Chang Eye Group

During the first few of months of 2026, I underwent the process of assessment, screening, planning for cataract surgery, and the actual surgery and post-op itself. I consulted with Dr. Chang, Dr. Gaster, Dr. Lewen, and Dr. Calle; Dr. Alunni performed my surgery at the St. Clair Surgery Center. I was unaware until the initial consultation that were was possible to receive implants that would reduce or eliminate my need for glasses. The doctors and staff filled me in on how these premium options would work, what they would cost, and gave me realistic expectations for post-op results. I opted for the Alcon Clareon Vivity IOLs. I am now six weeks post surgery and I have gone from -10 or worse in both eyes to 20/20 vision, requiring only off-the-rack reading glasses for small text at close ranges. I can use my computer, drive, and otherwise participate in day to day activities with no glasses reliance. This has been a life-changing experience for me. My side effects were minimal to non-existent, just some eye irritation in the days immediately after my surgery. The staff were fantastic and the practice is professionally run. All of my questions regarding out-of-pocket costs, scheduling, and what to expect were accommodated in a timely and up-front fashion. If I had to go through this four month process with Chang Eye Group again, I would do it in an instant. I would recommend Chang Eye Group to my friends and family without reservations.

Though my experience with all support staff, Dr. Alunni, who performed my cataract surgery and Dr. Gaster, who completed all but one of my post-op visits, was positive, my experience with the physician who the practice is named after, was negative enough to lower a 4-5 star review to a 2. I’ve worked in healthcare for 30+ years and have had countless interactions with health professionals, both as colleagues and as providers, and have never experienced anyone as condescending or unempathetic as the Dr. Chang. Perhaps because he has, “performed well over 20,000 cataract surgeries”, he has become desensitized to the concerns of his patients and how their quality of life is negatively impacted by visual deficits, as insignificant as he may consider them. Dr. Chang seems oblivious to the fact that people experience/interpret visual deficits differently, as we rely on our vision in different ways, predicated on the activities we engage in. Some may need to see well enough to function in an office, walk around the neighborhood or read a book, while others need it for higher level activities, where depth perception is critical, like mountain biking, skiing, etc. I had experienced improved visual acuity, initially, after surgery but that was followed by an, what Dr. Chang considered, insignificant decline, in subsequent weeks. After performing a thorough exam, which is the only positive thing I can say about my experience with him, and not having a concrete answer as to why there was a decline, his response was basically, “well, it’s better than it was before the surgery”! I feel confident that if Dr. Chang underwent a surgery and experienced a setback, he would not be content if the surgeon provided a noncommittal response in regard to the etiology of the setback or was nonchalant about the setback being permanent. The other experience that was less than optimal had to do with a prescription refill. Their outgoing message instructs patients on what information to provide, not to call back and that they will do their best to contact you within 24 hrs. I left a message regarding the need for a refill of my drops that I needed to apply for 5 additional days. After 24 hrs, I still hadn’t heard from a representative. I finally left a message stating that since it took so long to get back to me, it must not be important to continue the drops. It’s been 2 days and I’ve not heard from them. If you’re ok with an assembly line mentality, antiquated communicative technology and the sense that profit is the primary concern, then this is the place for you! Otherwise, I recommend looking elsewhere for your eye care.

Dr. Brian Gaster was awesome. He reassured me about my vision concerns and migraines and took the time to answer all of my questions. He was personable, knowledgeable, and understanding, which meant a lot as someone with health anxiety. I also really appreciated that he walked me through every part of my vision exam and explained what he was doing, as I’m very interested in the medical side of things. I’ll definitely continue seeing him.

My first experience at Chang Eye Group was just fine- it wasn’t awful, but it certainly didn’t make the business stand out from the crowd. I had called to reschedule my appointment days before it was scheduled, and was met with a rude individual on the other end of the phone. I kept my originally scheduled appointment and came in. I sat for 30 minutes waiting to be taken back for my appointment. The associate at the front desk was very kind; the doctor was professional and created a welcoming atmosphere. When picking up my contacts on a separate date, I went into the office and sat for 5-10 minutes without being greeted by the associate working. To be fair, he was with another customer, but a simple “Hi, I’ll be with you in a few minutes” would have sufficed. My contacts were prepaid, and I needed to pick them up. I went to the front desk on the appointment side and asked them if they could help me get my contacts. They were understanding and apologized for my wait, and were able to get me my contacts within a minute. Overall, the customer experience surrounding my contact pick-up and wait times will deter me from returning.

I had such an amazing experience learning how to use contact lenses, and I truly cannot say enough wonderful things about Nancy! She is incredibly kind, funny, knowledgeable, and so patient. From the very beginning, she made me feel completely comfortable and supported. She really took her time with me, never rushed, and went above and beyond to make sure I felt confident every step of the way. Her positive energy and genuine care made such a difference—she is truly one of a kind. I feel so lucky to have had her as my teacher! I also want to mention Megan and Denise, who were both so warm, kind, and thoughtful. They were amazing during check-in and when scheduling my follow-up appointment—always with a smile on their faces and such positive energy. They truly are a ray of sunshine and made the entire experience even more enjoyable. Overall, such a wonderful experience—I’m so grateful for all of you! 😊