The Eye Institute of West Florida – St. Petersburg

I recently visited The Eye Institute on Central Avenue in St. Petersburg. I registered at the front desk and noted a large number of patients seated in various waiting areas or alcoves surrounding the registration area. I was evaluated and escorted to no less than three examination rooms by a series of providers with unknown credentials. My final examination was performed by an ophthalmologist who was personable and provided a good explanation of the plan for my care. In my mind, the Eye Institute runs much like a patient factory with production being the primary goal. I have had similar experiences at 2 other unrelated clinics in, or near, St. Petersburg. In my mind, it is not the best patient experience.

⭐☆☆☆☆ One star for me. One star for waiting so long. One star for being a cheapskate. One star for convincing myself that glasses, contacts, readers, solutions, and annual prescriptions were somehow the cheaper option. Dr. Hummel and his team deserve FIVE stars. Having Light Adjustable Lenses has been life-changing. As a business owner, I spend hours every day looking at screens, paperwork, and my phone. Like most people today, my vision affects everything I do. What impressed me most was that Dr. Hummel wasn't aiming for "pretty good" vision. He was determined to get my vision EXACTLY where I wanted it. The ability to fine-tune my prescription after surgery was something I never imagined possible, and the results have exceeded my expectations. I also did my homework. Dr. Hummel's pricing was nearly $4,000 less than another practice I consulted, yet I never felt like I was receiving anything less than first-class care. Every visit was professional, thorough, and focused on achieving the best possible outcome. If you're on the fence, stop waiting like I did. You're going to spend money on glasses, contacts, readers, and eye exams for years anyway. Invest in yourself. These are your productive years. Whether you're working, driving, reading, or simply enjoying life, being able to wake up and see clearly is priceless. Thank you, Dr. Hummel and your entire team, for helping me see the world EXACTLY the way I wanted to. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I am sharing my experience with The Eye Institute of West Florida regarding procedures performed on my left eye, including a lens replacement with an Odyssey lens performed by Dr. Hummel, a later laser procedure intended to address problems from the first procedure, and PRK performed by Dr. Desai in another attempt to improve the outcome. Unfortunately, my vision did not improve. In fact, my vision and quality of life have worsened significantly. Before the lens replacement, I only needed 1.5 readers. I now require 2.5 readers. I continue to suffer from constant dry eye, despite a tear duct procedure performed by Dr. Hummel. I have also developed macular puckering, my eye axis has changed significantly, and even with glasses my vision cannot be corrected to better than 20/30. In addition to the vision problems, I continue to experience ongoing pain and irritation. It feels like there is something in my eye at all times, and that discomfort has not gone away. I have consulted with other medical professionals regarding my condition and have been advised that the wrong lens may have been used, possibly due to improper measurement. I have incurred substantial expenses seeking expert opinions and expect to face additional costs in an effort to correct or improve the damage to my vision. When I raised my concerns with the practice, their response was essentially that they did nothing wrong, had refunded my money, and wished me luck. Given the seriousness of the ongoing problems I am experiencing, I found that response very disappointing. Based on my experience, I would strongly caution anyone considering a procedure with this practice to seek multiple independent opinions, ask detailed questions, and fully understand the risks before moving forward.

Long wait to be seen. Great staff. Professional, friendly and conscientious. Dr. Hummel was personable, explained procedure well, and was skilled in his abilities. I'm very pleased with exception of hours waiting.

From the time I check in, until the time I check out, I am treated like family! Everyone is always so nice. Dr.Desai and Dr. Sam Gruszka are both amazing!