I saw Dr. Shimokaji for about 10 years as did my son. Thought she was great. Was always put off by the $250 annual administration fee but I paid it as I could afford it. She was good with my son and while I feel she over tested me for glaucoma (with no family history) I went along with it every 6 months even though the test always came back normal. When my income dropped I qualified for a lower premium through Covered California, the same Blue Shield PPO insurance where she is listed as a provider. Blue Shield assured me it is the same coverage so I was shocked when I went for my exam after paying the $250 for the "administration fee" and the was charged $415 for the exam as she denied taking my revised insurance. So, basically $665 for one appointment! Needless to say, I found a new doctor. They take my insurance no problem, no annual processing fee. I should note, that my other doctors have no issue with my insurance. The new place I found also charges half what Dr. Shimokaji charges for a refraction prescription. While I had a nice long run with Dr. Shimokaji, she just priced me out of her practice. I wish I had searched for someone sooner, it would have saved me a lot of money. read more

Unfortunately, I was not able to see the doctor due to a $250 up front "administrative fee" to even see her - a fee I can't afford at this time. I think it is unfortunate that, even when one has insurance, there is a premium that has to be paid to see a doctor, especially the top choice on YELP! read more

Dr. Shimokaji is fabulous!!! She saved my husband's eyesight by early diagnosis of cancer of the eye which required a lengthy surgery then followed by plastic surgery. She saved my mother's vision while she was in a nursing facility and has been my doctor for at least twenty years. She has been pro active on my vision when debri has blown into my eyes.. I recommend Dr. Shimokaji to everyone read more

I debated posting about my experience for quite some time, and. after a lot of thought, I decided prospective patients should know. First off all, bedside manner is important to me, and this was hands-down the worst medical experience in my adult life. She was arrogant, dismissive, and rude. I will forever be floored that a licensed M.D. acted the way she did. Just wow. Most hospitals or doctors charge you around $25 for a copy of your files, but this woman demands that you pay a $225 "filing and processing your paperwork" fee BEFORE SHE WILL EVEN SEE YOU. Trust your gut if paying that fee feels wrong. If you decide, like I did, she's not the physician for you, the $235 is not refundable. Also, when I received a copy of my file, (which, including my 3 page intake paperwork, was 5 pages long - so $46 per page) I noticed that some of the facts I stated during my appointment were taken down incorrectly. Walking into her office with the many advertisements for Botox, and other "cosmetic procedures" should have tipped me off. I was there for a serious eye issue, not less wrinkles. She may be a talented physician, but my personal experience was horrible. read more

I needed some Botox for my forehead before leaving for a trip to NYC. My regular doctor was not available and Dr. Shimokaji was able to get me in at the last minute. Not only is she an excellent Ophthalmologist, but she also did her fellowship in Plastics and trained under the infamous, Dr. Alan Scott, who invented Botox! She did an amazing job on my forehead, eyes and neck in about 15 minutes. She knew exactly where to inject and perfect amount as to having me look pretty subtle (no deep forehead lines, elevens, lifted eyes and reduced bags). She is truly the best and I will definitely be using her again! read more

Gayle Shimokaji, MD - Optometrists Near Me - Greenbrae, California

See all

I went to see Gayle in April 2024, based on reviews. She was not helpful in resolving my recurring chalazions, which is the most important thing to note. Less important but still notable: her dismissive and judgmental demeanor (which I didn't appreciate, but can handle). I also didn't appreciate being asked to pay an $245 additional fee when I checked in (that's on top of the visit fee and any incurred costs - and yes, she sells products through her office that you can just as easily order online). A $245 fee just to see the doctor is something they should have informed me about when I was making the appointment, so I could have decided whether to proceed with Gayle or not. As it was, being asked on the spot (and wanting to resolve my issue), I paid. But since the issue was not resolved, I tried to make another appointment... for which I would need to wait several weeks. So I decided to try a new ophthalmologist who was available in a more helpful timeframe. Long story short: I highly recommend John Shin at the Eye Institute of Marin! And I have been working for 2 months on getting my $245 refunded. I have only managed to talk to someone in office twice (the phone is perpetually on an automated voice message, and maybe the office is closed on Fridays but I can't even confirm that). I'm hoping to resolve this. read more

Dr Shimokaji is unbelievably professional, the office is beautiful, and I had a wonderful experience! Wonderful experience with daxify!

Today was my 6 week follow-up after being treated for ADULT STRABISMUS, basically a weakness in my eye muscle that caused me to have double vision. Not a great situation when you are driving on a freeway and the car to the left of you appears in front of you or the lane markers are overlapping! Dr. Shimokaji explained everything to me at my first appointment and thoroughly discussed the options I had for correction. After my treatment, I was informed that it may take a week or two before SEEING any results! Well, to my amazement, my correction happened in 24 hours!! And thankfully, at my follow-up, my eyes continue to work fine, no double vision and even more, my treatment corrected my far vision far better than it had been. Wow, I realized how much I was missing in my eye health! I am so grateful and so thankful for Dr. Shimokaji's expertise in adult strabismus and for her incomparable care! In addition, her staff, Ginger, Brittany and Alba are the best! read more

I have been a patient of Dr. Shimokaji now for over 12 months. While she is conscientious and thorough, I object to having to pay an administrative fee to ensure she is available for me. I have had appointments with Dr. Shimokaji rescheduled by her staff more than once now. If I have to pay for her availability and my appointment with her gets rescheduled what it the point of paying that fee then? read more

Dr. Shimokaji is knowledgable, thorough, professional and kind. I'm a 33 year old who suffers from exotropia a form of strabismus (some refer to it as a lazy eye) because of an injury I sustained from a car accident. I had the accident as a teen and for 10+ years, no other doctor has taken the time to address it and I grew up believing nothing could be done. In my life's journey, I've endured bullying, teasing, been passed up for opportunities, all due to my appearance and it's been painful. Gut wrenching still is feeling dismissed when I'd bring it up in my eye exams. So I know how hard it is to find a doctor that actually listens, and treats you like a whole person and not just a walking diagnosis. Dr. Shimokaji is the first eye doctor that actually fostered genuine trust, and I value that so much since I come from very traumatic circumstances. She provided a safe space for me to be seen and voice my concerns. I felt understood. And that's only part of it, Dr. Shimokaji has also given me hope. We are currently treating my condition in her office and I'm already seeing results I never thought were possible. Take a look for yourself, I've attached a before and after picture. She is truly one of a kind. Highly recommended!! Thank you for the miracle Dr. Shimokaji and Staff! read more

Gayle Shimokaji, MD - Eye Correction - Optometrists Near Me - Greenbrae, California

I had a serious , deteriorating eye condition which my prior eye doctor told me was incurable. My friend, who had the same eye condition as I, recommended Dr. Shimokaji. Dr. Shimokaji immediately suggested a battery of solutions, all of which have been successful. My condition is greatly improved. I am so grateful to Gayle for taking an aggressive approach with new strategies. Gayle has made it her business to know about and treat patients with the most current and progressive solutions. It is also worth noting that Gayle has treated people on many continents for free, who could not afford eye care, with a team she works with. She has given sight back to people who would never see again and who did not have access to expensive western medicine. Lastly, the staff in this office is friendly, caring and professional. read more

I started seeing Dr Gayle right before the Covid Crisis regarding Styes in both of my eyes. I had been to other opthamologists who did not help much because after treating them they came right back. Dr Gayle who is has great warm caring personality treated them for the last few months and finally hopefully they are gone! I was instructed by her to do 2 eye washes a day with some medicated eye wash (has tree tea oil) which has really helped too. I recommend anyone who has eye problems or even just needs a complete eye exam to make an appointment to see Dr. Gayle! She is the best of the BEST! Numero UNO! read more

Dr Shimokaji is so kind, knowledgeable, and honest when it comes to my Botox treatments! I'm so thankful to have found someone I trust! The office staff is just as great, thank you Brittany for always being so helpful as well! read more

Dr. Shimokaji is very skilled, professional and kind. I am so pleased with my Botox results. She spent time to explain the options and recommended the perfect plan for me. I couldn't be happier with how it turned out. Thank you! read more

Dr. Shimoksji is amazing! She really cares about her patients. She always tried to make sure to give best suggestions/treatment plans for her patients. She did my mother in law cataract surgery few years ago. My mother in law is very happy after the surgery. read more

I have been seeing Dr. Shimokaji for over 30 years. I don't live in California but every time I'm in the Bay Area I go see her for a checkup. I am always treated like family and the level of service and care is unmatched. I highly recommend Dr. Shimokaji for all of your eye needs. I even get my glasses from them. read more

Dr. Shimokaji's office tried to charge me an additional $150 annual office fee in addition to the normal fees to cover "doing the paperwork." Further the fee was not mentioned until 3 minutes before my appointment. It felt like a scam. I cancelled and walked away never to darken her doorway ever again. read more

We are so fortunate to have Dr. Shimokaji in Marin. She is amazing and I would highly recommend going to see her for all your vision needs. Not only can she provide you with a very thorough eye exam she can also help you with any other needs around the face. read more

I have hesitated to write this review. Bringing my son to this office, I expected to meet Dr. Shimonkaji. Instead, we were met by Dr. Lau. Dr. Lau examined my son, denied the insurance plan I had presented after performing her examination, provided a prescription it turned out he did not need, and then charge $640.00 for a procedure available elsewhere locally for less than $150.00. Dr. Shapiro was contacted, and he was kind enough to refund half of the amount charged. I write to caution against trusting Dr. Lau which was my mistake. I appreciate Dr. Shapiro's stepping in to help adjust her outrageous bill. Even so, we remain overcharged by $150.00. read more

Dr. Shimokaji used a laser procedure to reduce the pressure in my eyes. Along the way, she eliminated a large black blob that had been floating around in my right eye for a long time. Awesome! I would recommend her for whatever ails your eyes. read more

Dr. Shimokaji did such an amazing and professional job! I had large acne scars and pores in my nose that have bothered me for years, but after a single laser treatment, the scars and pores were no longer noticeable. I also had tattooed eyebrows that were too long, and Dr. Shimokaji was able to use a laser to remove the tattoo dye and reshape my brows. I am thrilled with the results! People now tell me I look 10 years younger! My jaw line and neck began to sag as I aged. Using radio frequency treatment, Dr Shimokaji created a contoured jaw line and lifted and tightened my neck. I am now a loyal customer and will be returning for injectable treatments as well. read more

Dr. Shimokaji has been my Ophthalmologist for more than 20 years. Here are some words and phrases which identify my experience with her. Excellent mother and business partner with her husband Dr. Michael Shapiro ENT- Otolaryngologist Generous Implanted new lens in both of my eyes; I see clearly now Knows her stuff She's a long distant runner who is exceptionally healthy State of the art practice I recommend that she becomes your Ophthalmologist. George McLaird read more

I will say upfront that I haven't actually met Dr. Shimakaji, but I just attempted to make an appointment and was shocked to learn that she charges $200 out of pocket for "administrative fees". I'm sorry, but unlike a GP or an Internist, you don't typically see an ophthalmologist more than 1-2 max per year, so I don't understand the need to charge this for every patient. Especially in the middle of a pandemic. For the principle alone, I will NOT support an MD like this and I hope you won't either! read more

Gayle has been both my optometrist and skin care specialist for over ten years. She has always given me the best attention and medical advice. She cares deeply about making sure I am comfortable and gives me personalized attention on every visit. She is extremely well versed in optometry and highly respected amongst the best doctors in the Bay Area. Gayle is trustworthy and genuinely cares about each of her patients. She took the extra time to show me exactly what my visit would entail so that I didn't have any questions once my quick and easy procedure was underway . If you are seeking an outstanding eye doctor and skin care specialist, Gayle is your greatest source of knowledge. read more

To Whom It May Concern: I, Reginal Robinson want to take the time to praise Dr. Shimokaji for my Ophthalmological needs, both pre-and post Cataract surgery. I came to Dr. Shimokaji and scheduled an appointment after my previous eye doctor had retired. I had been diagnosed with Cataract but my previous doctor said to wait to have the surgery. I was having problems with my vision as a result. During my 1st appointment with Dr. Shimokaji, she advised me to have the procedure and the date was set to remove the cataract in my left eye. I felt very comfortable with Dr. Shimokaji. Not only did she assuage any fears I may have had about the procedure, but more importantly, she encouraged me because it would greatly improve my vision. The surgery itself was in a very relaxed environment, and Dr. Shimokaji visited me post op. and asked how I was doing, and more importantly, if there was anything she could do for me. To me, this speaks volumes about Dr. Shimokaji as a person, as well as a Physician. I am writing this testimony unsolicited, because Dr. Shimokaji recently called me herself to remind me that an eye exam should be scheduled soon. This was not done by one of her staff. It was done by her. I would highly recommend Dr. Shimokaji to anyone, for their Ophthalmological needs. Thank you Dr. Shimokaji ! Sincerely, Reginal Robinson read more

If you need an Ophthalmologist, the best person I know is Dr. Gayle Shimokaji. She's brilliant, kind, and lovely. I have had many issues with my eyes, and she is the only person I would ever see. She's over the moon smart. Wish I had more stars to giver her. read more

I agreed with LC. I also haven't met Dr. Shimakaji, but I made my first appointment to see the Dr for eye checkup. After the paperwork was done I was told that I have to pay extra $215 out of pocket for "administrative fees" on top of charging my health insurance company. This is hilarious and a greedy practice. read more

Very thorough examination. She uses technology and her experience to guide her patients. I would recommend her highly

I've been calling and calling and calling to cancel my appointment tomorrow and no one answers. I'm cancelling my 7/2 appointment. On social media because you don't answer your calls or something's gone wrong with your phones. Please take me off your schedule. read more

I had comprehensive eye care with Dr. Shimokaji when I was in Northern California. She is very meticulous and truly talks really well with her patients. I would have kept her as my ophthalmologist, if I did not relocated to another state. read more

Dr. Shimokaji has been my ophthalmologist for over 20 years. By far the best eye doc in Marin/SF; genuinely kind, and wicked smart. She recently helped me with an eye infection that went away soon after she prescribed medication. Thanks doc! read more

See posted questions about this Doctor, regarding any past, and present possible 'issues/complaints'.

I saw Dr Shinokaji for routine eye wellness and liked her. On May 13, 2010 I had a sudden eye full of floaters and knew this is a sign of retinal detachment. Called her office who said there was an extra charge for same day service and suggested I come in next week. This is the absolute incorrect thing to tell someone with these symptoms. I knew that and would up at a retinal specialist that same day, but a less knowledgeable person who followed that advice could have had very serious complications. So beware. read more

I have been seeing Dr Shimokaji for Obaji Rosaclear system skin treatment that she offers for my Rosacea. The skin regime is easy and doesn't irritate my skin, after 3 months my skin is less bumpy and the redness is starting to go away. I'm happy with the progress. read more

My partner and I have been seeing Dr Shimakaji for a couple of years now. She has successfully treated me for several minor eye issues. Last week she removed a cataract from my partner. The surgery was very successful and within three days he was able to see clearly. When he returned for his follow up visit his vision in that eye was determined to be 20/20! Dr Shimakaji is an excellent surgeon and provides significant follow up support. She is very busy but gives each patient the time they need to understand their issue and what options they have for addressing it. I will be having the same surgery in a few months and am confident I chose the best Doctor for my surgery. read more

Both my mom and I see Dr. Shimokaji for Botox and other injectables. I've been to many other dermatologists and plastic surgeons and by far she does the best job. She always promotes a more natural look and never over does the treatments. She is knowledgeable, professional and skilled. I am always pleased with the results and I won't go to anyone else. I highly recommended her. read more

Went to see Dr. Shimokaji yesterday for new glasses. Fast, easy, and great service! She's also gonna do a skin resurfacing laser on my next week -- looking forward to it! read more

Dr. Shimokaji has been my Optometrist for more than 20 years. She replace both of my lens and has kept a watchful eye on my eyes. I expected to have poor vision at my age [ 75 ] but my eyesight is nearly perfect. You'll be in good, careful and skilled hands when she becomes your optometrist. Make an appointment today. read more

Best eye doctor I've seen. Personable, thorough - genuinely cares about her patients health. Clearly an expert in her field. Highly recommend her. read more

If you are looking for the best eye surgeon and skin care specialist, LOOK NO FURTHER! My sister went to Dr. Shimokaji for an infection in her eye that was causing her debilitating pain. With her great source of knowledge, my sister was pain free and the infection was gone in 2 days! I have been dealing with acne for years now, so I decided to schedule an appointment with Gayle. I have seen countless dermatologists, and none of them have given the advice and attention that Gayle gave to me. I followed the skin regimen she told me and there was a noticeable difference just after 1 day! Her punctuality, personalized attention, respectful demeanor, and precise care she gives to each one of her clients is all you could ever ask for in a doctor! With her extensive knowledge surrounding ophthalmology and skin care, Dr. Shimokaji is a MUST SEE for any of your ailments! read more