Meet Dr. Nicola
Board-certified ophthalmologist, Erlanger director, and lifelong Chattanooga community servant.
Paula Nicola, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
Medical Degree
University of South Alabama College of Medicine
Ophthalmology Residency
University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Chattanooga
Board Certification
American Board of Ophthalmology
Hospital Affiliation
Erlanger Medical Center · Director of Ophthalmology Services
Languages
English · Spanish
About Dr. Nicola
Dr. Paula Nicola received her undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama. She completed her internship and ophthalmology residency at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine at Chattanooga — and she chose to stay.
Dr. Nicola is proud to serve the Chattanooga community and the surrounding region. She is board-certified in ophthalmology and serves as the Director of Ophthalmology Services at Erlanger Health System, one of the region's leading medical centers.
Her clinical interests include the identification and treatment of eye disease related to systemic conditions and trauma. She has particular expertise in cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and the full spectrum of medical and surgical ophthalmology.
Dr. Nicola believes that every patient deserves personalized attention and the very best in evidence-based care. She and her team are committed to building lasting relationships with their patients — relationships built on trust, communication, and excellence.
Dr. Nicola is fluent in both English and Spanish and can conduct an entire visit in Spanish. Información en español.
Our Mission
We are an eye care practice devoted to enhancing and protecting your vision using state-of-the-art technology and the most advanced, proven treatments available.
Building a foundation of trust by treating our patients as unique individuals is vital to our success. We take time to listen, explain, and partner with you in the care of your eye health.
Our Office
EyeCare Chattanooga is located in the Erlanger Medical Mall — a modern, state-of-the-art facility designed for optimal patient comfort and clinical precision.
We are conveniently located at 979 East 3rd Street, Suite 240, Chattanooga, TN 37403.
Get DirectionsI can not thank you enough for the diligent work you did to make my scar (and ultimately my face) look as great as possible. You must be someone that truly gives her best to anyone and everyone considering I was just a passer through in Chattanooga that night.
— Ian A., treated by Dr. Nicola after an injury while visiting Chattanooga