Dr. David J. Harris, III, M.D., earned his medical degree from the James H. Quillen College of Medicine at East Tennessee State University. Dr. Harris furthered his training with a residency in Ophthalmology at the University of Kentucky, College. He is Board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO). Dr. Harris is an active member of professional organizations such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), the New York State Ophthalmological Society, and the Cornea Society.
Dr. David J. Harris, III, M.D., earned his medical degree from the James H. Quillen College of Medicine at East Tennessee State University. Dr. Harris furthered his training with a residency in Ophthalmology at the University of Kentucky, College. He is Board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO). Dr. Harris is an active member of professional organizations such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), the New York State Ophthalmological Society, and the Cornea Society.
Dr. David J. Harris, III, M.D., brings his expertise as a Cornea Specialist, Cataract Surgeon and Comprehensive Ophthalmologist to his practice at University Eye Specialists in East Tennessee. His journey in eye care began with a medical degree from the James H. Quillen College of Medicine at East Tennessee State University. Dr. Harris furthered his training with a residency in Ophthalmology at the University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, followed by a Fellowship in
Cornea & External Diseases.
Previously, Dr. Harris held an academic appointment as Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in Manhattan. Now, his focus is on serving the East Tennessee community, providing comprehensive eye care services at University Eye Specialists.
Dr. Harris offers a wide range of services, including routine eye exams, medical and laser treatments, and advanced surgical interventions. His expertise encompasses routine and complex cataract surgery, utilizing state-of-the-art techniques to optimize patient outcomes. Additionally, he specializes in the diagnosis and management of corneal diseases, tailoring treatment plans to individual patient needs.
Driven by a commitment to advancing patient care, Dr. Harris stays abreast of the latest developments in ophthalmology. He is particularly interested in innovative treatments such as laser cataract surgery and advanced intraocular lens implants, aiming to improve the quality of life for his patients and enhance their visual outcomes.
Board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO), Dr. Harris is an active member of professional organizations such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), the New York State Ophthalmological Society, and the Cornea Society. Through his involvement in these esteemed groups, he remains at the forefront of his field, continuously expanding his knowledge and skills to better serve his patients.
With a dedication to excellence and a patient-centered approach to care, Dr. David Harris is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive eye care services to the East Tennessee community.

He diagnosed my problem almost immediately and explained it clearly and what needed to be done.
Very professional and makes you feel like you have had a great exam!
Takes his time to explain my future procedure. Confident, knowledgable, pleasant.
I was a very tough case the Dr. Harris III never gave up on me, even though I was a very hard case and he finally got success! Persistence pays off! And he succeeded eventually! I am very thankful for his persistence and faithfulness to do everything possible. I also like that he has his dad that works together with him and I feel like I’m getting the best care from two great eye specialist! Not just one!
Very thorough examination and explanation of exam,
The best dr. he did a geart job on my eyes
He’s young and inexperienced compared to his amazing father, Dr. David Smith Jr. He doesn’t project an attitude of empathy, caring, or passion, but perhaps he will improve in those areas as he becomes more comfortable Truly, no one can replace his father’s expertise and knowledge!.
Very good Dr does good work
Dr. Harris explained everything he was doing and what I would expect to feel. He is extremely knowledgeable and talented. I would recommend him to anyone!!!
Had a great visit. The staff was very efficient and courteous. Always enjoy my visit with Dr. David Harris III.