Wonderful results from cataract surgery on both eyes Nov 2011! I chose Duke because of previous experiences with John's Hopkins, Medical University of South Carolina, hospitals in England and the Middle East, and countless small hospitals. My experience has taught me that the best, most highly trained and skilled doctors cost less in the long run. I researched and met with numerous eye surgeons over a five year period, and refused surgery until I met Dr. Carlson. He answered the tough questions honestly and in a way I could understand - without the arrogance shown by other doctors. Dr Carlson wasalso the only doctor that emphasized how difficult it was for me to see - and much I would enjoy dramatically improved sight.He was right! I was even given his personal e-mail to ask follow up questions, and when I did he responded within an hour. Dr Carlson also addressed my other medical issues as they relate to my surgery, and was particularly helpful in convincing me that I would not be aware of the the procedure that was taking place during surgery. He was absolutely correct, as I remembered nothing about the procedure, making it far easier than my neighbor's cataract surgery where she was wide awake during the entire process. Also, by better understanding me and my desires, Dr Carlson selected a lens that is perfect for me, as it provides me the vision I always wanted (and unlike others, I didn't feel like the decision was based on the amount of money that he would make on premium lens). I live in Charleston SC, but was willing to make the 250 mile trip numerous times to get the best doctor to work on the only set of eyes I have.The Duke eye center staff were wonderful, and everything was set up to accomodate the patient and their visitors. The appointments were completed on time, and the exams were thorough compared to other facilities. I think so highly of Dr Carlson that I have recommended him to my daughter, who experienced a severe eye injury during childhood. Again, I received honest understandable advice on the potential cure for her vision problems. If you are concerned about cataract surgery like I was, and want to talk to someone who has done research on the subject, contact me at floyd8396@hotmail.com and I will be happy to discuss both Duke Eye Center and Dr Carlson with you. read more

I read a review on here from Robert P. concerning Dr. Alan Carlson and the staff at the Duke eye center . I felt compelled to comment. To say that I was astounded would be an understatement. I do not often feel the need to make comment on such a public forum but I felt it necessary to comment on my experience with this Doctor and his team. I can not even imagine using the word condescending to describe Dr. Carlson and communication skills "laughably inadequate?" I distinctly remember the first time that I visited Dr. Carlson many years ago and commented to family and friends how lucky I was to have a Doctor who answered my questions and took time with me. My first impression was obviously a positive lasting impression I have been a patient of Dr. Carlson's for over 25 years and suffer from a degenerative eye condition that has required me to have (lost count!) surgical procedures on my eyes and several cornea transplants. I have come to know Dr. Carlson and his staff quite well with my repeated visits. Dr. Carlson has performed thousands of procedures and is a world class ophthalmologist. I experience situations daily that prove to be frustrating - my eyesight being one of those - but I am thankful for the vision that I do have and the care that I have received. I have been seen by other physicians around the country - AZ, GA, TN, PA, SC - who all know Dr. Carlson and have nothing but glowing things to say about him and the magic he has done with my eyes. That is the greatest compliment - to be recognized by your peers. read more

When my Fuchs' Dystrophy progressed to the point that corneal transplant surgery became necessary, I must admit, I became anxious. I didn't realize the extent of my fears of the unknown, the procedure, or the process, until Dr. Alan Carlson walked into my examination room at Duke Eye Center. Dr. Carlson put me totally at ease. He was the very essence of confidence, but never arrogant, took the time to explain my procedure, cataract out, lens in, corneal transplant and my eyesight would be better than ever. I find Dr. Carlson to be extremely approachable; he had a great sense of humor and returns my emails much quicker than my adult sons! His surgery/treatment plan for me has been perfect. I know that I have received the very best care before, during and after surgery. I am awaiting the other transplant in three months and I know that it will be perfect as well. Last, but certainly not least, Dr. Carlson surrounds himself with an excellent staff, which are efficient, helpful and kind. The service they provide show that they are always ready to go the extra mile. What a dedicated team I am blessed to have. Thank you Dr. Carlson and staff! read more

I am reposting a review of Dr. Carlson as I had difficulty finding my first post and wanted to share my experience with readers.I had been mistakenly treated with LASIK elsewhere, having an underlying condition that went unrecognized called keratoconus, a progressive condition, resulting in a loss of correctable vision.I was referred to Dr. Alan Carlson by physicians who recognized that he was my best chance to regain my sight.Now, after corneal transplantation in botheyes, a new procedure called DALK(deep anterior lamallar keratoplasty) I have 20-15 vision in one eye(better than 20-20) without any correction and the second eye achieves vision correctable to 20-20. I couldn't be happier. Dr. Carlson was attentive, personable, and ready to see me at any time I might think there was a problem. I recommend anyone with similar eye problems to Dr. Carlson without reservation. read more

Have you been postponing removal of your cataracts due to tremendous fear of the surgery? Have you finally worked up the courage but you demand that it be done as soon as possible--before you "chicken out?" You have found Dr. Carlson, the most competent surgeon and the one who can handle any unforeseen complications. But then you find out that in this busy clinic, others --BIG SURPRISE-- are ahead of you. Now you must make an important decision: 1) Face the risk of that tremendous fear returning before you can get the surgery; 2) Wait your turn; 3) Get on his waiting list; or 4) Reveal your huge fear anonymously online by unleashing an unfair tirade against the doctor and the facilities. Hard choices for a few. read more

Dr. Alan Carlson is the most focused - skilled- talented-team oriented-surgeon to whom I have been blessed to be referred. I was impressed how it is possible for him and his caring staff to function in very tight spaces...and I am thankful that monies are being raised for a new facility soon' Having experienced a bad eye surgery in August...I can assure everyone needing eye surgery , first hand, that Duke's Dr. Alan Carlson is a " treasure" and you can be confident that you, like myself, will be so very happy with your surgery and Dr. Alan Carlson' read more

My father is 84 years old and has high expectations as a pilot who owns several airplanes and has a landing strip. Despite having a wonderful ophthalmologist in Wilmington, the family and his eye doctor recognized the need for him to go to the very best. That is why we brought him to Alan N. Carlson, M.D. for cataract surgery in both eyes and treatment for a variant of macular degeneration. We are most grateful for his fine care at Duke and specifically to Dr. Carlson for my dad's dream of returning to flying. Lynn read more

I chose Dr. Carlson after searching extensively for my eye surgeon. I interviewed several doctors in preparation for eye surgery and felt most comfortable choosing Dr. Carlson at the Duke University Eye Center. I am extremely grateful for his surgical skill and also the manner he used in addressing all of my questions and concerns. read more

WOW! I highly recommend Dr. Carlson for cataract surgery. As a monocular person, I was most hesitant and anxious about having the procedure done. He was knowegeable and reassured me about what to expect. I had 20/20 vision when I returned the next day. It was great to see clearly again. Thank you, Dr. Carlson. Linda L read more