Pediatric Specialty
Ophthalmology

As part of our commitment to preventing vision loss and improving outcomes for children with retinal diseases, we lead  initiatives to accelerate the diagnosis of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and broaden access to care. By integrating advanced imaging technologies with remote screening and expert review, we have developed programs that enable earlier detection, timely intervention and improved access for vulnerable infants and children, often before surgical treatment becomes necessary.

At the forefront of pediatric ocular oncology, our Program provides eye- and vision-sparing treatment for retinoblastoma and other rare childhood eye tumors. These include intra-arterial and intravitreal chemotherapy, focal laser therapy and cryotherapy, as well as advanced vitreoretinal techniques. CHAM is ranked by U.S. News & World Report in pediatric cancer and is fully integrated with Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center, which is among the elite 1% of National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the U.S. We offer seamless access to pediatric medical and radiation oncology, genetics and long-term follow-up care for coordinated management and support from diagnosis through adulthood.

Montefiore Einstein Pediatric Ophthalmology is leading collaborative research and numerous studies, including several funded by the National Eye Institute (NEI)/National Institutes of Health (NIH), translating novel scientific discoveries into new diagnostics and treatments that improve outcomes for children with eye conditions. We helped establish new standards of care in pediatric ophthalmology, spearheading clinical trials that have led to the development of FDA-approved medications and devices, such as Eylea® (aflibercept), the first approved pharmacologic treatment for preterm infants with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Through clinical trials, our patients can access emerging technologies and innovative treatments that may otherwise be unavailable to the general public.

Our research spans basic, translational, and clinical science, with a focus on advancing understanding of the mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric eye diseases. Core areas of investigation include retinal diseases of infancy, strabismus and amblyopia, pediatric cataracts, congenital glaucoma, corneal dystrophies, progressive myopia and orthokeratology, and the impact of systemic and genetic disorders on vision. Investigators are uncovering the genetic and molecular mechanisms that regulate lens formation, transparency, and vision, while also studying how genetic changes in the key transcription factors affect early eye development, with the aim of informing future treatments for congenital eye conditions.

We are internationally recognized for advancing research in ROP, with studies addressing the clinical, logistical, and systemic factors that influence diagnosis, management, and outcomes for premature infants. In strabismus and amblyopia research, our team has advanced surgical techniques such as the Swan incision, refined perioperative management, and explored innovative approaches such as mobile device–based vision screening for unilateral amblyopia. Beyond disease-specific research, our faculty are also shaping the field through scholarship in medical education and leadership in advancing pediatric ophthalmology worldwide.

Our program is recognized for its collaborative approach and comprehensive clinical care, extending beyond the walls of Montefiore Einstein into the community through targeted outreach initiatives designed to preserve vision, slow disease progression, prevent both vision loss and blindness, and enhance quality of life, particularly among vulnerable populations. Key efforts include community education, telemedicine-based strategies for the early detection and management of retinopathy of prematurity, diabetic retinopathy, and other pediatric eye conditions, and our partnership with Lighthouse Guild International’s Technology Peers for Accessible Living (Tech Pals) program, which bridges generations through personalized technology mentorship for individuals with vision loss. This unique initiative pairs blind or visually impaired young adults with older adults to foster digital literacy and independence. Through these and other initiatives, we continue to expand access to care, preserve continuity, and reduce disparities, advancing eye health across the communities we serve.

Pediatric eye conditions encompass a wide range of disorders that can affect vision, eye alignment and visual development in infants, children and adolescents. Some conditions are common, such as refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism), amblyopia (“lazy eye”) and strabismus (misaligned eyes). Others are more complex or vision-threatening, including congenital cataracts, glaucoma, retinopathy of prematurity, inherited retinal diseases and ocular tumors such as retinoblastoma. Children may also experience disorders of the eyelids and tear ducts, corneal disease, or neuro-ophthalmologic conditions that affect the connection between the eyes and the brain. In addition, inflammatory eye diseases and vision problems related to systemic or genetic disorders, such as autoimmune disease, diabetes or craniofacial syndromes, can significantly impact eye health and development.

Vision plays a critical role in a child’s learning, social interaction and emotional growth. Certain eye conditions, if left untreated, can cause lifelong vision impairment or blindness. Because many pediatric eye diseases may progress silently before symptoms are noticed, routine vision screening and comprehensive eye examinations are essential for early detection, timely treatment and the protection of healthy visual development.

With locations in New York City and Westchester County, we serve all your pediatric eye care needs close to home and work.