The one thing this top surgeon is ‘rubbish’ at

Balancing a Busy Life

Despite her hectic schedule, Dr. Alison Chiu cherishes moments of tranquility—savoring a morning coffee, playing with her children, and watching sunsets. After work, she finds solace in nature during her commute: "a way of recharging my soul."

A Fulfilling Career

Every time I meet Dr. Alison Chiu, an ophthalmologist, she greets me with a radiant smile. I once remarked, "Your eyes sparkle when you smile, as if they're smiling too."

"Yes, I love to smile," she replied. "Facing a day full of demanding tasks, it's best to tackle them with a smile." Alison possesses the remarkable ability to handle challenges with grace.

Patients trust that whether it's cataract surgery or procedures related to refractive vision issues, they're in capable hands with Alison. When she reassures them with a smile and says, "No worries," they genuinely believe there's nothing to fear.

Roots and Upbringing

Alison, a distinguished ophthalmologist based in Sydney, attributes her success to her parents. "My Chinese father instilled in me the importance of a strong work ethic, humility, and treating everyone equally. He's also deeply pragmatic, which grounded me early on."

"My mother, of Irish descent, has fiery red hair, deep blue eyes, and a radiant smile. She's gentle, intelligent, and meticulous."

Alison reflects, "That combination gave me a foundation of grit and determination, combined with an ability to talk and connect with almost anyone."

During her secondary school years, Alison wasn't particularly outstanding academically. "But everything changed when I entered university." Naturally shy, she preferred spending time in the library over socializing. "Being tucked away in the library suited me perfectly."

Harmonizing Family and Career

In Australia, as a mother, Alison juggles multiple roles. "My children are always the top priority. I try to handle school drop-offs and pick-ups, but often, due to work commitments, our nanny steps in. I'm not a strict parent. I want my children to enjoy their childhood but also grow into kind and responsible humans."

"I aim to be firm but fair and to create a peaceful, calm home."

After work, Alison prepares dinner for the family. Once the children are asleep, she resumes work on her laptop: writing lectures, planning surgeries, managing business development, and organizing work travel. Twenty-four hours in a day often feel insufficient.

With a simple belief—"To keep things running smoothly"—Alison achieves harmony in both family and career, a feat that's far from easy.

To balance both spheres, Alison has reduced her clinical hours and university lectures.

She finds immense satisfaction in her work: "Helping people with their sight and restoring vision is a privilege, and my work brings me immense purpose and satisfaction."

Excellence in Surgery

Stepping into Alison's clinic, one notices the meticulous organization. She agrees, "My theatre team is exceptional. Our atmosphere is calm, focused, and respectful. Building that team has taken time, but it's been worth it."

"My clinic team is talented and hardworking, and I want them to feel appreciated and valued."

"The best surgeons aren't just technically skilled—they're great communicators who stay composed when things don't go to plan."

Finding Joy Amidst a Busy Schedule 

Alison enjoys being busy: "It keeps me energized, focused, and moving forward."

Yet, she still finds time to enjoy a morning coffee, play with her children, and watch sunsets. After work, she appreciates the beauty of nature during her commute: "a way of recharging my soul."

Alison even traveled to Stuttgart, Germany, to fulfill a childhood dream of racing on a track. "My passion for sports cars helps me reconnect with a simpler, joyful side of myself. It's a hobby that brings me exhilaration and reminds me of the importance of taking time for personal enjoyment, no matter how busy life gets."

Postscript

Dr. Alison Chiu mentioned IOL (intraocular lens) to me. Sensing my unfamiliarity, she provided an explanation:

"New intraocular lens (IOL) technologies are evolving rapidly—enhancing existing platforms to offer patients a broader range of vision. Traditionally, greater freedom from glasses came with significant visual compromises, but these next-generation lenses aim to change that. Whether it's replacing a cataract or dysfunctional natural lens, or an implantable contact lens (ICL) for younger patients without cataracts, the innovation is exciting. I was honored to be the first surgeon in Australia/New Zealand to implant this new lens for young patients."