Thomas DiBenedetto, OD - SightMD East Setauket

Dr. Thomas Raphael DiBenedetto is a highly trained optometrist dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate, and patient-centered eye care. He earned his Doctor of Optometry degree from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University, where he received extensive clinical training in ocular disease management, contact lens fitting, pediatric eye care, and primary eye health. During his undergraduate studies, Dr. DiBenedetto conducted research on infectious prion proteins, which he presented at the American Society for Cell Biology. Dr. DiBenedetto has developed a broad clinical background through his work in both private and institutional settings. He has served as the sole optometrist in one of the most underserved neighborhoods of the Bronx, where he provided essential vision care to a diverse and medically complex population. Through these experiences, he identified and helped save more than 30 lives by detecting life-threatening conditions—such as brain cancer, malignant hypertension, and undiagnosed diabetes—during routine eye exams. He also completed rotations at critically important institutions including the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center, The Eye Institute, and South Florida Vision Center, where he gained advanced expertise in diagnosing and managing glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, dry eye disease, ocular injuries, and other complex eye conditions. Dr. DiBenedetto believes that every eye exam is an opportunity to change a life. His philosophy is rooted in empathy, honesty, and education—treating every patient with the same care and respect he would offer his own family. He is deeply committed to preventive eye care and empowering patients with the knowledge to protect their long-term vision and overall health. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. DiBenedetto volunteers his time providing free eye exams and hosting eye health education seminars for underserved communities. He views these opportunities as an extension of his mission to make quality eye care accessible to all. A native of East Setauket, Dr. DiBenedetto grew up mountain biking at Laurel Ridge Preserve—just minutes from the SightMD East Setauket office where he now practices. Before earning his doctorate, he worked as an ophthalmic technician at this same location, where he first discovered his passion for optometry and commitment to improving lives through better vision.