President and Medical Director of Cohen Eye Institute Meet Dr. Ilan Cohen

Dr. Ilan Cohen, President and Medical Director at Cohen Eye Institute, has dedicated more than 25 years to transforming patients' lives through advanced surgical vision correction. A board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained cornea and refractive surgeon, Dr. Cohen has performed over 80,000 vision correction procedures—including on more than 1,000 physicians—earning him a reputation for unparalleled skill, innovation, and compassion.

Whether you require cataract solutions, corneal transplants, or specialized treatments like implantable contact lenses (ICLs), Dr. Cohen's approach seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with personalized care.

Eager to discover how Dr. Cohen can elevate your vision? Contact us today to schedule your comprehensive consultation.

Dedication to Surgical Excellence

From the start of his career, Dr. Cohen devoted 100% of his professional life to surgical eye care, focusing on the delicate, highly specialized realm of refractive and corneal procedures. This unwavering commitment has driven him to refine each technique, consistently pushing the boundaries of what's possible in vision correction. Over the last few decades, Dr. Cohen has honed a meticulous approach that prioritizes safety and precision—a philosophy reflected in his complication rates, notably lower than national averages in cataract and LASIK surgeries.

His emphasis on continuous improvement has also positioned him as a trusted referral source. Other ophthalmologists frequently turn to Dr. Cohen's expertise for surgical guidance when encountering complex or high-risk cases. This role underscores the confidence the broader medical community places in his hands.

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Groundbreaking Achievements and Innovative Procedures

Dr. Cohen's dedication to innovation has led him to pioneer several firsts in the Tri-state area:

First Implantable Contact Lens (ICL) Procedure

Dr. Cohen introduced the ICL for patients with high myopia who either aren't good LASIK candidates or seek an alternative that leaves the cornea largely untouched. His work was featured on both Fox and ABC News, highlighting the revolutionary impact of this “implantable contact lens” approach.

First Artificial Cornea Procedure

A legally blind man regained sight in one eye after decades of darkness when Dr. Cohen performed the area's first artificial cornea surgery. This remarkable case was covered on CBS News, showcasing Dr. Cohen's extraordinary ability to tackle the most difficult ocular challenges.

Additionally, Dr. Cohen has an extensive background in advanced cataract and LASIK surgeries. His track record includes many delicate, high-level procedures that other surgeons have entrusted him with. Each successful outcome reflects his mission to restore or improve sight beyond what glasses or contacts alone can achieve.

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Education and Fellowship Training

A graduate of Tufts University School of Medicine, Dr. Cohen's journey toward specialization began with a robust medical education that emphasized core clinical knowledge and surgical dexterity.

To further enhance his expertise, he completed a prestigious cornea and refractive surgery fellowship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center—one of the nation's leading training grounds for advanced eye care. This fellowship equipped him with the refined skills necessary to excel in the most delicate and complex eye operations, laying the foundation for a career marked by groundbreaking procedures and sought-after expertise.

Patient-Centered Philosophy and Ongoing Innovation

“I have dedicated my life to providing sharp, youthful vision at both distance and near for patients of all ages,” says Dr. Cohen. “Today, with the help of modern technology, I strive to enhance your vision beyond what is possible with glasses or contacts.” This forward-thinking approach motivates him to adopt and perfect new techniques, such as laser cataract surgery and advanced lens implants. Dr. Cohen stands at the forefront as these innovations evolve, believing that expertise, skill, and state-of-the-art tools must work in harmony for the best possible results.

A Personal Motivator Family Tragedy Inspiring Vision Restoration

When Dr. Cohen was a teenager, his brother suffered a severe eye injury from an exploding Coke bottle, necessitating multiple surgeries. Witnessing the emotional and physical toll of this trauma solidified his commitment to eye surgery. Every time he restores or improves vision for a patient, Dr. Cohen honors that early lesson in empathy and the transformative power of high-quality, compassionate medical care.

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Real Patient Triumphs

Thousands of individuals have experienced life-changing improvements under Dr. Cohen's care. Patients praise his surgical precision as well as the warmth and clarity he provides throughout their journey. From LASIK recipients who marvel at waking up with perfect vision to complex corneal transplant cases gaining a new lease on life, Dr. Cohen's impact is felt daily.

Speaker

  • American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
  • Lecture to the New York Keratorefractive Society and the New York Eye and Ear on the artificial cornea

Author

  • Chapters in Corneal Topography textbook, pub 2012 (second highest selling ophthalmology book of all-time)
  • Chapters in Refractive Lens Exchange textbook, pub 2015

Member

  • American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery

What Patients Are Saying

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Watch: Laurie Farragher, DVM

“I am now seeing perfect distance, near and intermediate without glasses or contacts!”

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Watch: Greg's LASIK experience

“My vision is now 20/20 and I’m seeing better than I did when I had corrective lenses in.”

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Watch: Jennifer's LASIK experience

“I’m looking forward to not having to remove my contacts every night and put them in every morning.”

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Watch: Amy's LASIK experience

“I can see 20/20 as well as I did with glasses and contacts and I had no pain or discomfort.”

What Doctors Are Saying

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Watch: Dr. Steve Rubinstein

“Dr. Cohen uses all the techniques that are available and enjoys working with new, exciting technology.”

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Watch: Dr. Ming Wang

“Dr. Cohen, in my opinion is one of the best surgeons on this plant.”

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Watch: Dr. Nooshin Rastegar

“If someone in my family needed surgery I would certainly send them to Dr. Cohen.”

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Watch: Dr. Roy Cohen

“Dr. Cohen is very conservative he will not do a procedure on a patient unless it will result in success.”

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Watch: Dr. John Lipchak

“Over the last 20 years of knowing him and referring many of my patients to him, he never made a mistake.”

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you're ready to explore advanced solutions for your eyesight—be it a cornea procedure, LASIK refinement, or cataract lens replacement—Dr. Ilan Cohen's wealth of experience can guide you toward a brighter, clearer outlook. Call us now to arrange a personal consultation and embark on a path to high-quality, confidence-boosting vision. Are you looking for an experienced surgeon who blends compassion, groundbreaking methods, and proven results? Contact our office today to learn how Dr. Cohen can help you achieve life-changing visual clarity.

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Enhancing Your Vision

Guiding you toward the procedure that fits your unique needs, so you can see the world clearly and confidently.

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