Manhasset Eye Surgeon Trains Next Generation of Doctors

Dr. James Kelly balances national leadership in ophthalmology with deep roots in his local community.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 5:10pm

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Dr. James Kelly, a nationally recognized ophthalmologist and refractive surgeon, has called Manhasset, New York home since 2001. In addition to running his practice, Kelly Vision, he recently took on a new role as Director of Refractive Surgery Education for Northwell Health, where he trains the next generation of ophthalmologists. Kelly is committed to providing advanced vision care, especially for older adults, and encourages young people to pursue a broad-based education.

Why it matters

Dr. Kelly's story highlights how medical professionals can balance national leadership with strong community ties. His work training the next generation of eye surgeons and advocating for expanded access to vision care for older adults is important, especially in a suburb like Manhasset that values education and community.

The details

After earning his undergraduate degree from Columbia University and his medical degree from Cornell University, Dr. Kelly trained at The Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital, one of the nation's leading eye surgery centers. Today, he leads Kelly Vision, with offices serving both New York City and Long Island. In early 2025, Kelly took on a new role as Director of Refractive Surgery Education for Northwell Health, where he trains fellows in a wide range of techniques used to correct vision. Kelly encourages young people in the community to pursue a broad education, not just narrow specialization.

  • Dr. Kelly has lived in Manhasset since 2001.
  • Kelly took on his new role as Director of Refractive Surgery Education for Northwell Health in early 2025.

The players

Dr. James Kelly

A nationally recognized ophthalmologist and refractive surgeon who has lived in Manhasset, New York since 2001. He recently took on a new role as Director of Refractive Surgery Education for Northwell Health, where he trains the next generation of ophthalmologists.

Northwell Health

A large healthcare system in New York where Dr. Kelly serves as the Director of Refractive Surgery Education, training fellows in advanced eye surgery techniques.

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What they’re saying

“It's important that young doctors are comfortable with many different approaches.”

— Dr. James Kelly, Director of Refractive Surgery Education, Northwell Health

“Even if you're going to be an engineer, you should consider study music, poetry, politics. Having a broad-base education is important. Don't get too narrowly focused.”

— Dr. James Kelly, Ophthalmologist

“People think it's too late, but it's not. We have incredible technology now. Patients in their 50s, 60s, even 70s come in after surgery and say, 'Why did I wait so long?'”

— Dr. James Kelly, Ophthalmologist

What’s next

Dr. Kelly plans to continue expanding access to advanced vision care, especially for older adults, through his work at Kelly Vision and Northwell Health.

The takeaway

Dr. James Kelly's story demonstrates how medical professionals can balance national leadership with deep community roots. His commitment to training the next generation of eye surgeons and advocating for expanded access to vision care reflects his belief in the value of a broad-based education and the lasting importance of local connections.