Terrific eye doctor experience! Dr. Bak is wonderful and very knowledgeable, patient and helpful; and will always spend the extra time to teach and explain. It's been a pleasure to be a patient there and both my wife and I would highly recommend Eye Level Vision Health/Optometrist Clinic, and two thumbs up for Dr. Magdalena Bak! read more

I just moved to Chicago and needed a new eye doctor in the area to get glasses. I was recommended to go to Eye Level Inc. This turned out to be a mistake. The exam was good but getting the glasses made properly with Mr Mario was not. I wanted sunglasses for light sensitivity and my insurance always covers them. Unfortunately they made the sunglasses with reader lenses...not what I wanted. I sent them back and asked for no prescription just sunglasses. When they finally came back they were for distance. So now I have sunglasses that I cant see with and I had to pay out of pocket for. They were inconsistent telling me the glasses were ready and then not ready and then requiring an appointment just to pick them up. Overall they were rude and not at all helpful. The worst part is that I have ended up with glasses that are completely useless. read more

I had an appointment today with Dr. Karikomi. I really struggled to write this review because all of the office girls were extremely friendly. But, the core of the practice is the doctor, and I think doctors need to start taking more responsibility for how they respect their patient's time. I waited for 50 minutes on a weekday afternoon, which is clearly when people have to work. At that point I decided to just leave because I felt it was very disrespectful of my time. I mean, if I showed up to the appointment 50 minutes late, would I expect the doctor to see me immediately without apology? My time is just as valuable as the doctor's, in fact more, since I am paying for the service. This isn't necessarily something necessarily unique to Eye Level, but it was extreme, and it is unacceptable for anyone. Again, kudos to the office girls, you are doing a great job! read more

I wouldn't go back to this office if you paid me. I purchased a pair of Silhouette glasses. Mario explained nothing regarding the type of lenses or OPTIONS, just presented me with a bill higher than any pair of glasses I had ever purchased. When I asked if I could talk it over with my husband he got all huffy and said, "I've already input in the system." Picked up glasses and I couldn't see. They sent them back and ordered a step down lens, with NO reimbursement. Apparently Mario had gotten me top of the line lenses without my knowledge. Arrived two minutes early and as I was walking in Mario was walking out. I was on my lunch and they asked me to wait for Mario, had to leave with unadjusted glasses. Still couldn't see. Asked for refund but no. Joanne and the doctor finally helped me and made adjustments that have seemed to work (can read and see far but not the computer). Doctor was great, would follow her to another office if at all possible. Stay away from Mario! read more

I had a bad experience at Eye Level. I went there because they take VSP, but I ended up giving them more money than any other eye doctor I've ever been to, and by the end of my relationship with the place, I still hadn't received my contact prescription. I was initially off-put by the doctor's failure to fully disclose exactly what types of procedures he'll be doing and exactly how much they'll cost. I ended up paying through the nose for procedures I would not have elected to have done. I'm not saying this is dishonest, but I don't feel like the information was presented to me in a manner that allowed me to make a fully informed choice. Dealing with the office workers was worse. I had to battle them on several occasions relating to billing practices. For the last appointment I made with the doctor, I requested a quote up front on how much it would cost. (I was done paying exorbitant fees for procedures that did not give me what I needed.) They demurred for about a week. I cancelled my appointment. I won't be going back. If you do choose to go to Eye Level, I would recommend that you get them to list every procedure they will do up front, how much it will cost, and how much is covered by insurance. That way you won't be surprised by the bill like I was. read more

Wow, what a nice experience. These people are by far the nicest and most enthusiastic crowd I've ever encountered working in an eye glasses store / optometrist office. They do take VSP, which is how I ended up there. I haven't been to an optometrist in a few years, so I don't know how common this is but they have a great setup for retinal scans. They take digital images, and Dr. Kirakomi sat down and showed me my images, explained in detail what I was looking at and then showed me some sample images of possible problems and what he was going to look out for in the future. I went in for glasses, as I've been wearing nothing but contacts for ~10 years now and the process was quick and painless. I had my heart set on one pair of frames, but when the technician there looked at my prescription she showed my why it wouldn't look very good on me, and spent the next 20 minutes showing me examples of other frames and what would best suit my face / prescription. I was ended up with frames I never would've looked at to being with, and was extremely happy I listened to the technicians input. I will comment, since it's already been reviewed, that they do a bit of salesmanship here with some products and exams, but after politely declining to purchase or pay for any extras, it was dropped and the subject wasn't brought up again. I can't blame them for trying, they're a business just like any other after all. Overall I'd highly recommend Eye Level if you're looking for a new pair of glasses or just need an eye exam. read more

They got me in at the last minute which was very helpful, and called to let me know the doctor was running behind so I could come in later. However, I still waited almost an hour to be seen. Despite taking the time to thoroughly fill out the online form as they requested, I had to reiterate and explain multiple things multiple times that the doctor would have known had he bothered to read the form. I also had to repeat myself several times because the doctor either interrupted my explanations, or simply didn't listen. Additionally, while I was checking in the receptionist yelled at me for putting in eye drops. I'm a few months post-op from corrective surgery, so I'm still dealing with chronic dry eyes and constantly use drops. She angrily told me that the doctor needed to do a "dry exam" (???) and that I needed to refrain from using drops until after he was done. Since I waited for almost an hour to be seen, the doctor's first comment was that my eyes were incredibly dry. No f***ing way, I can't imagine why! Finally, he did offer some good advice for my issue, but I honestly felt like he was trying harder to sell me products that I didn't necessarily need than he was in making sure I was comfortable and understood my condition. I appreciate getting in last minute, but I will not be returning. read more

Update: Bad service. I still think Dr. Karikomi is a great doctor, but I just can't deal with the staff. My review is primarily for Dr. Karikomi--he's very thorough and just generally a good guy. I was so happy to find an eye doctor who doesn't just run me in and out, as in so many other places. Great experience. One caveat is that there seems to be just a bit of (over)marketing encouraged here. Great downtown location. VSP insurance accepted. (And staff knows exactly how to help you get the most out of your insurance coverage.) read more

I want to say Dr. Eric Drey was excellent and deserves 4 stars. But i gave this place a 1 star due to the service. I felt like cattle being driven in and out. And they lied to me. I asked if they took my insurance and the one said yes. Later i found out they don't and i was hit with a $150 dollar bill. NOT COOL! read more

I love Dr Karikomi, he is AWESOME!! He takes his time explain everything that is going on with your eyes. The staff is friendly and the facility is clean. I was gone for five years but, they treated me as though I never left. Give them a try u will NOT want to go anywhere else, regardless of cost. read more

Eye Level - Optometrists Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I met with Dr. Bak for the first time a few weeks ago and was very pleased with the eye exam I received. She is very interested in educating her patients and takes the time needed to explain everything. Unfortunately after my initial visit I had an eye emergency and she was able to fit me in to her schedule and offered advice and counseling on my problem. Friendly staff and great selection of frames. read more

Upon starting a new job with eye insurance, I looked around for an office in the loop that could accommodate my need for new glasses and contacts. Honestly, I had no recommendations, I just picked this one at random, but I was very pleased with my choice. I saw Dr. Saxon Williams, who was friendly, listened to my needs, evaluated what would work best, and set me up based upon that. When I told her that i was not pleased with my existing contacts, she set me up with another kind, and explained why the ones I had been using might be causing me problems. The techs were all very friendly and helpful. I was overwhelmed by the choices of glasses, and felt pressured because I hadn't gotten new glasses in five years and wanted to make sure I picked a good pair. Ordinarily, I arm myself with my mother in making these decisions, but alas, I'm an adult, and Mom is eight hours away. However, I had this tech running around the store, pulling so many kinds of glasses and helping me make the decision. I ended up with a pair of glasses that I loved, and felt very taken care of while making that decision. Yes, it's expensive, but I'd rather spend a little money on my eyeballs than not be able to see. Just another adult expense... They did try to sell a couple of things in which I wasn't interested, but they did not pressure me beyond the initial suggestion, which I liked and appreciated. I was able to get my contacts immediately, and my glasses came within 10 business days. And now, I see clearly, this place was a good decision. (Alright, I also see clearly that I should not "make stupid jokes" in my reviews.) read more

So far so good. I had my first eye exam with this group. The staff was professional and extremely proficient. Everything was clean and all equipment was sanitized in front of me before I used it. Dr. Drey was upbeat, professional, very quick and thorough with his exam. I go back in a week for a contact lens follow-up and expect it will be great. read more

Wonderful practice, friendly staff and a knowledgeable doctor, Dr. Karikomi clearly enjoys what he does and wants to help you have the best vision and peepers possible. I work in the loop and I'm glad I found them. Very thorough and precise tests for all relevant eye issues and they caught things my old optometrist didn't. I really appreciated the time and consideration they spent with me to ensure I have the right prescription for my glasses and contacts and my dry eye symptoms were being addressed carefully. They accept VSP insurance. Thank you again! read more

I've been going to Dr. Karikomi's office for 4 years and I've never had any complaints. The staff is SUPER friendly and patient and helpful. They are great about helping you understand you insurance and helping you get the most out of it. Dr. Karikomi himself is a funny, friendly guy who explains everything in a very understandable way. They make use of the latest technology but don't push expensive tests on you. Due to their convenient loop location, the prices are probably a little on the higher end, but if you have insurance, they are very affordable. read more

Excellent, excellent, excellent! I always look forward to my annual appointment. The staff are welcoming and organized, a pleasure to deal with. And Dr. Karikomi -- I cannot say enough about his caring, attention to detail and follow through. Years ago, he referred me to a specialist at Northwestern for a tiny spot he noticed on my cornea, just wanted to be sure it was okay. And the eye surgeon there told me most optometrists would not have caught it, also that it was no problem for right then, but could bear watching. Understandably, I've been seeing Dr. Karikomi ever since, would not even think of consulting anyone else! Eyes are so important, and if you want the very best care for your eyes, I highly recommend Dr. Karikomi and his staff! read more

Ever since moving to the city, I knew I needed to find an optometrist who is more convenient for me because I didn't want to bother having to go back to the suburbs for eye exams and appointments. I've heard only wonderful things about Eye Level and especially Dr. Karikomi, that it was common sense for me to come here... oh and the location is perfect based on my daily commute. The interior is well kept, clean, and well lit. Also, the staff were all very welcoming and kind, which is something that I always look for, but it means more to me if I'm a brand new patient rather than one who is a regular. Dr. Karikomi, in the way he talks, shares knowledge, and does his examination obviously cares about his patient well beyond just "doing an exam". I had never learned so much in my life during an eye exam and he was very patient and thorough in the way he conducted my exam. I had shared my issues of contact discomfort with him and he suggested the best daily contact he carried and provided several pairs for me to try before making an order. The difference in comfort between the daily wear and my monthly wear contacts was absolutely night and day and I can't see myself ever going back to monthly contacts no matter how great that "technology" improves. My entire experience was amazing and I'm so glad that I found Dr. Karikomi because I've never been this happy regarding eye care/health before. I highly recommend coming here and scheduling an appointment with him. read more

I walked in Dr. Karikomi's office by chance a year and half ago because i had something stuck inside my eyelid. He took great care of me on the spot that day. After that day I made an appointment with him to have my regular eye exam done there. A year and half later my whole family has received excellent care from Dr. Karikomi and the staff. We all love coming here. I couldn't say enough about the staff, how warm, wonderful and professional they all are. If you are looking for an eye doctor, give them a call. I sure am happy that I happened to walk in that day. read more

I had a great experience with Dr. Eric Drey. What an Amazing doctor!!!!!!!! And not bad on the eyes either! He took the time to chat, and go over details of what he was doing. At the time I had another medical issue as well, and he let me know a personal story and offerred to refer me to his doctor as welll. Just an overall really great experience with him. If you go there, you should as for Dr. Drey. He is a bad ass! THis is why this place gets 4 stars. As for the staff, I can't speak too highly. VERY slow. And also, I ordered glasses and it took a LONG time for them to come in!!! They had no problem pestering me about picking out a pair, and getting them paid for. But no follow up what so ever. They had to be special ordered. And he said it would take a week. I called in a week, and he NEVER placed the order. I will from now on be getting my glasses, etc, from another place online. But if you need a great doctor, who is open and honest, Dr. Drey is your guy! read more

I have gone to Dr. Karikomi for at least 4 years now, truly you can't find a better doctor or team. He will spend all the time necessary with each patient, now being towards the end of the day you might wait a little bit to see him. That is only because he does such a complete job examining your eyes and discussing what he found. He is warm, compasionate and caring. He will not rush you and he will discuss with each patient what he finds. His team has always been kind, helpful and resourceful. They explain benefits and what is available, yesterday they told me I had more VSP benefits than I thought. If you're looking for an Optomtrist in the loop, look no further. Yes, you get moved around, they test you in so many ways and with various machines, but I'd rather be moving than sitting and waiting to start the process. They are great and because of this they are busy, if you're concerned about being there a while make your appointment first thing in the morning. read more

My eyes nearly fell out of their sockets when I read the negative reviews for Eye Level. It didn't even sound like the same place or staff that I have experienced for nearly a decade! First of all, Dr. Karikomi is one of the most warm and caring healthcare providers anywhere. He is constantly upgrading to the latest, most advanced diagnostic equipment so that he can plot the best course of action. When we're talking about vision, that's important. In my case, with a family history of glaucoma, it's critical. I love that Dr. Karikomi takes his time and explains my test results in such great detail. He has closely monitored my progress. I am sure he is the reason that I have remained a glaucoma suspect all these years, rather than becoming a glaucoma patient. Dr. Drey, another member of his practice, is equally excellent and thorough. He offers an even higher level of care for folks with my condition, which means that I left the office yesterday feeling relieved and confident that my condition was under control. As for the Eye Level staff, there aren't enough superlatives. They are a friendly, respectful and patient-centered team of professionals, which reflects the spirit and values of management. Of course, I am not there every day. But as in every establishment, I am sure that someone has a bad day now and then. I am confident that it is not the norm at Eye Level. They have consistently transformed a dreaded visit into a joyful one! read more

The doctor and staff were knowledgeable and the technology offered is good. However, the way the practice is run is extremely inconvenient. I've been wearing eyeglasses for 20 years and contacts for 15 years, so I am no stranger to eye exams and ordering eye wear. My first exam took about 90 minutes which frankly is a little too long for an eye exam, but I was okay with that because it's a once a year thing. I was then told I needed to schedule a follow up contact exam before I could get my prescription, which I've never even heard of, but I was assured that this would be a "quick" appointment. I showed up for my follow up, and then waited for 45 minutes before I even went in for my exam. I wound up wasting another hour of my day. At my follow up, we determined I would go back to the brand of contacts I currently wear, and have been wearing for several years now without any issue. When I went to pick up my trial pair, I asked if I could also have a copy of my prescription so that I could order glasses online. I was then informed that in order to actually get my prescription, I would need to come back for a THIRD appointment. I have honestly never heard of having to visit an eye doctor on three separate occasions just to receive a prescription. In the end of this whole process, I had made three separate visits to this office, two of which kept me there for an hour or more, and I still have no prescription, no contacts and no glasses. This place has a complete lack of respect for people's time. read more

Dr. Karikomi withheld prescription information when i tried to buy my glasses online. They said it was some measurment not needed for the prescription but something they obviously had on file as i bought one pair of glasses from them. It is FAR FAR cheaper to get a pair at another, cheaper store and Dr. Karikomi knows it. His entire business model is based on getting people to use their insurance for overpriced frames. I'm sure the margins on those frames drive 70% of his revenue. SO if you're looking for overpriced frames instead of an eye exam, go to him. He makes sure you buy, anyway possible. Oh and lie on your contact information because they stalk you. read more

What an amazing experience I had with these Opticians! In a city with lots of "Diva" Eye Glass Boutiques that give you a major attitude every time you need help, Eye Level was very refreshing, Pam was extremely patient and kind as well as Mario and the entire staff. My glasses were broken and they did a temporary fix until I made up my mind. The selection was extremely impressive and they are very up-to-date on modern styles and looks, I highly recommending going to Eye Level and getting your glasses & sunglasses there 10+ stars!!! read more

The moment I walked in I was warmly greeted with incredible professionalism and this continued throughout the visit with everyone that worked with me. I was incredibly impressed with Dr. Alan Labrum. I have been wearing glasses for probably 25 years and have never had such a thorough exam with such detail explanation. Usually you see the doc for about 4 mins and they go through #1 or #2 routine and that's about it. He actually spent probably 30 minutes going everything with me for what I consider a fairly routine exam. He was kind, considerate and full of useful knowledge. I then worked with Mario to do the glasses fitting and he was extremely helpful in explaining everything. Although I have yet to receive my new glasses I'm sure they will ensure the new specs will work out. It made me want to go back every month for a new pair of glasses. read more

I really like Dr. Drey, great caring and smart doctor! HATE the office staff and attitude they have. Technicians are dirty and do not sanitize between patients. I got pink eye after my exam there. The Dr. didnt even touch me! but the the eye testing equipment that the technicians handle did!, I like Dr Drey and the loop location. UNTILL the office staff allowed a mail order of contacts to go thru even though they knew it was wrong! and guess what? no apology or anything even after they ok'd the wrong lens (no returns due to online source) of course no refunds, just my loss. never go there cause "you ordered it online and I approved it, I thought it was wrong" was their response. (6 months worth of lens out in the trash) NOT A CHEAP LOSS I'll google Dr. Drey and see if he has his own office or other affiliations to go see him at another office. read more

Very professional both staff and Doctors. Exam was extremely thorough. The doctors and technicians explain the relevance of each procedure and answer any questions you have. I always leave assured that nothing was overlooked regarding my eyes. read more

Some of the reasons I love Dr. Karikomi: -today he spent about an hour and a half with me, and when his assistant paged him to remind him he had a personal errand to run before closing, he said "oh that's ok, I don't care. I'm having too much fun talking to Stephanie, I'll do it tomorrow." -he manages and monitors all my eye conditions, and he never judges me when I tell him I haven't been keeping up with all the habits I'm supposed to have developed to cope with them (maybe I don't really enjoy washing and massaging my eyelids and doing a hot compress every.single.night.) -every time he sees me (usually at least 2-4 times a year) he genuinely asks how I'm doing, remembers the job I last had (and I've had about 9 since I started seeing him) and is sincerely interested in how I'm doing personally -explains medically what is happening with my eyes, every single time, and doesn't assume I won't understand or talk down to me -asks me to tell him what's new in my field (counseling) and tells me what's new in his. -a year ago I asked him for a trial of contacts (which I typically can't wear because of my eye problems) for a Halloween party. He found some that worked for me, asked to see pictures of the costume, and has since asked to see my latest costume every time I see him because it turned into a ridiculous cosplay hobby. :) If you do not have an eye doctor that you love, you should see Dr. Alan Karikomi. He reminded me today that I've seen him for 10 years (we had a little moment), and though I strayed to another doctor for a bit when my insurance changed, I ended up going back to him and paying out of pocket until I got back on a plan in network. He's far more thorough in his exams than any doctor I've seen, and he's concerned about overall eye health, not just how well you can see. (If you didn't know you have to be concerned about more than vision, you do.) Go see him. He's great, and you'll get comprehensive care for your eyes. And for the people who complained about the cleanliness of the office...in the decade I've seen him, multiple times a year for the last several years, I've had many different staff members run the pre-exam tests. I've watched them wipe down the instruments every time and have never once been concerned about germs or dirt in the office. The office staff is beyond competent and friendly, always remembering me and happy to see me. My only complaint is that they're only open typical business hours Monday through Friday and I don't work downtown, but I'll continue taking time off work to go see them a few times a year because the practice is unparalleled. read more

I love Drs Karikomi and Saxton-Williams! They have been incredible and the entire staff genuinely cares about their patients. They know exactly the last time I was there and the name of my dog and everything. I was recommended there by my boyfriend, so I thought I'd give it a shot and even though I have to pay a bundle for parking or a cab, they're incredible and worth every penny! read more

I've been going here for a couple of years, and I'm a big fan. They are friendly and courteous from the minute you walk in, and even confirm insurance information ahead of time so there are no surprises. They clearly explain any charges that are not covered by insurance, too. I've never had to wait for more than a couple of minutes before being seen, and the staff and Dr. Bak took the time to explain the tests and results with me in detail. Definitely recommend! read more

Dr. Karikomi and his staff are excellent because they take the time to ensure the best care for one of your most valuable assets, your eyes. I was impressed by the doctor's overall knowledge and natural ability to understand my problem that has been reocurring and NOT diagnosed by some of the best doctors in Chicago. At Eye Level they spent the time and testing to analyze and then recognize the challenges that concerned me. My husband is equally impressed with Eye Level's service, expertise and the state of the art equipment. We both are confident that he is with the right doctor to ensure he will not go blind like his Father. These days there are too many company's that service you that are about price points generating high volume sales and are far less concerned with quality and the well being of their clients. Dr. Karikomi has an establishment that cares and can make a difference in assurring that you maintain your healthy eyes! read more

Today I had my yearly eye exam and I had such wonderful service that I felt it deserved a Yelp review. I have a newborn baby and I was extremely nervous to bring him to my exam. (I really didn't have a choice). So, I called the office and told them my situation and the staff assured me that it was ok to bring in my baby. I was completely amazed by how patient and positive the staff was with me and my tiny guy. Dr. Drey and his Staff offered me options when my little guy was getting cranky. They were never annoyed, frustrated or irritated. It's nice to know that they are family friendly :) The Dr. and Staff also were very clear on what was covered and what wasn't. They also told me prices of each procedure so I could get an idea of what I would be paying. I was never surprised with the amount I had to pay after my appointment. The office is a little small, and to some that might be a little frustrating, but I don't mind it :) I really like the staff and I'm looking forward to my next appointment. read more

Dr. Karikomi and his staff are a great health team and I have trusted them with my entire family for years. Their patient flow is efficient, professional and friendly from appointment setting to arrival to exam and to eyeglass selection. The most important feature for me is the eye exam. Dr. Karikomi is always using the most modern and sophisticated technology for reviewing the health of your eyes. Once his staff completes a battery of tests the Dr takes his time with you and examines your eyes and explains all test results and gives recommendations. read more

Great service, excellent staff and incredibly state of the art equipment. They were on time, helped with my insurance and had a great eye glass selection. Thanks Dr. Barabas read more

Dr. Karikomi is excellent. His skills and knowledge are first rate. The efficiency of his office staff is outstanding. Dr. Karikomi has been my optometrist for more than 30 years and I recommend him with confidence and without reservation. Lyman W read more

I have been a patient of Dr. Karikomi's almost continually for 30 years. I say "almost continually" because when I was not working in downtown Chicago for a year, I went to another eye doctor for convenience. I learned my lesson. Dr. Karikomi's thoroughness is unmatched. He has gone beyond a mere eye exam, as my eyes have aged, to assure their health and has watched over me to assure that I do not develop glaucoma, has helped me through a retinal tear and cataracts. He has been particularly patient with my vanity, helping to adjust my prescription to stave off the necessity of bifocals and "granny" glasses necessitated by presbyopia (inability to see things closely). Once I have cataract surgery, I will no longer need to see him for glasses, but will continue to see him to assure my eye health. I would not go anywhere else. read more

My wife and I have been patients of Dr. Karikomi for more then 15 years. Dr. Karikomi and his staff have always been responsive to our needs. They have consistently met and exceeded expectations for service and products. The staff has been available to us for emergency matters and have always treated us with the utmost respect. It is a pleasure to recommend Dr. Alan Karikomi and Associates and his office. read more

Dr. Karikomi & staff are excellent. It was several years since my last eye exam, and I was very impressed with how thorough the staff was in the tests they did based on my response to their questions. Dr. Karikomi was great as he reviewed all the test results with me. I was never rushed and he answered all my questions and made sure I understood everything. I would highly recommend Eye Level. read more

Check out my other yelps and you'll learn I am a positive yelper. Re: the Eye Level it's interesting but not surprising that as of January 2008 through 2/13/11 only 4 people have yelped this establishment. Two mentioned "over-marketing" and one mentioned poor staff. There are so many other optical offerings in the Loop with many more Yelp comments. Why doesn't the Eye-Level have the typical loyalty we see from Yelpers - with good and/or bad comments? After going to Dr. Karikomi for at least 5 years I can say with confidence that it's an uneven experience and I would now not recommend him to anyone based on the "over-marketing," his uneven staff, and very high eye glass prices even after factoring in my VSP insurance benefits. First, SOME of the staff is wonderful, in particular Pamela. Second, Dr. Karikomi is very passionate about eye analysis and gives you the feeling that if there is anything wrong, he will find it. Sadly, that is eclipsed by how Dr. Karikomi runs his office and his childish behavior when you elect to use him only for an eye exam*. My husband and I have both gone to him for a number of years and based on our management experience assume that the "vibe" in Karikomi's office is caused by him being a micro-manager. His employees seemed terrified if they don't ask you several times about buying glasses. I've noticed this for a long time but was too busy to check out a new optometrist for a once a year appointment. Based on my last appointment in late December I'm done with Dr. Karikomi. I'm confident I'll find a better office for next year's exam. Michelle the technician provided the worst eye exam of my life. Her impatience, rudeness, arrogance, physical roughness (grabbing my head/hair) were all magnified by the fact that I had just gone through a similar exam at an ophthalmologist office based on some symptoms that were beyond the scope of an optometrist. At that exam I complimented the technician who clearly loved her job. At the end of my appointment I explained to Karikomi that I wanted to have a prescription. He was pestering me about buying the glasses from his office. I politely explained I had a friend who worked at an optical store (anything to get him off my back). Two seconds later he then turned me over to a person on his staff who asked me what kind of glasses I was looking for that day. Karikomi was 3 feet away. When I explained that I was not buying glasses and simply wanted to pay for the exam, I had to then work with someone else to pay my bill. Karikomi then handed me a prescription. It's a long story but basically he never asked what kind of prescription I wanted (as if I know to ask that since I get glasses only once every 2 years) The next day when I went to Lens Crafters, I learned the prescription he wrote was incorrect and I needed 2 prescriptions written by the following day in order to catch Lens Crafter's end of the year sale. After several, several, several phone calls I received one but not the other. I went down to his office at the end of the day to pick up the final one betting they could not kick me out. Once I got back up to Lens Crafters on the north side I learned that one of the prescriptions was still incorrect. I have since asked for my records for when I go to a different Optometrist. Today, my husband went to Lens Crafters and leaned that Karikomi made a mistake with his prescription AND Karikomi's office incorrectly reported to my husband's insurance carrier that he purchased glasses from their office since the start of this year (he did not) so he can not get insurance benefits from Lens Crafters until he clears up the mess with Karikomi's office. Also, without asking him, they also added a "night vision" technology to the eye glass prescription (assuming he would use their office) which is an option he did not want. Good luck if you elect to use Karikomi and go with an open wallet. read more

Both Dr. Karikomi and Dr. Drey are extremely nice and knowledegable (I've seen Dr. Karikomi twice and Dr. Drey twice), however their incompetent and rude front-office staff is enough reason for me to switch doctors. The greeting receptionist looked and acted very annoyed having to check me in and since the two only chairs they have in the place were taken, I was asked to sit off to the side. I waited fifteen minutes before another person asked me if I had completed their online profile yet (which I hadn't) and was given a tablet to complete the information which took about five minutes. I then waited another ten minutes before someone completely different (now person #3) asked me to fill out yet another form asking if I wanted the glaucoma test (I didn't as I had it the last time I was there which they should have known). After thirty minutes of waiting (in the middle of my work day) without anyone warning me the doctor was running behind or letting me know how long a wait to expect, I was just about to get up and leave when person #4 finally brought me to the back to perform the standard tests - which was a extremely disorganized process in itself. The doctor STILL wasn't ready to see me so I was asked to wait back in the waiting area for another five minutes. The "check out" process is also disorganized where you are handed over to one of three other people, using a calculator to determine your cost (isn't that built into their system?) and then try talking you into a year's supply of contacts when you can get them for half their cost from 1-800-CONTACTS. Needless to say, I will be switching doctors. read more