Vinay Kumar Aakalu, MD, MPH

Dr. Aakalu serves as Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and is an ophthalmologist and oculofacial plastic surgeon. He completed his undergraduate training at Johns Hopkins University and earned his medical degree from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. He subsequently completed residency and fellowship training at University of Illinois Chicago, where he later held multiple leadership roles. He went on to serve as Section Leader and Medical Director of Eye Plastics, Orbital, and Facial Cosmetic Surgery at the University of Michigan.Dr. Aakalu’s clinical interests include functional and aesthetic eyelid and facial surgery, thyroid eye disease, orbital and periorbital neoplastic conditions, and lacrimal surgery.An internationally recognized clinician-scientist, Dr. Aakalu has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed publications and has received funding from the NIH, Department of Defense, and the VA. His research focuses on ocular surface disease …and translational therapeutics for rare conditions such as Niemann-Pick disease type C. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and a Gold Fellow of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology. He has also contributed extensively to national organizations, including service with the American Board of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.My patient care philosophy is centered on compassion and trust. I am privileged to be entrusted with your care, and I take that responsibility seriously. I strive to provide every patient with the highest quality care, guided by integrity, innovation, empathy, and expertise.I believe in listening carefully and partnering with patients to understand their goals, concerns, and expectations. Whether managing complex orbital disease, thyroid eye disease, or functional and cosmetic concerns, I emphasize individualized, evidence-based care tailored to each patient's needs. Clear communication and education are central to my approach, ensuring patients feel informed and confident in their decisions.As a clinician-scientist, I integrate the latest advances in research and technology into clinical care, offering innovative treatments when appropriate while maintaining a strong commitment to safety and proven outcomes. I am dedicated not only to achieving the best possible functional and aesthetic results, but also to supporting patients throughout their journey with respect, transparency, and continuity of care.