Dr. Brent Mittelstaedt is an experienced ophthalmologist with a broad background in military, federal, and academic medical settings. His career in medicine began with his service in the U.S. Air Force attending Midwestern University in Glendale Arizona on full scholarship graduating in 2007. He then served 3 years as a flight surgeon, deploying twice. He was then selected for the prestigious San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education Consortium Ophthalmology Residency, which includes Brooke Army Medical Center and Wilford Hall Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. This residency provided a unique blend of high-level medical training in a military setting, offering exposure to diverse cases and patient populations. The experience emphasized leadership, adaptability, and advanced procedural skills, preparing for a versatile career in both military and civilian healthcare environments.
He next served as Chief of Ophthalmology at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa from 2015 to 2019. Following his 16 years of Air Force service, he transitioned to private practice in Boston and later joined the VA in Nashville, where he continues to work as an attending physician instructing residents from Vanderbilt University in cataract surgery.
Dr. Mittelstaedt’s expertise spans glaucoma management, cataract surgery, and comprehensive ophthalmic care. His diverse experience enhances his ability to provide exceptional care and innovative solutions to complex eye conditions. He is a committed physician and a valued addition to the team at Bay Area Eye Institute.
In his personal life, Dr. Mittelstaedt is a dedicated father to five amazing boys and enjoys exploring the Tampa Bay area and participating in various family activities. Formerly a college hockey athlete, he particularly enjoys cheering on the Tampa Bay Lightning with his family, as well as their beloved Philadelphia Eagles.
