​Dr. Blair Armstrong Joins Local Ophthalmology Practice​

Armstrong George Cohen Will Ophthalmology, established in 2003, is one of the few area practices to offer truly comprehensive medical and surgical eye care. Five ophthalmologists on staff use the latest technology to diagnose and treat eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, retina disease and eyelid repair. In addition, three optometrists perform routine eye exams and prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses.

Blair Armstrong MD is the newest addition to the team at Armstrong George Cohen Will Ophthalmology, which also includes her father. Whether she's repairing droopy eyelids to improve vision or helping to restore a patient's self-confidence, Dr. Armstrong takes pride in helping patients achieve their goals. Read on to learn more about Dr. Armstrong and the practice:

Patch: Why did you decide to specialize in ophthalmology and oculoplastic surgery?

Dr. Armstrong: I guess you could say Ophthalmology is in my blood. I grew up watching surgery videos and accompanying my dad on consults at the hospital. As a medical student, I was drawn to the technology and innovation of a field dedicated to such a complex and vital organ as the eye. Additionally, I have always had an appreciation for the arts, and the field of oculoplastics allows me to blend creativity, aesthetics and science.

Patch: Can you describe the most frequently performed surgeries that improve the area around the eyes?

Dr. Armstrong: One of the things I love about oculoplastics is the wide variety of cases. The most common office procedures are removal of bothersome eyelid lumps and bumps (skin tags, moles, etc.) and administration of Botox and facial fillers. The most common surgeries I perform in the operating room are droopy eyelid surgery, lower “eye-bag” removal, tear duct surgery, orbital surgery, and removal and reconstruction of skin cancers occurring around the eye.

Patch: When should a patient consult an ophthalmologist for eyelid or eye-area surgery? What’s involved in the consultation appointment?

Dr. Armstrong: The eyelid skin is some of the thinnest in the body and so it’s very common to see problems arise with age such as excess skin, droopy eyelid, laxity of the lower eyelids, eyelashes rubbing against the eye, concerning or bothersome lumps or bumps, and excessive tearing. Some medical conditions such as thyroid dysfunction can also affect the eye and eye socket. Any time a patient has a concern about this area, he or she should be seen for evaluation. The initial consultation will vary depending on the nature of the complaint but will likely involve an eye examination, photography and specialized testing

Patch: Younger patients are now getting Botox, facial filler injections and related non-surgical procedures. Can you explain this trend?

Dr. Armstrong: There is definitely a trend toward nonsurgical treatment modalities in all age groups, especially in the younger patient population. With the explosion of social media, people are posting and analyzing more pictures of themselves. Additionally, these treatments are becoming more widely accepted and less taboo. Why shouldn’t someone look and feel like the best version of themselves?

The exciting thing about neurotoxins (Botox, Xeomin, Dysport) is that in addition to treating fine lines, they also help prevent new or deeper lines from forming. So, starting these treatments at a younger age can prevent the need for future cosmetic surgery. I’d say that’s a worthwhile investment. As the popularity of these treatments grows, so too are the providers offering them. I caution everyone to do your research and choose an experienced injector with a thorough understanding of the delicate and complicated anatomy, especially around the eyes.

Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Dr. Armstrong: I love helping patients achieve their goals. Whether I’m repairing droopy eyelids to improve vision, repairing an eyelid after removing skin cancer or helping to restore someone’s self-confidence, it is truly a privilege to be a part of a patient’s journey, and I am honored and humbled by the trust my patients place in me.

Patch: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to success?

Dr. Armstrong: There is a Churchill quote I really like: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal, it is the courage to continue that counts.” It speaks to always moving forward and continuing to work hard despite road blocks and accomplishments. I want to continue to strive to be the best doctor and surgeon I can be.

Patch: How can Patch readers learn more about your work and Armstrong George Cohen Will Ophthalmology?

Dr. Armstrong: Visit our website for biographies of our doctors, descriptions of our services and more. You can even request an appointment online through the website. You can find Armstrong George Cohen Will Ophthalmology on Facebook. My personal Instagram account is BlairArmstrongMD. I look forward to posting more, including before and after photos, as I gain followers!

Dr. Blair Armstrong recently joined Armstrong George Cohen Will Ophthalmology, with offices in Hatboro and Abington, PA. She is an honors graduate of Boston College and Jefferson Medical College. Following residency at Wills Eye Hospital and a fellowship at University of Texas, she served as director of the Oculoplastic, Orbital and Reconstructive Surgery Service at Boston Medical Center. She joined her father, Dr. Thomas Armstrong, and his colleagues at Armstrong George Cohen Will Ophthalmology in August, specializing in general ophthalmology, cosmetic and medical oculoplastic surgery, Botox and facial fillers.

Photo Credit: Darren Pellegrino, Boston Creative Headshots

This Patch article is sponsored by Armstrong George Cohen Will Ophthalmology.