Margaret Wang French, M.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at UT Southwestern Medical Center. She specializes in corneal and external disease, as well as cataract and refractive surgery. Dr. Wang French is board certified in ophthalmology.
Dr. Wang French earned her medical degree at UTHealth Houston McGovern Medical School. She completed a residency in ophthalmology at Baylor College of Medicine, where she was Chief Resident. She received advanced training through a cornea, cataract, external disease, and refractive fellowship at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, Florida.
Her clinical interests include complex cataract and anterior segment surgeries, as well as inflammatory ocular surface disease.
She is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and Women in Ophthalmology.
She has delivered national and local presentations and published peer-reviewed academic articles related to her areas of expertise.
Dr. Wang French grew up in Oklahoma but got to Texas as fast as she could. She enjoys taking walks on White Rock Creek Trail with her family and developing her green thumb in unpredictable Dallas weather.
Margaret Wang French, M.D., is a highly skilled ophthalmologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center, specializing in corneal and external diseases, cataract surgery, and refractive surgery.
As an Assistant Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology, Dr. Wang French is deeply committed to advancing eye care through both her clinical practice and her involvement in cutting-edge research. Her passion for ophthalmology is driven by a desire to improve her patients’ quality of life, restoring vision and eye health through the most advanced techniques available today.
Dr. Wang French's journey into the field of ophthalmology began during her medical school years, when she discovered a fascination with the intricate anatomy of the eye.
"The eye is such a unique organ," she says. "It's incredible how much complexity is contained within a structure of only about two centimeters. The eye is like a microcosm of multiple disciplines – physics, chemistry, rheumatology, and genetics – all coming together. That complexity, combined with my background in engineering and interest in optics, made ophthalmology the perfect fit for me."
Dr. Wang French strives to provide each patient with a personalized treatment plan for their needs and lifestyle.
“Each person deserves compassion and a listening ear from their doctor,” she says.
Cataract surgery is one of the most common and rewarding procedures in ophthalmology, often resulting in immediate improvements in vision. As a refractive cataract surgeon, Dr. Wang French is particularly skilled in the latest clinical and surgical advancements.
“I use the latest machines and software when assessing my cataract patients because a successful surgery begins with a successful pre-operative evaluation.”
For patients who desire to be less dependent on glasses after surgery, Dr. Wang French has a careful algorithm for lens selection.
“There is no one-size-fits-all answer for refractive surgery. A patient who is a great candidate for the light adjustable lens, where fine tuning can be made after surgery, may also be a great candidate for the newest multifocal option. The fun part of my job is to learn about the patient and offer them tailored options for their new eyes,” she says.
She uses her knowledge and experience to help her patients achieve their visual goals.
“There is a plethora of choices for those undergoing cataract surgery, with new additions every day,” she says. “I love being able to work with my patients to find the best technology to help them return to their best life possible.”
Dr. Wang French is also skilled at managing cornea and anterior segment reconstruction cases that are far from routine.
"Cataract surgery can be straightforward, with patients achieving 20/20 vision the next day. But in cases of trauma, glaucoma, or when the patient has undergone multiple cornea transplantations before, it becomes much more complex," she notes. "These cases require a multifaceted approach to provide the patient with the care they deserve."
Dr. Wang French has extensive experience in these complex cornea and anterior segment surgeries, where she might need to change the shape of the pupil, provide additional support within the eye, or address other unique challenges.
"It's extremely satisfying to help these patients who have had a complicated history and see them regain their vision," she says.
Ocular surface disease, commonly known as dry eye, is the focus of Dr. Wang French's clinical research.
“The ocular epithelium – corneal and conjunctiva – is a delicate homeostasis that can be affected by environmental stressors and genetic or epigenetic changes,” she says. “The patients I see often have systemic diagnoses, such as graft-vs-host disease, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, rosacea, and any number of rheumatologic diagnoses. Recently, I have also been taking care of a number of cancer patients with very specific reactions to their chemo medications.”
This focus forms the core of her clinical research efforts.
"Ocular surface disease is a fascinating and vital area of study. For years, we’ve known that issues with the ocular surface can cause significant pain and discomfort for many people,” she says.
Dr. Wang French's approach is to bridge research and clinical practice seamlessly.
"There’s a symbiosis between the research I’m doing and the care I provide. My goal is to apply the latest findings in real time, offering patients the most advanced care possible right when they need it. It’s very exciting to be alive in this era of new basic science advancements. I hope to bring the bench work to my patients through my translational research.”
In her research, Dr. Wang French continuously seeks innovations that promise better patient outcomes.
"Ultimately, it’s about improving comfort and quality of life through customized treatment plans," she says.
Dr. Wang French considers UT Southwestern an ideal place to build her career because of its reputation.
"UT Southwestern is a preeminent academic medical center," she says. "It's a place where I can see patients from all walks of life, pursue my passion for teaching, and engage in clinical research that directly benefits my patients. UT Southwestern allows me to be at the cutting edge of my medical practice and surgical care."
She values the multidisciplinary approach that UT Southwestern offers, which enhances her ability to provide the best possible care.
"Academic centers like UT Southwestern are uniquely equipped to offer multifaceted, resource-driven care. Patients here have access to specialized expertise and resources they might not find at non-academic centers."
She also emphasizes the center's exceptional collaboration among experts.
"The center attracts experts and specialists from various fields, creating a facility where patients can access the most up-to-date, cutting-edge care for any issue they may face," she says.
With her expertise, dedication, and compassionate approach, Dr. Wang French is making a profound impact on her patients’ lives every day.
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