Scroll

Ophthalmologist

Deborah Gess Ristvedt, DO

Alexandria, MN

Dr. Ristvedt is a board-certified ophthalmologist who leads our Alexandria, MN location where she treats her patients with respect and compassion. She is skilled in cataract and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery and oculoplastics. Read More

Specialties

Schedule Consultation

Meet Dr. Ristvedt

Dr. Deborah Gess Ristvedt is a third-generation, board-certified eye surgeon. Her ophthalmology legacy is backed by her grandpa Lowell Gess and her dad, Timothy Gess. The innovative techniques and advanced technology she has always used made her and her practice a great addition to the Vance Thompson Vision family when they joined in 2018.

She specializes in advanced cataract surgery, glaucoma care, and oculoplastic surgery. It is important to Dr. Ristvedt that her patients are involved in their own care, and she works with them to formulate customized treatment plans that achieve restorative, desirable results.

Interests & Added Expertise

Dr. Ristvedt also provides a full menu of laser skin treatments for rejuvenating, restorative results that complement the oculoplastic surgeries she performs.

Education

Alexandria Area High School, Alexandria, MN
Westmont College, Santa Barbara, CA
Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and Genesys Regional Medical Center Residency, Grand Blanc, MI

Personal & Hobbies

Debby, as she’s known to loved ones, enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She is married to Eric, and together they have a daughter and two sons. Debby’s greatest hope is to leave a legacy of a faith-filled life that’s evidenced by the compassion she shows for all people. Debby also enjoys painting, paddle boarding, and wake surfing.

View Full CV

Prioritizing Research

Dr. Ristvedt has a curiosity and passion for research and participating in clinical trials. She loves education, speaking at national meetings, and writing for ophthalmology journals.

Our Research

Deborah Gess Ristvedt, DO Reviews

5.0/5

March 8, 2024

Very pleasant experience. Dr. Deb is an excellent surgeon with wonderful bedside manner. Dr. Deb, staff and processes made me feel confident in a positive outcome with minimal anxiety and stress. I highly recommend Dr. Deb and the VTV clinic

February 8, 2024

Great experience for nervous me. Deb is an amazing Doctor, seems very passionate about her craft.

January 4, 2024

It was a great experience. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. Dr. Risvedt is kind and reassuring. She is an excellent surgeon.I felt comfortable and was not worried at any time.

November 12, 2022

Simply wonderful experience. I cannot express enough thanks to Dr Debbie and the entire staff at Alexandria's Vance Thompson. Everyone was very professional and caring. A family member needed a little more than the usual help with his eyes and Dr. Debbie went above and beyond. The outcome was amazing. Highly highly recommend.

September 14, 2022

I recently went in for an evaluation, was found to need some laser cleaning of lenses that were implanted 4 years ago. They corrected that the same day. Everyone of the staff were friendly and Dr. Deb is amazing. Thanks so much for giving me back my vision. I can now see details and colors that I haven't seen for quite some time. I highly recommend this clinic and hope you all have as great of an experience as I did.

October 20, 2021

This facility, all the people attending to & caring for each of us for treatment deserves many MORE than 5 stars! ⭐ I cannot say enough about EVERYONE, and there were many, who tended to me for cataract/glaucoma surgery. They were professional, but at the same time happy, up-beat, totally made me feel at ease (I was SO nervous)... but it was the BEST experience I have ever had! Excellent doctors and Dr. Debbie is an absolutely fabulous surgeon and a sweetheart! THANK YOU to ALL who I was so very fortunate to interact with!

Schedule a Consultation

Dr. Ristvedt always looks forward to welcoming new and current patients. To schedule a consultation with her team, simply call the number below or click Contact Us, and we’ll be in touch shortly. We are honored by the opportunity to serve you.