I underwent PRK surgery in June 2025, and my experience with Dr. Chao and his team was nothing short of exceptional. From the very beginning, Dr. Chao demonstrated outstanding bedside manner—he took the time to answer all my questions thoroughly and made sure I felt informed and comfortable throughout the process. Terry was also incredibly helpful, always available to address my concerns and keeping me well-informed in the lead-up to the procedure. Although I was nervous, Dr. Chao guided me through each step with calm reassurance, consistently checking in to make sure I was ready to move forward. His clear communication, genuine kindness, and expert care made a world of difference. He provided everything I needed for post-op recovery, and I experienced zero complications. Just as he had explained, everything went smoothly. At my one-month follow-up, my vision had improved to 20/20 in each eye and an impressive 20/15 with both eyes open. Traveling from Bakersfield, CA for the surgery and follow-up appointments was a commitment—but I wanted the best, and Dr. Chao came highly recommended. I have absolutely no regrets and would enthusiastically recommend Dr. Chao and his team to anyone considering PRK.
Chao Vision Institute
About
Chao Vision Institute is an eye doctor and optical shop in Irvine, California, located at 2500 Alton Pkwy Ste 102. Eye exams and an optical dispensary are both on site, so you can have your eyes checked and pick out frames in one visit. Listed services include comprehensive eye exam and glasses & frames. The practice is in network with 1 vision plan, including VSP. Doctors at this practice include Lawrence Chao, MD and Emily Bui, OD. The optical carries 36 frame brands. Walk-ins are accepted. Call (949) 679-2426 to confirm hours and coverage before you visit.
- Listing type
- Optical · Optometrist
- Address
-
2500 Alton Pkwy Ste 102
Irvine, CA 92606
Get Directions - Phone
- (949) 679-2426
- Languages spoken
- English, Mandarin
- Walk-ins
- Accepted
Insurance accepted
Services offered
Services not listed are not offered at this location.
Frame brands carried
Brands on the floor as of the practice's last update. Stock varies — call for a specific model.
On the map
Hours
Hours not published — call ahead.
Currently closed. Times shown in America/Los_Angeles. Holiday hours may differ.
Doctors at this practice
Reviews on Google 40
Dr Chao and his staff provide incredible service and quality of care! Dr Chao saved my sight by identifying the need for an emergency laser procedure to reduce eye pressure. Subsequently, he performed cataract surgery on both eyes, further reducing eye pressure and greatly improving my vision. The admin staff is very efficient. The technicians are knowledgeable and attentive. I recommend Chao Vision Institute to anyone seeking the highest quality of vision care.
CONGRATULATIONS! You just hit the jackpot of Eye Surgeons. Dr. Chao is seriously top shelf. I have worn glasses my entire life and at 67 with cataracts starting to affect my daily life I started my search for a solution. I first went to UCI and had no complaints with the facility or the Dr.’s there. A close friend of my wife’s told us about her experience with two different surgeons. One who screwed up one eye and the other (Dr. Chao) who was amazing. Making my appointment: I called his office and received nothing but the best treatment from his office staff. Upon my initial visit the offices are very nice and conveniently located in Irvine. Meeting Dr. Chao was great. He is Knowledgeable and kind. Spent enough time with me and explained everything I needed to know about the surgery I was going to have. After thorough exams on my eyes, decisions were made on the type of lenses I wanted. We scheduled surgery within 10 days of my visit. Surgeries went extremely well. I couldn’t believe how great my vision was in my weak eye that was really only used for peripheral vision and the colors……WOW! I felt like I crawled out of a cave. The second eye went just as well and now 4 days after the second eye I am laying it all out for the world to read. If you are looking into seeing Dr. Chao your search has ended. Don’t waste another second; you will never regret letting him help you have an whole new outlook on life. It did for me. Thank you very much Dr. Chao Sincerely, Tim O’Key Orange, CA.
My experience with Dr. Chao and his staff for cataract surgery was suburb. I needed correction to continue working as a pilot. He directed me to the best lenses for my objective, which happened to be the least expensive. It is clear to me that he puts patient outcomes first. He is professional, competent and a great guy.
Dr Chao is an amazing person and great eye surgeon. Everybody at the institute (Irvine) is super friendly and professional. I had Lasik surgery and they all made me feel very comfortable from the start. I shopped around before going to Dr Chao and everywhere i went, i felt pressured to make a quick decision and schedule the surgery right away. It was not the case here, and this was the only place where i actually met the surgeon on the 1st visit. No sales pitch, just an open conversation to figure out the best solution for me. I never felt obliged to do anything and was very comfortable the entire time. I met with Dr Chao in person every time through the entire process and he always took the time to address my concerns, before and after the procedure. I love this place, and would recommend you give it a try before picking your surgeon, i'm confident you will see the difference too.
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