I came here for an eyeglass and contact exam. The contacts worked great, but the eyeglasses were a nightmare the Optometrist wrote my prescription and I noticed that it got significantly worse since my last eye exam. I didn't think anything of it and I had glasses made. My original eyeglasses were great and did not have progressives so I made my new pair of eyeglasses without progressive lenses. I use them for two months since they were saying that it may take time to adjust. I still could not seeup close so I went back to the optometrist and he said they didn't put the bifocal on there and that would help. I said OK I went back had the glasses redone with the progressive bifocal and the results were the same. I also gave my eyes two months to adjust to those bifocals and they never did. I went back to the doctor and they said that the zoom was incorrectly inputted on the glasses. So I had the glasses redone again even though the eyeglass maker said the zoom was correct. I finally decided to see another Optometrist. The second Optometrist said the prescription was wrong and wrote me a new prescription. And they work perfect. After all said and done, I had to see an optometrist four times. Needless to say, I will not be coming back here. However, the staff is very friendly and courteous and they did a great job. read more

super sweet staff! had a great experience with the doctors as well as the ladies up front. Adrian & Saige were so helpful & kind at the front & Alex was a huge help with picking out a pair of glasses. read more

After going to this office for years, today I had a bad experience. When checking in for my scheduled and confirmed appointment (after driving 30 minutes to get there), I was informed that the doctors were not in the office, and that my appointment was a month away and I was wrong. After showing the office person the email confirmation, she said it must have been a glitch and that I could come back next month. I'm not going back, and will find another eye doctor. I'm quite forgiving of errors, but less so of attitude. read more

Been going here for the last ten years. Appointments are pretty flexible just call them or you can even make a request online and they will get back with you. I've had a few types of vision insurance over the years and they luckily take these with only a co-pay. Front of desk staff is friendly and direct. I asked if my contact lens fitting was covered and they able to look it up to let me know there was a copay which I cross checked as well. Dr. Steven Shepard is one of better eye doctors I have had and as my eyes get older he has let me know what to expect. I normally get my contact lens prescription through them as they can file it with the insurance. Yes, you can save money by going online but it's just easier to go through them at least the first set. They even have sample contacts especially the disposable ones you can trial before committing,. As for glasses there is a shop onsite but I've never used them. In either case, they do give you your prescription if you don't want to go through them. read more

I went to AVA for the first time since moving to Austin, and after reading all of the positive reviews, I thought I would be in good hands. Upon arriving, I checked in with the receptionists and was asked to take my contacts out. I mentioned that I didn't bring my glasses but was told to take them off anyway. Ok... I obliged, took them off, and went back to the waiting area. Mind you, while I can make out some shapes up close, I literally can't even see my hands in front of my face clearly. Imagine how strange that feels while I'm waiting. When the doctor was close to ready, the receptionist walks me to an area to get the basic eye tests done - like glaucoma. After I finish, she just sits there and tells me to walk across the hall and into the exam room. Again, I did as told, but keep in mind that the hallway is already dark enough because the lights are off in the test section, and the exam room is extremely dim. I sit for just a few minutes in the exam chair, and Dr. Stephen Shepherd walks in with a great and positive attitude. I mentioned that I couldn't see his face at all but was still glad to meet him. The exam itself was pretty standard. Once my trial lenses came in a few days later, I popped them into my eyes and was instantly horrified at how bad they were. I immediately called for a follow-up appointment, saw Dr. Shepherd, and was given a new pair of lenses to try. These were much better, and I eventually called in to ask for my prescription so I can purchase the lenses for cheaper elsewhere. Here's where I was really put off (as if I wasn't already by the strange first visit and experience with the receptionists). I asked how much my insurance covered the exam, fitting fee and contacts. I was told I would have to pay out of pocket $70 for a full year's worth of lenses. After mentioning how expensive that was, I didn't bother to confirm that I wanted AVA to order my lenses. Fast forward about a week after my visit. I get a call from AVA that basically said "let us know how your lenses are. By the way, we're going to order your contacts, and if you don't call back, that won't stop us from ordering them." Wait... what? I never gave the green light for them to do so! Here's where it gets even weirder... I called back the next day and was told that they had already ordered them, and I asked if they could just cancel it. The receptionist tells me that the claim has already been filed with my insurance, and if I want to cancel it, I'd have to pay AVA $60 to get nothing. That's right... NOTHING. No lenses. NOTHING! However, they can keep the claim and only order 2 boxes of lenses with no charge to me since my insurance will cover them. Obviously, I went with the latter, but who the heck does that? Charge patients money for literally nothing? Awkward visit and interaction with the receptionists coupled with the audacity to charge me for just calling into the insurance to cancel a claim has me steering clear of this practice. While Dr. Shepherd was very nice, I will not be returning. read more

Had my annual appointment with Dr. Sheppard today. I highly recommend her for others. Excellent staff here.

I've been coming here for probably 30 years, not sure why i haven't written a review yet! Dr. Donna Shepard is a rock star...so friendly and easy going, and caring for my eyes every year no matter what the issue. The staff, Patrick, Karen and Tina always remember me and they are efficient with processing my visit paperwork and answering all my questions for insurance, follow ups, etc. You really can trust this place with your eye care needs and that's why they have been in business so long, with a loyal following, like me:) read more

I've been coming to Austin Vision Associates for 7-8 years. The Shepherds are both excellent doctors. The exam is always fun and like catching up with old friends. The optometry shop is awesome. The have an incredible selection of frames. Michael, the manager, has personally selected frames for me. He'll pick out several to choose from and we begins sampling them. I always receive compliments on my glasses. The staff is courteous and professional. They have always taken care of me in an exceptional manner. read more

Thank you to AVA. I am visiting from MA and my sunglasses were damaged - my fault. I visited AVA and their Optometrists fixed the glasses and provided me with a new case. All for the price of Thank you. I highly recommend AVA for your eye needs. read more

My family and I have been patients at Austin Vision since they opened their doors. We saw Donna Shepard when she worked elsewhere. We've always been very happy. Today I went in to order glasses I had picked out last week. Kevin helped me last week, said he would put all of my information in the system so we would easily order my choice. When I got there today Kevin was not there. Nina "helped" me. She's the most unfriendly person I've ever encountered here. I felt I was a bother for her from the beginning. She said there was no information on file. Hardly said a word, sat and typed I. The computer, got some frames and asked were they what I picked out. Barely said 20 words to me. I felt less that an unappreciated customer. I hate to give a 3 star rating but that's being generous after having her wait on me. I almost walked out without ordering, probably should have. I'll go back for the Shepard's to examine but probably not for glasses. read more

I went in a few days before I was headed on vacation to get a box of contacts - Now, I don't normally purchase my contacts from the doctor's office (I'm no Miss Moneybags), but I was in a pinch and just hoping to get a pair of trial lenses to hold me over for three or four days. The receptionist was not the nicest person, but I expected that going in - they were totally unwilling to give me a trial pair of lenses and claimed to be totally out of stock in my prescription. Dr. Donna Shephard walked by and saw what was going on and mentioned that they had a different brand of contacts in my prescription sitting in the back and that the receptionist could give me those. SAVED, I thought. No... when the receptionist went to go find that pair, Dr. Shephard went with her and told her she could charge me $20 for one trial pair of lenses. $20 for a pair of lenses that were clearly marked "NOT FOR SALE" on the box. I get it that this is a business and that these people need to make money, but really? I have been a loyal patron for a few years and this is the treatment I get? Did I also mention that I went to see her once because my eyes were super puffy and I thought it was a result of my contacts? Turned out to be cedar allergies. Anyway, I called before going in and was assured that I would not be charged because I was due for a follow-up to my appointment the week prior anyway. After I left, her assistant called me like a stalker to get my medical insurance so they could bill it there instead of vision. Great bedside manner, wouldn't you say? No sir, I will not be headed back here. read more

The worst experience at any doctor's office, ever. I got there ten minutes early, since I was a new patient and figured I'd have paperwork to fill out. Instead, the office staff yelled at me for being too early! I should have known that they would be unprofessional since when I called to make an appointment, the staff member who answered the phone finished his conversation before saying "Austinvisionassociatescanihelpyou?" Even after arriving early, I wasn't taken back to an exam room until 15 minutes after my appointment should have started. Why so late, you ask? Because the optometrist herself was busy selling frames to a couple of old ladies. At first, when I was in the waiting area, I didn't realize she was the optometrist- I thought she was just the glasses pimp-ette because she was doing such a hard sell and she was dressed very inappropriately (Can you say glittery, skin-tight, pink tank top down to there? My face went into her bewbs when she was looking in my eyes during the eye exam! Not my taste, thanks!). Then she made fun of my profession (I'm a grad student) and tried to sell ME more glasses frames. Noooo thank you. read more

The exam itself was just fine, but the reception staff is highly incapable. After my exam I paid the exam fee and the fee for my contacts. They never called to tell me my contacts were in and when I called to see what was going on they said they'd forgotten to call and there was a fee they'd left off when I paid after my exam so I owed an additional $50. Will not be back. read more

Did you know I have astigmatism? Neither did I! And unless it was something that just developed over the last year and a half, neither did any of my previous eye doctors. I got to my appointment 15 minutes early since I was a new patient, and was greeted warmly by the staff. I filled out my paperwork, and I staff member took me back for a couple of tests to prepare for the doctor. I sat back down for a couple of minutes and Dr. Donna Shepard appeared almost exactly on time. Like magic! Donna is a sweet heart, and beautiful. What makes her so great is that she explains everything to you. Why you are having the problems you're having, what will work to correct your vision, and why my old glasses/contacts weren't working. She was informative, but casual, and didn't talk AT me. Next, she handed me over to Michael to get some glasses. After reading the reviews here, I had high hopes. Michael is great. He is fun, funny, and made me feel like he only wanted to put me in glasses that looked great on me. I explained what I liked and my "style" and he said, I like where you're going,. I just want to girl you up a bit." And he didn't put me in pink glasses! Or glasses with sparkles or swirly details. Just frames that were not as bold and harsh on my face. Now, I have stylish, not too expensive, smart looking glasses. He even laughed at my jokes! Unfortunately, they didn't have one of the contacts I needed for a fitting. However, they are ordering some for me to try, so I'll be back later this week! If you aren't in love with your eye doctor, you really need to come see Dr. Shepard and Michael! read more

The short version: This place is awesome, the people are super friendly and helpful, they are fast, and I now have the coolest glasses ever. The slightly more detailed version: My insurance recently changed, so I compared places I found in my insurance directory with Yelp to find something that looked good. I went here to see Dr. Steven Shepard for my annual eye exam about a week ago. I got there about 10 minutes before my appointment, filled out my forms, sat down and started to read my book. No sooner had I read one sentence when they called me back. Honestly I can't remember the last time I was seen on time at an eye doctor. The doctor was very friendly and did a super thorough exam in record time, while somehow not making me feel rushed. Once my exam was done I went over to the glasses shop to pick some frames out. I wasn't sure what time they closed so I mentioned to the guy helping me to let me know if I was keeping them. He picked out several frames for me to try based on what I said I was looking for, and even got a second opinion when I wasn't sure which frames to choose. By the time I left I realized that I had kept them about 20 minutes past closing, but they never once rushed me or were rude. It took about a week for my glasses to come in. A few days after picking them up and getting them fitted I felt like they could use a slight adjustment. Once again they were super friendly and happy to help, and they even gave me an extra pair of temples for my glasses! So now it's like I have a wild pair of glasses for going out plus an everyday pair, for no extra charge. I am totally blown away at how friendly and helpful everyone is. read more

This review encompasses a variety of superlatives: for the staff, the selection of frames and most importantly, the finished product. The optician who helped me (Nina Kauzlarick) was patient, competent, and knowledgeable about the frame styles and lens options most compatible with my unusual prescription. She spent a significant amount of time helping me choose from a wide variety of options - never losing patience with my "discerning" approach to multiple suggestions. Both the resulting sunglasses and everyday glasses were produced to my satisfaction in regard to appearance and ease of adjustment. Not only am I thrilled with the end result but the experience itself. Many thanks to Nina's professionalism and the skill of the lab who produced a quality product. I highly recommend AVA! read more

My two daughters and I all use this office. Both of the optometrists AND their staff have always been friendly and appropriate to us. With the kids' schedules, I often end up rescheduling an appointment two or sometimes more times before we actually make it in. They have always been courteous and accomodating. When we've had ANY trouble at all with a pair of contacts "feeling funny" they have managed to work us in quickly. Michael, the optician is INCREDIBLE at picking out the right frames for your face and personality. I'm sorry the other reviewer had such a poor experience. I hope our many more positive ones help influence peoples' decision to see the doctors here. read more

Love this practice! I recently moved to Austin, and my last optometrist (in California) was such a stick in the mud, I didn't realize how much fun a trip to the eye doctor could be! Luckily, a coworker recommended Austin Vision Associates. First of all, the administrative staff is fantastic. I gave the front desk the wrong information about my insurance. After she was unable to find any coverage through the plan I had mistakenly given her, the woman at the front desk helpfully suggested that my vision coverage might be different from my main healthcare coverage, and she checked a few other providers for me. She was right! We got it all sorted out and she was super nice about it, even though I had wasted her time. Class act. Next, I saw Dr. Donna Shepherd for my exam. She is easygoing, a great listener, and full of awesome advice. After a great eye exam that was both informative and efficient, I was introduced to a new brand of contact lenses that suits my budget and my lifestyle much better than my old brand. This all occurred while I was having great conversation with Dr. Shepherd, who is just a cool lady. I don't know how else to say it: she's cool! I had a great time. Finally I needed to purchase new glasses, and AVA just kept impressing! Vicki (I believe this is her name) was SO helpful! Talk about bedside manner! I had a blast trying on different frames, and she even let me stay past closing time so I could try on a few more. She was always ready to give her opinion, but was never pushy about anything, just supportive. Just a great experience all around. I couldn't recommend them more highly. read more

After checking who my (terrible) vision discount plan works for, and then checking Yelp for reviews, I ended up going to see Dr. Steven Shepard at this office. I hadn't had an exam in about two years and I felt as if my glasses were a little outdated. I've always had a hard time with eye exams and new doctors because I am partially blind in my right eye and it's almost as if they never believe me. Dr. Shepard not only believed me right off the bat, but was actually able to explain back to me what I was trying to say to him! It was amazing! For the first time ever, an optometrist really understood my concerns and explanations about my very weird visual problem. Dr. Shepard ran a number of tests I had never done before, which made me really happy since I felt like he was really taking the time and energy to personalize my visit. I am always iffy when it comes to the lens tests (does number 1 or number 2 look better? - that one) but Dr. Shepard was very patient with me and let me try the same ones several times. Eventually he checked my current glasses and sure enough they were way wrong! I also explained that my insurance was pretty awful and that I was sorry, but couldn't afford glasses in his office. He didn't make me feel guilty at all about it like other doctors have in the past and was even helpful with tips about ordering online to save money. I am so glad I found Dr. Shepard and will be recommending him to everyone I know! read more

This is, by far, the best eye care office I've ever been to. Dr. Donna Shepard is quick, attentive, and easy to relax around. Dealing with the staff has always been a pleasant experience, even when I've had to wait in high volume times. A couple of years ago, I was experiencing blinding eye pain (literally) and couldn't get in to see an opthamologist for weeks. I called Dr. Shepard to see if she could help get me in somewhere more quickly, and she just had me come in immediately to look at my eyes herself. (Incidentally, avoid using store brand or Opti-Free saline solution, unless you'd like to run the risk of experiencing a corneal chemical burn, as well.) But the icing on this ocular cake is Michael the optician. I and every single person I've referred to this office have left with a pair of glasses they were REALLY excited about. He can see if you're not up for eyewear adventure, but if you are, he has an amazing sensibility for what will look good on you and he can make you feel comfortable taking the leap. If If you never get that excited about getting new glasses, Michael (and other staff members, Dr. Shepard included) will change that. Update: I guess they noticed Michaels' popularity, and they've expanded their optician department. It's now a full, expansive room with several equally talented and enthusiastic opticians. The lady that worked with me this time was awesome, and, of course, I love my glasses. read more

I had been going to AVA for almost 3 years until this past Christmas. I switched providers because AVA was too far away from home and their service had degraded over the years. The doctors are nice but the staff and store next door are not very sociable compared to when I first started going there. They seem preoccupied and disinterested now. The interaction that sealed the deal for my divestment from AVA was when I went shopping for new glasses in the store right next to them in the same building. I walked in and was immediately overwhelmed by the daunting layout of the store. I asked the associate how they organize their glasses because there are no signs indicating which gender or brand is displayed. She ignored me until I engaged her. Her response was strike number 1. She said "Oh, well we organize them so we can manage them. It's easier for us." She said that gender and brands are mixed throughout the displays. Strike 2 was when she said the wait would be 15 minutes before I would get help to find a pair of glasses. Strike 3 was when I waited for 15 minutes and no one engaged me. So I left. The bottom line is that an associate should always be available to help you find a pair and then a specialist will require the wait. I shouldn't have to wait more than 2 minutes to receive help or be engaged by the staff. I needed a new prescription anyway, so I made an appointment with AVA. They couldn't see me for 10 days. Way too far out for me. And that was that. I switched to Northwest Hills Eyecare. I couldn't be happier with the switch. I recommend other providers and, specifically, Northwest Hills Eyecare. read more

Great exam, Dr. Shepard (Steven) did a very thorough exam, broke down my vision in terms I could understand. Next I was sent over to get my current glasses cleaned, and sized back to fit the way they should. I didn't really need a new pair of glasses as this was just routine maintenance on the old eyes, but the gal selling glasses spent time with me looking at possible options for new glasses and didn't make me feel as if I was wasting her time. I love this office and their customer service. read more

I came to Austin Vision Associates on my sister's recommendation [Susi R. - below]. They were absolutely amazing. Everyone at the office was extremely friendly and helpful, from setting up the appointment, to giving me directions when I thought I was lost, to helping with getting contacts ordered from an online provider. Dr. Donna Shepard was extremely thorough and professional in her examination. She spent a good bit of time with me getting the fit of the contacts just right, trying 4 or 5 combinations of lenses [L&R] due to the astigmatism in one eye. Despite this, I was in and out in just over an hour, including paperwork, and never felt like anyone was hurrying. I highly recommend Austin Vision Associates. read more

Went here because they are on my vision plan, close to work, decent reviews, and one of the office staff goes here. It was my first visit to an eye doctor in about 30 years. Oh the joy of aging. I was not disappointed. Made my appointment without issue. The staff on the phone was fine. I showed up 15 min early, filled out my paperwork and waited about 20 mins. Not bad, didn't see anyone just milling around not working. The office staff was pleasant. Dr Shepard got me herself. Easy exam, easy to talk with, didn't give me the 'used car salesman' treatment I half expected. Picking out frames was as painless as it could be. No rush, no upsell, the lady didn't bring me the most expensive frames. The only area I could see they could improve on was if everyone introduced themselves. Will happily recommend them. read more

Best frames in town by far! Staff goes above and beyond to make sure you get the right frames and perfect fit. Really like that they pick out several frames for me to consider and there's always a couple that I wouldn't even consider - those usually turn out to be the ones that I pick. Always get compliments on my frames and love my glasses. read more

OK so I liked the optometrist OK, however, I had to return for a second appointment because the glasses were definitely giving me a headache and making my vision clear but disorienting. I was encouraged before returning them to give me time to adjust but I have wore glasses for years for nearsightedness and really only need them with driving and I never had a prescription be so bad right out the gate. I gave it a week with no improvement, so I scheduled to come back in. After the second appointment he revised the prescription and they put in to get new lenses. I went and got them and put them on immediately knew that while there was some improvement they still did not feel right and there was def some blurriness. And I could feel a headache coming on. The retail folks got pretty worked up ~ acted like I was being unreasonable ~ and said I just needed to give it time and I will be OK and acted like they didn't want to have me see the doc a third time. Again I have been getting glasses for years and even with revised prescriptions never had this problem ever. They give me a headache. So I am not going back. Not worth the hassle. Fortunately I only need them when I drive and don't drive much but next year when insurance will cover a new pair, I am will for sure find a different provider. read more

Been coming here since they had an office at Brodie Oaks. I hate coming to north Austin but the 2 dr Shepherds are worth it! And I get to practice my Swedish with Tina from Norway! :) read more

Needed a new glasses provider since my old one dropped my insurance. Store was large, clean with a huge selection. I received plenty of help choosing two frames - progressive and sunglasses. Was told two weeks. Seemed long but OK. Two weeks came, then three. I called them after 4 weeks Long ringing, then female voice "Hello" - Is this Austin Vision? Is that how you answer the phone? I'm calling to see if my glasses are ready. - On hold for a very long time then - Still waiting on them from the lab - Line goes dead. I wait a couple of minutes for them to call back, then I call them again. Long ringing with no answer. I'm mad, so I wait three hours to call them again - "Hello" - Let me speak to the manager - Long wait on hold, then click disconnected. Call back; long ringing, then male voice "Hello" - Let me speak to the manager. - I am the manager. _ That's how you answer the phone? No business name, no pleasantries? And your name is? - Johnathan - This time I get a slightly different story. The lab shipped them, we didn't receive them. I'm going to check on them and call you back this afternoon, tomorrow morning, - This afternoon comes and goes, as does tomorrow morning. I call them in the afternoon. Phone rings and rings, no answer. A few minutes later I get a call from an unknown California number. I usually don't answer those, but just this once. It's Johnathon. He knew I was calling and didn't answer. He has a new story this time - One of the frames you wanted is backordered. don't know when it will be available. - You could have told me that 4 weeks ago. We could have ordered something different. Is the other pair ready? - Uh .......... No. - You mean that, after 4 weeks, you've done absolutely nothing? You can cancel both orders. I expect to see the refund in my account by 5 o'clock today. - You'll have to come in so I can run your card. - Face to face, there's no apology. Don't do business with these people unless you enjoy long waits and deep frustration. They get one star for their selection, except that now I have to start all over. read more

I have worn contacts for over 50 years. I first went to Dr. Donna 20 years ago, because she was the closest doctor on my vision plan. Donna and her staff were absolutely first rate and she has been MY vision professional EVER SINCE! A few years ago my wife, Pam was having some vision problems and I got her to go to Donna. Donna fitted her with contacts and Pam has been VERY happy with them and Donna and her staff have been extremely helpful with Pam's transition to the contacts. I would recommend AVA to anyone looking for a comprehensive vision center. read more

Dr. Donna Shepherd and staff are amazing! The best customer service. They are caring, patient, and understanding. They ALWAYS go the extra mile. I've been a satisfied customer for many years. I highly recommend Austin Vision. read more

I went here for an appointment the other day and just like always they were absolutely amazing! They never fail to be extremely helpful and kind every time. You really feel safe and at home. I went to get glasses and the kind gentleman named Jonathan was amazing! He was so patient with me and has the best attitude every single time. I love it here! read more

They are way in the back of the ubiquitous group of nice buildings. They are in #3 in among the trees. They are less 200 yds. North of Taylor Drayper Ln. I went to the Optician side of the 2nd floor to get my Mother's glasses repaired. They were in pretty bad shape. Loose ear pieces, stripped screws, bent and dirty nose pads... the works. She is home bound and couldn't go herself, but recommended I go there. I'm 59, and have been in hundreds of optical establishments since I was 10. I was amazed at the comfortable layout, and the huge number of frame choices that I have ever seen. The charming young lady invited me to relax while she worked on the glasses. When she came back she gave me a case for them, looked at me, and asked if I had time so she could fix mine. She brought them back and they fit better than new! Then, No Charge. Most places won't charge for minor fixes, but she went beyond. Go there? If you've had glasses, you will be amazed, just as I was. read more

I've been seeing Dr. Donna Shepard at AVA for almost 3 years now, and I've had only positive experiences: when I've seen Dr. Shepard, I've felt very comfortable asking her any questions (like what all the tests they perform do, what they're for, how to handle my super dry eyes) and she's answered all my questions & made me feel comfortable asking them. (She's even worked with me to try several different brands of contacts so I can find the best ones to work with my dry eyes.); we've discussed lasik, but she's never pushed anything on me. And it could be excellent manners, but she's always been warm and friendly with me and is just easy to be around. Also, she helped me figure out the best way to use my insurance -- I first saw her using my husband's insurance, then again when I'd switched to the one carried by my office; but at that last one, she advised me that my husband's was actually a much better deal for me -- and she was right (I do glasses & contacts), so I switched back this year. How awesome that she cares enough about what I'm paying to discuss insurance! Finally, i loved how I didn't even have to have my eyes dilated -- I don't know if it's just new technology, or my old office was ripping me off, but it was great to able to see without squinting in the harsh light. Evening and weekend hours available, too, I think. And they just renovated their office, it's gorgeous. There's also attached an optician's office -- Michael is seriously a godsend. I can't tell you how many compliments I've gotten on both of the glasses I've gotten with him and Greg. Literally, when I describe Michael to others (he's very distinctive: a shade flamboyant and completely unapologetic; definite on what looks good on you and what doesn't, with only a smidge of leniency towards what you like as opposed to what looks great on you), the other person I'm talking to usually says that I'm the 3rd person to recommend Michael for glasses. These things aren't cheap, but how many awesome glasses do you really need? Modern, fun with maybe some classic frames with a more updated twist, these are well worth checking out. I do feel like I should add that, for my 4P appointment last Thurs, I got in right at 4P, although I knew (with my new insurance) I should have gotten there a little earlier. My paperwork took 10 mins to fill out, if that, and I waited for what seemed like a while, but I was out of the office by 4:40P -- examination, new contacts ordered, payment done and everything. read more

I have been a satisfied and happy customer of Austin Vision Associates for over 8 years. However, my most recent visit has me never returning. Standard visit, glasses ordered, was called to pick them up. Upon arrival to get the glasses the saleswoman who was helping me gave me the glasses. I put them on but the lenses were so smudged up I could not see through them. I asked her if I could borrow a handkerchief to wipe them off. As though I had deeply offended her she quickly snapped back she would wipe them when we were done that she did not see a point in wiping them as they would just get smudged again by the time we were done. I told her I could definitely appreciate that, but they were smudged to the point of my not being able to see to assess fit. Very upset she said fine and wiped the glasses, I let her know I would be happy to do so myself. The glasses where not sitting evenly so she proceeded to bend the frames. I have uploaded a picture of her final work product and what she considered a satisfactory resolution. I let her know the glasses where not comfortable the way she had adjusted, nor did they fit in the case anymore. Se said that she helped me all she could and I could wait on someone else. I told her would be happy to and asked how long I might expect to wait (it was my lunch hour). The manager yelled from across the room, I will be done when I am done and I can help you then. Your going to have to wait. I was not rude when I asked, I was merely wanting to know if I should come back later. A decision I opted for as the customer service was so bad. Definitely like nothing I had experienced before. After leaving I decided the glasses had been damaged beyond repair in her attempt to make them fit, and decided to call and request another pair be ordered. I spoke with the manager and let her know the glasses looked completely screwed up and I would like another pair ordered. She immediately began yelling at me not to curse at her. I apologized and told her I used the work screwed to disrobe the glasses, it was not directed at her, but I was merely trying to express my frustration. She yelled at me the remainder of the conversation. I called back later that afternoon to apologize and again attempt to smooth things over. She had a similar tone. In fact, the conversation was so bad that the saleswoman I normally work immediately apologized when I came to pick up the glasses, saying she heard the whole conversation on both accounts and was horrified by my experience. She said she would ask Dr Sheppard to call me and that this was not the first time this has happened. Needless to say, I never got a phone call. I have uploaded a picture of the glasses so you can see what they find to be an acceptable condition for a $400 pair of FRAMES. this combines with the horrible customer service and verbal abuse by their management team, I will not be returning. Not only where the glasses screwed up, but her attitude is as well. Michael would be appalled. read more

Austin Vision Associates - this is how they tried to deliver a brand new pair of Tom Ford glasses to me, insisting this was normal. - Optometrists Near Me - Austin, Texas

Took my son here to get his eyes checked after he had been complaining of not being able to focus on the board at school. Dr Steven Shepard was very patient with him and made him feel comfortable. I enjoyed how well my son was treated that I have my own appointment with them this weekend. read more

Nice office. Staff is very helpful. Met with Dr. Steven Shepard and he is professional and very good at his job. I told him I wanted to try contacts again (I had not worn contacts in years and gave them up because they just weren't comfortable) and he worked with me to find something that would work. He made sure I understood that with my allergies and history with contacts, I might not be able to wear contact all the time and I might prefer to wear contacts occasionally and glasses the rest of the time. Since getting both glasses and contacts would be more expensive and I didn't yet know whether the contacts would be comfortable enough to wear, he suggested I wear a pair of contacts he gave me for a week to see if I liked them. He said he'd only charge me for the contacts and contact fitting if I decided to go with contacts! As it turns out, I'm going to get the contacts and the glasses. His staff was very helpful in helping me decide whether to use my vision insurance to get the contacts or the glasses (insurance benefits can't be used for both). I would highly recommend Austin Vision Associates. read more

I have been seeing Dr Steven Sheppard since I moved to Austin two and a half years ago. I absolutely love him, he makes me feel comfortable. He is also quick - but not in a rushed way - he just does his job and does it well. The only complaint I have is his office charges 25 dollars for a "contact fitting" which I do not feel is very fair because usually it consists of him handing me a new pair of contacts and leaving the office. I am sure he could answer questions if I had any, but I do feel disappointed paying $25 a year for that. Even with that, I won't knock off a star. I love this place and if he ever goes out of business I will freak out because it is difficult for me to find a doctor i like and trust this much. read more

Awesome experience. Best part is for people like me who work 5 days...they're open on Sat for appointments which is remarkable. Very courteous staff and I really liked the fact that the doctor spent time doing the exam unlike some places where the doctor spends less than 5 mins and leaves the rest for his staff to handle. I went to see Dr. Stephen Shepherd. Doctor himself was extremely courteous and yet professional. Will go back next year for sure! Found this place through my insurance network Aetna. Also, even though they have an eyeglass store next door, they didn't really push me to buy it from there, which I liked. read more

Wonderful practice. They squeezed me in for an emergency. I had to bring my 2 young boys along, and they were exceedingly patient and accommodating. The office is beautiful and staff super friendly. During my exam with Donna, she asked how I drove there if I didn't have my contacts in and wasn't wearing glasses. I told her my glasses were taped together and in my bag. She asked to see them, and took them over to the "glasses" side where they fixed my frames free of charge! For a busy mom, that was huge!! I had to wait about 15-20 minutes for my appt, but I didn't mind because they were working me in on a Friday at the last minute anyway. I'll be back fr sure! read more

I have seen both Donna and Steven Shepard. They are both very knowledgeable and professional as well as very friendly. My last few visits were to see Steven Shepard. I had unrelated surgery but I was having problems with my right eye getting proper lubrication. The Dr. found out I was allergic to the ointment the hospital had prescribed to me. He made sure I came in to see him every other day ( at no charge) and got my eye on the right track. BTW, the staff is very friendly as well. You just can't go wrong with the Shepards. Thank you, Pam Collings read more