Introduction
Eye collagen injection is a valuable treatment option for various eye - related conditions and aesthetic concerns. In New York City, a bustling hub of medical expertise, there are numerous doctors offering this service. Here, we have carefully selected the top 5 doctors based on their experience, patient reviews, and specialization in eye collagen injection.
What is Eye Collagen Injection?
Collagen is an essential protein that provides structure and support to the tissues in our body, including the eyes. Eye collagen injection can be used for multiple purposes. In terms of medical treatment, it can be beneficial for conditions like keratoconus. When the cornea becomes weakened, collagen cross - linking (a type of treatment related to collagen injection) can strengthen the cornea. As described on https://www.manhattaneyenyc.com/eye - care/collagen - cross - linking/, when the cornea is affected by keratoconus or other corneal diseases, collagen cross - linking involves removing the surface epithelial layer, bathing the eye with liquid riboflavin (vitamin B2), and then exposing it to a controlled amount of ultraviolet light. This process strengthens the bonds between the middle layers of the cornea, stabilizing it and preventing further progression of the condition.
From an aesthetic perspective, eye collagen injection can be used to address signs of aging around the eyes. Fine lines, wrinkles, volume loss, and hollowing under the eyes can be improved with collagen - based treatments. Dr. Michele Green's approach to eye rejuvenation, as mentioned on https://www.michelegreenmd.com/eye - rejuvenation/, includes using dermal fillers (which can boost collagen production) to contour and replace lost volume under the eyes, resulting in a more youthful appearance.
The Top 5 Doctors for Eye Collagen Injection in New York City
1. Dr. Rapoport
Background and Expertise: Dr. Rapoport from Manhattan Eye has been a pioneer in performing Avedro collagen cross - linking for keratoconus and other corneal ectasia patients since its FDA approval in the United States in 2016. She was also involved in the studies that led to its FDA - approval. This indicates her in - depth knowledge and early adoption of this advanced treatment method. As patients have attested, “I've been essentially blind my whole life and recently decided to get elective eye surgery. Unfortunately, I did not qualify for LASIK, but did qualify for PRK. Dr. Rapoport was fantastic - she explained all my options in detail and was very diligent in giving me instructions pre / post operations - even when I asked twice / three times. She's always available to talk and super empathetic” (https://www.manhattaneyenyc.com/eye - care/collagen - cross - linking/).
Treatment Approach: In collagen cross - linking procedures, she ensures patients are well - informed. After removing the surface epithelial layer of the eye, she uses liquid riboflavin and controlled ultraviolet light. A bandage contact lens is placed on the eye at the end of the procedure to aid in healing and provide comfort. The treatment usually stabilizes the cornea, prevents further shape changes, and may even lead to improvements in uncorrected visual acuity and a decrease in astigmatism.
Patient Reviews: Patients consistently praise her for her professionalism, empathy, and detailed explanations. Many patients have had positive experiences and would highly recommend her. Her dedication to patient care is evident in the way she spends time with patients, answering their questions multiple times and following up on their progress.
2. Dr. James Kelly
Background and Expertise: Dr. James Kelly is a comprehensive ophthalmologist in New York and Long Island. He is an expert in refractive surgery and serves as the director of refractive surgery education for Northwell Health and the Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital. He is certified in all aspects of refractive surgery, offering patients a wide range of surgical and non - surgical options for their visual needs. According to https://www.kellylaser.com/about/dr - james - kelly/, he has received extensive additional training and certification in refractive laser eye surgery and has personally performed many thousands of vision correction procedures since 1996.
Treatment Approach: When it comes to collagen - related treatments, Dr. Kelly offers corneal cross - linking to correct keratoconus. This minimally invasive procedure utilizes ultraviolet light and special eye drops to strengthen the collagen fibers in the cornea. He also provides other services like LASIK, EVO ICL, laser cataract surgery, and pterygium surgery, allowing him to address various eye conditions comprehensively.
Patient Reviews: Patients commend Dr. Kelly and his staff for their excellent customer care. “I visited Dr. Kelly's office 2 weeks ago and can't tell you enough about how thorough and nice he was. I received great information as well as the proper diagnosis. His office staff is amazing” (https://www.kellylaser.com/about/dr - james - kelly/). Many patients feel supported throughout the entire process, from consultation to follow - ups.
3. Dr. Michele Green
Background and Expertise: Dr. Michele Green is a board - certified cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience. She treats some of the most discerning men and women from around the world in her private dermatology office in the upper east side neighborhood of Manhattan. Well - versed in a wide range of non - invasive cosmetic procedures including Botox, dermal fillers, laser resurfacing treatments, and more, she is known for providing natural - looking, long - lasting results. She is consistently voted as one of the best healthcare providers in New York City by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors (https://www.michelegreenmd.com/eye - rejuvenation/).
Treatment Approach: For eye rejuvenation using collagen - related treatments, Dr. Green takes an individualized approach. She examines the treatment area and listens to the patient's aesthetic goals. For contouring and replacing lost volume under the eyes, she uses hyaluronic acid dermal fillers such as Restylane or Juvederm. These fillers not only add volume but also boost collagen production over time. She may also combine different treatments like Botox for dynamic wrinkles, Thermage for skin tightening, and laser resurfacing or chemical peels for pigmentation issues.
Patient Reviews: Patients are satisfied with the results of her treatments. Her “less - is - more” approach to dermal fillers helps patients achieve a naturally youthful look. Many patients have seen improvements in the appearance of fine lines, dark circles, and volume loss under the eyes after her treatments.
4. Dr. Nadia Haq Qie
Background and Expertise: Dr. Nadia Haq Qie graduated magna cum laude from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a bachelor of science in biochemistry/biophysics and cum laude from Albany Medical College. She was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society in her junior year of medical college. After completing her residency at Albany Medical College and serving as chief resident in her final year, she went on to complete her fellowship in cornea, cataract, and refractive surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College. She has been recognized as a gifted educator and has a strong interest in teaching the next generation of ophthalmologists. Her areas of clinical and research interest include ocular surface disease, cataract surgery, and ocular emergencies (https://www.healthgrades.com/find - a - doctor/new - york/best - ophthalmologists - in - new - york - city).
Treatment Approach: Although specific details about her eye collagen injection approach are not as extensive as the previous doctors, her comprehensive knowledge of ophthalmology, especially in corneal - related issues, likely plays a role in her treatment of eye collagen injection. Given her background in cornea - related studies and training, she can use collagen - related treatments for conditions like keratoconus with a scientific and well - informed approach.
Patient Reviews: With a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, patients find her approachable and her explanations of conditions clear. She is committed to excellence in providing a complete range of ophthalmic services and is currently accepting new patients.
5. Dr. Grace Sun
Background and Expertise: Dr. Grace Sun is the director of the ophthalmology clinical practice at Weill Cornell Medicine - Lower Manhattan. She graduated from Stanford University with honors and received her M.D. from Weill Medical College of Cornell University, where she was awarded the Edward Norton Prize in ophthalmology. She completed her ophthalmology residency at the New York - Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Medical College of Cornell University. She serves as the president of the New York State Ophthalmological Society (NY SOS) and is president - elect of Women in Ophthalmology (WIO). She has also been named one of "New York Super Doctors Rising Stars" by the New York Times Magazine and as Castle Connolly’s top doctors in the New York metro area. Her strong interest in global health is also evident in her past work with organizations like Orbis International (https://www.healthgrades.com/find - a - doctor/new - york/best - ophthalmologists - in - new - york - city).
Treatment Approach: Dr. Sun offers a wide range of ophthalmic services, from accurate eyeglass and contact lens prescriptions to complex intraocular surgeries. In the context of eye collagen injection, her in - depth knowledge of corneal diseases, cataracts, and other eye conditions can contribute to a holistic treatment approach. For example, she may use collagen - related treatments in combination with other therapies to achieve the best results for patients with eye problems.
Patient Reviews: Patients appreciate her expertise and her ability to offer a comprehensive range of services. With a rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars, she is known for explaining conditions well and providing quality care.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Eye Collagen Injection Doctor
Experience
As seen with the top 5 doctors, experience is crucial. Doctors like Dr. Rapoport and Dr. James Kelly have been involved in collagen - related treatments for many years. Their long - standing experience allows them to handle various situations that may arise during the procedure and ensures they are well - versed in the latest techniques and best practices.
Patient Reviews
Patient reviews provide valuable insights into a doctor's bedside manner, the effectiveness of their treatments, and the overall patient experience. Positive reviews from satisfied patients are a good indication that the doctor is trustworthy and provides high - quality care. For example, the numerous positive reviews for Dr. Michele Green and Dr. James Kelly reflect their patients' satisfaction with their treatments and care.
Specialization
Depending on the specific reason for eye collagen injection, it is important to choose a doctor with the relevant specialization. If it is for a medical condition like keratoconus, an ophthalmologist with experience in corneal treatments, such as Dr. Rapoport or Dr. James Kelly, would be a good choice. For aesthetic concerns around the eyes, a cosmetic dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green may be more appropriate.
Board Certification
Board - certified doctors, like Dr. Michele Green (board - certified cosmetic dermatologist) and Dr. Nadia Haq Qie (diplomat of the American Board of Ophthalmology), have met the strict standards set by professional boards. This certification is a sign of their competence and adherence to ethical and professional guidelines.
Benefits of Eye Collagen Injection
Medical Benefits
Strengthening the Cornea: As mentioned earlier, in cases of keratoconus or corneal ectasia, collagen cross - linking can strengthen the cornea. By creating cross - links in the collagen fibers, the cornea becomes more stable, preventing further thinning and bulging, which can lead to improved vision and a reduced need for more invasive procedures like corneal transplantation.
Improving Visual Acuity: Some patients may experience an improvement in uncorrected visual acuity after collagen - related treatments. The stabilization of the cornea can also lead to a decrease in astigmatism, which in turn can improve overall vision quality.
Aesthetic Benefits
Reducing Wrinkles: For dynamic wrinkles around the eyes, such as crow's feet, collagen - based treatments in combination with Botox can smooth out these fine lines. Botox relaxes the muscles, while the boost in collagen production helps to improve the skin's elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Restoring Volume: As we age, the production of collagen and elastin decreases, leading to volume loss under the eyes. Dermal fillers that boost collagen production can restore this lost volume, eliminating the dark circles and hollow appearance under the eyes, and giving the eyes a more youthful look.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Medical Treatments
Eye Discomfort: In collagen cross - linking procedures, after the removal of the surface epithelial layer and exposure to ultraviolet light, patients may experience eye discomfort, pain, or irritation. This is usually managed with pain medications and the use of a bandage contact lens, which is kept on for several days to aid in healing.
Visual Recovery Time: Visual recovery after collagen cross - linking takes about four weeks. During this time, patients may have blurred vision and need to make adjustments to their daily activities.
Aesthetic Treatments
Swelling and Bruising: After dermal filler injections around the eyes, swelling and bruising are common side effects. These usually subside within a few days to a week. However, proper after - care, such as applying cold compresses, can help reduce these symptoms.
Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some patients may have allergic reactions to the substances used in dermal fillers or other collagen - based treatments. It is important for doctors to screen patients thoroughly before the procedure to minimize this risk.
Conclusion
Eye collagen injection is a versatile treatment option that offers both medical and aesthetic benefits. In New York City, doctors like Dr. Rapoport, Dr. James Kelly, Dr. Michele Green, Dr. Nadia Haq Qie, and Dr. Grace Sun stand out as top choices due to their experience, expertise, and positive patient reviews. When considering eye collagen injection, it is essential to weigh the benefits against the potential risks and choose a doctor who meets your specific needs based on factors like experience, specialization, and patient feedback.
If you are interested in eye collagen injection, take the time to research these doctors further, read more patient reviews, and schedule consultations to discuss your options. By making an informed decision, you can achieve the best possible results for your eye health and appearance. Don't hesitate to take the first step towards better eyesight and a more youthful appearance. Reach out to one of these top doctors in New York City today!
