Our Team: Dr. Ari Giligson
Dr. Ari Giligson: Dedicated Ophthalmologist, Lifelong Educator, and Global Volunteer
For more than 25 years, Dr. Ari Giligson has practiced comprehensive ophthalmology in Vancouver, BC, earning a reputation for clinical excellence and a deep commitment to education. As a former Residency Program Director for the University of British Columbia’s Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, he helped guide and mentor countless residents, shaping the next generation of eye care specialists.
His dedication to teaching extends far beyond the classroom. Over the years, Dr. Giligson has volunteered his expertise internationally, including a month-long ophthalmology mission in Papua New Guinea. This October will mark his fifth trip to Mongolia with Laurel Surgical Foundation, continuing a long-standing commitment to sharing knowledge and improving eye care access worldwide.
Bringing Sight and Skills to Mongolia
During his missions to Mongolia, Dr. Giligson has performed cataract surgeries, delivered lectures, and spent countless hours in clinics teaching residents the medical side of ophthalmology, from diagnosis and treatment planning to post-operative care. His goal is not only to restore vision for patients in need but to empower local physicians with the skills and confidence to provide high-quality eye care long after the mission team departs.
Every trip is as much about teaching as it is about treating. The most sustainable change comes from building local capacity and fostering a culture of learning.
Life Beyond the Operating Room
Outside of medicine, Dr. Giligson leads a life as multifaceted as his career. A talented saxophonist, he plays with several amateur bands and dabbles in light music production. His creative side also extends to the kitchen. More specifically, the brewery, where he has been homebrewing beer for over 20 years. With multiple competition medals and certification as a beer judge, he approaches brewing with the same mix of precision and passion that he brings to ophthalmology.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
His time in Mongolia has offered more than medical lessons. “One thing I’ve learned,” he says with a smile, “is to never take a full shot of vodka if you can avoid it—leave a little in the glass and hide it with your hand.” It’s a lighthearted takeaway from a country whose warm hospitality and vibrant culture have left a lasting impression on him.
Looking Ahead
As Dr. Giligson prepares for his fifth mission to Mongolia, his focus remains the same: restoring sight, strengthening skills, and building lasting relationships with the local medical community. His career, both at home and abroad, is a testament to the power of combining professional excellence with a commitment to education and global service.
