Introduction

Medial canthal ligament tightening is a delicate and specialized procedure in the field of ophthalmic and plastic surgery. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence, there are numerous highly skilled doctors who can perform this procedure with precision and expertise. This article aims to introduce you to the top 5 selected doctors for medial canthal ligament tightening in New York City in 2025, based on their patient ratings, experience, and professional achievements.

Understanding Medial Canthal Ligament Tightening

The medial canthal ligament plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability and proper positioning of the inner corner of the eye. Over time, factors such as aging, trauma, or certain medical conditions can cause the ligament to stretch or become damaged, leading to issues such as canthal dystopia, epiphora, or an abnormal appearance of the eye. Medial canthal ligament tightening is a surgical procedure designed to correct these problems by re - establishing the proper tension and alignment of the ligament.

Top 5 Doctors for Medial Canthal Ligament Tightening in New York City

1. Dr. Henry M. Spinelli, MD

Dr. Henry M. Spinelli is a highly respected plastic surgeon in New York City. He has over 21 years of experience and is affiliated with multiple renowned hospitals, including the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai and New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell.

• Patient Experience: He has an excellent patient experience rating of 5/5. According to data from over 253 reviews, patients have positive feedback on his thoroughness of examination, ability to answer questions, and clarity of instructions. His patient loyalty and inclusion in decisions scores are also very high, indicating that patients trust him and feel involved in their treatment plans.
• Expertise: Dr. Spinelli is well - versed in various plastic surgery procedures, including those related to the face. His research on topics such as lateral canthoplasty using the Mitek anchor system and correction of involutional entropion with suborbicularis septal and lateral canthal tightening showcases his in - depth knowledge and experience in eyelid and canthal surgeries.
• Awards and Recognitions: He has received numerous awards and recognitions, including being listed as a top doctor by New York Magazine and America's Top Doctors for many years. He is also an editor - in - chief of the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal, which further validates his expertise in the field.

Dr. Spinelli's office is located at 875 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10065. You can call (212) 570 - 6235 to make an appointment. He accepts insurance, and you can check his profile to see which ones.

2. Dr. Richard D. Lisman, MD

Dr. Richard D. Lisman is an ophthalmologist with more than 20 years of experience in New York City. He is affiliated with multiple hospitals, such as NYU Langone Hospitals and New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai.

• Patient Experience: With an overall patient experience rating of 4/5, based on 82 reviews, Dr. Lisman is highly regarded by his patients. His ability to answer questions and clarity of instructions have received excellent ratings of 5/5, while his thoroughness of examination and perceived outcomes have positive ratings as well.
• Expertise: His subspecialty is oculo - plastic & orbital reconstructive surgery. He has extensive research in this area, with publications on topics like evaluation of the effect of dermatochalasis and upper eyelid blepharoplasty surgery on corneal epithelial thickness alterations and the use of different surgical techniques for eyelid and orbital reconstruction. His work on standardized three - dimensional lateral distraction test to assess medial canthal tendon laxity is also relevant to medial canthal ligament tightening.
• Awards and Recognitions: Dr. Lisman has been recognized as a super doc and an ACS fellow. He has also been listed as a top doctor by New York Magazine and America's Top Doctors for many years.

His office is at 635 Park Avenue, New York, NY, 10065. You can call (212) 585 - 1405 to book an appointment. He accepts insurance, and details can be found on his profile.

3. Dr. Elizabeth B. Jelks, MD

Dr. Elizabeth B. Jelks is an experienced ophthalmologist in New York City. She has over 21 years of experience and is affiliated with Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health.

• Patient Experience: While specific patient experience ratings may vary, her affiliation with a top - ranked hospital and her long - standing practice indicate that she provides quality care. Patients can book an appointment online, which adds to the convenience of seeking her services.
• Expertise: Her specialties include ophthalmology, with a focus on general ophthalmology. Her research publications, such as those on three - dimensional topographic surface changes in response to volumization of the lateral suborbicularis oculi fat compartment and medial canthal reconstruction using a medially based upper eyelid myocutaneous flap, demonstrate her knowledge and experience in periorbital and canthal surgeries.
• Certifications and Licensure: She holds active medical licenses in multiple states, including CA, NY, and MI, through 2025, which reflects her professional compliance and ability to practice legally.

Dr. Jelks' office is located at 875 Park Avenue, New York, NY, 10075. You can call (212) 988 - 3303 to schedule an appointment. She accepts insurance, and you can check her profile for details.

4. Dr. Ana Alzaga Fernandez, MD

According to Healthgrades, Dr. Ana Alzaga Fernandez has a perfect 5.00 out of 5 - star rating. She is located at 212 East 69th Street Suite 5, New York, NY 10021.

• Patient Rating: Her high patient rating suggests that patients are very satisfied with her services. A 5 - star rating often indicates excellent bedside manner, successful treatment outcomes, and clear communication with patients.
• Affiliation: She is on staff at New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital, which is a well - known and respected medical institution. This affiliation adds to her credibility and the quality of care she can provide.

You can call (212) 582 - 3422 or (212) 922 - 1515 to reach her office and make an appointment.

5. Dr. James Kelly, MD

Dr. James Kelly also has a 5.00 out of 5 - star rating from patient reviews. His office is at 160 E 56th St Fl 9, New York, NY 10022.

• Patient Rating: The perfect 5 - star rating indicates that he has a high level of patient satisfaction. This could be due to his technical skills in surgery, his ability to address patients' concerns, and his overall professionalism.
• Local Presence: Being located in the heart of New York City, he is easily accessible to a large number of patients seeking medial canthal ligament tightening procedures.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Doctor for Medial Canthal Ligament Tightening

1. Experience

The number of years a doctor has been practicing and the number of medial canthal ligament tightening procedures they have performed are important factors. A doctor with more experience is likely to have encountered a wider range of cases and developed more refined surgical techniques.

2. Patient Reviews and Ratings

Reading patient reviews can give you an insight into the doctor's bedside manner, communication skills, and the overall patient experience. High ratings indicate that patients are satisfied with the doctor's services and the treatment outcomes.

3. Expertise and Specialization

Doctors who specialize in ophthalmic or plastic surgery, especially those with a focus on eyelid and canthal surgeries, are more likely to have in - depth knowledge and expertise in medial canthal ligament tightening. Their research and publications in this area can also be a good indicator of their proficiency.

4. Hospital Affiliation

Doctors affiliated with well - respected hospitals often have access to better resources, advanced technology, and a team of supporting medical staff. This can contribute to a safer and more successful surgical procedure.

5. Insurance and Cost

It is important to check if the doctor accepts your insurance plan. Additionally, you should discuss the cost of the procedure, including any potential additional fees, with the doctor's office to avoid any unexpected expenses.

Preparing for Medial Canthal Ligament Tightening

1. Consultation

During the consultation, the doctor will evaluate your medical history, the condition of your medial canthal ligament, and your overall health. They will explain the procedure in detail, including the expected outcomes, potential risks, and recovery process. You should take this opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

2. Medical Tests

The doctor may order certain medical tests, such as blood tests or imaging studies, to assess your suitability for the surgery. These tests can help identify any underlying health issues that may need to be addressed before the procedure.

3. Lifestyle Changes

You may be advised to make certain lifestyle changes before the surgery, such as quitting smoking, avoiding certain medications, and maintaining a healthy diet. These changes can help improve your chances of a successful surgery and a faster recovery.

Recovery and Aftercare

1. Immediate Post - Surgery

After the surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery area. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the eyes. The doctor will provide you with instructions on how to manage these symptoms, such as applying cold compresses and taking pain medications as prescribed.

2. Follow - up Appointments

You will need to attend follow - up appointments with the doctor to monitor your recovery progress. The doctor will check the healing of the surgical site, remove any stitches if necessary, and adjust your aftercare plan as needed.

3. Long - Term Care

To ensure the long - term success of the procedure, you may need to follow certain lifestyle recommendations, such as protecting your eyes from excessive sunlight and avoiding strenuous activities for a certain period. The doctor will also provide you with instructions on any additional care or treatments that may be required.

Conclusion

Choosing the right doctor for medial canthal ligament tightening is crucial for a successful outcome. The top 5 doctors in New York City introduced in this article have demonstrated high levels of expertise, positive patient experiences, and professional achievements. Whether you are considering this procedure for cosmetic or functional reasons, it is important to do your research, schedule consultations with the doctors, and make an informed decision based on your individual needs and circumstances.

If you are interested in learning more about medial canthal ligament tightening or scheduling a consultation with one of the recommended doctors, we encourage you to reach out to their offices directly. Share this article with others who may be seeking similar information to help them make the best choice for their eye health and well - being.