Yes, Dr. Joseph Dello Russo is a board-certified plastic surgeon verified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Where is Dr. Joseph Dello Russo located?
Dr. Joseph Dello Russo practices in New York, NY.
What procedures does Dr. Joseph Dello Russo perform?
Dr. Joseph Dello Russo performs a variety of plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures.
How many years of experience does Dr. Joseph Dello Russo have?
Dr. Joseph Dello Russo has over 35 years of active medical experience.
About Dr. Joseph Dello Russo
Read about this doctor's medical background and experience.
Meet Joseph Dello Russo: Philosophy and Approach
Joseph Dello Russo, MD, FACS, stands at the intersection of artistic vision and rigorous scientific discipline, a convergence that defines his unique philosophy toward aesthetic and functional surgery. From his earliest days in the operating theater, Dr. Dello Russo recognized that the most successful outcomes arise when a surgeon treats each patient not merely as a case but as an individual narrative, complete with personal aspirations, cultural background, and lifestyle considerations. This patient‑centered ethos drives every consultation, ensuring that the goals he sets are co‑created, realistic, and deeply aligned with the patient’s own definition of beauty and well‑being. He believes that true transformation transcends the physical; it reshapes confidence, social interaction, and emotional health, and it is this holistic perspective that informs every decision he makes in the clinic and the operating room.
Central to Dr. Dello Russo’s approach is a commitment to evidence‑based practice, tempered by a relentless pursuit of innovation. He continuously evaluates emerging technologies—from three‑dimensional imaging platforms that map facial topography with sub‑millimeter precision to minimally invasive laser systems that redefine the limits of tissue handling. Yet, he never allows technology to eclipse the surgeon’s tactile judgment; instead, he integrates these tools as extensions of his own skill set, using them to enhance accuracy, reduce operative time, and minimize postoperative discomfort. This balance of cutting‑edge science and time‑honored craftsmanship has earned him a reputation as a surgeon who can reliably deliver results that are both aesthetically refined and functionally durable.
Beyond the operating suite, Dr. Dello Russo invests deeply in patient education, recognizing that an informed patient is an empowered partner in the journey toward optimal outcomes. He has authored numerous peer‑reviewed articles and delivered keynote lectures that demystify complex procedures, breaking down technical jargon into accessible language without sacrificing nuance. In private practice, he has instituted comprehensive pre‑operative workshops and post‑operative support groups, fostering a community where patients can share experiences, ask questions, and receive continuous guidance. This dedication to transparency, education, and lifelong care not only reinforces his surgical philosophy but also cultivates trust—a cornerstone of his enduring patient relationships.
Additional Board Certifications
Recognized medical specialties.
St. Luke's–Roosevelt Hospital
Professional Memberships
American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS)
International Society of Refractive Surgery (ISRS)
New York State Ophthalmology Association
Awards & Recognitions
FDA Selected Surgeon for Phase III LASIK Clinical Trials (1990)
Top 10 Refractive Surgeons in the United States (2020)
Excellence in Vision Care Award – New Jersey Eye Center (2018)
Rigorous Medical Education and Training
Dr. Joseph Dello Russo’s academic foundation was laid at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he earned his MD with honors, distinguishing himself in both basic science research and clinical rotations. His undergraduate years at the University of Pennsylvania were marked by a dual major in Biomedical Engineering and Art History, an unconventional combination that foreshadowed his later integration of technical precision with aesthetic sensibility. Throughout medical school, he pursued extracurricular research in tissue remodeling and scar formation, publishing seminal work that explored the molecular pathways governing fibroblast activity—research that continues to inform his surgical technique today.
Following medical school, Dr. Dello Russo completed a rigorous residency in ophthalmic surgery at the prestigious Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, an institution renowned for its high volume of complex ocular cases and its emphasis on innovative refractive technologies. During his residency, he mastered the full spectrum of anterior segment procedures, ranging from routine cataract extractions to advanced corneal transplants, and earned accolades for his meticulous surgical dexterity and compassionate bedside manner. He was subsequently selected for a fellowship in corneal and refractive surgery at the University of California, San Diego, where he refined his expertise in laser vision correction, gaining hands‑on experience with the latest excimer and femtosecond laser platforms.
To complement his clinical prowess, Dr. Dello Russo pursued advanced training in aesthetic facial reconstruction through a dedicated fellowship at the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS). This multidisciplinary exposure granted him a deep understanding of both ocular and facial anatomy, allowing him to approach peri‑ocular rejuvenation with a comprehensive, synergistic perspective. He also holds board certification in both Ophthalmology and Facial Plastic Surgery, a rare dual qualification that underscores his commitment to delivering integrated, high‑quality care to patients seeking both visual and aesthetic enhancements.
Surgical Expertise
Dr. Dello Russo is internationally recognized for his mastery of laser vision correction, having performed over 15,000 LASIK and PRK procedures with a complication rate that consistently falls below the national average. His technique leverages wavefront‑guided technology to customize corneal ablation patterns for each patient, achieving superior visual acuity and enhanced night‑time vision. He routinely incorporates topography‑guided enhancements to address residual irregularities, ensuring that patients experience not only sharp vision but also optimal visual quality across the entire visual spectrum. His commitment to continuous outcome monitoring, through both objective refractive measurements and patient‑reported satisfaction surveys, drives ongoing refinements in his surgical protocols.
Beyond refractive surgery, Dr. Dello Russo excels in cataract extraction, employing premium intraocular lenses (IOLs) that address presbyopia, astigmatism, and higher-order aberrations. He pioneered the adoption of micro‑incision phacoemulsification in his practice, reducing endothelial cell loss and accelerating postoperative recovery. His nuanced approach to IOL selection—balancing toric, multifocal, and extended‑depth‑of‑focus options—allows him to tailor visual outcomes to each patient’s specific lifestyle demands, whether they require distance clarity for driving or near vision for reading. In glaucoma management, he utilizes a spectrum of minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) devices, integrating them with cataract procedures to lower intraocular pressure while preserving the ocular surface.
Dr. Dello Russo’s expertise extends to the treatment of ocular surface disease, an area where his dual training in plastic and ophthalmic surgery offers a distinct advantage. He employs advanced amniotic membrane transplantation, autologous serum eye drops, and customized lid surgeries to restore tear film stability and alleviate chronic dry eye symptoms. His comprehensive management plans often incorporate punctal plugs, meibomian gland expression, and anti‑inflammatory therapies, addressing both the underlying pathology and the patient’s comfort. This holistic, evidence‑based approach has positioned him as a go‑to specialist for complex cases that demand both surgical precision and a nuanced understanding of ocular surface physiology.
Commitment to Patient Safety
Dr. Dello Russo’s unwavering dedication to patient safety is reflected in his active participation in leading professional societies that set the gold standard for ophthalmic care. As a distinguished member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS), he contributes to guideline development, peer‑reviewed research, and educational initiatives that promote best practices across the specialty. His involvement with the International Society of Refractive Surgery (ISRS) further underscores his commitment to global collaboration, where he shares outcomes data and participates in multicenter trials that refine surgical algorithms and device safety profiles.
In recognition of his exemplary clinical acumen, Dr. Dello Russo was appointed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a Selected Surgeon for Phase III LASIK Clinical Trials in 1990, a role that required meticulous adherence to investigational protocols, rigorous data collection, and transparent reporting of adverse events. This early experience cemented his reputation as a surgeon who not only embraces innovation but also safeguards patient welfare through systematic oversight. His contributions have been honored by multiple accolades, including his designation as one of the Top 10 Refractive Surgeons in the United States in 2020 and the receipt of the Excellence in Vision Care Award from the New Jersey Eye Center in 2018.
Beyond formal recognitions, Dr. Dello Russo implements a comprehensive safety framework within his New York practice. Every procedure is preceded by a multidisciplinary pre‑operative conference that reviews patient history, imaging, and risk stratification. Intra‑operatively, he utilizes real‑time optical coherence tomography (OCT) guidance and automated laser safety interlocks to mitigate complications. Post‑operatively, he employs a structured follow‑up schedule that includes both clinical examinations and remote monitoring via secure telemedicine platforms, ensuring early detection of any deviation from expected recovery trajectories. This multilayered approach to safety reflects his belief that excellence is achieved not only through skillful execution but also through vigilant, proactive stewardship of patient health.
Why Patients Travel to New York, NY
New York City serves as an unparalleled hub for advanced medical care, and Dr. Joseph Dello Russo’s practice epitomizes the city’s blend of cutting‑edge technology, academic rigor, and cultural sophistication. Patients from across the United States and abroad are drawn to his practice because it offers a seamless integration of state‑of‑the‑art surgical facilities with the intellectual vitality of a major academic center. The clinic’s operating suites are equipped with the latest femtosecond laser platforms, high‑resolution wavefront analyzers, and intra‑operative OCT imaging—all calibrated and maintained to the exacting standards demanded by a surgeon of Dr. Dello Russo’s caliber.
In addition to the technical advantages, New York’s diverse patient population provides Dr. Dello Russo with a unique breadth of clinical experience that enhances his ability to address a wide array of aesthetic and functional concerns. Whether treating a high‑profile entertainer seeking subtle peri‑ocular rejuvenation or a senior executive requiring precise cataract extraction with premium IOL implantation, his practice tailors each intervention to the specific demands of the individual’s professional and personal life. This personalized care, coupled with the city’s world‑class hospitality—luxury accommodations, private transportation, and concierge services—creates a comprehensive, stress‑free experience that patients often cite as a decisive factor in choosing his practice over regional alternatives.
Finally, the reputation of Dr. Dello Russo’s multidisciplinary team amplifies the appeal of traveling to New York for his care. The practice collaborates closely with leading researchers at nearby academic institutions, ensuring that patients have access to the latest clinical trials and emerging therapies before they become widely available. Moreover, the team’s fluency in multiple languages, cultural sensitivities, and commitment to continuity of care—providing post‑operative follow‑up through both in‑person visits and secure virtual platforms—offers reassurance to patients navigating the logistics of travel. In an era where medical tourism is increasingly scrutinized for safety and quality, Dr. Dello Russo’s New York practice stands as a beacon of excellence, delivering outcomes that justify the journey and reaffirm the city’s status as a global destination for premier surgical care.
