Steven J. Ryder, MD
Providing expert retinal care to Charlotte, NC patients at Horizon Eye Care’s Cotswold, Pineville and Waverly locations.
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Meet the Doctor
Dr. Steven Ryder brings world-class retinal expertise to Charlotte, having trained at some of the nation’s most prestigious institutions. As a trained vitreoretinal surgeon, he specializes in treating complex retinal conditions that can threaten vision, from diabetic retinopathy to age-related macular degeneration.
What sets Dr. Ryder apart is his combination of technical excellence and patient-centered approach. He takes time to thoroughly explain each patient’s condition, treatment options, and what to expect throughout their care journey. His patients appreciate his calm demeanor and ability to make complex retinal conditions understandable.
Expertise & Specialties
Dr. Steven Ryder is a fellowship-trained vitreoretinal surgeon specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of complex retinal conditions. His clinical focus centers on preserving and restoring vision for patients facing sight-threatening diseases of the retina and vitreous.
Areas of expertise include:
- Macular degeneration — advanced treatments for wet and dry AMD
- Diabetic retinopathy — comprehensive diabetic eye disease management
- Retinal detachments — emergency and elective retinal reattachment surgery
- Macular holes — microsurgical repair of macular holes
- Macular puckers — treatment of epiretinal membranes
- Vitreous hemorrhage — management of bleeding in the eye
- Retinal vascular disease — treatment of vein occlusions and vascular disorders
Dr. Ryder is committed to guiding every patient through their condition with clarity, compassion, and the most effective treatment available.
Education & Training
Dr. Ryder earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Boston College before completing his Doctor of Medicine at Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia. He then completed a transitional internship at Crozer-Chester Medical Center and his ophthalmology residency at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell, where he received the Distinguished Housestaff Award from the Weill Cornell Medical Center Alumni Council.
He went on to complete a two-year vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami — consistently ranked the #1 eye hospital in the United States — training that shaped his expertise in complex retinal surgery and formed the clinical foundation for his practice at Horizon Eye Care.
Memberships & Recognition
Dr. Ryder is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Retina Specialists, reflecting his commitment to staying at the forefront of retinal care and surgical innovation.
He has authored numerous scientific publications and textbook chapters in ophthalmology. During his fellowship at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he served as a clinical investigator in collaborative trials studying retinal imaging modalities, age-related macular degeneration treatments, diabetic retinopathy management, and inherited retinal degenerations.
Insights From Dr. Ryder
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Vision Restored, Lives Transformed
“She is personable and provides great care”
“Dr. Cameron was friendly yet quite professional. His exam seemed thorough and his recommendations sound. He answered questions I had and took his time - he was not rushed to get to…”
“All staff from checking in at the front desk, throughout my appointment were very helpful. Dr.Minkowski did a great job of explaining options/the process of cataract surgery with me, especially given my…”
“I have been coming to Dr. Minkowski for over 2 years and he is an awesome doctor. He makes you feel welcomed and worry free. He explains everything in detail and will…”
“Dr. Biber discussed options and the process for cataract light adjustable lenses very thoroughly. He was positive, encouraging, and provided time updates during the enhancement and lock-in process. Excellent care was provided…”
“It’s always a pleasure to see Dr. Kaluzney. He’s so thorough and knowledgeable.”
“Excellent doctor , very kind and explains everything in a way that you understand . One of the best!”
“Dr Jones was very thorough and explained my condition very well.”
“All good. Thorough and efficient. Also, very pleasant staff members working there.”
“Great Doctor!!!!!!!!!”
“Dr. Minnal is very caring about her patients eye care! It was a pleasant experience!”
“Consult process very extensive and professional, Dr Biber thoroughly explained my eye condition and cataract surgery process. One suggestion: I received a brief precheck text which I completed. When got to appt…”
“I know this doctor's office from bringing so many people there for appointments over the years. In my mind that means something to bring that many people. The whole experience was very…”
“Excellent, insightful care from Dr Biber. Thanks”
“I went to Dr. Biber for cataract surgery. One eye done and so far all is great! Dr. Biber is very nice and is an expert on eyes. I recommend him!”
“Stephan Gut visits was professional just as all other visits prior”
“Very friendly, simple and accurate. Committed.”
“Great”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr. Sheila Garcia Santana. From the moment I began receiving care from her, she has consistently demonstrated an exceptional combination of knowledge, professionalism, compassion, and…”
“Excellent care, efficient and effective”
Serving Three Convenient Charlotte Locations
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