Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute

Leading Ophthalmic Surgeons in South Florida

Welcome to the Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute, where excellence in eye care is our tradition. For over 50 years, we have been a trusted destination for patients across South Florida, the Southeastern United States, and the Caribbean seeking top-tier ophthalmic services. Our mission is simple yet profound: to provide the most advanced eye health services in a caring environment to all patients in need.

At Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute, our team is composed of board-certified ophthalmologists, a certified optometrist, an ophthalmic nurse practitioner, and a dedicated clinical research manager, all committed to providing cutting-edge medical technology and advanced surgical techniques. Our physicians and research staff are not only skilled practitioners but also pioneers in their fields, contributing to clinical studies and authoring influential papers in leading medical journals.

We offer a comprehensive range of advanced ophthalmological services to diagnose, treat, and surgically correct complex eye and retinal diseases, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and more. Our specialties encompass cosmetic eyelid surgery, reconstructive eye surgery, and the latest in treatments for retinal and vitreous diseases.

With a team of over 50 dedicated professionals, we are committed to providing top-tier care to all our patients, utilizing the most modern medical technology and surgical techniques available.

Meet our doctors:

• Dr. Gil Epstein, a board certified ophthalmologist and accomplished oculoplastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
• Dr. Stuart K. Burgess, a board certified ophthalmologist, retinal specialist and Director of Clinical Research with a focus on age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
• Dr. Keith A. Skolnick, a board certified phthalmologist and renowned for his expertise in cataract surgery and laser eye surgery, ranked among America’s Best Eye Doctors by Newsweek.
• Dr. Tirso Mark Lara, a board-certified retina and vitreoretinal surgeon, highly regarded for his expertise in the surgical treatment of retinal diseases, and an active researcher and educator.
• Dr. Natalia Villate, a board certified ophthalomologist, and expert in retinal surgery that has performed more than 1,000 complex vitreo-retinal surgeries since she established herself in private practice in the United States in 2008 and is dedicated to providing the latest treatments for complex retinal conditions.
• Dr. Ilan J. Epstein, a board certified ophthalmologist specializing in cataract, cornea, glaucoma, and LASIK treatments, with extensive experience in premium laser and refractive cataract surgery, laser vision correction, and corneal surgery.
• Dr. Luis E. Fernández De Castro, member of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery and specialist in corneal diseases and cataract surgery, known for his compassionate care and patient-centered approach.
• Dr. Aliza Epstein, a board certified ophthalmologist, and skilled Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon committed to delivering quality cosmetic and functional results.
• Dr. Lisa B. Galluzzo, an optometric physician specializing in advanced contact lens fittings with advanced training in lens fittings of all types..
• Patricia Diaz Nagel, A.R.N.P., a dedicated ophthalmic nurse practitioner with extensive experience in ocular disease management.
• Noel Pereda, Clinical Research Manager, who brings a wealth of experience in regulatory documentation, clinical trial management, and ophthalmic research coordination. Noel has been instrumental in more than 30 clinical trials at Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute and continues to play a pivotal role in advancing ophthalmic research.

Choosing the right ophthalmic care is a crucial decision that impacts your quality of life. At Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute, we are committed to providing you with the highest level of care, backed by decades of experience and a deep commitment to patient well-being. We look forward to welcoming you and helping you achieve and maintain optimal eye health.

Whether you’re seeking treatment for complex eye conditions and diseases, oculoplastic surgery, comprehensive eye care, or specialized treatments, our ophthalmologists and staff are here to assist you. Request an appointment today by calling 954-741-5555 and let us help you achieve and maintain optimal vision health.