Dr. Naima Gila Zilkha, MD

Media Releases

Board-Certified Ophthalmologist Brings Nearly 30 Years of Expertise in Diabetes-Related Eye Care 

Dr. Naima Gila Zilkha, MD, a Board-Certified ophthalmologist, brings a specialized focus in medical retina and diabetic eye disease, offering patients expert care informed by both professional excellence and personal understanding.

Dr.  Zilkha’s academic credentials include a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Magna Cum Laude, from Duke University and a medical degree from New York University School of Medicine. She completed her residency in ophthalmology at NYU – Bellevue Medical Center, followed by a fellowship in medical retina at NYU Medical Center. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology,  a diplomate of the American Board of Ophthalmology, and a member of the American Society of Retina Specialists,  reflecting her longstanding commitment to the highest standards of clinical care.

She specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of all forms of macular degeneration, as well as other complex retinal conditions. Dr Zilkha’s care is tailored to each patient’s unique condition, offering individualized treatment plans that incorporate the latest advances in ophthalmic care.

Living with Type 1 diabetes herself, Dr. Zilkha brings a unique, empathetic perspective to her work. “Having diabetes has helped me understand my patients on a deeper level,” she explains. “It’s not just about treating the eyes—it’s about supporting the whole person.” Her advocacy and involvement in diabetes care extend beyond the exam room; she has been featured on the cover of Diabetes Positive! magazine and serves as a Research Partner with the American Diabetes Association.

Known and respected for her compassionate approach and clinical precision, Dr. Zilkha has been consistently recognized as one of America’s Top Ophthalmologists by the Consumer Research Council of America. Her patients frequently praise her gentle technique and willingness to listen, with one noting, “She’s an incredibly caring physician who takes time to explain everything and makes me feel completely confident in my care.”

Fluent in both English and Spanish, Dr. Zilkha is committed to making high-quality ophthalmic care accessible to a diverse patient community. She is now welcoming new patients at both her office locations in Garden City and Mineola. 

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