Dr. Townsend has been in practice for 25 years, since completing  residency and fellowship training in 1985.  He has had extensive  experience as a practicing ophthalmologist and oculofacial surgeon, having directed the residency oculoplastic services at both Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and Tufts New England Medical Center in the past, along with  founding the orbital trauma service at Mass Eye and Ear in 1985. He has numerous publications in the peer reviewed literature,  and  has authored   and edited several books and book chapters within his specialty.  He is the former president of the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary medical staff, and in 2000 was awarded the American Academy of Ophthalmology Senior  Achievement award for his contributions to the field of ophthamology.