Dr. Nickel received training in all areas of comprehensive ophthalmology to include microsurgical techniques for cataract surgery, refractive surgery, oculoplastic surgery, glaucoma treatment and treatment of diseases of the retina. Dr. Nickel was voted 2003 Resident of the Year at the University of Kansas Medical Center by his peers, faculty and staff.

While completing his degree, Dr. Nickel had the privilege of training and conducting research with nationally recognized pioneers in LASIK surgery. He was lead author of a LASIK study that he presented at the Eye Banks Association of America Scientific Session to the American Academy of Ophthalmology in Orlando, Florida.

Prior to medical school, Dr. Nickel completed counseling studies at Denver Conservative Baptist Seminary, followed by his pre-med training at Metropolitan State College of Denver, both in Colorado. His volunteer work at free clinics serving inner-city children in Denver inspired him to pursue a career in medicine.

Dr. Nickel completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas. He later served as the Director of Youth Ministries at Greenwood Community Church in Denver, Colorado. He also served as the area director for Young Life in Denver. Throughout his life, Dr. Nickel has dedicated himself to ministering to young people and plans to continue his ministry in East Texas.

Dr. Nickel is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, Smith County Medical Society, Texas Medical Association, and the Texas Ophthalmological Association.

“I love being an Ophthalmologist and affecting peoples’ lives. I recognize the high value that people place on their eyesight, and consider it a joy and a great responsibility to be able to help improve and maintain my patient’s vision through state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care.”