibopamine in the setting of infectious keratitis
Bhosai, S. J., Lin, C. C., Greene, J., BLOOMER, M. M., & Jeng, B. H. (2013). Rapid corneal adrenochrome deposition from topical ibopamine in the setting of infectious keratitis. EYE, 27(1), 105–106.
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Scleral intraocular pressure measurement in cadaver eyes pre- and postkeratoprosthesis implantation.
Lin, C. C., Chen, A., Jeng, B. H., Porco, T. C., Ou, Y., & Han, Y. (2014). Scleral intraocular pressure measurement in cadaver eyes pre- and postkeratoprosthesis implantation. Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, 55(4), 2244–2250.
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Patient Comments
Patients comments are gathered from our Patient Satisfaction Survey and displayed in their entirety. Patients are de-identified for confidentiality and patient privacy.
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
Drs. Lin & Roc are excellent!
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
Excellent care. All questions answered. It would be good to have an understanding of the cost of the prescription called in. (This was a follow up visit. The first visit was in the late afternoon, the only appointment available at a very short notice, and the doctor was extremely busy but still saw all of his patients. I was very grateful that I got to see Dr. Lin on that day.) He is extremely competent and reassuring.
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
examination addressed problems experienced - impressed with thoroughness that led to decision for surgery I was very comfortable with their detail and decisions and how the entire process was conducted
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
I have see Dr Weinlander for over 20 years, and she is always pleasant, cheerful and always listening, concerning and asking questions on my well being and a fantastic caring, steady doctor. I am forever grateful to be under her care !! Thank you Dr W!
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
Dr Lin is certainly a confidence builder.
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
Dr. Charles Chia-Hong Lin is excellent doctor.
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
Wish this doctor would have continued with my treatment.
SHC Patient, Dec 2017
Doctor Charlies Lin is excellent on everything
SHC Patient, Dec 2017
I was made to feel comfortable and at ease. The appointment was all that could be expected.
SHC Patient, Dec 2017
Care provider seemed rushed.
SHC Patient, Dec 2017
Very thorough. Very pleasant. Reassuring.
SHC Patient, Dec 2017
Dr. Charles Lin is outstanding.
SHC Patient, Dec 2017
Doctor seemed rushed, (again).
SHC Patient, Dec 2017
excellent doctor
SHC Patient, Oct 2017
phycian seemed rushed. husband has hearing problem , and did to hear much of visit. I (wife) felt sorry for. my husband , he was an ophthalogist (Mayo Clinic graduate) and had many concerns! about the surgery . He was associate clinical professor at Stanford assisting Stanford surgery residents at San Jouquin county Hospital , many years ago !He is also to have a cochlear implant at a later date
SHC Patient, Oct 2017
Dr. Lin was very detailed, answered all my questions patiently, I am very happy with the result
SHC Patient, Oct 2017
No problem.
SHC Patient, Sep 2017
My answers reflect the time spent with the doctor who is working with Dr. Lin--I regret I don't remember his name. Dr. Lin's time with me seemed perfunctory, and I understand that given the extent of the care provided by the first doctor.
SHC Patient, Sep 2017
Excellent visit !
SHC Patient, Sep 2017
Dr. Lin provides great & professional treatment to me.work attitude is nice & patient.really appreciate his help from my heart!
SHC Patient, Sep 2017
Amazing Doctor. He is all a doctor should be.
SHC Patient, Sep 2017
good
SHC Patient, Aug 2017
Perfect.
SHC Patient, Aug 2017
I was so impresssed with the new Dr. to Stanford, Dr. Roe. Stanford truly is blessed to have hired such a remarkable new DR.. He was through, pleasant , exteermly clear in his evaluation and most important sincerely caring in his approach. A TEN, w/o doubt.
SHC Patient, Aug 2017
Dr Lin is amazing! He listens very patiently to me, and explains everything well. He sometimes give me options.
SHC Patient, Aug 2017
Definitely a very good experience with Dr. Lin. I like him very much.
SHC Patient, Aug 2017
Need the medications instructions and follow-up care instructions in writing and on my health.
SHC Patient, Aug 2017
I have great faith in Dr. Lin.
SHC Patient, Aug 2017
The best.
SHC Patient, Jul 2017
I have complete confidence in Dr. Charles Lin because he is a very knowledgeable and kind doctor. He takes the time to answer your questions and explains things clearly.
SHC Patient, Jul 2017
Dr. Lin is the best doctor.
SHC Patient, Jul 2017
Dr. Lin is an amazing doctor - very thorough, never felt rushed, personal - one of the very best! I would definitely recommend!
SHC Patient, Jul 2017
Dr. Charles Lin is outstanding, from his technical expertise to his "bedside manner". He clearly gives the options, probable outcomes, what-if scenarios, and does an excellent job at reducing apprehensions. I trust him.
SHC Patient, Jun 2017
Dr. Lin is an Awesome Dr. He takes his time and ensures that I understand everything.
SHC Patient, Jun 2017
I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Charles Lin. He is a great listener who explains things clearly to you. I would recommend him to anyone who needs any eye surgery.
SHC Patient, Jun 2017
I am very happy to be seeing Dr. Lin. I am confident that he will help me resolve my eye problems.
SHC Patient, Jun 2017
Dr Lin is amazing!
SHC Patient, Jun 2017
Dr. Lin is fantastic
SHC Patient, May 2017
Dr Lin in very personable, thorough and caring. I was very grateful for his advice that helped me make the best choice in managing my condition.
SHC Patient, May 2017
I have been very pleased with my interactions with Dr. Lin and his team
SHC Patient, Apr 2017
Dr. Lin very kind & attentive.
SHC Patient, Apr 2017
Dr. Lin has excellent communication skills.
SHC Patient, Mar 2017
Dr. Eisenberg is an extraordinarily good communicator
SHC Patient, Mar 2017
I am very happy with Dr.Lin. He is very caring. He is taking good care of my Eye problems
SHC Patient, Mar 2017
Dr Lin is exceptional. I am 72 so I really do have a lot to compare him to. The results of my cataract surgeries compare favorably to my friends (who went to other physicians). Basically my vision is now unbelievably good.. Like I was 21 again And I did have some issues that made my surgeries somewhat challenging.!!! And as I'm sure you hear from his other patients, his God - given personality, manner, and sincere concern for his patients is exactly what every patient would want.
SHC Patient, Feb 2017
Dr.Chen is very caring. He knows what check up I came for , If I am ready for Cataract surgury of my right eye
SHC Patient, Dec 2016
good
SHC Patient, Dec 2016
I was losing my vision from a corneal disease. I met with 5 corneal specialists before I selected Dr. Charles Lin as my surgeon. Dr. Lin is a brilliant, gifted, and compassionate surgeon. Because of his expertise and a near miracle surgery I will see my 4 year old daughter grow up! Thank you Dr. Lin. I am forever grateful.
SHC Patient, Dec 2016
incredibly wonderful doctor in every way, communication skills, knowledge, caring, took plenty of time, left feeling great sense of trust. my mom couldn't stop saying what a wonderful medical experience with everyone who worked with us. many apologies about some delay; lucky to have delays because it means the team is really going above and beyond for each patient, healthcare not business.
SHC Patient, Dec 2016
The resident was very informative and friendly and Dr. Lin was much more friendly and timely.
SHC Patient, Nov 2016
Dr. Lin is awesome! Great bed side manager and patience! He took the time explaining everything and answering my questions. I chose Stanford to do my Cornea Transplant because of Dr. Lin's humble and affable personality was so much better than Dr. Lee at Los Altos Eye Physicians.
SHC Patient, Nov 2016
Very good.
SHC Patient, Nov 2016
dr lin was great. competent, caring and yes, i trust him.
SHC Patient, Oct 2016
I am very impress with all the work they do and concern they have with there patients.
SHC Patient, Sep 2016
I am so grateful to/for the car I always receive.
SHC Patient, Sep 2016
Good.
SHC Patient, Aug 2016
Good.
SHC Patient, Aug 2016
Very good.
SHC Patient, Aug 2016
Excellent
SHC Patient, Jul 2016
Dr. Lin is a gifted and remarkable physician. Anywhere else, such a person would have an ego the size of the Superdome, but he is open, humorous, caring and supremely communicative concerning conditions and options for care. I have never had a doctor I liked and appreciated more!
SHC Patient, Jul 2016
I've unfortunately been going to doctors my entire life (had polio) and Dr. Lin's knowledge, caring respect concern & willingness to answer questions put him way, way at the top - he's extraordinary.
SHC Patient, Jul 2016
Dr. Lin is a consummate surgeon, who... with real warmth,... for the patient.
SHC Patient, Jul 2016
After waiting for about an hour in a room by myself, when the doctor finally did come in he was obviously in a hurry and showed zero concern for my problem. He was there for about 2 minutes, looked at my eyes and then told me I was fine. When I questioned that he told me to see an eyelid specialist. I was there for an ulcer/corneal abrasion and pain and swelling in my eye for which I was seen in the ER. I am not sure what that has to do with my eyelids. I actually have been meaning to call to complain but since I received this survey, I will voice my complaint here as well. He was definitely trying to rush me out since he was running way behind schedule.
SHC Patient, Jul 2016
I can not praise Dr. Lin highly enough. he is friendly, listens attentively to my concerns and is a gifted surgeon.
SHC Patient, Jul 2016
I felt rushed, almost like the doctor has a daily quoata to meet
SHC Patient, Jun 2016
Very good visit. The Doctor was patient, kind, showed a lot of concern for my condition and answered all my questions with great empathy, gave me encouragement and told me some very important information about my condition that will help me plan out my treatment. His staff even followed through with me on the phone the next day about an eyedrop prescription. I came out of the visit feeling a lot better. Thank you Doctor
SHC Patient, Jun 2016
My home circumstances have made planning this procedure extraordinarily difficult. The physician was extremely capable at listening with an "inner ear". I appreciate deeply his medical skill and caring approach.
SHC Patient, Jun 2016
amazing experience
SHC Patient, Jun 2016
Dr. Lin is ok when my condition is stable. Doesn't seem experienced when my condition worsens. Doesn't share information on prognosis based on his experience treating other patients in my situation.
SHC Patient, May 2016
Dr. Lin. The best surgeon and caring person. Surgery was very successful.. The staff that works with him.. the best. thank you all for my care...
SHC Patient, May 2016
Unfortunately, you do not have an "excellent" or "superlative" button, as I would have checked those
SHC Patient, May 2016
it was all good.
SHC Patient, Apr 2016
I am very happy with Dr. Lin. I am so blessed to have him taking care of me. He always asks if I have any questions or concerns. I feel he truly cares about me : )
SHC Patient, Apr 2016
Dr. Lin care was good & very courteous. The appointments were timely scheduled.
SHC Patient, Apr 2016
Dr. Lin is amazing! very kind, friendly, professional and humble!
SHC Patient, Mar 2016
Dr. Lin is personable and seems timid.
SHC Patient, Mar 2016
During my waits, Dr. Lin was very thorough and made me feel at ease. It was a very wonderful experience even though I had eye discomfort.
SHC Patient, Mar 2016
Dr. Lin is great.
SHC Patient, Mar 2016
Dr. Lin was polite and explained everything in detail.
SHC Patient, Feb 2016
Dr. Lin is extremely kind and reassuring!
SHC Patient, Feb 2016
My condition is not curable and I felt that I was given very little encouragement at this appointment. I called the office with questions after the appointment; however, and Dr. Lin called me the next day and answered all my questions and was much more helpful.
SHC Patient, Feb 2016
Exceptional & beyond! Dr. Charles Lin rates very high on my list!
SHC Patient, Jan 2016
dr. Lin rocks!
SHC Patient, Jan 2016
Dr. Lueng and Dr. Lin were very professional and courtesy.
SHC Patient, Jan 2016
Dr Lin & his staff... The best of the best. Love this clinic. Courteous and always on time !!!
SHC Patient, Jan 2016
Excellent care provided.
SHC Patient, Nov 2015
Dr. Lin was very efficient; however, I did not feel rushed with questions and I had confidence that he wanted to help me resolve my eye problems.
SHC Patient, Nov 2015
Good
SHC Patient, Nov 2015
My surgery & care was the best.
SHC Patient, Oct 2015
The doctor was very thoughtful and considerate and explained what was going on with me very well and I feel that I am in good hands.
SHC Patient, Oct 2015
I think very highly of Dr. Lin & very grateful that Dr. Manche referred me to him.
SHC Patient, Oct 2015
He's nothing short of amazing!! I thought I would need full cornea transplants (after going blind) which take a year before you can see. He's one of the few that can do DMEC just transplant cells destroying my corneas before I go blind & you can see 2 weeks later!! A miracle! Genius! So, so lucky to have him as my doctor!
SHC Patient, Sep 2015
They made a big effort to see me before I had to leave on a family trip.
SHC Patient, Aug 2015
Very good.
SHC Patient, Jul 2015
In addition to his kindness and patience during my appointment, Dr. Lin responded to follow-up questions after the visit with impressive attention to detail and efficiency -- in less than 24 hours, even though the questions were not urgent.
SHC Patient, Jul 2015
I was fully satisfied.
SHC Patient, Jul 2015
I'm very satisfied with Dr. Lin
SHC Patient, May 2015
Dr. Lin is a caring doctor. He is an excellent surgeon. I really appreciate everything he has done for me. As a person with progressive vision loss, Dr. Lin gave me hope that my limited vision will remain with me longer post-surgery. Thank you, Dr. Lin!
SHC Patient, May 2015
no issues here.
SHC Patient, Apr 2015
Thank you Dr. Lin for the excellent cataract surgery you performed. I have very complicated eye conditions and Dr. Lin masterfully dealt with them in my first surgery. I am confident that equal expertise will be used on my other eye. I REALLY am pleased with everything you have done to help me with my vision loss issues. Thank you!
SHC Patient, Apr 2015
It would have been helpful to have some written instructions regarding postop care and directions for the additional drops.
SHC Patient, Apr 2015
Very good.
SHC Patient, Apr 2015
Thank you for doing my surgery Dr. Lin! Keep up your excellent work.
SHC Patient, Mar 2015
good
SHC Patient, Feb 2015
Very professional, thorough, patient friendly.
SHC Patient, Feb 2015
Dr. Lin has been consistently kind, attentive, an excellent surgeon, and a physician I completely trust.
SHC Patient, Jul 2014
Good.
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
Drs. Lin & Roc are excellent!
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
Excellent care. All questions answered. It would be good to have an understanding of the cost of the prescription called in. (This was a follow up visit. The first visit was in the late afternoon, the only appointment available at a very short notice, and the doctor was extremely busy but still saw all of his patients. I was very grateful that I got to see Dr. Lin on that day.) He is extremely competent and reassuring.
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
examination addressed problems experienced - impressed with thoroughness that led to decision for surgery I was very comfortable with their detail and decisions and how the entire process was conducted
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
I have see Dr Weinlander for over 20 years, and she is always pleasant, cheerful and always listening, concerning and asking questions on my well being and a fantastic caring, steady doctor. I am forever grateful to be under her care !! Thank you Dr W!
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
Dr Lin is certainly a confidence builder.
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
Dr. Charles Chia-Hong Lin is excellent doctor.
SHC Patient, Jan 2018
Wish this doctor would have continued with my treatment.
SHC Patient, Dec 2017
Doctor Charlies Lin is excellent on everything
SHC Patient, Dec 2017
I was made to feel comfortable and at ease. The appointment was all that could be expected.
SHC Patient, Dec 2017
Care provider seemed rushed.
SHC Patient, Dec 2017
Very thorough. Very pleasant. Reassuring.
SHC Patient, Dec 2017
Dr. Charles Lin is outstanding.
View All 107 Patient Comments »