About
D. is a board-certified ophthalmologist and the founder of Eye Surgeon Direct in San Antonio, TX. She graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Texas at Austin, earning the distinction of Outstanding Student. She then earned her medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, where she gained membership in Alpha Omega Alpha, the national medical honor society.
Dr. Held has performed refractive surgery and laser vision correction for over 20 years. She was among the first surgeons to perform LASIK and PRK in San Antonio, and she co-founded Alamo Laser Vision Center in 1999. Her clinical expertise spans advanced technology cataract surgery, glaucoma diagnosis and treatment, corneal disease, dry eye, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, and complex second-opinion cases. Publications including The Best Doctors in America, The Guide to America's Top Ophthalmologists, Texas Super Doctors, and San Antonio's Best Doctors have all recognized her work. Beyond clinical care, Dr. Held is a passionate advocate for healthcare policy that puts patients in control of their own medical decisions and costs.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
University of Texas at Austin (Phi Beta Kappa, named 'Outstanding Student')
Medical School
University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (Alpha Omega Alpha member)
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Held right for?
Dr. Held is a strong fit for adults seeking comprehensive ophthalmologic care without insurance intermediaries. Patients managing cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye, diabetic eye disease, or corneal conditions benefit from her broad surgical and medical expertise. She also serves patients exploring LASIK, PRK, or refractive lens exchange for vision correction. Anyone who values transparent pricing, same-day access, and unhurried 60-minute appointments will find her practice a good match. She welcomes patients of all ages, including those navigating TRICARE, HSA accounts, or Health Sharing Ministries.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Held treats a wide range of eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, keratoconus, pterygium, corneal disease, blepharitis, lid lesions, and vascular disorders of the eye. She also manages refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. Patients with complex or unresolved problems often seek her out for a second opinion.
Yes. The American Board of Ophthalmology has certified Dr. Held. She completed her medical training at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and earned membership in Alpha Omega Alpha, the prestigious national medical honor society.
Dr. Held has performed refractive surgery and laser vision correction for over 20 years. She was one of the first surgeons to perform LASIK and PRK in San Antonio. She co-founded Alamo Laser Vision Center in 1999, where she continues as a co-owner.
Yes. Dr. Held performs both laser cataract surgery and traditional cataract surgery. She offers multiple cataract lens options and performs procedures at Methodist Ambulatory Surgical Center North Central in San Antonio.
Dr. Held operates entirely outside of insurance and Medicare agreements. She sets transparent, fair prices and contracts directly with each patient. Appointments run 60 minutes, giving her adequate time to address each concern thoroughly. She includes OCT imaging, refraction, corneal topography, and tear testing in her comprehensive exam at no additional charge.
Yes. Dr. Held has earned listings in The Best Doctors in America, The Guide to America's Top Ophthalmologists, Texas Super Doctors, and San Antonio's Best Doctors. These publications recognize her standing among peers and patients across the region.
Yes. Dr. Held offers virtual consultations via private video chat. This option suits patients who want to discuss a concern or explore a procedure before committing to an in-office visit.
Dr. Held performs surgical procedures at Methodist Ambulatory Surgical Center North Central, located at 19010 Stone Oak Parkway in San Antonio. She performs laser vision correction at Alamo Laser Vision Center, which she co-founded and where she remains a co-owner.
Yes. Dr. Held provides comprehensive eye care for patients across all age groups, from routine exams and refractive corrections to surgical management of conditions like cataracts and glaucoma.
Dr. Held is a committed advocate for healthcare policy that returns control to patients. Her direct-pay practice model reflects that conviction. She believes patients deserve transparent pricing and the ability to access care without interference from insurance corporations or government agencies.
Doctor profile last updated August 17, 2026