Dr. Chao did an amazing job and changed my life. He perfectly explained everything and it reflected the research I had done on the procedure online. He made the process extremely easy and my vision has been completely fixed. Go in and get checked out to see if you're eligible for surgery, it will be one of the best things you've ever done. read more

Best eye doctor and the staff is very, very good and kind! Did my cataract surgery with the lens? I love how I can see without my glasses now. read more

Dr Chao taking care of my eye vision from 2009 on 2009 I had the first Cataract surgery on my left eye,and on 2011 on the right eye,I can say Dr.L.Chao is our family ophthalmologist, he is an excellent Dr and a very friendly person he cares about his patients, I recommend him if someone needs Cataract or Lasik surgery he is very professional and has the latest medical instruments for eye diagnosis problems. read more

Terrible patient care and charges for everything. Can't get ahold of anyone and just an overall pain to deal with. No thanks! LOTS of other places much nicer to deal with. read more

I had surgery with him two years ago, trusting that it would improve my vision. Instead, it got worse. He never fully explained the risks or details beforehand--just rushed through everything. It felt like he cared more about getting paid than about my health. I regret putting my trust in him. Please think twice before choosing him. Your vision deserves better. read more

I have been seeing Drs. Chao and Wu for years--both are excellent clinicians. When my father started experiencing double vision, I took him to see Dr. Nguyen. We were so fortunate to discover that she specializes in this area. Dr. Nguyen was exceptional--patient, thorough in explaining each step, and clear about the examination process. She is a truly caring and kind practitioner. Once we identified the right prescription, Sherry stepped in to help us choose the perfect frames. She was attentive to my father's needs and provided thoughtful, helpful suggestions. Highly recommend the entire team at Chao Vision! read more

I visited and met Dr. Chao and their team today. after surgery 1month checkup. Everything is good that means surgery was perfect, 100% satisfied for me. I did cataract surgery in my younger age than other regular person, ( earlier than my mom and dad) So it happened only on my left eye. Now I can see super clear ( no one can imagine, my previous cataract damaged eye was so blurry and could not see with left side. almost blind) Dr. Chao not only returned my vision back, with better sight lens implant I can see without glasses. My Right eye is still there, I can compare and thankful to Dr. Chao and his team. There are very experienced Definitely highly recommend to my parents, when they get cataract someday. Thank you so much Dr. Chao, for your kind, thoughtful manner to me and appreciate it everything. read more

I came here after my regular ophthalmologist told me she noticed I had abnormal eye pressure. Holy cow. ALL THE THOUGHTS raced through my head after this...would I go blind? Is this normal? What will I do? How do I fix it? So I started looking for the "best of the best" because I wanted to make sure that I would have the best chance at saving my vision.. That's when I stumbled upon Chao Vision Institute via google. After doing a lot of due diligence, I called them up and made an appointment. They were able to fit me in same week. They did one of the most comprehensive reviews I have ever had done by a doctor. All the cool machines and tools they used, definitely made me feel more comfortable that they were going to get a very accurate read on my condition. After they did their thing, I had 2 doctors come in to give me their review and opinion on next steps to take. It felt good how they made everything extremely comfortable for me, and they were very thorough. I feel like I was in the best hands and that now we have a solid game plan. They put my mind at ease, listened to my concerns, and made sure that I left with no question unanswered. I am grateful to have found Chao Vision and the phenomenal doctors and staff working their. (Also, their covid protocols are fantastic) read more

Very pleased with my initial visit. Both the doctor and his staff treated my father with great respect and made him feel very comfortable - this is important as a lot of physicians can be dismissive when the patient has a heavy accent. The office is very clean and orderly, we didn't feel rushed, and the doctor explained everything clearly and thoroughly. read more

Fast-talker who doesn't listen to what his patients are saying at all. Very creepy vibes altogether.

Update: A simple call back would have been necessary but instead I got a snarky private message from them after seeing my review. read more

Chao Vision Institute - Ophthalmologists Near Me - Irvine, California

I did extensive research and had numerous consults with many highly rated Dr.'s in SD, OC + Beverly Hills. I appreciated his honesty, kind demeanor, medical knowledge, and patience with answering ALL of my questions. I left the consult comfortable, which led both my husband and I to move forward. We both opted for PRK. My surgery date was in June 2017. I was extremely nervous. I will never forget how Dr. Chao and Terry comforted me, explained every step from beginning to end, like they really cared. My anxiety was high and that gesture really meant so much to me. In the beginning I experienced blurriness, light sensitivity and slight eye discomfort, but nothing severe. I was told to prepare for this with PRK vs. Lasik. If you tend to over analyze like myself, don't worry, be patient, it will pass. I was reassured this was normal. He gave me glasses to wear for the light sensitivity and all the eye drops and medication that I needed. If I had any issue, I could simply call him on his cell or schedule an appt. with no issues. It took about 3 months to get 20/20 vision. I can't express how life changing it is to wake up without reaching for my glasses. Never possible, since I was 14 years old... Life changing! I am so happy both my husband and I made the decision to choose Dr. Chao. I will never forget the wonderful warm experience I had with Dr. Chao, Terry, Michelle & Renee (I wish I remembered the name of the other nice man who helped me too). They're kindness relieved all of my anxiety going into a major medical procedure. The ending result for both my husband and I are great. I waited this many years (2017), just to write a review to be sure my vision was consistent. I would trust referring him to any of my loved ones. Thank you Dr. Chao and team! read more

Update: Mother-in-law's vision is worse than pre-dr-chao. Her OTC glasses were 2 for decades, now 3. Granted she needs a 2nd surgery to release the build-up from her cataract surgery, but going from bad to worse after thousands spent is unacceptable. My advice, get whatever Medicare covers, don't spend a penny out-of-pocket unless you get 2nd opinion that his fancy lenses will fix your astigmatism. @#$%^&*(!@#$%^&*() read more

Do you know how rare it is for somebody to voluntarily write a positive review without being prompted or asked to do so? My family and I have been seeing Dr. Chao and his team for many years at both the Irvine and Fullerton locations - they are simply outstanding. In the past, we've done cataract surgery (for my dad), routine checkups, and most recently for myself, PRK surgery. In every instance, we've been absolutely impressed with Dr. Chao's team of professional, knowledgeable, and kind staff members. In 9/2020, I went to get a consultation about Lasik vs. PRK surgery with Dr. Chao. He patiently walked me through the relative advantages of each procedure and which was the right one for me. My PRK procedure (10/2020) was incredibly smooth; some of my friends had less than ideal experiences with other practitioners, but I'm happy to report my procedure and recovery process went perfectly. Dr. Chao and his team did an amazing job of caring for me, carefully explaining what I should expect, and always making me feel like I was being treated with the highest level of expertise. I just came in for my three-month follow-up and could not be happier I decided to work with Dr. Chao. It's rare to find such a wonderful team of medical professionals. I genuinely enjoy coming in to see Dr. Chao! My advice is to listen to the onslaught of five-star reviews (especially those from people who actually work in healthcare) and book an appointment with Dr. Chao's office. Don't go anywhere else - this is the type of care we should get from every single doctor. read more

Dr. Chao and Dr. Koh have been my primary ophthalmologist and optometrist for almost 4 years now. Due to some extraordinary circumstances - I see many many doctors of all kinds. I can honestly say that these doctors and this office is one of the most professionally run medical practice I have ever been involved with. The location is very convenient. The office is immaculate. The staff is extraordinary. Dr. Chao is so very generous and not just with all the time he spends with me. He'll know what I mean. Renée that runs the front desk is an gem to be greeted by. A very dear heart. The whole operation is awesome and I would recommend them to anyone in need of their services. As we say in Hawaii (yes... I come all the way from Maui to see Dr. Chao & Dr. Koh) they are No Ka Oi !! read more

Chao Vision Institute - Mahalo Dr.s' from Maui! - Ophthalmologists Near Me - Irvine, California

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One of the best organized and professionally run ophthalmology office that I have had the pleasure of visiting. Each patient is treated more like family and the staff and do toes truly care about helping their parents. It all starts at the top with Dr Chu....he is one of the best surgeons I have met and great humanitarian read more

This review is for PRK surgery. I have been wearing glasses since I can remember. My significant other completed Lasik and told me that was "the best money spent". I spoke to many friends, professionals about getting Lasik because I am tired wearing glasses or contacts. I work in healthcare field, I did tons of research (probably a bit too much), spoke to many MD. I decided to get PRK as oppose to LASIK for the following reasons: 1. Most surgeons, MD who had their vision correction surgery chose PRK. 2. I can't get pass the idea that there will be a flap on my each eye ball for the rest of my life. 3. Dr. Wu, herself also got PRK a little over a year ago. (Dr. Wu is my ophthalmologist) I interviewed one other ophthalmologist clinic in Irvine, I met with the clinic manager, optometrist but not the person who is going to cut my eyeballs. I like how my consultation at Chao vision was with Dr. Wu herself. I get to know the person who is operating on my eyes. She was very friendly and told me her own experience with PRK. (She also did other things during the visit, but all I can remember now is she is friendly and she also got PRK) I decided to get my PRK with Dr. Wu. On the day of surgery, Dr. Wu and Tim (my nurse) walked me through every single step. I felt confident and know I made the right decision. The day after surgery, I went back to the clinic for a quick follow up (on Saturday, Dr. Wu came in to just check in with her patients). The first 3 days felt like a vampire (light sensitivity) living in hell, that's when I started to doubt my decision of choosing PRK over Lasik. I used all the comfort drop, pain relieve drop that was provided to me. I also took the gabapentin for nerve pain. I felt cloudy, spent time mostly sleeping, listening to audiobooks and being drowsy. Post surgery 3 day vision was at 20/50. I stopped feeling pain starting the 4th day. The next 4 days, i was able to watch some Tv with blurred and fluctuated vision. I spent time listening to audio books, a lot audiobooks. Post surgery 1 week vision was at 20/30. I was able to DRIVE and return back to work. The vision is still bit blurred and not as clear as wearing contacts, but I can see big street signs, traffic lights. In the next 2 weeks, my vision became sharp and clear. In the beginning I was not use to waking up with clear vision. One month post surgery vision was at 20/20 and still improving!!! My significant other witnessed the whole process and said to me: "I regretted not getting PRK, the one week hell is worthy it." I can't thank Dr. Wu and Tim enough for the excellent job they have done. The staff is always friendly and pleasant. If you are doing your own research on wether to get PRK or LASIK, schedule your appointment with Chao Vision, talk to the ophthalmologist. I would highly highly recommend Chao vision! read more

I don't write a lot of reviews, but I was so impressed with Dr. Lawrence Chao and his staff that I needed to post this. I also found Dr. Chao from Top Doctors and the reviews on Yelp. I'm 66 years old and my cataracts had gotten to the point where I had to do something. Over the past few years I had talked to a couple of doctors at the typical vision meat markets that shuffle you along and then you have your 5 minutes with the actual doctor who will do the surgery. Before you know it, someone is scheduling a life changing surgery that you only have one shot at doing right. Dr. Chao was the total opposite. I couldn't believe the amount of time he spent with me and he actually said that the surgery would be done when I was ready for it. He has an incredible amount of patience and a wonderful demeanor. I also have glaucoma so Dr. Chao sent me to a specialist to make sure of the condition of my eyes before proceeding; and that I was a good candidate for the lenses he was going to use. And... the astigmatism in one eye needed a toric lens. As for the surgeries, everything went great and Dr. Chao was so calm and reassuring. I don't even remember the actual procedures. I've been wearing glasses for distance since I was 12, so the prospect of being able to see, especially when surfing, is life changing. But at the same time, I wanted to be able to read my phone; and walk into a store and be able to see what is on the shelves. I ended up with 2 different multifocal lenses. One lens allows me to read, although I would use readers to read a book, and the other has great 4ft and intermediate vision. Both are great for distance. I can basically live my life without glasses. It is so important to take the time to understand the little things your eyes do that you take for granted. Dr. Chao's staff is also first rate. Everyone is so pleasant and helpful. There was a specific eye drop that Dr. Chao wanted me to use and it was not covered by my insurance. Terry, at Chao Vision, called my insurance company and got the prescription authorized by my insurance company. The entire experience with Chao Vision has been amazing. John read more

There is a reason I drive from La Jolla to Irvine to see Dr. Chao, he and his team are THE BEST there is. Dr. Chao diagnosed and remedied my severe eye pain immediately. I wish every medical office demonstrated the level of care and expertise as Dr. Chao's. If only I could give a billion stars!!!! read more

Dr. Chao is unique among surgeons in the area, in that he has a preference for PRK, and for good reason. The downsides are longer recovery and initial discomfort, but the upside are better long-term eye-health and vision outcomes. If you can take the discomfort and time off, you should do PRK. LASIK results in a corneal flap, which never heals and carries a life-long risk of complications. Dr. Chao knows this risk well, as he is called to operate on patients that have flap complications. If you think you'll never get hit in the eye after LASIK, consider that airbags cause ocular damage and have been known to cause flap dislocation. Imagine, you just got into a car crash, and are having a pretty bad day, but now you also have a messed up eye. It's not a risk I wanted to carry for the rest of my life. Dr. Chao is a subspecialist, and is intimately aware of the pros and cons of the available procedures and can help you figure out the best options for you LONG-TERM. LASIK can be a cash-cow for offices, and there are many laser mills out there. This practice is not one of them. Dr. Chao cares about the long-term outcomes of his patients. PRK requires more from patients and surgeons, and he wouldn't be so keen on PRK if he wanted the easy, lucrative way out. My overall experience was positive. Chao and his office were extremely helpful in the pre-op, answering any questions that I had. Prices were all-inclusive for follow ups, lubricating tears, and medicating eye drops. The initial price was more expensive than other locations, but due to COVID shortages the price was actually cheaper than other places. Which is a great deal for the quality! Surgery itself was confidence inspiring and he has excellent bed-side manners. My mother, who is a nurse and has worked in hospitals was particularly impressed by his bed-side. Post-op was uncomfortable, but this is the expected downside of PRK. Dr. Chao does everything that he can to manage the pain and set expectations. He provides numbing eye drops, lidocaine jelly, and instructions on pain management. In terms of outcomes, I am 1.5 weeks out. With 20/20 in one eye and 20/35 in the other with slight hazing and ghosting at night. As is typical for PRK, vision is expected to improve and stabilize over the next few months. I did a ton of research prior to the operation and I highly recommend this office. Dr. Chao independently confirmed a lot of the collective tips, tricks, and wisdom that's scattered on the internet. Highly recommended. read more

I had a appointment at 1:45 on a Tuesday and I walk in and the guy at the counter said welcome the wait is about 1 hour and 39 min and it was 1:50 that is not right and also the gentleman who was there siad that I was so stupid for asking for help never coming back Now the owner Messages me and tells me it is good that I never come back like unbelievable Why does it matter if I only have 3 reviews and no followers I am contacting the board read more

I met Dr Chao in 2006 when I was diagnosed with Graves Eye Disease. He sent me to UCI to see a specialist in Graves Eye Disease and I had many complications. He has been my Doctor, Surgeon and Friend ever since. This Doctor is a brilliant man and anyone who ever has the opportunity for him to care for you or a family member, is in great hands. He is highly respected in Orange County by his peers as well. Thank you for caring for me in this long journey and the comfort you have given me in very scary times. read more

By far the best place ever! Dr. Jennifer Wu was so informative and communicative that I barely had any questions left when I left. Mine was a bit more of an emergency since she stated 60% of my cornea is gone and started acting quickly for me in terms of getting all of the medications I needed. She also planned ahead for the worst and referred me to the UCI medical center. Great doctors at UCI but has the most disorganized staff you will ever encounter. My experience at UCI was so horrible that I called Dr. Wu back, who actually returned my call within a few hours. I mean wow, now that is service and care right there. Since I was freaking out, she calmed me down by reiterating the steps and plans she had for me and to give the medication some time. I can't thank her enough. read more

Update - I had requested a copy of my medical records and of course they want to charge me for it. read more

Chao Vision Institute - Update - I received this yesterday. Another charge - Ophthalmologists Near Me - Irvine, California

Amazing Dr. and staff. From first phone call through actual visit they're so accommodating and genuinely kind. Probably the best Dr. visit we've ever had. This team is lead so properly. I only wish any medical condition could be referred to him! read more

I was referred to Dr. Lawrence Chao by my most trusted friend. Dr. Chao had performed cataract surgery on her and I was in need of a cataract surgeon. My first impression of Dr. Chao was exceptional. Dr. Chao is one of the most kind and compassionate doctors, on top of being a superior surgeon. He monitored my healing very thoroughly. I felt very safe in his care. My cataract surgery was performed and my vision is excellent now. Dr. Chao's staff was second to none. They were friendly and professional. Stephen, one of Dr. Chao's assistance was so intelligent and caring that I thought he was the physicians assistant. I can't not mention the cleanliness and aesthetic of Dr. Chao's Vision Institute. I must confess that I have numerous doctors. I do make judgments if I doctor has a disorganized or not so clean office. Both the Fullerton and Irvine offices are beautiful and pristine. I would recommend Dr. Chao to anyone. read more

Recently had laser vision correction surgery here (PRK instead of LASIK). Spent several years thinking of getting vision correction surgery - really glad I finally did it! Overall: professional and kind staff who make sure they are taking care of you every step of the way. Surgery: Dr. Wu and Dr. Chao were both wonderful practitioners. Dr. Chao walked me through exactly what to expect, before, during, and after the surgery. Clearly walked me through different laser correction options I had, and why PRK is a good option for my lifestyle. Post-operation: Multiple post op sessions included. Dr gave plenty of medication to keep me comfortable during recovery. Great experience, would definitely recommend to anyone considering vision correction or annual exams. read more

My eyes have been killing me and I needed to see an ophthalmologist. The office was kind to get me in the same day. When I arrived in the Fullerton office the young man who checked me in and started the evaluation on my eyes was kind, patient an professional. When I met Dr. Chao he was also very kind, and explained everything so I could understand my diagnosis. I love that he wanted to try a natural remedy before a prescription. I have found my ophthalmologist and will definitely refer him to my friends. I even mentioned to Dr. Chao that I can see why he has great reviews on yelp, he's a great doctor! Thank you Kathleen Bhasin read more

Dr Cao advised me of the difficulty in a intraocular lense without knowing the original k value. I had two prior RKs which of course had altered the natural eye. Dr Choa and I went to Houston together to get the opinion of Dr Jack Holladay who did a thorough exam and gave to Dr Choa the k value and recommended the lense. The operation went flawless and I now see 20/20. Dr Choa is thorough honest and straightforward a magnificent surgeon with a long history of training and experience Richard Engel read more

Dr. Chao and his staff are AMAZING. I had PRK done in 2017 and going thru the procedure was just fine as Dr. Chao walked me through every step of the process as it was happening and made sure I was ok. He has wonderful bedside manner. Post op was a little difficult for me but the outcome was 100%. Five years out now I am still seeing perfectly and not experiencing any side effects. Trust Dr. Chao with whatever he determines is best for you. read more

This is an update based on Dr. Chao's response to my original review. It's kind of amusing that the response was sent about a year later. Yet, the fact that the response completely fails to address any of the feedback points that I mentioned and is simply more a marketing response further solidifies my biggest point: they do not take the time to care about their patients. I want to reiterate that I am NOT disappointed that Dr. Chao told me that I am not a candidate. In fact, I am grateful that he is not trying to push the procedure if he thinks I am not a candidate. What I am disappointed is how cavalier Dr. Chao treated the 2nd 90 minute consultation where he rushed me out in less than 1 minute without taking time to explain the condition of my eye and why he came to that decision. Furthermore, it was his dismissive and downright rudeness when I asked for more clarity that warranted my initial 1 star review. Also, it seems from Dr. Chao's response that they again somehow did not understand that I did go back for the second 90 minute examination and that's why my original review was referring to. Lastly, Dr. Chao's update also talks about how he speaks conversational Mandarin for patients convenience is yet another non-sequitur. I am an American... born and raised in LA. While it is convenient for patients who do not speak English, it is unnecessary and flippant for someone who is clearly a native English speaker. For example, saying "Sorry" and then "對不起" (Sorry in Chinese) is unnecessary, distracting, and a waste of time. read more

Dr Yu saves me from having a surgery I did not need. Can I thank her enough? No. There is a reason these people have five star reviews. She is so trained and personable I can't really believe it. Still. I'm just grateful. Do yourself a solid and go see her. read more

I was referred to Dr. Chao by a colleague that had worked with him in the past. I had been considering laser eye surgery for years but never found the right place for me to get it done. Most places I heard of are like assembly lines where you're in and out. Dr. Chao's experience was so much different. Dr. Chao sat down with me after my initial readings were performed and talked me through all of my options and what he felt was best for my lifestyle. I opted for traditional LASIK, although we also discussed PRK however we agreed that due to my job, the recovery period would not be ideal. He wanted to make sure that my vision was not just satisfactory but at the very least 20/20. The day of the surgery, Dr. Chao was very calming and I felt as if he could perform the procedure in his sleep. I did have some complications with the flap that is created during LASIK, but Dr. Chao easily fixed that in an quick office visit. My vision is now 20/15 in both eyes less than 2 weeks out of the procedure and I would highly recommend him to anyone considering corrective eye surgery. By far one of the best decisions I have ever made! read more

Dr. Larry Chao and his Chao Vision Institute ranks as one of the best doctors I've ever seen! I am so grateful to be his patient. After 50+ years of living with Type 1 diabetes, I always have serious concerns about my eyes and my vision care. When it was clear (no pun intended!) that I needed cataract surgery for both eyes, I started to look around for the best cataract surgeon. My criteria included: * Many years of experience * Excellent education and medical training * Caring and gentle from both the doctor and the staff * Fast follow-up on any questions or concerns * Time! To discuss options and doubts for my surgery and recovery * Communication! Having a doctor actually take into account my lifestyle and fears Chao Vision Institute and Dr. Chao are ALL THAT and more! I felt safe from the moment I met him! He actually turned to face me and talked to me directly. He explained my options and their pros and cons. He told me what I could expect during surgery and after in recovery. He explained all the tests and what they meant. No question seemed too much for him ... extraordinary patience plus a smiling sense of humor, laced with bunches of kindness. His front desk was cheerful and efficient. And his assistant, Terry, is the best! He returns calls and he answers all questions. To keep track of the drops I needed to use, they gave me a chart so that I could check off the drops as I used them ... it made it simple to keep it all straight. I am grateful for having Dr. Chao on my medical team, for getting such amazing results - for the first time since I was 6 years old, I can see distance from the moment I open my eyes in the morning til I see the stars at night! Thank you, Dr. Chao ... both my husband and I are so happy for your care! read more

It is impossible to ever get anyone to even answer the telephone at the Irvine office, nor do they return calls to my many left messages (pleas). Dr. Chao did a cataract surgery on me, and indicated he could improve the other eye.....BUT I cannot reach anyone. Even tried faxing......are they still in business? I am very disappointed and bewildered why they don't answer the phone or return phone calls. read more

Dr. Chao, along with his professional staff, carefully explained each step of cataract surgery to me & all the lenses' pros & cons, w/out "selling" one over the other. He evaluated my eyes thoroughly and answered all my questions. Throughout, Dr. Chao's attitude was totally about providing safe and healthy vision for me. His is NOT the "assembly line" approach of other doctors. He even provides 3 free checkups after surgery, unlike other opthalmologists. I couldn't be happier with my "new" vision including vivid colors! read more

Good doctors and staff. Helped me understand my eye problem and gave alternative solution

best practice around!! great staff. caring! affordable. effective and efficient!! what more can you ask for??? 5 stars all day!! -jeremy defibaugh read more

I made at least seven or eight phone calls just for a consultation appointment with them. It was really hard to get a hold with someone in their office. I left couple messages but NO ONE calls me back. Very disappointed by their customer service since i was referred to the office by my coworker. I expect their service must be much better. I ended up booking an eye surgery in June at a different office. read more

Dr.Chao did an excellent job on my cataract . He takes time , explains well and listened to me . His staff is courteous and helpful . Office is clean and well-run . I will return when the other eye needs repaired read more