Zhenyang Zhao Emory Faculty
Zhenyang Zhao Emory Faculty

Zhenyang Zhao, MD

Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Ophthalmology, Aesthetic and Cosmetic Ophthalmic Surgery

4.9 - 523 Ratings

Emory Eye Center - Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital Campus

5671 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, Fl 4, Ste 400, Atlanta, GA 30342 +1 More Locations

Booking information not available

(404) 778-2020

About

Dr. Zhenyang (James) Zhao joined the Emory Eye Center in 2024 as a surgeon-scientist and is a member of the Oculoplastics, Orbital, and Cosmetic Surgery division.
Dr. Zhao earned his MD and MS from Shanghai Medical School at Fudan University before completing his ophthalmology residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch, where he received extensive in-service oculoplastics training at the renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center. During his residency, he garnered multiple accolades, including the Academic Achievement Award, Senior Teaching Award, and Outstanding Resident Award.
He completed his American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) fellowship at the University of Michigan, home to the largest oculoplastics practice in the United States. There, Dr. Zhao gained extensive experience managing complex cases, including thyroid eye disease, orbital tumors, and advanced reconstructive procedures, performing over 3,000 primary oculoplastics cases during his training.
Dr. Zhao’s practice focuses on disorders of the eyelids, tear ducts, and orbit. His clinical interests include thyroid eye disease, reconstruction following periocular trauma or skin cancer removal, and the management of skull-base and orbital tumors. In addition to functional treatments, he offers a variety of cosmetic procedures, including blepharoplasty, facial rejuvenation, and minimally invasive forehead lifts, providing comprehensive care to his patients.
An accomplished author, Dr. Zhao has an extensive body of work spanning over a decade, with publications in leading peer-reviewed journals such as British Journal of Ophthalmology, Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science. His research encompasses diverse topics, including innovative drug delivery methods, thyroid eye disease, orbital tumors, periocular reconstruction, artificial intelligence applications in oculoplastic surgery, retinal health, ocular trauma management, and novel surgical techniques. He has presented his work at major conferences, including ARVO, AAO, and ASOPRS, reflecting his dedication to advancing clinical practice and scientific knowledge in ophthalmology.

Languages

  • Chinese - Mandarin
  • English

Emory Affiliation

  • Emory Physician Group Practice
  • Emory Healthcare Network
  • Emory Clinic - School of Medicine Faculty

Academic Title

  • Assistant Professor

Year Started Practicing

  • 2024

Locations

Emory Eye Center - Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital Campus

5671 Peachtree Dunwoody Road
Fl 4, Ste 400
Atlanta, GA 30342

Emory Eye Center - Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital Campus location map

Emory Eye Center

1365 Clifton Road Northeast
Bldg B, Fl 4
Atlanta, GA 30322

Emory Eye Center location map

Ratings & Reviews

4.9 out of 5 overall rating 523 ratings

The Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.

4.9 Provider showed concern
4.9 Provider explained things clearly
4.8 Provider discussed treatment options
4.9 Provider included you in decisions
4.8 Likelihood of recommending this provider
5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-04-09

Dr. Zhao was incredible and he made me feel comfortable because I was very nervous. He was very patient and answered all of my questions.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-04-06

Dr. Zhao is an excellent, caring doctor. I would not hesitate to recommend him for any ocular surgery you may need.

3 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-04-04

Dr. Zhao brought up an issue that I wasn't there for - excess eye lid skin - and suggested surgery. I was glad he brought it up, but I didn't appreciate how he talked about it. He said after the surgery I could wear eye shadows and he winked at me.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-31

Listens to his patients. Explained everything. Answered all my questions and concerns. Left knowing exactly what to expect and having a care plan which was extremely important to me. Left feeling much better having a healthcare plan.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-27

I have recommended folks

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-26

The doctor was an excellent people person. He showed extreme interest in all of your questions and offered a lot of information which might have become a question later. He was very thorough With the exam and completion of biopsy work.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-26

The physician was very patient and thoughtful. His history and examination were extremely thorough, and he explained his findings to me in detail, and allowed me to ask questions, as well as ensure that I understood his plan for me. His reassurance made me feel so much better, and he had an appointment scheduled for six months for follow up. He demonstrated a high degree of expertise and experience, as well as empathy and compassion.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-24

Dr answered my questions and explained a procedure

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-20

Good

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-17

Dr spent time, didn't rush us out. Listened to concerns

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-10

GOOD

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-03

Great experience

4 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-03

I saw him as a consult for fixing my drooping eyelids. His "chair-side manner" was a little abrupt. Also, he said they were droopy due to gravity. If that was the case, everyone over 65 would have droopy eyelids. I like to observe people and not everyone has droopy eyelids.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-03

I will definitely recommend Dr. Zao.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-02

My doctor is always very supportive and encouraging

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-01

Dr Zaho is beyond amazing. This was my second surgery and he was stellar on both surgeries. He is such a caring and professional doctor. He is absolutely the best!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-26

Dr. Zhao did an excellent job with my surgery, follow up the next day by phone and the follow up appointment 3 months later to address any issues. I have already recommended him to others and my optometrist also wants to begin referring her patients to him.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-25

I liked Dr.Zoah especially being a first time visit!He was thorough & accommodating to my needs & concerns!!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-24

Dr. Zhao, his assistants and nurse were very attentive. They listened closely, explained what they thought the issue was and how to proceed with test and treatment

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-24

I certainly will refer any family members or friends to Dr. Zhoa for their eye care needs. He was thorough in discussing my post op visit, pleasant and took extra time to answer all my questions. Dr. Zhoa is a true professional.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-19

Dr Zhao has been simply the best in every aspect of my care. He listens carefully, responds appropriately and provides meaningful feedback. I am so grateful to him for his expertise.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-16

He was very caring and supportive throughout my granddaughter surgery.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-12

Dr Z is tops in explaining and precisely explained my diagnosis. Excellent demeanor and expertise!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-04

Great experience

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-03

Dr Zhou is very professional courteous and friendly. I've been very happy with my surgery outcomes. Would definitely recommend.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-01

Dr. Zhao has the most amazing bedside manner. He's always open to questions and never makes me feel rushed. He is also an excellent communicator on the patient portal and he always responds promptly.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-01

Dr.Zhao,is a very caring,compassionate surgeon. He was very knowlegeable about my situation,but also very truthful.he put us at ease from the very beginning. Your warmth and kindness made a very frightening situation bearable. Going from total blindness,to getting my total sight back was such a miracle. We thank God for directing us to you!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-01-26

Dr Zhao was beyond my expectations.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-01-26

Dr. Zhao was wonderful. His bedside manner was very genuine. He was a vault of information, and it was apparent that he Is very good at what he does. He is also the first eye dr. He was able to detect what I was feeling, and he took the time to talk to me about different procedures and approaches. Together, we decided on the one that was most fitting, and I am so looking forward to the results.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-01-16

Good

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-01-13

Dr. Zhao listened patiently to all my questions and concerns regarding my surgical needs. He never made me feel rushed. I appreciated the kindness, clarity and honesty in his responses. I believe I am in excellent hands for my upcoming surgery!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-01-10

Very good does not do them justice. Superb is how I rate them

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-01-08

Dr. Zhao was professional, honest and straight forward. I would highly recommend him to friends and family.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-01-08

Very pleased with the doctor for my first visit.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-12-31

Thanks

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-12-30

Excellent and professional! Amazing experience!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-12-18

Dr Zhao is one of kindest and most professional surgeons I have ever encountered. He is very experienced and extremely skilled. I was referred to Dr Zhao by Dr Aaron, my Emory clinical ophthalmologist. I needed the large bulges above both eyes removed and the lower eyelids excess skin removed. Dr Zhao clearly explained what he would do, how he would do it and what to expect post surgery. The results are outstanding. All long the process Dr Zhoa always expressed his concern for my outcome. During the day of my procedure, post surgery Dr Zhao gave me specific after surgery care instructions. I followed them very closely. During my 10-day post surgery visit, he showed extreme interest in my progress and provided additional care instructions to maximize the outcome of my surgery. I was overwhelmed with his sincere detailed interest in the best outcome for me. During my last surgery follow-up visit, Dr Zhao spent ample time with to ensure I was pleased with the outcome, answered and explained in detail all of my questions and offered further suggested for on-going eye maintenance. Dr Xhao is a very kind man. He is an outstanding skilled eye surgeon and is an outstanding asset is Emory's Eye Clinic staff.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-12-16

Got very good care. By everyone

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-12-16

Dr. Zhoa was very gracious, reassuring and explained thoroughly. I was delighted that he will be able to correct this problem.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-12-13

My provider always listens to my concerns, he's very accommodating and his bedside manners are the best I've seen in a long time

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-12-11

Dr. Zhao is an excellent physician. I appreciate his expertise and treatment.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-12-04

Very informative concerning options and procedures for my healthcare.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-12-02

Very satisfactory attendance

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-12-01

Very good

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-11-26

Dr Zhao found out we had driven 6 hours to see home and added a procedure on for after hours so we did not have to turn around and come back in a few days !

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-11-25

Great Experience

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-11-20

Excellent work by Dr. Zhao.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-11-18

This Dr, was wonderful and I would highly recommend him to anyone! He was very professional but also at the same time caring and he explained everything in detail with leaving me no questions to ask! He covered everything!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-11-11

The doctor was very professional

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-10-28

An excellent visit. I left with all of my questions answered.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-10-27

Dr. Zhao was exceptional as a provider-in both broad and specific medical knowledge and care for me as a patient. I couldn't have been more pleased and feel quite fortunate that I met specifically with him. A++

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-10-25

Good

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-10-23

The Dr.explained options and allowed me to decide which choice I wanted.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-10-22

I couldn't ask for a better Dr than the one I had he showed me how concerned he was about me which made me feel real good and safe

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-10-09

Excellent doctor

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-09-30

Dr. Zhaou and staff were very personable and professional. I always enjoy his presence; he's very kind and is very concerning. You always know what to expect as he explains procedural steps and what you may be experiencing as a result of the serviceprovided. I find this to be very comforting as I believe he is going to provide the best possible service.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-09-25

I feel much better to know that I understand the problem that I have

4 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-09-15

My physician is an excellent doctor and I have full confidence in his skills. He could share recovery and aftercare a bit better.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-09-09

Will always recommend Dr Zhao and this facility.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-09-09

Dr Z is one of the best I've ever dealt with. He is amazing and the best care ever.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-09-04

Emory is the best!!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-09-02

Very simple post-procedure visit.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-08-26

Great job

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-08-26

Excellent listening and diagnostic skills

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-08-23

So blessed to have Dr Zhao perform the eye surgery & the results are beyond my expectation!!! Thank you & you're the BEST!!!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-08-23

Good

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-08-23

Very good experience

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-08-21

I have already referred Dr Zhao to at least two others.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-08-15

My doctor was everything that a patient would want. He listen to my concerns about put my mind at ease. All of my friends are considering changing doctors, because they would like to have him become their doctor.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-08-14

I was given great service

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-08-11

Dr. Zhao is excellent and I believe I could not have received better surgery or care anywhere else.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-07-31

Dr ZHAO shows great concern for "all" of his patients needs. Very soft spoken and super GENTLE and "carefully" slow with injections, to ease our bruising and mishaps (dropped eyelids!)It's a pleasure coming to see Dr Zhao, (Instead of DREAD) Having to get 12 shots, around my tender eyes!, every 3 months!Thank you

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-07-27

Dr. Zhao Is Considerate along with being very organized. He listens while at the same time explaining' why or why not'!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-07-25

Good

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-07-24

Dr. Zel was very professional!!I wish I could see him for just a yearly Exam as well!Perfect

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-07-23

Recommend

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-07-12

Excellent care

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-07-10

Issues were addressed well

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-07-05

Great job Dr Zhao!!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-07-02

He was very thorough and his professionalism made my mind up to select Emory for my surgery and care.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-06-28

Good

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-06-26

Dr. Zhao is excellent. His skill and bedside manner are unsurpassed.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-06-23

Great

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-06-18

This Doctor was so sweet, listening to my daughters problem and explaining the solution. Very informative and courteous.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-05-30

Over all experience was excellent

2 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-05-24

He didn't explain why I was there just waiting, and just said what needed to be done and that they would call me with an appointment.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-05-22

The best possible

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-05-20

Love Dr. Zhao! Thank you for allowing YAHUAH to guide your hands through my procedure!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-05-20

Impressed with Medical Specialist's professionalism & his concern for immediate urgent care in dealing w/ the severity of my eye issue!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-05-15

Dr Zhao is an excellent doctor. Professional, attentive and concerned. I would highly recommend him.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-05-13

Doctor n Nurses gave excellent care

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-05-10

Excellent

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-04-24

Dr Zhao was excellent!I appreciate all the "new info" he taught me, about my BLEPHASPASM's. I should have been made aware of, from other MD's in the past 10 years of being. treated for Blephaspasm. I have also been a participant in THE STUDY for the past year or two.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-04-17

Five stars all around. Excellent medical care.

3 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-04-17

I felt like the doctor gave me false hope of what he could do! I was to arrive for pictures to determine my surgery outcome. Instead he referenced me to plastics after stating he could not perform the surgery! He could have called me and told me that by phone! It was time off work I did not have to take. I do not feel in all honesty I should have to pay for this sham of an appointment. Vert disheartening! I was extremely upset when I left.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-04-08

The best of care providers

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-04-08

Dr Zhao has been extremely helpful and supportive to my concerns.. And, his expertise and surgical skills are more than impressive.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-04-01

One of the best experiences I have had with any physician

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-04-01

Dr. Zhao is a very thorough and knowledgeable physician . He treated my Mom with the best care and very compassionate.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-04-01

Dr. Zhao has been very helpful with my diagnosis. He is very caring and understanding. He was ca corned about the distance I live from the clinic, but b/c of his expertise with my diagnosis, I choose to continue to see him.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-03-18

Dr. Zhao is very knowledgeable about my diagnosis and he willing shares his knowledge.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-03-18

It was a great experience. The doctor explained everything clearly and concisely.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-03-17

Excellent

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-03-11

Dr Zhao has at every visit has been most attentive and helpful in guiding me through the process and options. His advice and guidance allows me to be confident in my decisions moving forward. His demeanor is positive and professional which is greatly appreciated.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-03-10

I would recommend my Dr to the whole world. He was absolutely the BEST. I'm so very happy that he was my Dr/surgeon. If I ever have to have anything else done, it would definitely be done by this Dr. He is the BEST.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-03-06

Best experience

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-03-04

Dr. Zhao is the best.highly recommend!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-02-25

Dr. Zhao was exceptional! He was compassionate, very clear in his explanations and listened to me. He made me feel at ease and very hopeful of his ability to help me.

2 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-02-25

Provider acted as if I was wasting his time tho I was referred by Dr Thelen. Didn't like his attitude at all.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-02-18

Good

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-02-11

Very good experience.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-01-29

Dr Zhao is an exceptional Dr and provides easy to understand information.

3 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-01-28

The procedure was outlined, but I did not get a thorough understanding of why things had changed

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-01-16

He was very thorough and did a good job explaining everything to me.

4 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-01-14

After having waiting 4 hours to see the doctor he was very apologetic for my wait time and treated me very well

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-01-07

I have been very pleased with the care and Level of service Emory has provided.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-12-21

The physician assistant was very good and assisted the doctor throughout the operation.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-12-10

Excellent! Wonderful listener. Thoughtful. Humanistic

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-12-05

Overall, the experience was very good and informative

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-12-04

Dr was excellent.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-11-27

Good experience.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-11-19

I have the upmost respect for my doctor-he has been very professional, respectful. He has kept me informed of my condition step by step and any questions that I have asked he's answered them in a way that I can understand, he has earned my trust and I believe that he will provide me with the best medical care

4 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-11-17

Highly recommended, sincerely very grateful.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-11-13

Really liked this doctor!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-11-09

Dr. Zouh is very knowledgeable & proficient.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-10-26

Very knowledgeable

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-10-23

I left the facility feeling very hopeful for a positive future outcome in terms of my eye surgery.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-10-18

New doctor to your staff is the meaning of my being able to getting a help faster. Thank you.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-10-16

Dr. Zhao was very personable, thorough and caring. I was very comfortable with him and was made to feel self assured.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-09-26

My experience with Dr Zhao was great - he was a great listener and empathetic, while also demonstrating thoroughness and asking great questions to rule out various possibilities. I appreciated that he was transparent abt his thought process and treated me like an intelligent human who can understand him. I also felt comfortable asking questions, in sharp contrast to a recent experience at another facility.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-09-24

Very good service

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-09-24

The doctor and nurse and staff were very kind and they explain every thing to me so that I would understand it thanks and keep up the good work also they wait on me quick even though I didn't have insurance they are the best .

Credentials

Education

  • Fellowship: University of Michigan Hospitals, Oculoplastic Surgery, 2024
  • Residency: University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Ophthalmology, 2022
  • Internship: Piedmont Athens Regional, Transitional Year, 2019
  • Medical Education: Shanghai Medical University (Fudan University School of Medicine), MD, 2009

Board Certifications

  • Ophthalmology, American Board of Ophthalmology, 2023

Professional Memberships

  • American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
  • Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology