Find a Specialist

Dr. Marius J. Heersink is a cataract, refractive, and laser-vision correction specialist who blends precision surgery with a welcoming, hometown style. He helps patients understand all options for visual freedom—whether that’s laser vision correction or cataract surgery with advanced lens technology—so they can choose confidently. His practice also includes corneal and ocular surface care, allowing him to manage complex front-of-eye problems and optimize outcomes before and after surgery. Patients value his clear communication, meticulous planning, and focus on safety and long-term results. A Dothan native, Dr. Heersink completed ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye Hospital (Thomas Jefferson University) after a transitional year at Mount Carmel in Ohio. He earned a dual MD/MBA from the UAB Heersink School of Medicine and Collat School of Business, graduating with honors after earlier completing EMSAP undergraduate studies at UAB. His academic work has appeared in leading ophthalmology publications. Away from clinic, he enjoys fitness, flying, and time with family.

Dr. Stuart R. Ball is a vitreoretinal surgeon who treats the full range of medical and surgical retina conditions. His clinical interests include macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears and detachment, macular hole and pucker, and complex vitreous surgery. Patients value his steady communication style and clear guidance from diagnosis through recovery. He is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. Dr. Ball earned his medical degree at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Kentucky, where he served as chief resident, followed by a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine/Cullen Eye Institute. He cares for patients across Premier Medical Group locations in coastal Alabama and neighboring Mississippi communities.

Dr. Caleb Z. Rivera is a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist focused on the medical and surgical care of glaucoma, cataracts, and complex anterior segment disease. He performs routine and complex cataract surgery; traditional glaucoma procedures such as trabeculectomy and tube shunts; minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS); and glaucoma laser treatments. Dr. Rivera completed his medical degree at the University of Washington School of Medicine, then both ophthalmology residency and a dedicated glaucoma fellowship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Patients appreciate Dr. Rivera’s steady communication style and commitment to long-term vision preservation. He partners with each person to design a plan that balances safety, effectiveness, and recovery, whether it involves laser, MIGS, or traditional surgery. Beyond the clinic, he enjoys staying active and is passionate about efforts to prevent avoidable blindness worldwide. His goal is to provide attentive, modern care that helps you see clearly and live fully.

Dr. Richard “Reese” Feist is a vitreoretinal surgeon dedicated to protecting and restoring central vision. He treats the full spectrum of medical and surgical retina conditions—from sudden retinal tears and detachments to long-term diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. Patients appreciate his steady demeanor, clear explanations, and evidence-based plans that match urgency with thoughtful follow-up. After ophthalmology residency training, Dr. Feist completed a vitreoretinal fellowship where he gained extensive experience with complex macular surgery, scleral buckling, and modern small-gauge vitrectomy. He works closely with referring optometrists and ophthalmologists to coordinate timely care, including in-office diagnostics, laser treatments, and intravitreal therapies. Whether closing a macular hole, managing uveitis, or guiding a patient through anti-VEGF treatment, his goal is simple: preserve sight and quality of life with the least disruption possible. Dr. Feist has a commitment to humanitarian service, having participated in medical missions in Granada, Nicaragua, and serving as a Spanish interpreter at Cooper Green Hospital. He is also active in research, having published numerous manuscripts and participated in clinical trials, and he has presented at national and international ophthalmology meetings.

Dr. Raymond Rojas is a comprehensive ophthalmologist known for personalized, family-style care and meticulous surgical technique. He specializes in custom cataract surgery and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) and also provides broad medical and laser care across comprehensive ophthalmology. Patients value his approachable explanations and the time he takes to match each treatment plan with their visual goals and daily activities. Dr. Rojas earned his medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and completed both an internal medicine residency and an ophthalmology residency at Tulane University. His experience treating complex eye disease informs a practical, outcomes-focused approach that emphasizes safety and long-term vision. In addition to surgery, he offers diabetic eye care, laser procedures, and minor eyelid surgery.

Dr. Jennifer D. Davidson is a board-certified pediatric ophthalmologist and strabismus surgeon at Alabama Ophthalmology Associates. She treats the full spectrum of pediatric eye conditions—including strabismus, amblyopia, pediatric cataracts, congenital glaucoma, and nasolacrimal duct obstruction—and provides expert care for adults with eye-muscle disorders and double vision. Her interests also include refractive error management and retinopathy of prematurity. Dr. Davidson earned her medical degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, completed internship and ophthalmology residency at the Medical University of South Carolina, and pursued advanced fellowship training in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus at MUSC’s Storm Eye Institute. She is active in resident education as a clinical instructor at UAB and is a member of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Her practice emphasizes family-centered decision-making and long-term follow-up.

Dr. Jennifer Michelson is a refractive cataract and lens-implant surgeon and comprehensive ophthalmologist at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham. She earned her medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine and completed an ophthalmology residency at Montefiore Medical Center–University Hospital for Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. In clinic, Dr. Michelson provides routine and complex eye care for adults, including evaluation and management of cataracts and glaucoma. She offers modern cataract surgery with multifocal and toric lens options to address distance and near vision as well as astigmatism. Her practice also includes medical, laser, and surgical treatments for diabetic eye disease and age-related macular degeneration, along with dry eye and allergy care. Patients value her clear communication, practical counseling on lens choices, and coordinated care at UAB Highlands.

Dr. Cary R. Baxter is a board-certified ophthalmologist and vitreoretinal surgeon with advanced training in the medical and surgical management of retinal diseases. Known for his precision, professionalism, and approachable manner, Dr. Baxter brings a team-oriented, patient-centered philosophy to his clinical practice. Before entering the field of medicine, Dr. Baxter was a student-athlete at the University of Alabama, where he played collegiate baseball. His background in competitive athletics instilled a strong work ethic, discipline, and a collaborative mindset that continues to shape his approach to patient care and surgical excellence. Dr. Baxter earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, followed by an ophthalmology residency at the University of Mississippi. He then completed a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at Retina Specialists of Alabama, where he trained under nationally respected leaders in retinal care. He has contributed to the field through research and publications in peer-reviewed medical journals. Outside of medicine, Dr. Baxter values time with his family and enjoys outdoor activities such as golfing and cycling.

Dr. Andrew Bartlett is a board-certified, fellowship-trained ophthalmologist at Alabama Vision Center caring for patients across the Birmingham area. He specializes in blade-free, all-laser custom LASIK, "no-stitch" cataract surgery, refractive lens exchange with presbyopia-correcting implants, and corneal transplantation. He also provides comprehensive medical eye care and glaucoma management, offering clear, step-by-step guidance so patients can choose the plan that fits their goals. After earning his BS from the University of Alabama and his MD from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Dr. Bartlett completed ophthalmology residency at Texas Tech University and a fellowship in Cornea and External Disease at Eye Consultants of Atlanta. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and enjoys teaching with recurring lectures at the UAB School of Optometry. Since joining Alabama Vision Center in 2016, Dr. Bartlett has focused on delivering precise, modern surgical care with a friendly, down-to-earth style that puts patients at ease.

Dr. Ryan C. Burton is a board-certified ophthalmologist who focuses on cataract and glaucoma care at Premier Medical Group in Mobile. He offers cataract surgery with advanced intraocular lens options—including astigmatism- and presbyopia-correcting lenses—and the full spectrum of glaucoma treatment from medications and laser therapies to minimally invasive and traditional surgeries. Dr. Burton completed medical school, ophthalmology residency, and a glaucoma fellowship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Patients value his clear explanations and collaborative approach to decision-making. Whether addressing routine cataracts or complex glaucoma, Dr. Burton tailors care to each patient’s goals and lifestyle, aiming for excellent vision, safety, and long-term eye health.

Dr. Alex Wright is a distinguished retina specialist dedicated to providing expert care for complex retinal disorders. He has a strong commitment to his community in Eastern Idaho, where he focuses on improving and preserving vision through advanced treatments. He earned his medical degree from the University of Utah School of Medicine, where his academic excellence led to election into the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. Dr. Wright completed his ophthalmology residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, receiving multiple resident research awards. He further honed his skills through a fellowship in vitreoretinal diseases and surgery at Retina Consultants of Alabama/University of Alabama-Birmingham. Dr. Wright specializes in treating a range of retinal conditions including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vascular diseases, retinal detachments, epiretinal membranes, macular holes, and secondary intraocular lenses. He utilizes techniques such as intravitreal injections, laser therapy, and vitreoretinal surgery to achieve optimal outcomes. Actively involved in academia, he has authored numerous publications and maintains membership in the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Retina Specialists.

Dr. Hogan Knox is an ophthalmologist specializing in glaucoma care, cataract surgery, and general ophthalmology. He completed medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, followed by an ophthalmology residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. He then pursued a glaucoma fellowship at UAB Callahan Eye Hospital & Clinics, gaining advanced experience in both medical and surgical management of complex glaucoma. Dr. Knox cares for patients with glaucoma, cataracts, and a full spectrum of general eye conditions, offering individualized treatment plans that balance vision goals, lifestyle, and long-term eye health. He believes in walking patients through their testing, imaging, and treatment options step by step, so they understand why a particular drop, laser procedure, or surgery is recommended. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Knox contributes to training future ophthalmologists as a glaucoma fellowship assistant director, reflecting his commitment to excellent, evidence-based care.

Dr. Colette M. Jackson is a fellowship-trained pediatric ophthalmologist who cares for children and adults with strabismus as well as a wide range of pediatric eye conditions. A Mississippi native, she completed her undergraduate degree with honors at Vanderbilt University and earned her medical degree with honors from the University of Mississippi. After an internship in internal medicine at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, she finished ophthalmology residency at UT Southwestern and advanced fellowship training in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus at the Storm Eye Institute at the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Jackson treats amblyopia, congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction, pediatric cataracts and glaucoma, and retinopathy of prematurity, and offers eye muscle surgery when needed. She partners closely with families to explain diagnoses, outline treatment choices, and design age-appropriate care plans that fit school and home life. Patients and parents appreciate her steady communication style and her focus on long-term visual development, binocular alignment, and practical goals for everyday activities.

Dr. Vikram Saini is a vitreoretinal surgeon who treats the full spectrum of medical and surgical retina conditions. Born and raised in Memphis, he graduated with honors from Vanderbilt University and earned his medical degree from the University of Tennessee College of Medicine. He completed ophthalmology residency at the Louisiana State University/Ochsner Clinic Foundation program, followed by a fellowship in vitreoretinal surgery with Retina Specialists of Alabama/University of Alabama at Birmingham. After fellowship, Dr. Saini moved to Huntsville and joined Retina Specialists of North Alabama.Patients value Dr. Saini’s calm, thorough explanations and evidence-based approach to care. He uses modern diagnostics and advanced treatments—including in-office injections and state-of-the-art retinal surgery—to help people with age-related macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, retinal tears and detachments, and other sight-threatening disorders. Outside the clinic, he enjoys time with his family, staying active, and cheering on his favorite teams. Dr. Saini’s goal is simple: give every patient clear guidance, compassionate care, and the best possible chance to preserve and improve vision.

Dr. Harsha A. Sen is a board-certified ophthalmologist and vitreoretinal surgeon providing advanced medical and surgical retina care. He earned both his undergraduate and medical degrees at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Virginia, and went on to a vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at Duke University. Dr. Sen joined Eye Center South in 2017 and serves patients across the Dothan region.In addition to comprehensive care for diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and symptomatic floaters, Dr. Sen is active in clinical research and innovation. He has collaborated on development of sustained-release intraocular drug delivery and, as part of an international trial, administered the first intravitreal injection targeting diabetic macular ischemia. Patients describe his approach as thoughtful, clear, and relentlessly patient-centered—focused on preserving and restoring sight with the latest evidence-based treatments.

Shivam Amin, MD, is a vitreoretinal surgeon who treats medical and surgical diseases of the retina and vitreous. He helps patients navigate conditions like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachments with a calm, practical approach and a focus on preserving vision. In the clinic, he uses advanced imaging to personalize treatment; in the OR, he performs procedures such as vitrectomy, membrane peels, and macular hole repair. Dr. Amin completed a two-year fellowship in vitreoretinal surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin after ophthalmology residency at the University of Chicago and medical school at the University of South Alabama. He offers in-office injections and laser therapy, and partners closely with referring optometrists and primary care clinicians so patients receive coordinated care from diagnosis through follow-up.

Dr. Sean M. Carter is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in glaucoma and cataract care. He provides comprehensive evaluations and a full spectrum of treatment options, from advanced cataract surgery to tailored glaucoma management. Patients appreciate his calm, practical explanations and his emphasis on shared decision-making, whether they are considering astigmatism- or presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses or weighing laser versus surgical approaches for glaucoma. Dr. Carter completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center and a glaucoma fellowship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Callahan Eye Hospital. He also earned his medical degree at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine. In clinic, he offers minimally invasive, laser, and incisional glaucoma procedures alongside modern cataract surgery to help patients see clearly and protect vision for the long term.

Dr. Ariana Diamond is a board-certified ophthalmologist who enjoys the precision of microsurgery and the chance to help people see more clearly at every stage of life. She offers a full spectrum of vision correction options—including laser procedures and lens-based solutions—as well as cataract evaluation and surgery. Her style is warm and communicative; she takes time to understand your goals, explain your choices in plain language, and guide you to a plan that fits your eyes and your lifestyle. Dr. Diamond’s medical training includes residency at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, medical school at the University of Alabama School of Medicine, and undergraduate studies at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Whether you’re exploring freedom from glasses or looking for modern cataract care, she partners closely with each patient to deliver safe, tailored results and a smooth experience before, during, and after surgery.

Dr. Jessica Duddleston is a board-certified ophthalmologist who offers comprehensive care with a focus on cataract and refractive surgery, glaucoma, and medical retina. She helps patients understand their diagnosis and options—from LASIK to advanced-technology lens implants—and builds personalized plans that balance clarity, comfort, and recovery. Patients value her warm manner, clear explanations, and attention to detail in both clinic and operating room. Dr. Duddleston completed ophthalmology residency at the University of North Carolina, where she served as chief resident and received the Resident Teacher of the Year award, after medical school at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. She enjoys caring for the Birmingham community and staying active outdoors with her family.

Dr. Robert C. Foster is a board-certified ophthalmologist who combines advanced technology with a friendly, down-to-earth approach. He focuses on cataract surgery, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, and functional eyelid procedures, and also provides comprehensive care for a wide range of eye conditions. Patients value his careful counseling on lens options and his commitment to safety, comfort, and excellent visual outcomes. A North Alabama native, Dr. Foster graduated from Mississippi State University and the University of Alabama School of Medicine, then completed ophthalmology residency at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Since joining The Eye Center, he has earned a reputation for precise surgical technique and clear communication that helps patients feel confident at every step of their care.

Dr. John H. Friend IV is a cornea, cataract, and refractive surgeon who enjoys restoring clarity and comfort for patients with a wide range of corneal and lens conditions. He takes time to understand what matters most—whether that’s driving at night, enjoying the outdoors without glasses, or getting back to work quickly—and tailors surgical plans around those priorities. His consultations are approachable and detailed, so patients understand their options and what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Dr. Friend offers modern cataract surgery, laser vision correction (LASIK and PRK), advanced corneal transplantation techniques, and corneal cross-linking for keratoconus and ectasia. He earned his MD at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine, completed ophthalmology residency at LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, and pursued fellowship training in Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. Collaborating closely with optometrists and primary eye care providers, he focuses on safe surgery, smooth recovery, and durable visual results.

Dr. Nikolas (Nik) Hopkins is a comprehensive ophthalmologist and Clinical Instructor at UAB Callahan Eye. He provides full-spectrum medical and surgical eye care with interests spanning cataract surgery, glaucoma management, refractive surgery, and the ocular manifestations of infectious diseases. He also maintains an academic focus in ocular oncology evaluation and the care of patients with complex eye conditions. Dr. Hopkins earned his MD at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, graduating with Alpha Omega Alpha honors. He completed ophthalmology residency at the Hamilton Eye Institute (UTHSC) in Memphis, where he gained extensive experience caring for diverse patient populations and presenting his research nationally and internationally. Known for a patient-centered approach, he emphasizes clear communication and shared decision-making so individuals understand their diagnosis and options. At UAB Callahan Eye, Dr. Hopkins welcomes patients seeking thoughtful, evidence-based care delivered with compassion and attention to detail.

Dr. Bradley Langston is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who cares for patients across northeast Alabama with a focus on restoring clear, comfortable vision. He provides individualized cataract care—from accurate diagnosis through modern surgical options—and treats common conditions such as diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Patients appreciate his steady communication style, attention to detail, and the way he explains options so they can make confident decisions about their eyes. Dr. Langston earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine and completed his ophthalmology residency at the University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas. Before medicine, he studied chemical engineering at the University of Alabama, a background that complements his interest in precision technology in the operating room. Raised in Birmingham, he is glad to serve the communities where he and his family call home. Whether you need a thorough exam, cataract surgery with advanced lenses, or ongoing glaucoma care, Dr. Langston aims to deliver the kind of thoughtful, high-quality care he would want for his own family.

Calvin McNelly, MD, is an ophthalmologist and refractive cataract surgeon who helps patients see—and live—better with thoughtful, personalized care. He provides comprehensive eye exams and delivers surgical and nonsurgical solutions for common vision problems, including advanced cataract options tailored to each patient’s goals. Dr. McNelly grew up in Texas and graduated cum laude from the University of Denver before earning his medical degree at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso Paul L. Foster School of Medicine. He completed a transitional year in El Paso and an ophthalmology residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he served as chief resident. Patients value his friendly communication style, attention to detail, and commitment to clear, step-by-step guidance before and after surgery. Outside the clinic, he enjoys travel, music, and time with his family. Dr. McNelly is dedicated to delivering safe, modern care while partnering closely with referring optometrists and primary-care providers.