Dr. Sun Xinghuai | Visionary Journey: Illuminating Lives as Light-Bearers of the Soul

Professor Sun Xinghuai is a highly esteemed medical expert in the field of ophthalmology. He currently serves as the Director of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Director of the Glaucoma and Optic Nerve Diseases Division at the Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, and Director of the Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases under the National Health Commission/Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. With extensive experience in clinical ophthalmology, related research, and specialist training, Professor Sun specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, optic nerve disorders, and ocular hypotension—particularly in comprehensive management strategies for refractory glaucoma, including pharmacological and surgical interventions.

A prolific scholar, Professor Sun has published over 500 academic papers and authored/edited 12 monographs. He has played pivotal editorial roles in national standardized ophthalmology textbooks across 5-year, 7-year, and 8-year medical programs, serving as contributor, deputy editor-in-chief, and editor-in-chief. His accolades include honors such as National Outstanding Ophthalmologist, National Outstanding Educator, National Outstanding Hospital Director, and Second Prize of the National Science and Technology Progress Award.

His research focuses on glaucoma-related neural injury mechanisms, neuroprotection, and visual rehabilitation for low vision. Leading his team, he investigates pathogenesis and neural protection in glaucomatous optic neuropathy, along with visual plasticity and reconstruction in retinal/optic nerve diseases causing low vision. Professor Sun holds leadership positions in multiple academic organizations, including Vice Chair-Elect of the Chinese Ophthalmological Society and Chair of the Ophthalmology & Visual Science Committee of the Chinese Research Hospital Association.

Internationally recognized, he serves as Governor of the World Glaucoma Association Board and Adjunct Scientist at Harvard Medical School’s Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, underscoring his global academic influence.

Beneath the Veil of Time

Time flows silently, like fine sand slipping through fingertips—soft, unnoticed. Eight years have passed, and we met him again.

We still remember that day eight years ago when he had just laid down his crown, returning with a purer healer’s heart to his original passion and dedication. Today, eight years later, with deep respect and anticipation, our paths cross once more. This time, we feel the fire in his heart burning even brighter on his medical journey. With skill as his pen and patients’ smiles as his ink, he continues to write the poetry of life.

Forty years on this path, Sun Xinghuai has devoted himself to the fields of glaucoma and neuro-ophthalmology, embodying the mission and responsibility of a healer with both compassion and expertise. From treatment to prevention, he guards the health of eyes in every way.

Sun Xinghuai understands that medical excellence is the foundation of treatment, but early prevention and screening are equally vital. Thus, he has dedicated himself to promoting early detection and intervention for glaucoma, striving to minimize vision loss before the disease progresses. Unlike other eye conditions, glaucoma is not merely a physiological issue—it profoundly affects patients’ psychological well-being. Facing this disease, patients often react in two extremes: some fall into anxiety from excessive worry, while others adopt an ostrich mentality, ignoring the problem as if it will vanish unseen.

For such patients, the role of a glaucoma doctor becomes complex and multidimensional. “Our work is not just a battle against disease—it is also a touch upon the soul,” Sun Xinghuai reflects. This holistic approach makes doctors not only healers of the body but also guardians of the spirit.

His heart remains unchanged. Guided by compassion, he seeks better prevention and treatment models. To him, every patient is unique, deserving a personalized approach—a relentless pursuit in medicine and an unwavering promise to those he serves.

Over four decades, Sun Xinghuai has witnessed countless patients, from young children to the elderly. With time, he has grown ever more convinced: eye health must start from childhood. Prevention outweighs cure, and habits shape the future.

He knows that childhood is the critical period for vision development and the golden age for cultivating healthy eye habits. Once poor habits take root, they may cause irreversible damage. This belief inspired his new book, “Bright Eyes Squad: The Full Counterattack,” where he plants the seeds of scientific awareness in young minds, guiding them toward a brighter future.

In his writing, Bright Eyes Squad becomes a treasure trove of edutainment. Sun Xinghuai masterfully blends medical knowledge with engaging storytelling, leading children on adventures with the Bright Eyes family to uncover the secrets of eye care. Each chapter opens a window, letting young readers glimpse the science behind healthy vision. As the preface states: “Eyes are not only the windows to the soul—they are also the windows to physical health.”

From founding the Glaucoma Club in 1997 to advocating for children’s eye health today, he has always believed in the transformative power of science education—it can reshape habits and kindle hope for the future. And he is determined to be its messenger.

“I cherish this time,” he says. Whether in clinical practice or research, every moment is a profound revelation of life’s mysteries. Medicine is not just the art of curing—it is the art of igniting hope and warming hearts.

“My joy lies in walking alongside others, bringing warmth and strength to every soul longing for light.”

And so, Sun Xinghuai continues his journey—one of passion, reverence for life, and an unyielding commitment to illuminating the path for his patients.

“In the eight years since stepping down from hospital administration, I’ve had more time to reflect on what it truly means to be a doctor—to focus deeply and better understand the younger generation of physicians.”

Looking back on his medical career, Dr. Sun Xinghuai now devotes himself to nurturing young doctors, hoping to help them grow more confidently and efficiently. With more time to share his wisdom, he encourages them to cherish every patient interaction, to listen attentively, and to recognize that each treatment is not just a battle against disease but also a meeting of hearts.

To him, medicine, like any profession, should contribute to a fulfilling life. He often reminds young doctors not to sacrifice personal well-being for work, urging them to find balance—though he acknowledges it’s never easy.

“Doctors face immense pressure and challenges, but I believe only when our personal lives are enriched can we serve patients more effectively. This has always been my philosophy—to create a supportive work environment where doctors can thrive professionally while enjoying life.”

Ophthalmology, in his eyes, is not just a science but an art. Merging medical expertise with humanistic care has always been his priority. While experience is vital, he believes exceptional care stems from a doctor’s passion for life and deep empathy. It demands heartfelt dedication.

“A hospital is more than a place of treatment—it’s a community built on compassion. When patients feel respected, they heal faster. Likewise, when medical staff feel valued, they give their best.”

Every effort Sun Xinghuai makes serves one simple goal: elevating care quality, enhancing job satisfaction, and preserving the humanistic spirit of medicine—essential steps toward a more harmonious healthcare future.

Back in the 1990s, Sun Xinghuai began engaging in international medical translational research. One unforgettable collaboration was a Sino-Australian biomedical engineering project supported by China’s Ministry of Education. This innovation not only minimized surgical trauma but also brought new hope to glaucoma patients, pioneering the era of minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS).

At the time, the biggest challenge Sun faced was the severe trauma and prolonged recovery associated with traditional glaucoma surgeries. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and impaired aqueous humor drainage were the core pathological mechanisms. Determined to change this, he partnered with Australian researchers to develop a minimally invasive technique.

“In the early days of China’s reform and opening-up, the Australian team first conducted preliminary experiments on rabbits before moving to primate studies. Due to ethical restrictions, monkey trials couldn’t proceed in Australia—all such experiments were completed at our hospital. We worked around the clock to identify the most effective surgical approach.”

After countless trials, Sun and his team successfully discovered groundbreaking minimally invasive pathways. This achievement not only advanced glaucoma treatment globally but also showcased the capabilities of Chinese medical research.

The inspiration for this innovation came from clinical observation:
“Some dacryocystitis patients suffered from non-healing fistulas. Traditional glaucoma surgeries often failed due to scar tissue blocking artificially created drainage channels. We wondered—could biomaterials guide tissue growth to maintain a functional fistula? Though initial experiments didn’t achieve the intended outcome, we eventually developed a 6-mm-long microtube with an inner diameter of mere microns, which effectively lowered IOP.”

“Our discovery was original, but limited IP awareness at the time led to the patent being assigned to the Australian side. Still, the technology was widely adopted, ultimately benefiting Chinese patients. I see this as an ‘honorary recognition’ of our work.”

This experience deeply impressed upon Sun the importance of translational medicine and intellectual property protection. Today, post-retirement from hospital administration, he focuses intensely on clinically applicable technologies. His contributions span cataract treatment, corneal diseases, amblyopia therapy, and cutting-edge research in stem cells and neuro-ophthalmology.

“In stem cell research, we’re pushing boundaries to explore novel therapies. Neurological vision loss remains a formidable challenge—we aim to decode its mechanisms and develop treatments beyond current limits. The road is tough, but perseverance will yield breakthroughs.”

Beyond disease treatment, Sun prioritizes functional visual rehabilitation—a therapy unlocking patients’ latent potential.
“For patients with severe residual vision loss, how can we enhance their remaining sight? Our team uses optical aids to amplify signals and biofeedback training to stimulate neural plasticity. Through fMRI, we’ve identified central mechanisms behind low vision and developed cortical stimulation techniques that improved vision in one-third of trial participants.”

Sun’s research has earned strong governmental endorsement. His team now leads key translational projects—a testament to his expertise and vision.

“Medical progress thrives on interdisciplinary collaboration. The intersection of ophthalmology and neuroscience offers fresh perspectives. We’re also exploring brain-eye interactions for novel therapies. Research is arduous yet exhilarating—every milestone reflects our team’s sweat and ingenuity. When patients benefit, every effort becomes meaningful.”

Sun’s dedication embodies his profound love for medicine, inspiring countless peers to advance human health.

“Life is an endless journey of discovery. As a doctor, I’m privileged to witness miracles and harness medicine’s power.” Now in his sixties, Sun Xinghuai forges ahead—learning, researching, and striving for those who yearn for light and healing.

“A doctor’s work goes far beyond prescribing medicine and performing surgeries—it’s about caring for patients’ mental well-being, offering support, and empowering them with accurate health knowledge through science communication.”

Sun Xinghuai has not only achieved remarkable success in medical research and clinical practice but also places great emphasis on professional medical science popularization. In his view, disseminating medical knowledge plays an irreplaceable role in raising public health awareness and improving patient compliance.

“I’ve always believed medical knowledge shouldn’t be confined to doctors—it should reach every household and become common knowledge. In recent years, I’ve focused particularly on children’s health education because they represent society’s future. Instilling eye-care awareness early can profoundly impact their lives.”

Recently, Sun co-authored a comic book titled Bright Eyes Squad with his student, Dr. Dai Zhaoxing. Using a child-friendly format, the book introduces eye health concepts in an engaging way, helping young readers learn how to protect their vision. He believes such creative approaches can spark children’s interest in health literacy.

“Bright Eyes Squad: The Full Counterattack uses a battle between the Bright Eyes family and the villain ‘Toxic Eye’ to teach scientific eye-care principles, making it easier for kids to adopt healthy habits.” This innovative effort not only benefits children but also pioneers new methods for medical outreach.

Sun stresses that science communication must evolve with the times, adopting diverse formats tailored to different audiences. “The importance of science outreach is undeniable, but half-truths can be more dangerous than ignorance. That’s why I insist on accuracy, systematic structure, and completeness in all my public education work.”

Over decades, Sun has authored numerous medical textbooks—from 5-year to 8-year program editions—wielding significant influence in academia. Yet he equally values public-facing health books, hoping they empower people to understand diseases, enhance prevention awareness, and master self-care strategies.

“Integrating medical basics into primary education is vital. We must prioritize health literacy to help children develop lifelong wellness habits—this is a matter of national importance.”

His advocacy extends beyond children. Sun champions lifelong health education to foster correct medical perspectives. “In 1997, I founded China’s first glaucoma patient education club. Through regular lectures and activities, we help patients better manage their condition while improving doctor-patient communication.” These initiatives reflect his innovative approach to democratizing medical knowledge.

Sun asserts that quality science communication must be systematic, professional, yet accessible. Fragmentary health tips, though easily shared, risk distortion and misinformation. “I hope to keep contributing to this field. With advancing technology and societal progress, our outreach will grow more structured, diverse, and impactful.”

Through his unwavering dedication, Sun Xinghuai exemplifies how bridging medical expertise with public education can build a healthier, more harmonious society.

“People fear two things most: death and blindness. This reflects humanity’s longing for light and dread of darkness. In modern society, our eyes endure ever-increasing burdens, with rising varieties and rates of ocular diseases. As lifespans extend, vision issues grow more prominent.”

With societal progress and an aging population, eye health will command greater attention. To Sun Xinghuai, ophthalmology’s advancement impacts not just individual quality of life but also patients’ holistic health and societal well-being.

“The future of ophthalmology brims with boundless possibilities and challenges. In the U.S., cardiovascular diseases and cancer top health threats, followed closely by vision impairment. This isn’t just because eyes are our window to the world—vision loss imposes heavy burdens on individuals and society.”

Eye health transcends vision—it’s deeply interwoven with systemic wellness. “Poor eyesight elevates risks of falls and accidents, while fear of hazards may reduce outdoor activity, exacerbating metabolic disorders. Moreover, vision impairment often accompanies depression or anxiety, severely compromising life quality and family harmony.”

Eyes are not just the “windows to the soul” but also “windows to health.” Retinal exams uniquely enable direct observation of blood vessels and neural tissue, offering critical early diagnoses for systemic diseases. Technological advances further unlock ophthalmology’s potential.

Sun believes AI will revolutionize eye care accessibility and efficiency: “AI applications in ophthalmology are thrilling. They could mitigate specialist shortages and boost screening efficiency. Yet challenges remain, like funding. Early screening and treatment should become governmental priorities—investing in public health and preventive medicine.”

He envisions a future emphasizing prevention and early intervention, where innovation and collaboration deliver higher-quality care. “With advancing medicine and health literacy, we can safeguard humanity’s vision, ensuring everyone enjoys life’s beauty through clear sight.”

Editor: Qing Chen, ShanghaiDoctor.cn

If you would like to contact to Dr. Sun Xinghuai, please contact us with Chenqing@ShanghaiDoctor.cn

Origin: https://shanghaidoctor.cn/engouji/273.html