SUMMARY All the Yelp reviews are 5 stars for a reason. Dr. Garg isn't just a very good doctor, he's an exceptional physician. And the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute is an exceptional institution for 'all things eyes." To get a sense of Dr. Garg's for yourself: * Read these Yelp reviews. They reflect my experience. * Read Dr. Garg's UCI bio - covers education, research, and accolades -https://www.faculty.uci.edu/profile.cfm?faculty_id=5642 * Watch 1 or 2 podcasts of Dr. Garg being interviewed on a variety of eye-related topics (Google "Dr. Sumit Garg YouTube") * Have an eye exam with Dr. Garg Also. Dr. Garg and many of his colleagues take 'medical missions' to counties with limited capabilities for diagnosing and surgically correcting life altering eye issues. They perform surgery on individuals and train local eye doctors on current methods GAVIN HERBERT EYE INSTITUTE The Institute's facility and reputation gave me an additional level of comfort. It is a modern, stand-alone facility that sits on outskirts of UCI's campus. Both inside and out, it projects a high-tech, clean, calming and eye-centric image. It is where research, community-based lectures, teaching, eye exams and surgery take place. That the Institute is part of the UCI Medical Center gives the Institute many benefits. It has the latest diagnostic and surgical technology. It is a teaching environment so that the doctors tend to be current on new technologies, procedures, and practices - all of which are approved for effectiveness and safety by an Institute review board before being put into practice. For my cataract surgery, there were pre-op eyelid hygiene and eyedrops and post-op eyedrops - all designed to produce the best outcomes. MY CIRCUMSTANCES I am 75. I first saw Dr. Garg in 2017 for an eye exam. Both eyes had an astigmatism and cataract in addition some nearsightedness. Right eye was 20/400+ and left eye 20/60-70. He said I could have cataract surgery whenever I was ready. A year later I got glasses for the first time in my life. Then in late 2019, I was ready for cataract surgery. Each was replaced with a TECNIS Symfony Toric Extended Field of Definition lens (similar to multi-focal) to give me distance and intermediate correction. I had my right eye in December 2019. I held off on having my left eye done because I could read with that eye so between the two eyes, I didn't need glasses. Dr. Garg had told me that I would probably want the left eye done so that there wasn't 'tension' between the two eyes. He was right - I had my left eye done in February 2020. Each eye took 15-20 minutes - no pain, no soreness, just better vision! Both eyes are now 20/15! For close-up reading, I will be getting a pair of 'readers' from Costco. read more

Dr. Garg and the Gavin Herbert Eye and his staff are incredible and consistent in their Care. I'm a younger patient and needed to have my lens replaced because I developed a Cataract in my right eye. Years of Steroids to control my asthma while growing up and my dominant eye went from 20/30 to like 20/400 in 7 months. Dr. Garg took more time than I thought he should talking through the procedure and what the two lens choices were. I went with the Symphony based on Dr. Gargs explanations. I had the surgery and was worried about down time because I was in an intense Chemistry course. The day of the surgery it was like a military operation and everything was on point. Staff was funny and I hope they get you a meal truck since they don't feed you down there. LOL!!! But it was incredible. No pain. Pressure and some wacky images. By night time my vision was already greatly improved the next day for after op visit my day vision checked in at 20/20. His skill and his staffs skill at the procedure was spot on. Lens was perfectly placed. Dr. Garg is personable and a Great physician and has a better bedside manner than most doctors I'v dealt with when spending years in hospitals growing up with chronic Asthma. I don't have to resort to modern Hyperbole with him and his staff and the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute. Cause they were just excellent. After care and follow up was great. 5 weeks later when using both eyes I am 20/20 and in my eye that had the surgery I am 20/15. Just to me amazing how quick and great it turned out. Ive had surgeries and the difference between a good surgeon and great surgeon I've found is healing time. Great surgeon the healing time is much less painful and is 1/3 the time. Dr. Sumit Garg and his staff qualify as great in my eyes. I don't do grade inflation either. I am glad I got to see Dr. Garg and his staff and the nurses I can not recommend him enough. Believe me I am very hard on Doctors and speak my mind. I went to Harvard Grad school and I don't treat Doctors like gods. Dr Garg is the Cats Meow and just incredibly skilled. He was so happy with the results when he was checking my eyes with the scope and seeing the lens placement he gently pounded on the table. That's the sign of a perfectionist. I do the same thing when I build a motorcycle or fly a plane or many things. That's what you want a perfectionist. Dr. Garg is really beyond superlatives for me. Ashley Kenyon and please Dr. Garg thank your nurses your resident and staff. The excellence runs throughout the operation. read more

A case of ocular herpes and corneal transplant: If you need an extremely talented ophthalmologist I highly recommend Dr. Garg and his colleagues at the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute. Twelve years ago I suffered a bout with ocular herpes (prior to that never had a cold sore in my life -- go figure) which over time left the cornea in my right eye scarred and thinning. If I had to describe the effect, it was akin to looking at the world thru a piece of cheese cloth -- it left me with vision of 20/400 in the eye, all but blind. I needed a corneal transplant to restore vision in the eye but was very nervous to do so. I was referred to Dr. Garg and the institute about 4 years ago and consider myself extremely fortunate. Dr. Garg was very patient with me and walked me thru the procedure and what to expect many times as I wrestled with the decision of having surgery. In the end, his obvious talent and reassuring manner combined with the cutting edge technology the institute employs gave me the confidence to do the surgery on October 11th, 2018. I could not be more pleased with the results -- I was all but blind on 10/10/18, on 10/12/18 (post-op visit with Dr. Garg) I was reading at 20/150 plus having depth perception for the first time in years, and today on 11/5/18, a mere ~3.5 weeks after surgery.....20/60! Dr. Garg thinks my vision will continue to improve and with correction I could potentially get down to 20/20. Simply amazing! This has truly changed my life and I owe it all to Dr. Garg and the staff at the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute. read more

It is probably an understatement to say that Dr. Garg is as brilliant and caring a medical professional as exists. Not only are his skills and credentials of the highest order, but his personable, concerned and unassuming style represent the very best in modern medicine. I have benefited from cataract and YAG capsulotomy procedures from Dr. Garg, the visual outcomes have been nothing short of remarkable, with my former razor vision restored to what seems, possibly, even better than it was years ago (20/10)! It goes almost without saying that there was no post-operative pain at all, and not really any noticeable scratchiness. Regarding the last cataract procedure (to my left eye), Dr. Garg offered me a new laser technology that allows even greater accuracy in measuring the eye during the operation for the best possible match of the IOL. Although there is some cost for this additional step, the results of my procedure bear out the choice in stark terms: my left eye (which received the new technique) is now even better than my right eye (which, at 20/15, used to be my strongest, even after cataract surgery three years ago)--an unexpected benefit. The Gavin Herbert Eye Institute at UCI, of which Dr. Garg also is Medical Director, is as impressive a facility and staff as surely could exist anywhere in the world, so one can take for granted, too, the high level of care that characterizes all that is offered there. read more

If you're in a hurry and don't want to read this entire review, just know this, Dr. "Sam" Garg is fantastic! I'm a difficult patient for cataract surgery because I'm extremely nearsighted at -19 in both eyes with dense cataracts and thin retinas due to the oblong shape of my eyes. He used the Femtosecond Laser to soften the old lenses. After about a week after surgery I can see fine. I'm writing this without reading glasses for the first time in a zillion years. My hat's off to Dr. Garg and his team of wonderful assistants. If you've been thinking about having his done, you'll be very pleased with Dr. Garg's ability and demeanor. He treated me like family! ...."I can see clearly now..." For the techies out there the Femtosecond Laser is in the Ultrafast class of lasers with pulses measured in femto seconds (a femto second is 10 to the -15 seconds) which is really fast. That's 10x10x10x10 etc. 15 times with a minus meaning subtract that from one full second and you have the speed at which the laser emits a pulse of light). This minimizes collateral damage to the tissues in the eye both from the incision and the removal process. read more

I had myopic vision with comorbid astigmatism since age 5. At the tender age of 50 my optometrist told me that I was displaying a mild start of cataract along the edges of the lenses of both eyes. Not even one year later I went back to the optometrist complaining about deteriorating vision, when I was told that my lenses were now fogged entirely even if mildly. Luckily my brother-in-law had cataract surgery one year prior with Dr. Garg. Based on my brother-in-law's recommendation I went to see Dr. Garg at the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute (UCI). I did not regret it. The service and staff at the institute are world class in efficiency, professionalism and courtesy. Dr. Garg took all the precautions necessary given my high level of astigmatism and referred me to a retina specialist prior to cataract surgery. I was given the correct recommendation in regards of implanted lens and the procedure - I had both eyes done with one week between both surgeries - went smooth. I now enjoy 20/20 vision and drive at night with the vision like a healthy 25 year old. I would recommend Dr. Garg and the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute at UCI to anybody. read more

It was necessary for me to have a "second" cataract surgery on my left eye and the lens replaced since my former doctor, Lee Novick, put a lens in my eye (2/17) that was not appropriate and so many issues arose with the first lens implant. I was introduced to Dr. Sumit Garg and the decision was made to remove the lens and replace it with another (8/17) which is a very difficult procedure. Best decision ever made. Extremely grateful I was referred to UCI Gavin Herbert Eye Institute as well as receiving help from Dr. Garg. From the very entrance of a modern, very clean facility, the receptionist through the technicians and all the staff, are so professional, personable and attentive. My waiting time was just ten minutes and through many procedures as well as seeing Dr. Garg and addressing all my questions in great detail, I was out within an hour. I have another cataract in the right eye and when it is time for that surgery, I would definitely go to Dr. Garg...I have learned from mistakes and experience, he is the best. read more

I needed cataract surgery and a friend who is professionally familiar with the world of medicine did some research and gave me several names in my area that had excellent credentials. Dr. Garg who is the Medical Director of the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute at UCI was at the top of the list. It was a good choice. I am impressed with Dr. Garg and the Institute. Dr. Garg is one of those physicians that actually listens to you and answers questions thoroughly and in a way that a lay person can understand. I never once felt I was being rushed through an examination like is so common in the medical industry today. I have an astigmatism and Dr. Garg suggested a lens that would correct that and allow me to drive without the corrective lens that I have worn since I was a teenager. It was a good suggestion and despite knowing that things don't always work out perfectly I got my wish to have excellent distance vision without corrective lenses. I highly recommend Dr. Garg and the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute at UCI. read more

As a Stanford educated professional, my standards for other professionals are exceptionally high. Additionally, when it comes to my health I research and verify the credentials and reputation of every doctor I have ever consulted. I was recently looking for a first-rate ophthalmologist, and a colleague of mine referred me to Dr. Garg. I read his bio and subsequently made a consultative appointment. I was immediately impressed by his polite matter-of-fact professionalism, and decided to proceed with the surgery. When I went in to have the first eye done, a former classmate of mine was also there for her surgery. She too spoke highly of Dr. Garg. Now, after having both eyes done, I can confidently state that Sam is a consummate professional! I am extremely satisfied with my experience with him and the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute at UCI. Anyone considering or needing cataract surgery should at the very least consult Dr. Garg and if they want the best work done on their eyes, have him perform the surgery. read more

this latest surgery was my 4th with Dr. Garg. back in 2011 I had some vision issues on my right eye, looked for a specialist, and found Dr Garg. I had what was called a pterygium, and had it removed, no fuss, quick procedure. 2 years later they appeared on my left eye, so I naturally went back to Dr Garg another successful surgery. fast forward now to 2021, vision seemingly failing fast, so again, off to see the doc. turned out to be cataracts and astigmatism. well after all the medical mumbo jumbo, and my options, we elected to do the laser procedure for cats and astigmatism and an intraocular lens transplant in both eyes. sufficed to say, today after my 2 week follow up, my vision went from 300/20 to 20/20 in my right eye and 20/15 in my left. you know I was more than pleased, and expressed my gratitude to Dr Garg. from my experience, I do extensive research for any specialists that work on me, and Dr Garg is one of the BEST. hands down read more

What can you say when some when someone gives you the gift of sight? I was almost blind in my left eye. I had developed cataracts at an unusually young age due to a side effects of a prescription medication. Dr. Garg removed both cataracts and I now have 20/20 vision. Not only is Dr. Garg a gifted surgeon and wonderful doctor, he is kind hearted and truly cares about his patients. The Gavin Herbert Institute is a state of the art facility on the Irvine Campus. The staff are well trained, efficient and caring. The facility itself is futuristic and spotless. I've had two surgeries here that were completed with skill, efficiency and excellent results. At my follow up, Dr. Garg exhausted every avenue to make sure that I had the best outcome. This is medicine practiced on a level that is rarely seen. I feel extremely fortunate to have experienced this not only once, but now twice in my life. read more

I am absolutely delighted with my new eyesight after Dr. Garg did my cataract surgery. After more than 50 years wearing glasses i now see clearly at all ranges thanks to his plan for my eyes. Dr. Garg advised the Symfony lens for my non-dominant eye and after reading up on it, i realized Dr. Garg is an expert with this lens. I see better now than with any glasses I've had in the past few years - even reading and playing piano without glasses. Yes, the Symfony lens was a charge not covered by my insurance - and well worth it. We were aware of the cost for the improved lens. However, there was a total lack of pricing transparency for the other procedures with the cataract surgeries UCI which has resulted in far more expenses than we were prepared for. Of course great eyesight is priceless! But thousands of dollars in extra charges not covered by insurance remains a terrible surprise. read more

Dr. Garg monitored my Fuch's Dystrophy every three months for several years, and I waited for him to say "it's time" for a cornea transplant. That moment arrived this year. Dr. Garg answered all my questions and fully prepared me for the surgery. The first transplant was done in May, and the second in August. At my most recent follow-up appointment, my vision was 20/20 and 20/40--a near miracle. Every member of the team was attentive and professional, but none more than Dr. Garg. I never felt rushed or that he was in a hurry to get to the next patient--and when my recovery the second time was a little different than the first, he fit me into his schedule so we could make sure everything was on track. I couldn't be happier, and I would recommend him without reservation! He is kind, compassionate, and an expert in his field. read more

Dr. Garg is an excellent surgeon and great to work with. My experience at the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute was seamless. I got a very thorough pre-op screening with state of the art, brand new equipment. The procedure lasted about 10 minutes and after a nap (and some ibuprofen) I was seeing better than 20/20 (20/15!) in both eyes. Surprisingly painless (only mild postop discomfort for a few hours) and everything was explained in detail and provided by Dr. Garg and his excellent staff. The price was all inclusive and very competitive (I called 3 other LASIK centers and none of them could beat the price) and you should ask about their special pricing for having a residency-trained fellow perform the procedure. Love the results and I'm so glad I had Dr. Garg perform my LASIK! read more

I recent had bi-lateral cataracts extracted and new lenses placed in my eyes. That really does sound terrible but if you are planning to trust anyone, I would trust Dr. Sumit Garg at the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute. He had developed, along with his team, a well running clinic. The wait times are short, the staff knowledgeable, the equipment he uses is extensive to get the proper fit and dx. I have never had such an extensive eye exam in my life. His time spent with me was well used and still time left for Q and A's. Today I am seeing 20/20, still doing the drops but thrilled with the outcome.The only downside is if you are looking for a MD to follow you for ongoing eye health, he really doesn't do that. That is fine with me. He is a busy saving eyesight for others. read more

I wrote a review for Dr. Garg in earlier but apparently it wasn't saved. I had cataract surgery in both eyes in December at the Gavin Eye Institute. Dr. Garg is a fantastic surgeon and treated me with great care. I'm so thrilled at the results -- I have 20/20 vision again and I'm 70 years old. It was the easiest surgery I've ever experienced. The nurses and staff were so wonderful and treated me like a dear friend. The facility was hi-tech and everyone was so helpful and experienced. I never had any pain and I was amazed that right after surgery I could see perfectly. My follow up exam went smoothly and very timely. I highly recommend Dr. Garg and staff at both the Irvine and Orange facilities. I told Dr. Garg he has given me the best gift - sight. read more

A BIG thank you to Dr. Sumit Garg. I highly recommend Dr. Garg. I can't say enough positive things about Dr. Garg. He is specialized in difficult cataract surgery and is very knowledgeable and competent. I had couple of consultations before selecting Dr. Sumit Garg at the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute. I had 1st surgery on end of July 2020 and 2nd surgery on first week of aug 2020 and the results are excellent. The surgery could not have gone any better and I am delighted with results. He presented the options that were not possible for my eyes. He referred other specialist before and after the surgery. Dr. Garg was approachable, took as much time as needed, and answered all of my questions at the appointments and on the phone call leading up to the surgery. read more

I had cataract surgery done on both eyes by Dr. Garg at the Gavin Herbert Eye Center in Irvine, CA. Every aspect of my experience exceeded my expectations: from the pre-surgery exams and consultation, the surgery, the post surgery follow-up, and most of all, the results, I couldn't imagine a better experience. Dr. Garg took the extra time needed to understand my needs and wishes, and to be sure that I had all my questions answered clearly. The surgery went perfectly, and Dr. Garg followed up later the same day, and again the following day to be sure all was well. The Gavin Herbert eye center is very well equipped and everyone working there was kind, professional, and a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Dr. Garg to anyone needing cataract surgery! read more

I met Dr Garg in the middle of a full-blown unexpected crisis. I woke up one morning with a serious infection in my eye from my contact lenses. I was escalated three times in rapid succession from specialist to specialist - and gratefully, ended with Dr. Garg. I would later learn Dr. Garg was considered paramount in his field, but at the time I was just aware he was the lifeline to keeping my eye. He has a very kind bedside manner, and he's very professional and inspires confidence. My cornea transplant went very smoothly, and the results are miraculous! I am always aware that he is very busy, and "in demand", but I never feel "rushed", or that he isn't focused and dedicated to my situation when I am in his office. I can wholeheartedly recommend him! read more