Our Practice

Meet Dr. Nicola

Board-certified ophthalmologist, Erlanger director, and lifelong Chattanooga community servant.

Dr. Paula Nicola, MD

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, allowing her to provide care to a broader cross-section of the Chattanooga community.

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 Directions

I cannot thank you enough for the diligent work you did to make my scar — and ultimately my face — look as good as it does. You are truly gifted.

Patient