Mentor–mentee relationship in ophthalmology – Following the footsteps of stalwarts

Mentor- mentee relationship in any discipline is a professional and interpersonal relationship. It associates a mentor with a protégé or a mentee. Mentoring is a serious business in Ophthalmology, both academically and surgically. The mentors act as role models for future generations by acting as a friend, coach, or guide to the mentee. They do so by giving valuable advice, moral support, and inculcating skills in a mentee. It is difficult to pinpoint the precise function of the mentor-mentee relationship, but the final goal is to achieve personal and professional objectives. In the current article, the authors have shed light on the imperative aspect of one’s Ophthalmology career, i.e., the mentor-mentee relationship. This article describes various aspects of mentoring, the traits of a perfect mentor and mentee, the pre-requisites for a good mentee-mentor relationship, the hindrances and obstacles in a good relationship, and the impact of COVID-19 on the same. The potential goal of this article is to ignite the constructive spirit of the mentor-mentee relationship, encourage potential mentors to become ideal mentors, and potential mentees to gain from serious mentors