Meet the Doctor: A New Series from Sutter Health

Healthcare is personal – and so are the people behind it. In this new feature, we introduce some of Sutter Health’s 270 Central Coast physicians and clinicians through brief, candid Q&As. Hear what inspires them, how they approach care, and what they value most about serving this community. We hope these conversations offer a glimpse into the heart of our organization – and the people who make it thrive.

Meet Oculoplastic Surgeon and Ophthalmologist, Dr. Mica Bergman

Dr. Mica Bergman earned her undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from Stanford University, then went on to complete both a Doctor of Medicine (MD) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine through the highly selective Medical Scientist Training Program. She remained at Vanderbilt for a general surgery internship before continuing her specialty training in ophthalmology at the USC Roski Eye Institute.

Dr. Bergman then completed a fellowship in oculoplastic surgery through an American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) –accredited joint program between Eyesthetica, a leading private practice in Los Angeles, and the USC Roski Eye Institute – one of fewer than 30 ASOPRS fellowships offered nationwide each year.

Dr. Bergman is board certified in ophthalmology and a Fellow of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. She brings a deep commitment to patient care, along with a strong foundation in both clinical and research excellence.

Q. What is one misconception people often have about your field?

A. People often think that the field of oculoplastic surgery is entirely cosmetic or aesthetic surgery. While oculoplastic surgeons do perform such procedures, we also perform a myriad of medical procedures. Most commonly, we address drooping upper eyelids, poorly positioned lower eyelids, reconstruction following eyelid cancer removal, and blockage of the tear drainage system. Of course, even when pursuing medically-indicated procedures, the goal is always an excellent cosmetic outcome! 

What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine, and how did you select your particular specialty?

I come from a family of physicians. My grandmother was an anesthesiologist, and my father is a pediatric neurologist. I grew up understanding the rewards and challenges of a career in medicine. From a young age, I had a strong sense that it would suit my strengths and interests.

Choosing my specialty, oculoplastic surgery, came later and was less obvious. I was drawn to surgical specialties because of the opportunity to use my hands to fix a problem, and the depth of expertise required. I came to love oculoplastic surgery specifically because the procedures require combining technical rigor with artistic judgment, and deep understanding of anatomy and physiology with thoughtful, creative application of techniques. Looking back, it is hard to imagine a specialty that would be a better fit. 

How has your upbringing or cultural background influenced your approach to care?

Growing up, I was taught that medicine is a “sacred duty.” Although aspects of the profession can resemble a business enterprise or a service industry, this guiding principle places medicine in a unique position. I aim for my care of patients and my sense of responsibility as a physician to reflect that ethos.

If you weren’t a physician, what is another career you could see yourself in?

If I weren’t a physician, I think I would have enjoyed and thrived in intelligence work. I love digging deeply and pursuing creative avenues to solve problems, and I am fascinated by the ways people make decisions and by what drives their behavior. Or maybe I’d be a flying trapeze artist.

A flying trapeze artist?

I say it in jest, but flying trapeze is, in fact, a passion of mine. The sport involves swinging on a trapeze bar thirty feet above ground, then releasing and completing flips and twists before being caught arm-to-arm by an individual hanging upside down on another trapeze bar. The feeling of flying through the air is pure joy, and the thrill of successfully completing a catch is incredibly rewarding. I love the combination of athleticism and finesse that trapeze demands, and I enjoy both refining my current tricks and working to expand my repertoire.

What is something on your bucket list you haven’t done yet?

I love to ski but have not yet been heli-skiing. I would gladly trade my beloved bumps to experience that level of untouched powder!  

As Sansum Clinic completes the transition to Sutter Health, we remain united by a shared mission: to deliver compassionate, high-quality care to the communities we serve. Together, we are shaping the future of healthcare on the Central Coast.

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