The Best Optometrists in Lafayette, MN
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Lafayette. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Michael J. O'Brien
Mankato Eye Care
Dr. O'Brien leads Mankato Eye Care with over two decades of experience, providing exceptional family-focused eye care with advanced diagnostic technology. The practice is highly rated for patient satisfaction, staff expertise, and comprehensive services including emergency eye care and specialized contact lens fittings. They serve the Lafayette area with a reputation for thorough exams and personalized treatment plans.
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Dr. Sarah K. Johnson
Johnson Family Eye Care
Dr. Johnson operates a well-established practice known for its warm, family-friendly environment and high safety standards. With extensive experience in general optometry and preventative care, she offers tailored services for all ages, including pediatric eye exams. The practice receives consistent praise for its attentive staff, modern amenities, and commitment to patient education, making it a trusted choice for Lafayette residents.
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Dr. Robert L. Lee
Lee Vision Center
Dr. Lee provides expert optometric care with a focus on innovative treatments and patient comfort. His practice is recognized for strong safety protocols, state-of-the-art equipment, and high family satisfaction ratings. Services include management of complex eye conditions and custom vision solutions, serving the broader region including Lafayette with reliable, quality eye care for over a decade.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in or near Lafayette, MN?
Start by asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at the Nicollet County Health Department or from neighbors in the Lafayette area. You can also use online directories from your vision insurance provider or search the Minnesota Optometric Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool, filtering for providers in Nicollet County. Checking reviews for clinics in nearby towns like New Ulm or St. Peter, which serve the Lafayette community, can also be helpful.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the Lafayette area?
Given Lafayette's smaller size, many residents use optometrists in surrounding communities. Look for a clinic that offers comprehensive eye exams, manages common conditions like dry eye (prevalent in Minnesota's climate), and has a good selection of frames. Consider the clinic's hours and travel distance—practices in New Ulm, Mankato, or St. Peter may offer more appointment flexibility. Verify they accept your insurance (common providers in MN include HealthPartners, Blue Cross, and VSP) and check if they have experience with specific needs like pediatric eye care or managing diabetes-related eye health.
Do optometrists near Lafayette, MN offer same-day appointments for eye emergencies?
Availability for urgent care can vary. While Lafayette itself may not have an optometry clinic with emergency hours, many practices in larger nearby cities like Mankato (about a 30-minute drive) do offer same-day appointments for emergencies such as sudden vision loss, eye injuries, or severe infections. It's best to call clinics in advance to understand their emergency protocol. For after-hours emergencies, residents are typically directed to urgent care centers in Mankato or the emergency room at the Mayo Clinic Health System in New Ulm.
What are the typical costs for an eye exam with an optometrist serving Lafayette, MN?
For patients without vision insurance, a comprehensive eye exam in the Southern Minnesota region typically ranges from $100 to $150. Costs may be slightly higher for specialized testing. Many clinics in areas like New Ulm or St. Peter offer packages that include the exam and basic lenses. It's always advisable to call and confirm prices when booking. If you have insurance (like many through employers in the agricultural or manufacturing sectors common to Nicollet County), your copay for an exam is usually between $10 and $30.
Can I get a same-day glasses prescription and purchase glasses locally after an exam?
Yes, most optometry clinics in the towns surrounding Lafayette, such as in New Ulm or Gaylord, have an optical shop on-site. After your comprehensive eye exam, the optometrist can provide your prescription immediately. You can then browse frames and often have glasses made on-site within 1-2 weeks, sometimes even sooner for basic single-vision lenses. This one-stop-shop convenience is common in the area, saving you a trip to a separate retailer. Some clinics may also offer direct shipping to your home in Lafayette.