Amjad Z. Ahmad, MD
Oculofacial Surgeon Chicago Eyelids
Oakbrook Magazine (OB): What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
Dr. Amjad Ahmad: My parents were my biggest inspiration. My father was a gastroenterologist in a Detroit suburb, and my mother, originally a chemistry professor, became a dedicated housewife raising three boys. She admired and loved my father deeply, and that pride she had in him left a lasting impression on me. I think a big part of my motivation was wanting to make them proud. As kids, we often mirror what we see, and in my case, medicine felt like a calling—just as it had for my father.
OB: How have mentors shaped your journey as a physician and surgeon?
Dr. Ahmad: I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors. During my fellowship at the University of Michigan’s Kellogg Eye Center, I trained under three exceptional oculofacial surgeons: Dr. Bart Frueh, Dr. Christine Nelson, and Dr. Victor Elner. They instilled in me the importance of thorough history-taking, careful exams, and surgical planning focused on safety and natural results. At the University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, I worked with Dr. Allen Putterman—one of the most renowned oculofacial surgeons globally. Over 18 years, he’s guided me in cosmetic oculofacial surgery. Dr. Steve Fagien in Boca Raton, a previous fellow of Dr. Putterman’s, also helped me understand the value of non-invasive treatments like Botox, fillers, and CO2 lasers.
OB: What’s your philosophy when it comes to patient relationships?
Dr. Ahmad: Trust is everything. I believe great outcomes come from mutual trust—patients need to trust their surgeon, and vice versa. But trust isn’t automatic; it must be earned. I do that through listening carefully, conducting detailed exams, and above all, following the principle of “do no harm.” I often encourage patients to seek second or even third opinions. Ultimately, I want what’s best for them—even if they choose another surgeon.
OB: What do you enjoy outside of your medical career?
Dr. Ahmad: I’m a huge fan of Star Wars (the original trilogy), Star Trek, the Detroit Lions, and University of Michigan football. I have season tickets and love game days at the Big House. I don’t really believe in work-life balance—in my view, to be truly great at something, the work has to take priority, except for family. My purpose is to be an excellent surgeon and make my patients’ lives better. That, in turn, fulfills my own.
Chicago Eyelids
3100 Ogden Ave, Lisle, Illinois
(872) 328-5469
3000 North Halsted Street, Suite 609, Chicago, Illinois
(872) 326-9800
chicagoeyelids.com
