Stephen L Trokel, MD

Ophthalmology
General Ophthalmology
More specialties
Profile Headshot

Overview

Widely regarded as the first ophthalmologist to recognize the significance of the excimer laser for use in corneal refractive surgery, Dr. Stephen Trokel's vision and exhaustive research has made laser vision correction a realistic alternative to glasses and contacts for millions worldwide. Today, he remains an innovator working closely with VISX, Inc. to further develop and implement new technology.

Dr. Trokel graduated from Cornell University with a degree in physics and subsequently received his master's degree in radiation biology. He received his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Rochester, New York. After completing his residency at Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons and fellowships at the National Institutes of Health and at Columbia's Edward Harkness Eye Institute, Dr. Trokel received a Doctor of Medical Science degree in Ophthalmology-Physiology, also from Columbia.

Dr. Trokel is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, the American College of Surgeons, the National Board of Medical Examiners, and is a member of both the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. In 1999, he was nominated by over 30,000 of his peers as one of the 20th century most influential ophthalmologists.

Areas of Expertise / Conditions Treated

  • 3D Ultrasound
  • Comprehensive Ophthalmology
  • Dry Eyes
  • Laser Surgery
  • Laser Vision Correction
  • Laser Vision Correction Surgery
  • Refractive Surgery
  • Ruby Laser
  • Thyroid Disease

Academic Appointments

  • Professor of Ophthalmology at CUMC

Hospital Affiliations

  • NewYork-Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center

Languages

  • French

Gender

  • Male

Schedule an Appointment

Phone Appointments

New and Existing Patients:

Connect Patient Portal

For existing patients, login to make an appointment, view documentation or contact your care provider.

Connect Sign In

Insurance Accepted

Fidelis Care

  • Essential Plan

UnitedHealthcare

  • Columbia University Employee Plan

WellCare

  • Medicare Managed Care

*Before your appointment, please contact the doctor’s office or your insurance provider to verify that your insurance is accepted. This list of insurances can change, and the insurance plans listed may not be accepted at all office locations for this provider.

Credentials & Experience

Education & Training

  • University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry
  • Internship: Montefiore Hospital
  • Residency: Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, NY
  • Fellowship: Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, NY

Board Certifications

  • Ophthalmology

Honors & Awards

2010 Rank Prize Royal College of Medicine

2006 Keynote Speaker ASLMS

2003 Casebeer Award

1998 ISRS Barraquer Award

1993 Stephen L. Trokel Award for Laser Research (Alcon Laboratories)

1991 ASCRS Binkhorst, Award

1989 AAO Senior Honor Award

1975 AAO Honor Award