About Us

The Abilene Eye Institute and the Abilene Cataract  and Refractive Surgery Center opened its doors in 1987; since then, thousands of  cataract-lens implant operations and laser procedures have been performed there.

Over ten years ago we began doing refractive surgery and to date have treated many patients with myopia, astigmatism, and hyperopia. In early 1996 our center became the first center in the "Big Country" to offer LASIK for the treatment of nearsightedness. To date,  thousands of patients have received this exciting new treatment to reduce their dependency on glasses and contact lenses.

The doctors enjoy the convenience of having the surgery suite in the same building as their office, and the luxury of being able to direct and work with a highly trained and motivated staff who dedicate all their efforts to excellence in the area of eye surgical patients.

The patients are glad they don't need to be hospitalized. Patients also like the fact that in most cases the doctors are able to perform no stitch,  no patch cataract lens implant surgery.

The families of the patients appreciate being able to watch the surgery from our glassed-in observation room and having someone explain what is happening and answer their questions. Many people at first think they don't want to watch their family member's surgery, but almost all that do are glad they did. They find that their time goes quickly when they can see what is happening rather than having to worry and wonder.

The people paying for our care appreciate the fact that is provided at a cost significantly less than it would cost at a hospital day surgery unit.

Our surgery center provides a winning situation for everyone: doctors, staff, patients, families and third party payers.

Meet our doctors:

Dr. Paul B. Thames
Dr. Mark J. Phelan
Dr. Kerry C. Preston