Nicole Brauer, OD, FAAO

Dr. Nicole Brauer is a highly experienced optometrist, dedicated to serving the Chicagoland area for over a decade.  Her passion lies in medical eye care, with a particular interest in designing and fitting orthokeratology (ortho-K) contact lenses, commonly used for managing myopia in children.

Dr. Brauer’s academic journey began at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she pursued a dual degree in Molecular & Cellular Biology and Spanish.  She then went on to earn her Doctor of Optometry degree from the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee.  Her commitment to advancing her skills led her back to Chicago, where she completed a prestigious ocular disease and low vision residency at the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center and Hines VA Hospital.

Throughout her career, Dr. Brauer has worked in diverse settings, including hospitals, academia, ophthalmology practices, and optometry practices.  Her dedication to her profession has earned her the distinguished title of Fellow in the American Academy of Optometry.  Additionally, she is an active member of professional organizations such as the American Academy of Optometry, the Illinois Optometric Association, and the American Optometric Association.  Dr. Brauer enjoys spending time with her husband (also an optometrist), their 3 children, and family dog.

She embraces outdoor adventures, exploring nature whenever possible, and delights in discovering new culinary experiences at local restaurants.  Dr. Brauer also nurtures her love for literature, particularly mystery books, which she enjoys diving into during her leisure time.