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 Other Doctors and Patients Say About Dr. Cohen

Took my 8yr old here for the first time because of her pediatrician recommendation. As soon as I walked in the office front desk was very welcoming. The gentleman who helped me ...

Took my 8yr old here for the first time because of her pediatrician recommendation. As soon as I walked in the office front desk was very welcoming. The gentleman who helped me was very polite and friendly.

Yaritza O.

Had such a great experience at Cohen Eye Institute! The whole process was super smooth—from booking my appointment to the actual LASIK procedure. The staff was so friendly...

Had such a great experience at Cohen Eye Institute! The whole process was super smooth—from booking my appointment to the actual LASIK procedure. The staff was so friendly, patient (especially with how nervous I was) and made me feel comfortable the entire time.

Dr. Cohen took the time to explain everything about LASIK, answered all my questions, and made me feel completely at ease. You can tell he genuinely cares about his patients and their results.

If you’re thinking about getting LASIK, I highly recommend this place. Professional, efficient, and overall just a great experience!

Debby R.

I had an amazing experience at Cohen Eye institute! From start to finish they went above and beyond to ensure everything was ok The clinic itself is super clean and neat with st...

I had an amazing experience at Cohen Eye institute! From start to finish they went above and beyond to ensure everything was ok The clinic itself is super clean and neat with state of the art equipments. Their attention to detail and professionalism made the entire process seamless . I want to thank the staff but foremost Kenia she’s at front desk she went above and beyond making it very clear and simple experience I would highly recommend this clinic to anyone for there Eye needs ill definitely will go there again.

Elvis S.

It’s been always great experience from last two years. Doctors and other staffs have been amazing. Ms Sarany and Ms Karlee are outstanding with their customer service. I w...

It’s been always great experience from last two years. Doctors and other staffs have been amazing. Ms Sarany and Ms Karlee are outstanding with their customer service. I will definitely recommend

Razib E.

First time patient and the doctor that took care of me was Karlee she did such an amazing job so knowledgeable feel very comfortable. Now this my new home The past experience th...

First time patient and the doctor that took care of me was Karlee she did such an amazing job so knowledgeable feel very comfortable. Now this my new home The past experience that I had in other locations has just been horrible thank you guys for making me feel comfortable. The place is so impeccable clean.

Oscar O.

Everything was great from beginning to end. All the staff were friendly and professional. I’ve been with them for many years and it’s been amazing since my 1st visit...

Everything was great from beginning to end. All the staff were friendly and professional. I’ve been with them for many years and it’s been amazing since my 1st visit.

David C.

I’m a first time patient i came 6mins late my schedule but the staff assist me right away. They are very friendly and they work fast i was in and out the building.Dr. Kris...

I’m a first time patient i came 6mins late my schedule but the staff assist me right away. They are very friendly and they work fast i was in and out the building.Dr. Krishna Morar explained to me clearly whats going on with my eyes so clearly understand what I need to do with his advice. God blessed every one

Bhel G.

From the moment I walked in, I was warmly greeted by Kenia, whose bubbly personality and efficiency truly made my day. Her knowledge and fast service stood out, making the entir...

From the moment I walked in, I was warmly greeted by Kenia, whose bubbly personality and efficiency truly made my day. Her knowledge and fast service stood out, making the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. The office was spotless and well-organized, creating a welcoming atmosphere. I’ll definitely be returning!

Manuel S.

My experience was all together great regarding the medical part, where I think there’s room for improvement is the wait time and the efficiency of the front desk staff. Bu...

My experience was all together great regarding the medical part, where I think there’s room for improvement is the wait time and the efficiency of the front desk staff. But they’re all professional and friendly and my eyes are better now, that’s what matters!

Adriana N.

Professional and courteous staff. Well organized and comfortable facility. They answered all my questions and were very friendly when I asked to have my prescription sent to a d...

Professional and courteous staff. Well organized and comfortable facility. They answered all my questions and were very friendly when I asked to have my prescription sent to a different farmacy. This was my first visit and will see the surgeon in 2 weeks.

Joe C.

I recently had the pleasure of being treated at the Cohen Eye Institute, and I couldn't be more impressed. From the moment I walked in, the staff were warm, welcoming, and incre...

I recently had the pleasure of being treated at the Cohen Eye Institute, and I couldn't be more impressed. From the moment I walked in, the staff were warm, welcoming, and incredibly professional. The doctors and medical team were knowledgeable, compassionate, and took the time to answer all my questions.

The facility itself is state-of-the-art, with modern equipment and a clean, comfortable environment. The entire experience, from initial consultation to post-op care, was seamless and stress-free.

I highly recommend the Cohen Eye Institute to anyone seeking top-notch eye care. Their expertise, combined with their caring approach, makes them stand out in the field. I'm so grateful for the care I received and would trust them with my family's eye health without hesitation.

Lisa F.

I have great faith in Dr. Morar. He answers my questions and explains things so I can understand. Sammy did my initial eye check and was efficient, courteous and kind. It was a ...

I have great faith in Dr. Morar. He answers my questions and explains things so I can understand. Sammy did my initial eye check and was efficient, courteous and kind. It was a great vision checkup.

Marie T.

I have been going to Dr. Morar for years. He is very thorough, caring, compassionate and he always takes his time. He explains everything in detail. My son went with me once and...

I have been going to Dr. Morar for years. He is very thorough, caring, compassionate and he always takes his time. He explains everything in detail. My son went with me once and Dr. Morar answered all of my son’s concerns. I leave there satisfied never second guessing what Dr. Morar has done. You won’t sit around for a long time like most places. I’m always called in around my appointment time.

His staff is very helpful, professional and kind. I’m always greeted with a smile no matter who is taking care of me. The entire office is always clean. I wouldn’t change this practice. I highly recommend Cohen Eye Institute!

Zenda P.

I enjoyed the friendly staff and the courtesy of the tech's it was very clean and up to date. With the equipment. And Dr Mora was quite friendly and knowledgeable I enjoyed my v...

I enjoyed the friendly staff and the courtesy of the tech's it was very clean and up to date. With the equipment. And Dr Mora was quite friendly and knowledgeable I enjoyed my visit exceptionally

Marc P.

The facility is equipped with the most advanced technology, ensuring top-notch care for every patient. The staff is exceptionally friendly, professional, and attentive, making e...

The facility is equipped with the most advanced technology, ensuring top-notch care for every patient. The staff is exceptionally friendly, professional, and attentive, making every visit a pleasant experience. The doctors are incredibly knowledgeable and take the time to answer all questions with patience and clarity. I always feel heard and cared for here. Thank you for providing such outstanding service!

Mehdi T.

Great place. Everyone friendly, competent and respectful. Doctor was excellent. Very modern and clean office. Very little wait time

Great place. Everyone friendly, competent and respectful. Doctor was excellent. Very modern and clean office. Very little wait time

M. W.

Everyone was attentive, friendly and respectful. The place is clean and Dr Morar is amazing, he addresses any concerns thoroughly and makes sure he provides an excellent custome...

Everyone was attentive, friendly and respectful. The place is clean and Dr Morar is amazing, he addresses any concerns thoroughly and makes sure he provides an excellent customer service.

Hazel N.

I was just seen 2 weeks ago and I will continue to come here! The staff is always so helpful and the doctors have very good bedside matter along with being very informative. He ...

I was just seen 2 weeks ago and I will continue to come here! The staff is always so helpful and the doctors have very good bedside matter along with being very informative. He took the time to answers my questions and I did not feel rushed in anyway. I have seen two different doctors here and I would recommend any of the doctors here.

Jill N.

Clean office friendly staff excellent doctor interactions. Listened to questions n not pushy. Good experience.

Clean office friendly staff excellent doctor interactions. Listened to questions n not pushy. Good experience.

Angela P.

Dr. Morar has been doing an excellent job on diagnosing my eye issues for 7yrs now. He has always been very cordial, professional and compassionate. Thanks Doc

Dr. Morar has been doing an excellent job on diagnosing my eye issues for 7yrs now. He has always been very cordial, professional and compassionate. Thanks Doc

Daryl W.

Dr. Morar is a great and smart doctor. All my relatives using him as their eye doctor. He is very caring and always spends time with you, listens to you and gives you good advis...

Dr. Morar is a great and smart doctor. All my relatives using him as their eye doctor. He is very caring and always spends time with you, listens to you and gives you good advises. The practice is very clean, all the staff are super friendly. If you have an emergency, they will help you even without appointments.

Ivanka G.

Facility is clean and the marjority of the front desk is pleasant. The doctor was amazing, kind and caring. My mother is very satisfied with the service.

Facility is clean and the marjority of the front desk is pleasant. The doctor was amazing, kind and caring. My mother is very satisfied with the service.

Maria C.

Very professional and courteous staff. Little to no waiting time on the day of your appointment. No matter what questions you ask they are always willing to take the time to exp...

Very professional and courteous staff. Little to no waiting time on the day of your appointment. No matter what questions you ask they are always willing to take the time to explain things to you and where necessary use visual aides in their explanations. Great service all around.

Ron F.

Great experience, excellent customer service. Gentlemen at desk was very knowledgeable, pleasant, compassionate. Rest of staff excellent service. Thank you all God Bless all of ...

Great experience, excellent customer service. Gentlemen at desk was very knowledgeable, pleasant, compassionate. Rest of staff excellent service. Thank you all God Bless all of you!

Lily

Cohen Eye Institute is one the best in New York City. Extremely professional and well educated people. They take good care of their patients immediately and lead you to the righ...

Cohen Eye Institute is one the best in New York City. Extremely professional and well educated people. They take good care of their patients immediately and lead you to the right track of your treatment.

Wisdom E.

Loved my doctor. As a new patient they were able to accomidated me for same day emergency appointment. I never had an issue with scheduling. The doctor was very caring for my ey...

Loved my doctor. As a new patient they were able to accomidated me for same day emergency appointment. I never had an issue with scheduling. The doctor was very caring for my eye and gave recommendations. Very professional, nice and knowledgeable.

Damaris P.

My experience in this facility is one of gratitude. I appreciate their professionalism and level of care they demonstrated throughout my visit .I thank the whole staff for their...

My experience in this facility is one of gratitude. I appreciate their professionalism and level of care they demonstrated throughout my visit .I thank the whole staff for their efficiency and their prompt services.

Tiffany

I didn't wait to much for them to call me inside,the staff are very nice and the Dr is polite & gentle. The place is affordable,nice & clean.

I didn't wait to much for them to call me inside,the staff are very nice and the Dr is polite & gentle. The place is affordable,nice & clean.

Blanca I.

Everyone was very professional, patient, and friendly . The Institute is very clean, the examination was thorough and the doctor made me feel confident and secure that he would ...

Everyone was very professional, patient, and friendly . The Institute is very clean, the examination was thorough and the doctor made me feel confident and secure that he would take care of my vision problems.

Larry A.

From entering into the office through completing my appointment, the staff and doctor were prompt, courtesy & professional, which is much appreciated.

From entering into the office through completing my appointment, the staff and doctor were prompt, courtesy & professional, which is much appreciated.

Alfred S.

Life-Changing Experience!I recently had LASIK surgery with Dr.Cohen and his team, and I honestly can’t believe I waited this long to do it. From start to finish, the...

Life-Changing Experience!I recently had LASIK surgery with Dr.Cohen and his team, and I honestly can’t believe I waited this long to do it. From start to finish, the entire process was smooth, professional, and surprisingly quick. The consultation was thorough—they explained everything in detail and answered all of my questions, which really helped ease any nerves I had.The actual procedure took less than 15 minutes, and I was seeing better almost immediately. By the next day, my vision was crystal clear—no glasses, no contacts, just perfect vision. It’s still wild to wake up and see without fumbling for glasses.The staff was incredibly kind and knowledgeable, and they made sure I was comfortable every step of the way. Recovery was easy, just a few days of taking it easy and using eye drops.Getting LASIK was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. If you’re on the fence—go for it. It’s truly life-changing!

Anonymous
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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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