In my 40 years of wearing corrective lenses and visiting dozens of optometrists across the country, I have never encountered an experience as surreal, unprofessional, and frankly dangerous as the one I had with Dr. Butler and her staff. What should have been a routine update to my prescription turned into a three-week ordeal of medical gaslighting, clinical errors, and total administrative failure. The most frustrating aspect of this experience was the sheer persistence of the error. Over the course of three weeks, I was provided with three different sets of trial contact lenses. Each time, I reported that I could not see--not just that it was "blurry," but that I literally could not see ten feet in front of my face. I was met with complete dismissal. Amy, the optometrist assistant/technician, repeatedly told me I just "needed to get used to it" and that my vision would improve. I was incredibly patient, trusting their professional "expertise" over my own eyes, but the improvement never came. I was essentially being told to ignore the fact that I was functionally blind. During the entire three-week trial period, I did not see or speak to Dr. Butler once. In any reputable practice, if a patient fails three consecutive lens trials and reports zero improvement, the lead doctor should step in to re-evaluate the measurements or perform a new refraction. Instead, there were no adjustments, no new measurements, and zero intervention. I was left in a "trial loop" with staff who clearly did not have the authority or the knowledge to correct the underlying issue. When I finally returned for my last appointment--hoping for a resolution--I was forced to wait an hour and a half before Dr. Butler saw me. This was the first time I had seen her since the initial exam. Even then, there was no sense of urgency. They didn't even perform a basic visual acuity test to see how poorly I was performing in the lenses they had prescribed. To make a patient wait 90 minutes after three weeks of failure is the height of professional arrogance. Communication was nonexistent. I left multiple messages for Amy, seeking help or clarification on why I still couldn't see, and she rarely bothered to return my calls. It reached a point of absurdity where I actually had to involve my insurance company just to get a return phone call. Having to use an insurance advocate to force a medical professional to speak to their patient is a painstaking and unnecessary stress that no one should have to endure. The reason I couldn't see 10 feet away finally came to light: the prescription was fundamentally wrong. After seeking second and third opinions from two other independent optometrists, they both confirmed the same shocking error. My axis was supposed to be "180" (or near 110 depending on the eye), but Dr. Butler had written down "18." This isn't a minor clerical error; it is a massive 160-degree deviation. Furthermore, despite having a documented astigmatism, I was repeatedly given lenses that were not for astigmatism. Even the final lenses they ordered were incorrect for my condition. How can a professional office be that far off? The most harrowing part of this is the safety risk. Because I trusted their professional advice that I "would get used to it," I attempted to go about my life. I was forced to drive extremely slowly and with intense caution, terrified that I might make a mistake or not see a pedestrian in the dark. It is only by sheer luck that I didn't have an accident. I suffered significant stress and anxiety trying to "wait out" a prescription that was physically impossible to see through. When the errors were laid bare, I asked--very nicely--for a refund. I had wasted weeks of my time, exhausted my energy, and received a product that was useless. They flatly refused. There was no apology for the 90-minute wait, no apology for the dangerous prescription error, and no attempt to make it right. That refusal was the final straw. The level of negligence here is staggering. It feels as though the office is operating without any focus, diligence, or sense of urgency. They are unthorough and seemingly uncaring about patient outcomes. If they can make a mistake as critical as an 18 vs. 180 axis shift and then ignore the patient's complaints for three weeks, they should not be in practice. Save your time, your money, and your safety--go elsewhere. The last photo on the right is Dr. Butler's prescription. read more

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I needed a new eye doctor, and a friend recommended Dr. Ashley Butler at Pendleton Eye Center Optometry. I couldn't be more grateful. Everyone I interacted with was incredibly professional and genuinely attentive. Dr. Butler never felt rushed and took the time to understand not only my optometry needs, but also overall health factors that could impact my care. I also had a small issue removed from my eyelid, and Dr. Nicole Topilow was amazing. Lastly, Amy, the optician, helped me with my glasses, and the fit is better than ever. If you're looking for exceptional eye care, I couldn't recommend Pendleton Eye Center Optometry more highly. read more

I came to Pendleton Eye Center to see Dr. Berkowitz for cataract surgery. The staff there is pleasant and very helpful. Diana, in particular, went above and beyond to help me get clearance from my insurance to be treated at their Oceanside facility rather than at the Hillcrest facility, saving me a lot of time, trouble and money. She also helped me clear up a problem that I accidentally caused myself with my payment method. Overall I had a wonderful experience with cataract surgery from beginning to end with the entire staff and Dr. Berkowitz and I highly recommend them for their professionalism and dedication to their patients. On a scale of one to ten they are a 10! read more

I went to the Pendleton Eye center after seeing multiple doctors for my dry eyes. Dr. Butler told me she would work with me to find a solution to help me. I had been living a half life due to such severe dry eyes that I couldn't open them more than half the day. After 3 months of working with me, she found an eye drop that works! It feels like a miracle for me. I can't thank her enough for having my life back. Everyone in the office is so sweet, kind and helpful. They are busy I think because they are so good :). Thank you all!!!! read more

Love Dr. Butler, but this business has gone down the tubes since Dr. Pendleton left. There is no excuse for having to wait over two hours just for a routine eye check on an infection as with everybody else you get taken to a room and you wait over an hour ! Last visit I had I was there three hours for eye exam. If you need a follow up call on an issue and you get voicemail, good luck getting a return call in a timely fashion. It's unusual that when I come in, there's hardly anyone in the office with patients yet it takes up to three hours for a routine visit. I'm going to look elsewhere for my care:( read more

I can always count on getting excellent customer service plus top notch specialists to cover all of my optical needs under one roof at a reasonable price and close to home in North County. Thank you Pendleton Eye Center!!! read more

Amy, the optician, has helped my 89-year- old mom select glasses for years. She is so helpful in selecting ones that will suit the shape of your face and look good on you! The quality of the glasses are excellent too! Thank you, Amy!! read more

After years of searching, I have found the one eye clinic that takes care of my eyes and I will absolutely recommend and return for future visits! Professional staff that is ready to assist and up to date technology that made the eye exam easy. Dr. Butler is a easy to talk to and nailed my new Eye prescription! Amy helped me with a new pair of glasses and progressive lenses.. I'm very happy and highly recommend Pendleton Eye Center! Thank you! read more

Moved down here 3 years ago and was nervous about finding a new eye doctor but I can confidently say I absolutely LOVE Pendleton! Dr. Butler is incredibly knowledgeable and takes her time to answer every single one of my questions. She's also fantastic with kids and has been seeing my teenage son since he was 10 and helped diagnose a small bit of color blindness that other doctors had missed. Amy in optical is by far one of the most seasoned Optician's I've ever met. She is patient and takes the time to educate you whether it's questions about insurance, glasses and lens offerings, or contact lens training. I never feel like I'm being "sold" extra add ons and she always finds me and my family the best deal for our contacts and glasses. You're in good hands with Amy! read more

From my exam with Dr. Ashley Butler to getting and selecting my new glasses with Amy the Optician it was 5 Star service . It's rear these days to get good customer service . I am thrilled to have gone to them for my eye care and cannot thank them enough for their kindness and guidance . read more

I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Butler. She's an excellent optometrist very friendly, professional, and caring. She really goes out of her way to make her patients happy and taken care if Amy, the optician, was amazing. I wanted a light frame, and she took the time to help me choose one that fit my face and head perfectly. I truly appreciate both of them and would highly recommend them to everyone. read more

If I could give 10 stars, I would. I took my grandmother here to get a shot in her eye (scary) when she was visiting from out of town. It just so happened that she had to get this procedure done while she was here. Pendleton Eye Care was the only place in the region that worked with her out of town insurance. From the very beginning to the very end they were amazing. The facility is clean and welcoming. Upon walking in the receptionists were warm, kind, patient, and efficient. Immediately going back we were welcomed by the most wonderful staff. Sophia, Ellie, and Diana specifically stuck out but truly all of the people working here were amazing. Even the doctor who made my grandmother feel at ease about coming to a new doctor to get this procedure done. Dr. Rudometkin was the best eye doctor my grandmother said she's come in contact with. He was so gentle, soft spoken, and patient. He truly cared what she had to say and answered every question she had in terms she could understand. She was given information that she had not previously been given without hesitation. She was listened to and heard. I cannot brag about this place enough. If I ever need eye care in the future I know where I'm going! Extra shout out to Ellie. She was the tech in the room with the Doctor and noting during his examination. She was thorough and beyond kind. Thanks again Pendleton Eye Care! read more

Let me start by saying the office tech group of employees are the nicest, knowledgeable and most helpful group I've have come in contact with in a long time...Ellie, Diana, Elizabeth etc...everyone are all great!!!! Had the pleasure of working with Dr. Berkowitz and Dr. Roeske who have given me a more than pleasant "Cataract Surgery" experience ...I would recommend Pendleton Eye Center to anyone.....Thank you Pendleton Eye Center for all your care and kindness...at 73 years young i'm now seeing clear and better than ever.... Thank you, Jill Mac Manus...... read more

Dr. Butler is the best! She is very knowledgeable, friendly and a consummate professional. I wouldn't go anywhere else! Thank you Dr. Butler! read more

Such a great first experience! The entire team is not only kind but also super knowledgable. Ellie was extremely personable, professional and made the visit feel easy and enjoyable. Thank you all for a great first experience! read more

The whole experience at Pendleton is nothing short of exceptional! Aside from the hospitality, the actual care and knowledgeable attention to detail is what sets them apart from others. Rather than over prescribe and over sell, Dr. Butler and Amy go above and beyond to ensure that a patient understands the information regarding their eyes and proper aftercare with detailed follow up. In what is typically a very transactional field, they definitely care more about the relationship which goes a long way and I can't recommend them enough. read more

Everyone was nice and helpful. Place is was clean. I like the art work on the walls. I would recommend this place anyone looking for an eye doctor's. read more

Dr Kellie satterfield took care of a problem with my eyelids good she was very warm person. She explained the procedure very well as well as the post-op directions. Overall her care was very excellent. I would recommend her without reservations to anyone. Alberto Chavira, MD read more

My expectations were very high! The staff was very professional. I asked not to be dilated so I missed a whole day of work. The flood of eye drops gave it away after the fact. No paperwork was provided leaving the office just a script for eye drops. I don't know if all of the 10-12 procedures were needed or explained to me just the "full-on" anatomy of the human eye. read more

What use to be good is now gone. Had an eye exam long ago. Won't give me prescription for contacts and wants to force me to keep using testers. Did not listen when I explained I can't see with the testers then said oh you use a different brand so now I have to wait for another set of testers and still no prescription. Inaccurate record keeping, said my last prescription was over 2 years ago. Interesting since I have been wearing contacts non stop. No low cost anything. If you order anything through them expect your insurance not to cover the full cost. This is all about money now and that's why I am pretty sure that's why I can't get my prescription that I paid for to go. Now I have no more contacts and have no prescription. You can tell this is no longer Pendleton eye center care now that they sold the business. Welcome to being just another number on the assembly line. How hard is it just to give people what they paid for? Take a second to listen. If someone tells you they can see with their old prescription and the new one they can't see with don't say oh we need to order more testers. Take a freaking second and listen to the patient! You can't see through their eyes!!!! read more

Everything. The lead technician was awesome. The medical Optometrist was very thorough and did a wonderful exam. The optician was extremely knowledgeable. Everybody I dealt with was extremely professional. I've been wearing glasses for almost 50 years and this was one of the best eye exams I've ever had. read more

New Owners at Pendleton Eye Car / Corporate Owners. First I have been going to Pendleton Eye Care Center for years, but infrequently. Made an appointment after having a scary early morning driving change in vision. Light halos extending top and bottom of all lights. The receptionist fit me right in after I explained incident. Appointment was with Dr Berkowitz. Retina Specialist, she had the only opening. My problem again was visual light perception change, at night, during driving. 1) I had an initial test with eye care tech. Tech did not ask me why I was there. When I asked her about the test & machine, she replied... she did not know the functions of testing. She gives a test but does not know what it means, results, lights, etc. Ok we went with that. 2) Next I was taken to another office, nothing explained. Zip, Nada, Nothing. I really do not like having techs who do not introduce themselves putting meds in my eyes. So then after 35 minutes Dr Berkowitz comes in, does not explain what she is doing. She did ask me why I was there then she noted my eyes had been dilated and told me she could not do entire exam because of that. She finished, called me honey several times, and told me I had the beginnings of cataracts but would need to see another Doctor to find out. But she said she would glad to do my cataracts. I was reminded of a car salesman. 3) Ok, this visit was worthless, Dr Berkowitz was harried, running late in appointments, and called me honey. Only my husband calls me honey and he means it. 4) Took 1.5 hours for dilation drops to wear off before I could drive home on the 5 with two pair of sunglasses on. I will not be back. I do not recommend this clinic. Not good vibes any longer. PS Thank you Dr Pendleton for selling out to this corporate cataract factory bunch. You were such a great doc. read more

I am 74 years old and knew that my eyes were having trouble. My glassware prescriptions just kept getting thicker and thicker. I spoke to many friends and family members about cataracts and lens replacement procedures and decided to trust my husband's Ophthalmologist, Dr. Robert B. Pendleton of the Pendleton Eye Center in Oceanside, CA. His well-established company has been in business for 26 years. What delighted me the most was finding out from his Certified Ophthalmic Assistant, Diana Amador, that she herself had received the same procedure that I was considering from Dr. Pendleton. I also found out that she had been with Dr. Pendleton for more than 19 years and had never been happier in a workplace. That is genuine loyalty in action and a very real recommendation from someone! I was very happy with the entire process from intake, examination, explanation of what to expect, the modern equipment, the many different levels of testing and attention to detail and the very friendly atmosphere. I went from being nervous to being very excited about having my cataracts removed and a near/far lens being placed in both eyes. On repeated occasions, the entire staff was impressive and worked easily together handling the many tasks of this successful office. They encouraged all my questions, thoroughly analyzed my concerns and condition, communicated clearly and concisely with confidence and expertise on all levels. If you are looking for someone to trust with your eyesight, this is the place to come. You will find exceptional integrity, responsive high-quality care and flawless service. I have now completed surgery for my right eye and will very shortly go back for the left. The procedure was exactly as they described, and it is the best thing I have ever done for myself. Dr. Pendleton is simply top drawer, the very best there is! I will always be ready to give very positive word of mouth advertising for the Pendleton Eye Center and Dr. Robert Pendleton. It will also be my pleasure to speak to anyone about their team's performance. Highly recommended! read more

Been waiting for over an hour, eyes dilated, there are too many ophthalmology/optometrists nearby to be inconvenienced for this prolonged wait. Never coming back. read more

The staff is professional and friendly. They make you feel welcome. I arrive ahead of time, then to my surprise, I was led back early. I was seen quickly by an assistant who was calm and efficient. I then was placed in a different room. In a short time, Dr. Butler, the optometrist came in to do my examination. She was very knowledgeable, but did not use medical jargon when she spoke. During the exam, Dr. Butler explained each step of the way. She handled my questions in an open and friendly manner. As I left, I stopped by and spoke with the Optician about my prescription changes. The Optician, Amy, was very responsive and spoke to me about tge various options I had from contact lenses different lenses. At no time did I feel pressure to buy anything. In fact, she recommended no changes as my vision hadn't change significantly. In all, my visit to Pendleton Eye Center was quick, thorough and relaxed. I was treated like a friend rather than a patient and the have on-line options to speed up the pre and post visit paper work. Amy the Optician is a jewel. @he is experience and worked within my budget to get me glasses on a previous visit. She also does a brief follow up to make certain everything fit and was to my satisfaction. A very professional and comfortable experience! read more

Amy Pelak (ABOC) is an outstanding professional. She makes you feel very comfortable in discussions by listening carefully and being sensitive to your perspectives. She goes out of her way to ensure that you receive exceptional service. You can utterly rely on her to work with you closely to find a custom Optical Center vision solution for you. She has my highest recommendation - a simply wonderful experience working with her! RJD read more

the wait times are ridiculous! all the patients just put in rooms to wait, been here an hour and half and barely got through eye measurements. i see this is a common issue based on other reviews with excuse after excuse from the staff. they don't respect your time. read more

This was the first time I had an appointment with Dr Berkowitz. Previously I had seen Dr Pendleton. I waited close to 1.5 hrs after I had checked in at the front desk. The tech took me in a room to take measurements. For all the years I have had my eyes checked, I have never been given an eye patch to use any of the machines to take measurements. I questioned the eye patch and the tech said that I needed to wear it. I was instructed to push the button when I saw squiggly lines on the screen. I never saw lines but saw numerous flashes of light. The tech readjusted my head on the machine and told me again that I needed to push the button for squiggly lines. I told her that I saw numerous light flashes but no lines. The tech then replied that I needed to push the button for either squiggly lines or flashes of light. I then had to wait another 15+ minutes and was put in another room to take measurements with a different machine. I was told to keep looking at the large green X. Apparently this tech once again did not know how to operate the machine since the large green X disappeared off the screen a couple times. Again I waited another 15+ minutes and the same inexperienced tech took me into another room for a vision exam with the eye chart. She never asked if I wore glasses, and if I had brought them. In all my years of going to a vision center, I have never had such a poor vision exam. Dr. Berkowitz was apologetic about the wait time, and was surprised that I had waited close to 1.5 hrs. She asked me about my vision and I told her about the eye chart exam and the concern I had for my vision. I was informed that at this time, I should wear glasses when needed, and if I wanted clearer vision, it would be cosmetic, since I had had cataract surgery years before. Dr Pendleton had never mentioned this option. I will be looking for another office with trained knowledgeable techs operating the vision testing machines, and an experienced ophthalmologist. I do not recommend this eye center read more

Dr. Butler is great... so good that I followed her to Vista, from Encinitas. I really appreciated her as my doctor, but I've moved on after an inexcusably rude interaction with a staff member of the front desk. I've never been treated so rudely for no apparent reason, other than my questioning a charge upon picking up my glasses. I never got this person's name because I just left, but for a good doctor like Dr. Butler, I hope she doesn't cost her anymore patients. read more

Dr Butler is great & is always ready to answer any questions & is very attentive to my needs at the time. Amy, as well, is exceptional when it comes to communication & follow up with my contacts and/or glasses. Would highly recommend Pendleton Eye Center. read more

I cannot recommend Dr. Pendelton. He missed drusen in both eyes after I specifically asked him to check carefully due to my family history. As a result, my treatment for the ensuing macular degeneration was delayed for nearly a year. My personal belief was that this was due to the double and sometimes triple booking that I witnessed during my visits. read more

My glasses are great. Everyone who helped me with checking my eyes and getting the glasses for me Thank you

I've been a happy patient of Dr Pendleton for many years. He has always made me feel special. Friendly staff and I love the fish tanks in the rear waiting area. read more

Dr Butler is awesome. Office staff is rude, doesn't return phone calls. The first time I went was at the start of covid and service was good until after I purchased my glasses. I never received a call that my glasses came in or a return call to many messages. Gave them a second chance, Dr. Butler is awesome. Between the staff,non existent office manager and the guy you buy glasses from zero customer service. I left messages for over a week, finally had to go in and ask if my glasses came in. They lost business. read more

Customer service could use some major help, all it takes is one person to ruin and experience and sounds like it happens a lot here from previous reviews. Not a complete 1-star just due to everyone else being welcoming. read more

I have been going to Dr. Pendelton eye center , for years .They are all professional, patient , caring staff. Dr. Pendelton and Dr. Butler , are very Caring and the best a doctors .I have one friend who goes there any they agree with me . read more

I had my first extensive eye exam in years. Have been seen at Costco, but this time Dr. Amy went all out to really get me to the right prescription and path to eye health. Picked up my new glasses today and WOW. I HAVEN'T SEEN THIS CLEARLY IN YEARS. I almost want to cry. It's so amazing. They are the real deal. read more

Great place-pleasant and knowledgeable staff. Special recognition to Mr. Andreas Dima (their optician), when fixed my broken frames in 1 hour-no charge!!! My wife and I never go anywhere else. Cheers, Walt Bratten read more

I wasn't aware that the office opens late on Monday however, it was worth the wait. It was a pleasure to be helped by your assistant of 19yrs she is very efficient and in my observation maintains an attractive figure. Now for Dr. Butler, very professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and not hard on the eyes (pun not intended). I may consider having a posterior capsule laser etch on my other eye in the near future. I highly recommend the quality of eye care at this facility. Dr Pendleton has some of the best opthalmetry equipment in use. read more

If you need an eye Dr look no further! Dr.Butler is amazing. You can tell she truly cares about her patients and builds a relationship with them. Thank you Dr. Butler for answering all my questions and concerns. read more