Dr. Aakalu is an Associate Professor of Ophthalmology Oculoplastic & Reconstructive Surgery Service at the University of Illinois College of Medicine. He is a fellowship-trained, oculofacial plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive oculofacial and orbital surgery. He is also board certified in ophthalmology. He is one of the few surgeons worldwide to have completed an American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) approved fellowship.
His clinical interests include diseases of the eyelids, lacrimal system, and orbit. He has a particular interest in thyroid eye disease and ocular surface reconstruction. Dr. Aakalu is also engaged in various research endeavors, including understanding lacrimal (tear gland) cell biology, evaluating imaging modalities for the orbit, and developing new tools and methods to treat patients with the orbital disease.
Representative Publications:
An Abscess Causing a Delayed Optic Neuropathy After Decompression for Thyroid Eye Disease
Mucormycosis Infection of the Lacrimal Sac
Current Ptosis Management: A National Survey of ASOPRS Members