SEES Group is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Courtney Ridner to its team of vision care specialists in Knoxville. With his comprehensive experience and exceptional skills, Dr. Ridner brings a wealth of knowledge in cataract surgery, glaucoma, retina evaluation and management, as well as Oculoplastics, including Botox and fillers.
A native of Knoxville, Tennessee, Dr. Ridner has an impressive academic background. He obtained his undergraduate degree with Honors in Microbiology and a minor in Chemistry from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Ridner further pursued his passion for healthcare by completing a master’s degree in Hospital Administration before attending James H. Quillen College of Medicine in Johnson City, TN.
Dr. Ridner’s journey in medicine led him to complete his internship in General Surgery in Spartanburg, South Carolina. It was during this time that he made the decision to pursue a career in the military. After completing Aerospace Medicine training at Brooks AFB, he served as an active-duty Flight Surgeon in the United States Air Force. Driven by his love for flying, he successfully completed undergraduate pilot training at Laughlin AFB and F-16 training at Luke AFB, accumulating over 120 hours of combat flight experience.
Returning to Tennessee, Dr. Ridner undertook his ophthalmology training at Vanderbilt University. He is a dedicated comprehensive ophthalmologist with a special focus on cataract and refractive surgery, glaucoma, retina evaluation and management, as well as Oculoplastics involving Botox and fillers.
Dr. Ridner was one of the first ophthalmic surgeons in Chattanooga to offer bladeless laser cataract surgery, providing patients with state-of-the-art customized cataract surgery. He is also a specialist in the use of premium replacement lenses for cataract patients.
Reflecting on his passion for the profession, Dr. Ridner shared, “Growing up, my neighbor was an Ophthalmologist. I was always fascinated with his multiple eye care ‘gadgets’ around the house. Today, Ophthalmology is still technology-driven, and that has allowed us to dramatically move the profession forward.”
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Ridner enjoys spending time with his wife and 10-year-old son.