In October, the Morgenstern Medical team traveled to Orlando for the ASOPRS/AAO 2025 Meeting, one of the most critical national gatherings in oculoplastic and ophthalmic surgery. It was an inspiring few days filled with teaching, learning, and collaborating with colleagues from across the country and around the world.
We were not only honored to attend the conference but also to actively contribute to the scientific program, share our research, and celebrate a major leadership milestone for our founder, Dr. Kenneth Morgenstern.
Why the ASOPRS / AAO Meeting Matters
The joint annual meeting of ASOPRS (the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery) and AAO (the American Academy of Ophthalmology) is one of the most influential events in the world of eye, facial, and orbital surgery. This meeting is where the field advances, where surgeons refine techniques, challenge assumptions, and share insights that directly impact patient safety, outcomes, and satisfaction.
About ASOPRS
ASOPRS is the premier professional organization for surgeons specializing in eyelids, the eye socket, the tear system, as well as facial aesthetics and reconstruction. Its members go through some of the toughest training and certification processes in medicine. ASOPRS is dedicated to:
- Advancing the science of oculofacial plastic surgery
- Supporting research to improve patient outcomes
- Maintaining high standards for surgical excellence and safety
- Offering top-level fellowship training to prepare the next generation of surgeons
- Promoting collaboration and leadership in both academic and clinical settings
About AAO
The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) is the world's largest group of eye doctors and surgeons. Its annual meeting brings together tens of thousands of eye care professionals, researchers, residents, and industry leaders. AAO's main goals are to:
- Promote education for eye care providers
- Support research and new technologies
- Develop guidelines based on evidence for clinical practice
- Increase access to safe and effective eye care worldwide
- Provide a platform for surgeons to exchange ideas and improve standards in the field
Dr. Kenneth Morgenstern Receives the President’s Award
A highlight of the meeting was the recognition of Dr. Kenneth Morgenstern, who received the President’s Award for his four years of leadership within ASOPRS. This award honors Dr. Morgenstern's exceptional contributions to advancing innovation in oculofacial surgery, as well as his dedication to education, mentorship, and training the next generation of surgeons. He will retire from the Board of Managers after having served for 11 years.
For our team and our patients, this recognition goes beyond just a title. It serves as a powerful affirmation that the standards we uphold every day at Morgenstern Medical, thoughtful planning, meticulous technique, and genuine compassion, are positively influencing the direction of our specialty, both nationally and internationally.
Dr. Murdock’s Research on Brow Transplantation & Facial Recognition
At this year’s meeting, Dr. Narmien Murdock presented our team’s novel research on brow transplantation and facial recognition, offering exciting insights into how changes in the brows influence the way we are perceived.
Her work explores questions such as:
- How do subtle changes in brow position and shape impact facial recognition?
- What role do the brows play in conveying emotion, identity, and perceived age?
- How can brow transplantation and related techniques be used to restore a natural, harmonious appearance after trauma, surgery, or aging?
Dr. Murdock's research focuses on analyzing facial recognition patterns and aesthetic outcomes to enhance the planning of brow-related procedures, including both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. The ultimate aim of this research is to achieve results that look natural, expressive, and harmonious with your other features.
Improving Pediatric Outcomes: Orbital Asymmetry in Children with Congenital Ptosis
Another vital contribution at the meeting came from Dr. Michael Kryshtalskyj and Dr. Morgenstern, who presented findings on orbital asymmetry in children with congenital ptosis. Congenital ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid present at birth) is more than a cosmetic concern; it can affect vision development, eye alignment, and self-confidence as a child grows.
Their research examined how the underlying orbital structures can differ in these patients and how that asymmetry may influence:
- Surgical planning and timing
- The choice of technique
- Long-term functional and aesthetic outcomes
By enhancing our understanding of orbital asymmetry in these children, this work enables surgeons worldwide to make more informed and nuanced decisions. This leads to improved visual function, more symmetrical results, and a better quality of life for pediatric patients and their families.
Teaching, Learning, and Collaborating with Colleagues Worldwide
For us, education is an ongoing responsibility. One of the most meaningful aspects of the ASOPRS/AAO Meeting is the sense of community it fosters. Throughout the conference, our team:
- Shared ideas and techniques with peers from around the world
- Learned from lectures, live demonstrations, and scientific sessions
- Engaged in discussions that will shape the future of oculofacial surgery
What This Means for Our Patients at Morgenstern Medical
While conferences like ASOPRS/AAO may seem far removed from the exam room or operating suite, their impact is very real for our patients in Wayne, Lancaster, and the greater Philadelphia area.
Our participation in this meeting means:
- Your care is guided by leaders who help define standards in oculofacial surgery
- Your treatment options are informed by current research and innovative techniques
- Your surgeons are actively involved in teaching, publishing, and presenting at the highest levels of the specialty
We are proud to represent Morgenstern Medical on the national and international stages and even prouder to bring that experience back home to you.
Looking Ahead
We returned from the ASOPRS/AAO 2025 Meeting feeling energized, inspired, and deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to our field. Our team is already looking forward to next year’s meeting and to continuing our mission: combining world-class expertise, cutting-edge innovation, and compassionate, personalized care for every patient we serve.
If you would like to learn more about how our expertise can support your aesthetic or reconstructive goals, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today. We are here to listen, guide you, and help you feel confident in the care you choose.
