Dr. Donald Hollsten, MD

Expert Publications

• Burns of the ocular adnexa.
• Management of periorbital burns.
• The autogenous dermis-fat orbital implant in children.
• Indolent orbital apex syndrome caused by occult mucormycosis.
• Complications of lacrimal surgery.
• Investigation of automated perimetry in the evaluation of patients for upper lid blepharoplasty.
• A new instrument for use in evisceration.
• Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging assessment of hydroxyapatite orbital implants.

Media Releases

Get to know Ophthalmologist Dr. Donald Hollsten, who serves patients in San Antonio, Texas.

Dr. Hollsten is an skilful ophthalmologist & board-certified oculoplastic surgeon in South Central Texas and the surrounding regions. In private practice since 1994, he practices alongside his daughter, Dr. Jordan Hollsten, MD, at Eye & Facial Plastic Specialists in San Antonio, Texas.

Working closely with his patients one-on-one, Dr. Hollsten discusses treatment options with them to address their individual reconstructive and aesthetic goals. His exceptional surgical skills, training, and expertise have allowed him to see patients from all over the world, with some traveling from as far as South Africa to be treated by him. He sees patients with insurance, private pay, and cosmetic needs for reconstructive, revisional, and trauma eye surgeries.

In addition to his full time work as a surgeon, he is a Clinical Professor with the Department of Ophthalmology & an Assistant Clinical Professor with the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, both with UT Health San Antonio. He also started the first fellowship training program with the Department of Ophthalmology at UT Health San Antonio, bringing oculoplastic Fellows from around the country to train and practice in the South Central Texas region.

After growing up in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Dr. Hollsten went to college at the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1973 with a degree in Engineering. He received his medical degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School in 1977, then completed a medical internship at Fitzsimons Army Medical Center in Denver, a residency in ophthalmology at Brooke Army Medical Center, and a fellowship in oculoplastic and reconstructive surgery at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia – Scheie Eye Institute. He retired as a Colonel from the US Army in 1994 before moving to private practice.

Advancing excellence in eye care, the doctor is board-certified in ophthalmology by the American Board of Ophthalmology, an independent, non-profit organization responsible for certifying ophthalmologists in the United States of America. He is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS) and a member of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. 

Having been practicing medicine for over three decades, Dr. Hollsten has been consistently recognized by his peers as an expert in his field with an exceptional skill set and bedside manner. He has been highlighted as a Texas Super Doctor, has been chosen as one of the Best Doctors in America, and has been awarded as one of Strathmore’s Who’s Who, an honor which recognizes individuals who demonstrate leadership and achievement in their industry and profession.

Ophthalmology is a branch of medicine and surgery, which deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. Ophthalmologists are experts in the diseases, functions, and anatomy of the eye. They may provide routine care such as vision testing, as well as prescribe and fit eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, ophthalmologists are also surgeons. They repair traumatic injuries to the eye and perform cataract, glaucoma, and corneal surgery.

On the weekends, Dr. Hollsten enjoys putting his degree in Engineering to work as an accomplished hobby woodworker. He also enjoys spending time with his wife, Lolli, four daughters, three Bichon Frises, three grand pugs, and two grand goldendoodles.

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