Leaders

Success in one’s professional life often comes through the amalgamation of one’s innate abilities and their environment. Dr Lama Jurdy’s story is no different. A distinguished surgeon at Magrabi Health, she is an ophthalmologist with a subspecialty in oculoplastic surgery. With over 11 years of experience, her journey in medicine reflects both professional excellence and a deeply personal calling.

A graduate from the American University of Beirut, Dr Jurdy pursued advanced fellowship training in Oculoplastic, Lacrimal, and Orbital Surgery at the University of Amsterdam, equipping her with world-class expertise. She practiced in Beirut for nearly eight years before moving to Dubai, where she has been serving patients for the past three years.

For Dr Jurdy, medicine is not just a profession, but a legacy. Growing up in a family rooted in the medical field, she was surrounded by role models who embodied healing and service. Among them, her uncle, a surgeon, was especially influential in shaping her aspirations.

This foundation instilled in her a profound sense of responsibility toward patients, a drive for excellence, and a lasting appreciation for the impact of medical care on people’s lives, principles that continue to define her practice today.

What led your foray into healthcare and specialization as an Oculoplastic surgeon and ophthalmologist?

During my training, I rotated through different specialties and departments in Beirut and the UK, exploring and discovering where I truly belong. I always knew I wanted to be in a surgical field, but it was Oculoplastic Surgery that ultimately captured my heart, because of its unique blend of complexity and creativity. Whether it is a functional or cosmetic concern, teary eye or plastic eyelid surgery, it is a specialty that is both challenging and rewarding. In addition to extensive training and experience, it requires finesse, good hands, and a patient-centred approach in order to customize solutions. Over the years, my work has focused more on cosmetic eyelid surgery.

Take us through your professional journey and key areas of expertise in the Middle East’s ophthalmology landscape.

My professional journey started with residency at the American University of Beirut, followed by a fellowship in Oculoplastic Surgery at the University of Amsterdam-an experience that deeply shaped my surgical career. Over the years, I have developed expertise across the spectrum of oculoplastic procedures, from eyelid to lacrimal and orbital surgery, as well as minimally invasive rejuvenation procedures.

I have published papers in peer-reviewed journals and have presented my work at international meetings such as ESOPRS. These experiences enriched my clinical perspective and connected me with the global oculoplastics community, while my work in Lebanon and Dubai has grounded me in the unique needs of Middle Eastern patients.

Introduce us to Magrabi Health. What key responsibilities do you shoulder at the healthcare facility?

At Magrabi Health, my role extends beyond surgery-medicine to me is about advocating for patients and ensuring they are supported throughout their journey. The most important thing is to make sure my patients feel heard, as well as to explain therapeutic options. All physicians must remain up to date with the latest advances, offer evidence-based recommendations, and create a safe, well-rounded experience. Patient advocacy is central; medicine is not just about procedures; it is about trust and partnership between doctor and patient. No matter how skilled a physician is, if a patient leaves the clinic feeling unheard or misunderstood, the goals of care are not achieved.

Highlight the industry best practices you fol­low to ensure positive patient outcomes as an Oculoplastic surgeon and ophthalmologist.

For me, patient outcomes depend on both technical skill and communication and empathy. I dedicate time to explain each procedure thoroughly, ensuring that patients understand their options and feel empowered to make informed choices. Listening to their concerns and expectations allows me to personalize care and avoid misunderstandings. I also strongly believe in minimally invasive options as well as early intervention whenever possible, always aiming for natural results that enhance rather than alter a person’s identity.

What are some challenging aspects of your current role? How do you navigate through these roadblocks?

Practicing in Dubai presents unique challenges because of the city’s incredible cultural diversity. Patients come from different backgrounds, each bringing their own perceptions of medicine and cosmetic surgery. My experience in both Europe and the Middle East, along with clear communication, is essential to bridge these differences and set realistic expectations. Another challenge is also the cultural stigma that sometimes surrounds cosmetic surgery; patients with functional eyelid issues, for example, may avoid necessary treatment out of fear of being judged. Navigating this requires sensitivity, reassurance, and education, as well as helping patients realise that functional health and aesthetics intertwine more often than one would predict. Ultimately, open dialogue, patience, and empathy are the best tools for overcoming these roadblocks.

Looking back at your professional journey, what key milestones have you achieved so far?

My journey has been shaped by completing my sub-specialty training in Oculoplastics 12 years ago, which I have been practicing since, contributing to research and publications, presenting at prestigious conferences, and continuing to serve patients in the UAE.

I also attained a Master's certificate in Blepharoplas­ty as well as advanced training and certifications in in­jectables such as Botox. Each achievement represents not just professional growth, but also the privilege of making a difference in patients’ lives..

Dr Lama Jurdy, Ophthalmologist & Oculoplastic Surgeon, Magrabi Health

Dr Lama Jurdy is a leading ophthalmologist and oculoplastic surgeon at Magrabi Health, with over 11 years of experience spanning Bei­rut, Amsterdam, and Dubai. A graduate of the American University of Beirut with fellowship training at the University of Amsterdam, she specializes in eyelid, lacrimal, and orbital sur­gery, as well as minimally invasive cosmetic procedures. Known for her precision and pa­tient-centered approach, Dr Jurdy blends surgical expertise with artistry to deliver nat­ural results, helping patients restore function and enhance confidence.