Dr. Stephen Whiteside

One of Austin's most experienced LASIK surgeons

Trusted expertise in laser vision correction

Over 65,000 LASIK and PRK procedures performed

30+ years of refractive surgery experience
Recipient of the Leadership Achievement Award from the American Academy of Ophthalmology
Principal investigator in numerous FDA clinical trials

Dr. Whiteside and the LASIK MD Austin team are here to guide you through every step of your vision correction journey.

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What Austin patients are saying

“What a wonderful experience! Dr. Whiteside performed my “mono” lasik surgery. He is Fabulous!”

"Completely safe and with the best care, Dr. Stephen Whiteside was a great help throughout the entire procedure and provided clear instructions about the surgery. If you really want a change, go for it."

"The results have been life-changing. I am thrilled to say that I no longer need glasses or contact lenses, and I only wish I had done this sooner! Thank you to Dr. Stephen Whiteside, and the entire LASIK MD team for such a positive and successful experience."

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Read Dr. Whiteside's full bio

Where did Dr. Whiteside study?

Dr. Whiteside received his Doctor of Medicine from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. Following medical school, he completed military training, with honors, in aviation and aerospace medicine, and served as a Navy flight surgeon. He then performed a research fellowship at the Center for Research on Ocular Therapeutics and Biodevices. He subsequently completed his residency at the Storm Eye Institute, acting as chief resident.

What refractive experience does Dr. Whiteside have?

Dr. Whiteside has been involved in laser vision correction and intraocular lens (IOL) surgery for 25 years, including LASIK, PRK, refractive lens exchange, cataract surgery, and Implantable Collamer^® Lens (ICL). He has been the chief surgeon and regional medical director for several LASIK clinics throughout Texas, and has contributed to numerous advisory boards and leadership teams. Dr. Whiteside has held the role of clinical adjunct faculty and civilian consultant for the Warfighter Refractive Eye Surgery Program, and has performed surgery on many Army Special Forces, Navy SEALs, and fighter pilots.

Dr. Whiteside is active in clinical research and participates in FDA clinical trials as a principal investigator, exploring new therapies for dry eye, drops to aid reading vision, glaucoma management, and macular degeneration.

What awards has Dr. Whiteside received?

Dr. Whiteside is a proud recipient of the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s Special Recognition Award, as well as the Leadership Achievement Award, and was the first-ever resident selected to serve on the nation’s Young Ophthalmologist Committee. He has been named on several “Best Doctors” lists, and was recognized with the distinction of “Top Doc”, placing him in the top 1% of LASIK, refractive, and cataract surgeons in the U.S. During his time in the Navy, he received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and worked closely with the Blue Angels on several projects.