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Charles Retina Institute Charles Retina Institute
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Business Details
42 Years
experience
Advanced Retinal Care & Surgery in Germantown, TN
Charles Retina Institute in Germantown, Tennessee
Charles Retina Institute is a trusted ophthalmology clinic in Germantown, Tennessee, focused on diagnosing and treating retinal conditions. Our experienced specialists use advanced technology and proven techniques to care for conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and more. We take pride in providing personalized treatment in a supportive, compassionate setting, with a clear focus on protecting and improving your vision. At Charles Retina Institute, your eye health always comes first. Visit us for expert care you can rely on.
Services
Retinal Detachments Diabetic Retinopathy Macular Holes Age-Related Macular Degeneration Epimacular Membranes Retinopathy of Prematurity Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy
Details
  • Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
  • We pioneered the Valeda Light Delivery System for non-invasive AMD treatment
  • Our physicians have treated patients from all 50 states and 40+ countries
  • World leaders in vitreoretinal surgery with published clinical research
  • Offering 27-gauge vitrectomy and other minimally invasive surgical techniques
  • Maintain active clinical trials program for emerging retinal therapies
Payment methods
  • Cash
  • Debit cards
  • Credit cards
Website
Services
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
We offer comprehensive management for AMD, including the innovative Valeda Light Delivery System. Our approach combines advanced diagnostics with personalized treatment plans to slow disease progression and preserve vision. Patients benefit from our specialists' decades of experience in macular disease management.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Our team provides specialized care for diabetes-related retinal complications using minimally invasive surgical techniques and laser treatments. We focus on early detection and intervention to prevent vision loss through regular monitoring and tailored treatment protocols.
Retinal Detachments
We specialize in complex retinal detachment repairs using 27-gauge vitrectomy and other advanced surgical approaches. Our surgeons employ innovative techniques like retinectomy-under-air to achieve successful reattachment outcomes with reduced recovery times.
Valeda Light Therapy
This non-invasive treatment uses targeted light wavelengths to improve mitochondrial function in retinal cells. Valeda offers dry AMD patients a needle-free alternative that reduces oxidative stress and helps maintain visual function through a series of in-office treatments.
Clinical Trials
We conduct cutting-edge research on emerging retinal therapies, providing qualified patients access to experimental treatments. Our clinical trials program contributes to medical advancements while offering participants early access to potential breakthroughs in vitreoretinal care.
People
Steve Charles
CEO
Founder of Charles Retina Institute and pioneer of 27-gauge vitrectomy, Dr. Charles has revolutionized retinal surgery through technological innovation. With over 40 years of experience, he continues to lead as a world authority in vitreoretinal diseases.
Stephen Huddleston
Director of ROP services
Specializing in retinopathy of prematurity, Dr. Huddleston leads our pediatric retinal care program. His expertise in managing complex vascular disorders has made significant contributions to neonatal eye health research and treatment protocols.
Mohammad Rafieetary
Optometrist
Dr. Rafieetary focuses on diabetic retinopathy management and patient education. His clinical research on retinal neovascularization has been published in multiple ophthalmology journals, advancing detection and treatment methodologies.
Salar Rafieetary
Vitreoretinal Surgeon
Specializing in complex retinal detachments and macular disorders, Dr. Salar Rafieetary contributes to our surgical team's expertise. He actively participates in training visiting international ophthalmologists in advanced vitreoretinal techniques.
David Fingerhut
Fellowship Director
As Fellowship Director, Dr. Fingerhut oversees our rigorous training program for future retinal specialists. His clinical focus includes traumatic eye injuries and proliferative vitreoretinopathy management using innovative surgical approaches.
Questions
What is Charles Retina Institute's specialty?
We specialize in diagnosing and treating complex retinal diseases including AMD, diabetic retinopathy, macular holes, and retinal detachments using advanced surgical and non-invasive techniques.
What makes Valeda therapy unique?
Valeda is the first FDA-approved non-invasive treatment for dry AMD that uses photobiomodulation therapy to improve visual function without injections or eye dilation.
Do you accept international patients?
Yes, we treat patients from over 40 countries and have extensive experience coordinating care for international visitors through our global referral network.
Are clinical trials available?
We actively participate in clinical research for new retinal treatments and offer qualified patients access to investigational therapies through our clinical trials program.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call our main office at (901) 767-4499 or toll-free at (800) 423-0404 to schedule a consultation with our retinal specialists in Germantown or any of our regional locations.
Reviews (18)
Barbara York
Mar 24, 2026 Report
My experience at Charles Retina Institute was most excellent. Everyone from the front desk to the check out was pleasant. Dr. Charles took the time to explain my situation and the plan for future care. I have been coming here for years, first bringing my mother, and now my brother and my own care. Dr. Charles and his team are caring, knowledgeable and the very best of the best.
Cheryl Coleman
Mar 20, 2026 Report
Dr Rafieetary was very knowledgeable thorough and professional. His staff were extremely helpful kind and wonderful to talk to. I would highly recommend you contact them for your eye concerns.
Teresa Lenderman
Mar 10, 2026 Report
Never cease to amaze me.From the time I walked into the clinic you could tell they were there to provide for you the care you needed. Not knowing his last name Miguel was amazing. He kept me distracted from the pain. He was definitely there to help take care of me. Thank you Miguel! Dr Huddleston did an amazing job as well with his knowledge. Thank you so much. You all can take a day that is least favorite of mine and make me feel comfortable and take care of me and make it positive.
Ronnie Carter
Feb 18, 2026 Report
It took a while to get in to see the doctor however once in I did appreciate his expertise in his profession greatly satisfied .
Shelia Goudie
Feb 04, 2026 Report
He was very nice, very personal . He took time and answered all of my questions. I would recommend him to anyone needing his services.
John S.
Feb 04, 2026 Report
Although the wait time was long, the thorough comprehensive testing and post test explanations were excellent. I knew I was in great hands.
Grenisha Rogers
Jan 24, 2026 Report
Dr. Rafieetary is exceptional at what he does. Even in the NICU, he takes the time to explain every detail clearly and with compassion, which brings so much reassurance.
Tim Arnold
Dec 05, 2025 Report
I had a great experience. Thr staff made me feel special. They made the fact that I had to get an inject in my eye much easier.
Leslie Rehkopf
Dec 04, 2025 Report
Dr Sullivan made me relaxed and ready to begin treatment. He was gentle and fast and Im blessed to have been assigned to him! Thank you, Dr. Sullivan!
Caroline Bogue
Nov 18, 2025 Report
I was really nervous and unsure about the procedure my eye doctor had recommended. But after meeting with Dr. Charles and understanding his explanation, I was relieved and am now awaiting my procedure with grateful anticipation. Dr. Charles was able to explain what what going on with my eyesight and he was able to assure me there was a method to improve it. He's very confident in what he does and has done it for many years, leading the way to incredible discoveries and techniques in this procedure. I highly recommend this doctor and facility!
Robert Young
Nov 18, 2025 Report
The medical care my wife received was top notch all Techs were professional and the Doctor bed side manner is very important, he tell it so we understand the problem and steps need to be taken. Someone needs to keep the restrooms keep clean due to the high volume of Patience in their caretakers.
Vickie Martin
Nov 11, 2025 Report
Wait times are a bit long but there is a definite process behind that and enables them to see so many patients.

Dr Raf is very patient with questions and personable. All the staff is friendly and efficient.
Lawrence Monahan
Nov 02, 2025 Report
She gave me her full attention and answered any questions I had. I also didnt feel rushed by Dr. Haynes. Great provider!
Tammy Carlton
Oct 24, 2025 Report
Dr Huddleston is an awesome dr
He is compassionate and takes the time to any questions I have and the lady that preps me , Brittany, is always smiling and she makes sure Im ok during my process.
D. I. N. U. S. O. N. A. N. L. S.
Oct 22, 2025 Report
Dr Charles and his staff are amazing. Truly gifted and kind physicians & staff. Blessed and grateful for their expertise and care!
Starr Williamson
Oct 14, 2025 Report
Dr. Fingerhut is very knowledgeable of his profession, he shows passion, empathy and support for him clients. The staff is friendly and try to make your visit as comfortable as they can. Always ready to help.
Carolyn Bynum
Oct 06, 2025 Report
Service was on point. Didn't have to sit a long time even though I was within my grace period. And all the people that I saw when I arrived a lot of them were gone. Friendly staff!
Cassandra Duckett
Sep 16, 2025 Report
The waiting time is a lot better. It is not totally wheelchair accessible, specifically the exam rooms, and the waiting room. The entrance doors are quite heavy to open and keep open while trying to get in and out. Dr. Haynes and the staff are very nice and helpful.