Meet The
Doctors
Meet our experienced and dedicated physicians at Heart of Texas Eye Care. Ophthalmologist Lara Dudek is passionate about patient care and has the knowledge and experience to provide you with top-of-the-line vision care.
Lara Dudek, MD
Lara Dudek is a board-certified ophthalmologist from the American Board of Ophthalmology and licensed by the Texas Medical Board. Dr. Dudek received her undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona in Electrical Engineering, followed by her medical degree at Oregon Health and Science University. She completed a general medicine internship at Providence St. Vincent Hospital in Portland, Oregon, before coming to San Antonio for her ophthalmology residency at The University of Texas Health Sciences Center. In 2019, she completed her Physician-CEO certification at Northwestern Kellogg School of Business.
After graduation, Dr. Dudek practiced general ophthalmology in Austin, Gonzales, San Antonio, and Eagle Pass. Now, in her hometown of Dripping Springs, she welcomes patients of all ages with a wide variety of eye problems, including diabetes, glaucoma, cataracts, infections, inflammatory disorders, and dry eye. She offers the latest surgical techniques in cataract surgery, cosmetic procedures, and medical laser procedures. Dr. Dudek is passionate about the patient experience and providing a caring environment for patients and employees alike.
Throughout her career, Dr. Dudek has participated in many research projects in general medicine, dermatology, and ophthalmology. She has volunteered in several projects, including Hurricane Katrina, the HAMM eye clinic in Austin, and multiple medical missions taking her to Central and South America. She is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Texas Ophthalmology Association, Austin Ophthalmological Society, Texas Medical Association, and the Travis County Medical Society.
Lara lives with her husband and two children in Dripping Springs, where she participates in community projects, is active in a local church, and is a busy mom. She enjoys many hobbies and interests, is an avid traveler, and enjoys cooking and photography.
Christi Payne, OD
Dr. Christi Payne completed her undergraduate degree at Hendrix College before earning her Doctor of Optometry degree from Northeastern State University College of Optometry, where she graduated summa cum laude.
A licensed glaucoma specialist, Dr. Payne has served the Austin area since 2007 and deeply values the relationships she builds with her patients.
Her commitment to the profession extends to academia, having served as an adjunct professor at the University of Houston College of Optometry. She also holds a notary public commission.
Outside of the office, she enjoys home improvement projects, gardening, and baking sourdough. She lives with her husband and three children.
Marilyn Kelinske, MD
A native Texan, Dr. Marilyn Kelinske earned her Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Texas at Austin and her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She became a board-certified ophthalmologist following her residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.
Dr. Kelinske opened her private practice in 1981 and has served patients in the same Austin location for over 44 years.
Beyond her medical practice, she has been an active member of the Redeemer School Board for over 20 years and is involved with the WCCA.
She is married with three children and enjoys spending time with her grandchildren.
Clearer Vision
Starts Here
If you’re ready for lasting vision correction with LASIK, a consultation for cataracts, or maybe blepharoplasty to rejuvenate aging eyes, our team can help. Or maybe it’s time for your yearly eye exam or maintenance Botox® injections. Click the button below to explore financing options for all your eye care needs.
If you’re ready for lasting vision correction with LASIK, a consultation for cataracts, or maybe blepharoplasty to rejuvenate aging eyes, our team can help. Or maybe it’s time for your yearly eye exam or maintenance Botox® injections. Click the button below to explore financing options for all your eye care needs.
