About Us
Company Overview
Our goal is to foster a collaborative relationship where you feel informed and involved in your treatment journey. We offer a unique and personalized approach to dry eye diagnosis, treatment and routine maintenance that empowers our patients to take an active role in their ocular health, guiding them towards lasting relief and improved quality of life. That's why we offer and holistic solutions that address both the symptoms and root causes of dry eye. Our providers will give you the explanation and guidance you need to understand your diagnosis, and provide personalized treatment options that yield results.
At our Dry Eye Center in North Carolina, we focus on helping patients with ocular surface diseases, including dry eye syndrome, and eyelid conditions. We know how much this condition affects your daily life. That's why we use the latest tools and research to understand your symptoms fully. By figuring out what's causing your dry eyes, we can create a treatment plan just for you. Our goal is to make your eyes feel better, improve your vision, and give you back control over your daily activities.
Meet Our Doctors
The Dry Eye Center of North Carolina was founded by Dr. Renzo Zaldivar and Dr. Donthan Hudgins, two experienced professionals with a deep understanding of dry eye treatment and co-management. Dr. Zaldivar is not only a skilled oculofacial plastic surgeon but also runs a successful aesthetics practice called Luxe Aesthetics. Dr. Hudgins, on the other hand, has dedicated over 25 years to treating dry eye patients in Raleigh, North Carolina through his practice, Raleigh Optometry.
With their combined expertise, they have brought together a team of specialists who are committed to providing the highest quality care to patients suffering from dry eye syndrome.
Oculofacial & Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon
Renzo Zaldivar, M.D.
Dr. Renzo A. Zaldívar graduated from Central University of the Caribbean School of Medicine before completing his residency in ophthalmology at the Mayo Clinic. He completed a year of ophthalmic pathology at Emory University in Atlanta, and two additional years of Oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery at the Mayo Clinic and University of Minnesota. His unique training has granted him recognition and membership into the prestigious American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (ASOPRS; www.asoprs.org). There are fewer than 600 national and international members.
Optometrist
Donathan Hudgins, O.D.
Dr. Hudgins graduated from Appalachian State University in 1989 earning a Bachelor’s of Science degree in biology. In 1993, he earned his Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of Houston, College of Optometry. Dr. Hudgins completed an externship in primary eye care at the Womack Army Medical Center General Optometric Clinic. He also completed two tertiary externships at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center concentrating in Corneal and Anterior Segment Pathology and Neurological Ocular Disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Dryness & More Common Symptoms
Dry eye happens when the eye’s natural moisture layer (the tear film) is missing essential components. Your eyes need a steady flow of nutrients, oils, and mucus to keep the surface evenly nourished, clean, and wet.
The most common symptoms of dry eye are:
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Dryness
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Watery eyes
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Redness
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Stinging, scratching, or burning sensations