My husband and I were lead to this optometrist because of the reviews on Yelp. For the most part our initial experience was good. The staff was in the front and the office was relatively nice. Our appointment was with Irene Gendelman went fine but honestly it felt like she went through the appointment with as little interaction as possible and we both felt in the dark throughout the exams (and I don't mean because the room was dark). 5 months have past and my husband noticed that his eyes still have not fully adjusted to the prescription, he returned to see if there was any way to get them fixed. Alex informed us that we would have to pay entirely out of pocket since it was past the allotted time. After already paying several hundred dollars out of pocket for an incorrect prescription and how so many seemed to boast about their fantastic customer service, I asked if there was any way they could help hoping to get the issue resolved and to get the correct prescription but, they would not budge and said they couldn't do anything for us. The insurance company said they could reverse the coverage if the optometrist would except the return, which this was obvious not an option since they already said there was nothing they could do for us. Overall, I was just disappointed that from the beginning they clearly screwed up the prescription and now we are SOL. I expected better service because of their high of ratings. We will unfortunately be trying a new optometrist in hopes of a more accurate prescription. 3 stars seem a little generous so my rating is really 2.5 read more

Went last night to get a new prescription for contacts. From the very first moment I felt welcome and was impressed with the layout and cleanliness of the office. Paperwork was a breeze, appointment was ON TIME (yay!) and the Dr. was the FIRST ONE EVER to explain to me about my particular astigmatism in my right eye that causes my contacts to blur (wayyy more than my left eye). The Dr. took her time, we tried on a few brands for fit/comfort, and double checked everything. When ordering glasses - she let me know about the clearance section and the staff was super "no pressure" to "upgrade" to a more expensive frame, lenses, etc. Very efficient, polite, clean -- I've found my eye Dr.!!! YAY! read more

Dr Patel and his wife are amazing!!! Always so pleasant and easy going. They make sure to explain everything to you to help put you at ease. Amazing staff. Always leave feeling good. Also huge major plus. No more air puffs into the eye! read more

Just realized this place was on Yelp. My wife and I were here about a year ago to get eye exams and new glasses. Very nice experience, people are super friendly and the Dr made the whole procedure quick and painless. I even got prescription sunglasses here in addition to my regular eyeglasses. Definite 5-star place that we will return to for all our eyecare needs. It does help to call ahead for an appt first. read more

This place is top notch, a great experience. Friendly staff very knowledgeable and always provide details when you have questions. The office is very comfortable and they have a great selection of glasses. They are also very helpful when reviewing your insurance to explain you coverage. I highly recommend this office Thanks read more

Quick, friendly service. Got in, got out, felt like I received good care from the entire team. No pressure to buy their eyewear, I appreciated that. read more

The staff at Santee Family Optometry are great. They are super friendly and make you feel right at home. Ive never had any issues here. The doctors are great, always explain everything clearly so you know what's going on and what they recommend. I tried new contracts recently and didn't care for them and they switched me right back with no problems at all. I really appreciate a good, honest place like this. read more

Everyone here is so nice and friendly! I love that everyone was so helpful during my visit for an exam. The doctor was very thorough and made sure that I did not have any questions or concern prior to me leaving. My glasses came in a timely manner. I'd definitely recommend this place to others. read more

Dr. Gentleman and her staff are extremely helpful, patient and professional. They assisted me with my choice of frames, did an exceptional job adjusting the frames (I am very picky on how they were fitting) and made sure I was pleased with the way they look and feel. I was even more impressed with how fast my glasses came in. Such a great place! I will tell everyone I know that is in need of glasses to come check them out. read more

Great place for kids. I have been taking my now 11 yr old since shortly after they opened and it's great . Dr. Gendahlmann is both patient and kind to him. We also take our now 3yr old since he was about 2. She tries and make it fun for him and is knowledgeable about how to manage the very young. The only reason I'm not giving 5 stars is simply because there are not a lot of young boys frames to choose from. But for girls, ladies, and men they definitely carry an abundance of fashionable frames. read more

Love supporting local business when they deserve it and this place is no exception. Was my first ever visit to an optometrist since my eyesight had been going down hill. They got me right in and excellent service. Didnt have insurance at the time, but the pricing wasnt as bad as I thought it would be and was able to work with me on the eyeglasses. Looking forward to my next appointment =o) read more

I've been here once before years ago for my daughter. I took my son in today (he's 3) for an eye exam since I've been noticing he always closes when I when he focuses on something far away. He saw Dr. B.. Who was fantastic by the way. She was extremely friendly and well educated. This is a great location with lots of parking it's also a very nice facility. The girl who we checked in with was also very sweet as well. They accommodated my work schedule and fit us in during their lunch hour which I thought was thoughtful. I definitely recommend this eye dr. read more

This place was a very good choice for me. We live here in Santee so I needed to find a good eye doctor. This place has it all. Friendly front office staff. Great Doctor with all the modern day eye equipment. Plenty of frames to choose from and fast service. Thank you so much! read more

Really a good experience here with Doc. G. I was on time and so were they. That is so important to me! Paperwork was quick and easy and I was taken back and prepared for my exam in minutes. She was very kind and personable and got the exam started right away and it didn't take long. The new lenses she set aside for me work really well and are far more comfortable than the ones I have worn in the past. I am really pleased as i drive a lot and work around a lot of traffic as well. The front desk ladies were kind, attentive, and knowledgable. Unsure what the nasty 1-2 star reviews are all about. It wasn't that bad at all. Very good from start to finish. I would definitely recommend family and friends, here. read more

My daughter and I both had appointments for our annual check-up and all I can say is that the staff and Doctors are amazing each time we come! They are so welcoming and helpful with all of our questions and needs. They know exactly what to do when it comes to coverages and they are very prompt with their exams that we have never had to wait. Dr. G is also a natural when it comes to kids too. She makes my daughter feel comfortable and relaxed every time. The huge variety and selection of frames make it difficult to choose just one. I would never consider any other optometrist. We will definitely be a lifetime customer! Excellent Service. Knowledgable Staff. Top notch. Definitely 5 stars. read more

I've been coming here for the past few years now. Love, love, LOVE that these guys are open on Saturdays. It makes scheduling regular check ups convenient, and has even saved me in one of those situations when it's Friday and you realize you need to see a doctor ASAP. The staff is always very friendly, and are great with calculating prices for you based on your insurance. I normally see Dr G for my check ups. She's very friendly and knowledgeable, and doesn't keep you waiting too long. They have a great selection of designer frames. I also like that they send me e-mail and text message reminders when I have an upcoming appointment. I'm very happy with Santee Family Optometry, and will continue going back for my eye care needs. read more

I called their office 4 minutes before closing and Alyssa and another young lady took my call and got me some prices of glasses even though they were getting ready to close for the day. These ladies did not rush me Off the phone and actually we are going to end up saving about $200 going through Santee family optometry. I highly recommend this clinic for anyone looking for glasses or an exam. They are very professional there and very courteous to their patients. read more

Love this office so clean and proper! I've been going to Dr. Patel since he was on broadway in El Cajon. He's a USC graduate, very intelligent, and caring doctor. All my eye exams are done by him in less than 20 min. I also like this office because they have all the frames in designer (Gucci, Tory Burch, Dolce and Gabbana, Ray Ban, Michael Kors and more!) Honestly the best optometry in East County! read more

Dr Patel is amazing, professional and very knowledgeable. We use to go to costco for our optical needs and been through numerous optometrists but he immediately impressed me with the way he conducts his practice. The ladies in his office our very nice, organize and quick to your needs. Making an appointment is a breeze and convenient. Choices of eyeglasses in the office is also very nice. Overall great experience and their office just gained 4 new patients within my family because of that. read more

I had an eye exam and ordered 2 pair of glasses. The eye exam was very thorough. The Dr. explained each step clearly. I am on a budget so I was shown frames I could afford. The staff is delightful. So happy I found Santee Family Optometry! read more

I've been going to Santee Family Optometry for 3 years now and I absolutely love it. The ladies working the business administration are great! They work with you to find out what the best deal is and try to save you money where they can. They are honest and I can trust them. My last visit I saw Dr. Patel. he was through and took the time to explain things to me in a way that was educational but easy to understand. I highly recommend them! read more

I have been seeing Dr. Patel for years now and won't see anyone else. I followed him from the old office and this one is definitely an upgrade. The front staff is very friendly and willing to take time to help you. Dr. Patel has given me great advice over the years with realistic options and has never tried to push me into buying anything. He goes over everything very thoroughly and has suggestions to keep eyesight the same. Always leave my appointments happy! Thanks Dr. Patel! read more

Having tried several other optometrists (ending up with glasses or contacts that didn't fit right), I finally listened to my husband and went to Santee Family and saw Dr. Gendelman. She and the entire team at the office are phenomenal. I had lasik nearly 20 years ago and my vision had deteriorated - yay middle age. : ( Dr. Gendelman is extremely helpful, thorough and patient. She diagnosed cataracts that neither of the other providers mentioned. She worked with me to find a multi-vision contact that felt good and works properly. The office staff are friendly and very helpful. I have never had any wait - appointment times have been spot on. Top notch eye care! read more

Came to this location today for my annual exam having previously gone to the other location in El Cajon. Nothing has changed service wise, stellar as it has been every other time. Dr. Patel is great at what he does, and Valerie at the front desk is always extremely helpful and bubbly! read more

The best eye doctor I have ever been to. All the staff is always professional and very helpful when picking out glasses. Quit a large selection of glasses. read more

As a former San Diego Aztec alumni and Athlete I recommend Dr. Patel he is absolutely the best in my eyes! I have seen many doctors but none have dialed me in like Dr Patel he's my Dr for life. Thank you for the great service. I highly recommend this office! read more

It's my 3rd time coming here so basing on my insurance, thats about 6 years. Seen by a new Dr., named Dr. Barbadillo who is very pleasant and friendly. She even took time to chat with me for a few minutes! Just like how Dr. Gendelman was. The lady that helped me prior the Dr. was also nice and sweet. Unfortunately, the new girl lacks customer service. I had questions and she made me feel stupid about how she answers them, really rude. I already had a feeling when she checked me in. As soon as she gave my receipt, she stood up and went back to the kitchen way before me. She needs lessons from the other ladies that work there. I love this optometry place and she ruined it. read more

My husband and I have been going here for a few years now. Dr. Gendelman and her staff are not only attentive but they take the time to explain everything in detail from your eye exam to what your insurance will and won't cover. They have a large selection of frames and their office is comfortable and clean. read more

This is a wonderful, first class optometrist and I drive all the way from the beach to come here. Both Dr. Gendelman and Dr.Patel are conscientious, competent, and experienced optometrists. They have a FABULOUS selection of beautifully curated frames, and I usually end up wanting to buy multiple pairs, only to be constrained by the reality of my bank balance, just like anyone else. When I abraded my corneas (completely my fault, BTW), they saved me probably hundreds of dollars by doing everything that an ophthalmologist would have done for a lot less money and hassle than trying to set up an appointment with the ophthalmologist. Everyone who works there is very helpful and friendly. I think that they are the best optometrists in the county and definitely have one of the best frame selections around, plus they have the real deal (Varilux) progressive lenses, not some aberrant generic copy. You get a really good vibe in here and you can tell that everyone takes their job seriously. Highly recommend. read more

My family of 5 have been going to Santee Family Optometry since they opened. We love Dr. Gendelman. She is very professional, explains everything she is doing and goes over all results with you. The staff is very friendly and helpful. The office is beautiful and the frame selection is fantastic. I highly recommend Santee Family Optometry read more

We love Santee Family Optometry! They are all so nice and friendly, they have great customer service and they don't try to sell extra things we don't need. They aren't pushy about extra services, but explain them and tell you if it's recommended. They are also helpful with picking out glasses, they've helped me pick out great ones a few times now. read more

I saw Dr.Gendelman in October2013. She is swseet and seem to know what she is doing. The problem came in when I bought my glasses from them, I usually get them at Costco never had a problem there, . The lenses were just not right. So they said I needed anti-glare added. Paid another $61.00 after paying over $300.00 for the frames and lenses after insurance. Two weeks later glasses came back from lab. Still just not right. I have been in several times for them to " adjust" them. I finnaly ask this morning if I could see Dr.Gendelman so she could do a quick check and be sure this rx is right since I am unable to use them when I am on the computer or reading. I have to take them off. Which is the whole idea of a progressive. You can see, close, mid and far away. Not with these glasses. I was told it would cost me another $45.00 if I wanted her to check them. I said really? Yes that is the policy.After 60 days.Even though I have been in there since the beginning with problems and several weeks were wasted at the lab. So I have gone back to wearing my old glasses from Costco. Later that day...... Dr.Gendelman called and said I can come in and she will re-check my Rx. That is very nice of her . Will update if the eyeglass problem is fixed. read more

Kicked to the curb after 20 years. Drove in from alpine today and was turned away because I did not have the proper form from my wife's union. I was asked to reschedule my appointment. I have had problems with the new staff at this location before not explaining themselves today is the straw that breaks the camels back, no more. Ever since they have moved to Santee things aren't the same. If you need the form don't schedule until the patient has it. don't wait until they arrive after a 50 min round trip and turn them away. Good luck you sure don't need us Kelly & Shawna read more

This place is so fancy I couldn't believe my insurance was in their network. The staff is both courteous and helpful, and they let you know you can count on them. Lately, there have been good additions to Santee and not-so-good additions. This is definitely a good one! read more

I am a patient here and went in one day to ask a question quickly to the doctor. She would not even come out and address me or tell me herself that I needed to make an appointment. She was in her office with no patients at the time. I thought it was incredibly unprofessional. The girl at the front desk is extremely rude as well. I will not be returning to this doctor. read more

I was referred to this place by a friend. Excellent experience. I didnt call ahead, just did a walk-in. They used my prescription I got at costco no questions asked. Great customer service. Good selection of designer frames, but you pay the full expected price for them. I got a great pair of guccis and picked them up a week later, perfect. I don't have insurance so I'm sure would be cheaper if I did. read more

Great place to come for an eye exam! Very professional and friendly! This includes the doctor and all her staff!

They called and apologized for any confusion and they ended up not charging my insurance company. So I am grateful for that. That says volumes about their customer service. I am confident my situation was a one time things and I can tell they give great service here. Just be clear on price before you proceed with any additional services. And that goes for anywhere, not just here really. read more

Very impressed! Dr. Irene was very pleasant and professional. And she is also super hot... can I say that on here? The staff was super nice and they have a fair selection of cool frames for shades and clear glasses. read more

Staff is so rude it's ridiculous my daughter lost her frames all the time because they fitted her to small so she had to get new frames and let me tell you just how rude the front office assistant is she has no care for kids whatsoever she could careless if your children leave blind I have to bring her the lost old frames to get the new ones y......tell me why.....? She had not said this prior to me driving 35 miles away besides that the doctors are very sweet this lady ruined it for me and any future customers I had just referred someone from alpine to come there not now. and my glasses were 300 bucks rip off not going back read more