Oculoplastic, Orbit 
& Reconstructive Surgery

The Montefiore Einstein Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences is a global leader, providing comprehensive, advanced aesthetic, plastic and reconstructive care for conditions of the face, orbits (bony cavities around the eye), eyelids and lacrimal (tear production and drainage) system in adults and children of all ages. The multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists includes board certified, fellowship-trained ophthalmologists with subspecialized expertise in oculoplastic (ophthalmic plastic) and reconstructive surgery. These specialists work in close collaboration with experts in dermatology, facial plastic surgery, head and neck surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, oncology, oral and maxillofacial surgery, neurosurgery and other specialties, delivering seamless personalized care tailored to the unique needs of each patient.

Our specialists provide leading-edge expertise in both nonsurgical and surgical treatments, employing the latest minimally invasive techniques and advanced technologies to preserve vision, restore form and function and enhance comfort, appearance and quality of life. Montefiore Einstein serves as a referral site for the most complex ophthalmic cases and is ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for diabetes, endocrinology and cancer care according to U.S. News & World Report.

We offer access to the most advanced diagnostics and treatments for conditions of the face, orbits, eyelids and lacrimal system. Our Program provides a full spectrum of nonsurgical and surgical options, addressing both aesthetic needs and complex reconstructive conditions.

Our specialists use the latest injectables, lasers and skin therapies to improve the health and appearance of the eyelids, brows and surrounding facial structures. Advanced techniques include laser skin resurfacing, biostimulatory and dermal fillers, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and botulinum toxin injections, used both for periocular rejuvenation and as supportive therapy in conditions such as blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm and thyroid eye disease. Select patients may also benefit from eyelash enhancement with bimatoprost (Latisse®), a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved option that promotes eyelash growth. Cosmetic surgical options include blepharoplasty (eyelid lift), brow lift and related periocular procedures to restore eyelid contour while improving function and appearance.

Oculoplastic surgeons at Montefiore Einstein are internationally recognized for their expertise in reconstructive and functional surgery of the eyelids, orbits and lacrimal system, correcting congenital, traumatic and postsurgical deformities with precision. These specialists provide advanced care for functional disorders such as ptosis (drooping eyelids that interfere with vision), dermatochalasis (excess eyelid skin), ectropion (outward turning of the lower eyelid) and brow ptosis (drooping eyebrows). Minimally invasive endoscopic and external lacrimal surgeries are also offered to restore tear drainage and relieve chronic tearing.

Our Program provides highly specialized reconstruction following trauma, congenital anomalies or cancer treatment, including eyelid and orbital reconstruction after Mohs surgery and orbital rehabilitation following eye removal procedures such as enucleation or exenteration. We are also one of the first and few centers in the nation to routinely offer TONES. Through advanced technology, minimally invasive approaches and close collaboration with multidisciplinary specialists, we deliver comprehensive care to restore function, protect vision and improve quality of life.

We offer a comprehensive suite of advanced diagnostic and oculoplastic treatments, including:

We are leading collaborative research and spearheading numerous studies and clinical trials, including several funded by the National Eye Institute/National Institutes of Health (NEI/NIH), translating novel scientific discoveries into new diagnostics and treatments to help improve clinical outcomes for individuals with eyelid, orbital, lacrimal and facial conditions. The research spans basic, translational and clinical science, with a focus on advancing the understanding of the mechanisms, diagnosis and treatment of oculoplastic conditions. Core areas of investigation include surgical innovation, wound healing and scar management, thyroid eye disease, functional eyelid disorders, orbital tumors, aesthetic outcomes and patient-centered decision-making and approaches to care. Current investigations include studies to improve scar healing, evaluate new materials and techniques for eyelid and orbital surgery, advance therapies for thyroid eye disease and enhance outcomes in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. Additional research focuses on long-term outcomes in brow lift surgery, strategies to optimize upper eyelid blepharoplasty and the effectiveness of botulinum toxin for thyroid eye disease–related eyelid retraction and strabismus.

Our Program also addresses the broader impact of oculoplastic care through studies on dermal fillers and complication prevention, shared decision-making in ophthalmology and the role of social media in surgical education and patient engagement. Investigators are expanding understanding of thyroid eye disease in diverse populations, examining ocular and eyelid changes associated with rapid weight loss after bariatric surgery and even investigating links between cannabis use and thyroid eye disease in patients with autoimmune hyperthyroidism. Together, these efforts demonstrate our commitment to advancing the science and practice of oculoplastic surgery, ensuring that patients benefit from the safest, most effective and evidence-based approaches available.

Oculoplastics is a highly specialized field that combines the microsurgical precision of ophthalmology with the reconstructive and aesthetic principles of plastic surgery to restore both form and function. Since the eyes and surrounding structures are essential to vision, comfort and facial expression, oculoplastic surgeons are uniquely trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the face, eyelids, orbits (eye sockets) and lacrimal system (tear production and drainage).
Oculoplastic conditions range from functional disorders such as drooping eyelids (ptosis), excess eyelid skin (dermatochalasis), eyelid malpositions, lacrimal disorders (such as blocked tear ducts) and orbital trauma, to thyroid eye disease, tumors, congenital anomalies and complications of prior surgery. The field also encompasses complex reconstructive surgery following cancer removal or injury, as well as advanced procedures to improve the health, symmetry and appearance of the eyelids and periocular region. By addressing both functional and cosmetic needs, oculoplastic care plays a vital role in preserving vision, restoring comfort and enhancing quality of life.