It’s a busy schedule daily for Dr. Edward Rashid who is a board certified ophthalmologist and president of the Alamo Laser Vision Center. He has more than 25 years of experience and advanced fellowship training in corneal and refractive procedures such as LASIK, PRK and Lens Implants.
The four-time NBA World Champion San Antonio Spurs have entrusted their world class athlete’s vision to Dr. Rashid for 20 years. His reputation for being a highly skilled ophthalmologist is uniquely complemented by his commitment to giving each patient his undivided attention and providing the most advanced technology in laser vision correction and cataract treatments.
We sat down with Dr. Rashid to discuss how his 20 year experience has been tending to the vision care needs of the big guys in the NBA.
What are your responsibilities as the team eye surgeon?
I have seen the Spurs ‘grow into’ a dynasty over the past 20 years and have been fortunate to care for some of the most respected athletes in the league, their families, and even the opposing team. My responsibilities are to perform the team’s comprehensive eye exams, treat their injuries and to make sure they can see well enough to make the money shot when they are up against the clock.
How would laser vision correction help an athlete’s performance?
When you have athletes at the highest level of their sport, a small edge in every aspect of their capabilities can mean the difference between winning and losing. Laser vision correction for the right candidates can make an unbelievable improvement as contact lenses can fall out or shift during movement. I have been fortunate to perform LASIK on professional athletes in multiple sports including basketball, baseball, and boxing.
How do you think the team is going to do this year?
As the team eye surgeon, I cannot tell you how far the team will go, but I can tell you that they have excellent vision, and some of the most talented players that I have seen in my 20 years with the Spurs.
Who is a great candidate for laser vision correction?
Someone who dreams about living life free from glasses and contact lenses. FDA has certain criteria that needs to be met in order for one to be considered a candidate. My personal recommendation is to schedule a comprehensive consultation with a very experienced surgeon.
What if I am not a candidate for LASIK?
The advancements in technology have drastically improved over the years; we are now seeing patients who were not deemed eligible six years ago, who are now candidates for the procedure. However, if you are not a candidate then depending upon your age and vision needs, we can consider other customized treatments that can improve your vision without glasses or contact lenses.
If you could play a game of one on one, who would it be against?
Tough question, but I would have to say that I would choose Manu Ginobili. I’m sure, at my peak as a collegiate player that I could have, maybe, only scored one point in a game of 10 against Manu Ginobili.
What makes your practice unique?
We understand that your vision is precious even if it is less than perfect. That is why our practice takes great care and time measuring your eyes so that we can customize a treatment that will give you the best results possible. My team and I believe in providing each and every patient the ultimate vision care and experience.
