The Best Optometrists in Ithaca, NY
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Ithaca. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. John C. Randazzo
Ithaca Eye Care
Dr. John C. Randazzo at Ithaca Eye Care is highly regarded for his exceptional patient care and extensive experience in optometry. The practice emphasizes family-friendly services with a focus on safety and thorough eye health evaluations. Patients consistently praise the comfortable atmosphere, modern diagnostic technology, and personalized attention, making it a top choice for residents seeking reliable eye care in the Ithaca area. The practice has built a strong reputation for managing complex eye conditions and offering a wide range of eyewear options.
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Dr. Michael J. Penta
MyEyeDr.
Dr. Michael J. Penta, associated with the MyEyeDr. network, brings decades of optometry expertise to Ithaca, offering comprehensive eye care with a focus on patient education and preventive measures. The practice is known for its high safety standards, friendly staff, and state-of-the-art amenities, including digital retinal imaging. Families appreciate the efficient service, flexible scheduling, and wide selection of frames, contributing to consistently high satisfaction ratings in the community.
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Dr. David A. Kessler
Kessler Eye Care
Dr. David A. Kessler leads Kessler Eye Care with a commitment to excellence in vision health, offering specialized services tailored to both adults and children. The practice is celebrated for its meticulous safety protocols, compassionate approach, and use of cutting-edge technology for accurate diagnoses. With a long-standing presence in Ithaca, patients value the practice's reliability, thorough follow-up care, and family-centered environment, earning it strong reviews for overall satisfaction and care quality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Ithaca, NY?
Start by checking with the Cornell University or Ithaca College health centers for recommendations, as they often have partnerships with local eye care providers. You can also search the 'Ithaca Area Optometric Society' directory, read reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp for practices in the Downtown Commons, Collegetown, or Lansing areas, and ask for referrals from your primary care physician at Cayuga Medical Center. Many Ithacans also rely on word-of-mouth recommendations within the community.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in Ithaca?
Consider an optometrist's proximity to your home, workplace, or campus, especially given Ithaca's sometimes challenging winter weather and parking. Look for practices that offer comprehensive services beyond basic exams, such as myopia management for students, dry eye treatment (common in our variable climate), and management of ocular diseases. Check if they have experience working with a diverse patient population, including students, faculty, and long-term residents. It's also beneficial to choose a practice that is familiar with the specific vision plans commonly used by Cornell, Ithaca College, and other local employers.
Do Ithaca optometrists accept vision insurance from major providers?
Most optometry practices in Ithaca accept a wide range of vision insurance plans. Given the large university and college presence, many are in-network with providers like VSP (Vision Service Plan), EyeMed, and Davis Vision, which are commonly offered through employer and student health plans. It's always best to call the specific office, such as those in the Shops at Ithaca Mall or downtown, to verify they accept your plan. Some practices also work with major medical insurance for medical eye care services.
What are the typical costs for an eye exam and glasses in Ithaca?
A comprehensive eye exam in Ithaca typically ranges from $100 to $150 without insurance, though prices can vary between independent practices and larger retail locations. The cost for glasses depends heavily on frames and lenses; basic single-vision lenses with a frame can start around $150-$200. Many local optometrists, especially those near the colleges, offer student discounts. For more budget-friendly options, some residents travel to nearby retail chains in Cortland or Binghamton, but supporting local Ithaca businesses often provides more personalized service and fittings.
How far in advance should I schedule an appointment with an Ithaca optometrist, especially during peak times?
It's advisable to schedule 4-6 weeks in advance, particularly at the beginning of the academic semesters (August-September and January) when students arrive and during the fall before the SUNY health insurance benefits often expire. Appointments in late fall (before winter) and early spring also fill up quickly. For same-day or urgent care needs, some practices, like those affiliated with Cayuga Medical Center, may accommodate emergencies for issues like sudden vision loss or eye injuries. Booking online, if available, can sometimes secure earlier slots.