Ramal Yaqoob, O.D. received her Doctor of Optometry at the State University of New York College of Optometry with distinction as a Beta Sigma Kappa Honors Society member. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Biology at St. Joseph’s University with multiple honors. Her experience includes externships at ophthalmology practices, community hospitals, and private practices throughout New York City. During this time, Dr. Yaqoob received extensive training from prominent ophthalmologists and optometrists in the areas of primary care, glaucoma, retina, cornea, and surgical co-management. She has special interests in dry eye treatment and specialty contact lenses.
Dr. Yaqoob also volunteered her time to provide eye care to the underserved local community as a member of Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (VOSH). She is an active member of the Beta Sigma Kappa Honors Society, the Texas Optometric Association, and the American Optometric Association.
Optometrists play a vital role in detecting and treating several painless eye diseases that develop without symptoms. Throughout her learning experiences, Dr. Yaqoob was fascinated to see how closely related the eyes are to other parts of the body – everything is interconnected. The role of an optometrist is a lot more complex than merely correcting refractive errors. She believes optometrists can craft their unique career path within areas of specialties like dry eyes, contact lenses, low vision, and vision therapy, all while helping patients see better. The field also offers a balanced lifestyle, infinite modalities of practice, rewarding patient interactions, and a creative business side.
Optometry requires problem-solving and critical thinking to improve a patient’s life. Every exam is different and must be tailored to the needs of the individual. Despite the challenges, Dr. Yaqoob says it is gratifying to diagnose and treat a patient, which can help them live a better life.
Dr. Yaqoob is a native New Yorker, and when she is not treating patients, she enjoys baking, traveling, and exploring the town to experience new cuisines.
Richard Nguyen, O.D. received his Doctor of Optometry from the University of Houston College of Optometry. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Sciences from the University of Texas at Austin. While in school, Dr. Nguyen gained experience fitting specialty contact lenses and managing ocular diseases. His fields of special interest include myopia management and treating dry eye conditions.
Dr. Nguyen believes our vision is one of the most essential things in life. He strives to help patients preserve their vision for their entire lives. His favorite part about being an optometrist is the experience of seeing his patients’ reactions to their vision improvements after an exam.
When Dr. Nguyen is away from the office, he enjoys working out at the gym and rooting for his favorite NFL team, the Houston Texans.
Noura Machhour, O.D. received her Doctor of Optometry from the University of Houston College of Optometry and earned her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience from Georgia State University. During her optometric training, she gained significant exposure to diagnosing and managing various conditions, including but not limited to diabetic/hypertensive retinopathy, dry eye, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Her fields of special interest include treating ocular disease, dry eye, and pre- and post-operative management of refractive and cataract surgeries.
Dr. Machhour always had a passion for eye care and believes optometry is one of the most rewarding careers. The ability to help save someone’s vision, enhance their quality of life, and diagnose and treat eye diseases has always been very fulfilling for her. She enjoys the variety of unique cases she sees that tend to make up her workday. It always keeps the job fun and interesting!
In her free time away from treating patients, Dr. Machhour enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, cooking, traveling, and watching sports.