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
“I transferred from CEENTA to Dr Ryder at Horizon Eye Care-Cotswold. Today was my first appointment. I can say I was pleasantly surprised. I had absolutely no wait time. The office has…”
“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…”
“As always the check up was professional and expert. Dr Wang is a caring professional and I have confidence in her work. This visit had an annoying amount of waiting time which…”
“Conscientious, considerate and very knowledgeable”
“Excellent doctor but long wait”
“Excellent ”
“Dr and the staff that did his final was great. The initial nurse that did his first exam that 2 yrs was rude when i was trying to get some info and…”
“Dr. Biber is always attentive and takes time to answer all my questions.”
“Dr Garcia Santana and her staff were very professional and friendly. .”
“I met with the team for a followup and it was a great experience - listened to my concerns, offered options to address. The rest of the office staff was equally competent…”
“The doctor completed a thorough eval of my eyes to determine if I needed to continue taking a Stereoid that I had been taking for my eyes. He concluded that I no…”
“I have been under Dr.Ryder for the last five years and he and his staff is the best I couldn’t be more thankful and grateful I Love them all!!!!”
“Horizon eye care has always been a professional run facility. Staff are knowledgeable and caring. Dr Minnal is exceptional.”
“Exccellent. Dr. Ryder gave clear answers to my questions and explained the pricedure. Expectations and possible complications well. Everything was smooth, efficent and performed in a friendly atmosphere. All staff were pleasant…”
“Very nice guy, did my procedure quickly and professionally!”
“This was my first visit with Dr. James. I was having a problem with my eye and it required an immediate evaluation. Dr. James spent a lot of time evaluating my eye…”
“Friendly and polite”
“Dr Kaluzny is a Great DOCTOR!”
Serving Three Convenient Charlotte Locations
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