Dr. John W. Branch
Refractive Eye Surgeon 

Dr. Branch is a board certified ophthalmologist and refractive eye surgeon specializing in LASIK and cataract/lens replacement surgery. He graduated Magna cum laude from Clemson University with a B.S. in microbiology, and completed his medical training at the University of South Florida followed by a transitional internship at Brackenridge Hospital in Austin, Texas. He then moved back to finish his ophthalmology training at the University of South Florida where he performed more cataract surgeries than anyone in the history of the program. After completing his residency, Dr. Branch moved to Greenville, South Carolina to help establish a division of ophthalmology for the Greenville Hospital System. He was the staff surgeon during his time there and lectured both the residents and medical students.

Along with routine eye exams and vision care, Dr. Branch performs a variety of surgeries including cataract, eyelid surgery and LASIK/PRK with certifications in the most advanced LASIK technology. He has experience with a variety of new lenses that are used to help correct presbyopia (the need for reading glasses). Dr. Branch always provides the highest level of care for his patients, both clinically and personally.

In his spare time Dr. Branch enjoys running, cycling, music and traveling. Most of his spare time is spent with his wife being entertained by watching their young children doing the weird things kids do. He enjoys playing guitar and piano and watching his children dance along with his music. He has completed several road races, including the Nashville and Tampa marathons.

Dr. Branch is a member in good standing of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and the American Medical Association.

James C. Mellon 
Center Director

Jim has been in optical and laser vision correction services for 35 years. He is the founder of Budget Opticals of America, Inc. and is the founder and CEO of Visionicare Laser Development and Central Texas Day Surgery Center.   

Jim is a Vietnam Veteran and has lived in the Harker Heights area since 1976. In 1996, Jim brought laser vision correction to Central Texas, and was the first to do so. Since then, his companies have provided high quality laser vision correction to thousands of patients. Jim's passion and expertise in providing these services to the public extends to his mission work in India, by setting up much-needed vision care, dental and health clinics there through New Hope Ministries. Most recently, Jim delivered 65 handmade dolls (see Windy below) to the girls at the orphanage in Chillakallu, India. Visit our Facebook page to view more photos from the trip.   
 

Ted Karibian
General Manager

Ted is an ABO-Certified optician and member in good standing of the American Board of Opticians since 1989. Over the years, Ted has served as ophthalmic technician, managed an optical laboratory and served as President/CEO/CFO of a multi-store optical chain. His extensive background in optical services and management serve Southern Eye at Eye City patients well with his professional expertise and personalized care and service.