Vittal International Institute of Ophthalmology (VIIO), Bengaluru

NAME OF THE INSTITUTE: Vittal International Institute of Ophthalmology (VIIO), Bengaluru

• STIPEND: Stipend is available (Amount varies—Contact for current cycle)
• DURATION: 24 Months
• HONEST REVIEW:
  • Mentorship Model: VIIO operates in conjunction with Prabha Eye Clinic, offering a blend of private clinic and trust hospital exposure. The program favors a one-on-one mentorship model rather than a broad rotation, which allows for a more tailored assessment of a fellow’s surgical progress.
  • Graded Responsibility: The curriculum is structured to move from medical retina and diagnostics to supervised surgical steps. In the final quarter of the fellowship, trainees are given independent OPD and supervised surgical opportunities at the VIIO facility.
  • Clinical Scope: Provides well-rounded exposure to both medical and surgical retina. It is less “industrial” than larger networks, allowing for better personal interaction with mentors.
  • Research: Mandatory involvement in 1–2 research projects is required, emphasizing a balanced approach to clinical and academic growth.
• PERSONAL OPINION: An excellent choice for surgeons who prefer a mentorship-heavy, less anonymous training experience. It provides a more balanced life-work ratio compared to the larger “factory-style” trust hospitals in Bengaluru.