Dove Canyon Optometry

From comprehensive vision exams to designer eyewear, from colored contacts to laser vision services, our practice is well-suited to meet all of your vision needs. Our knowledgeable doctor and helpful staff members are eager to help you see well and look great!
We are conveniently located in the Trabuco Marketplace and look forward to seeing you soon!

Commonly Asked Questions

How often should I have an eye exam?
We recommend that everyone have their eyes examined every year for two reasons: clear vision and healthy eyes. The first reason is obvious. But what people often fail to consider is that eye health problems can develop without any symptoms. An eye doctor can detect diseases (glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, etc.) long before people realize they've lost some vision.
Even people who think they see clearly are often surprised at what they've been

When should I bring my children in for their first eye exam?
The American Optometric Association recommends the following:
* First basic exam at 12 months, to ensure proper development and to rule out any birth-related issues.
* First comprehensive exam at years.
* Then, before kindergarten and every year thereafter.

What will happen at my eye exam?
Our doctors perform a thorough check of both your vision and your ocular health. Generally, our exams follow these steps:

* One of our technicians will perform computerized testing to check your field of vision, to get an estimate of your prescription, and to measure the pressure inside your eyes (a gentle puff of air).

* The doctor will ask about your vision to determine of your having any symptoms or difficulties. He/she will also ask if you've everworn glasses or contacts and for what purpose.

* Next, the doctor will see how well you can see, then present you with a series of lenses asking you to compare two at a time to determine which lens combinations help you to see the clearest. With this information he/she will be able to determine your prescription for both distance viewing and for reading.

* Last, the doctor will look inside your eyes to assess their health and to determine if you have any eye diseases or are at risk for developing any.

* Then, the doctor will present your results to you and make any necessary recommendations (glasses, contacts, or referral to a higher-level specialist).

When can I come in and how long will it take?
We are open Tuesday through Saturday:

* Tuesday through Friday 9am - 6pm
* Saturday 10am - 3pm

On average, your exam will last 35-40 minutes. Plan additional time for picking out new glasses!

Can I put new lenses in my own frame?
In general, yes you can. Though we always advise getting a new frame with your new lenses - that way your frame is warranted for a year against manufacturing defects and can be reordered if you break it. Old frames are often discontinued and can't be replaced if broken. Also, keep in mind that if your frame is on it's last leg it might break when trying to put new lenses in it! Some non-prescription frames aren't meant to accept prescription lenses.

Which insurances do you accept?
We are providers for most major vision insurances, including:

Vision Service Plan (VSP)
EyeMed
Medical Eye Services (MES)
Spectera
Davis Vision
Superior Vision Plan

If you don’t see your plan listed, call us and ask about it – we still may be able to be a provider for you.

In addition, many major medical insurances often provide vision benefits. We are also part of the PPO networks for Blue Cross and Blue Shield. We’re more than happy to research your benefits for you if you are unsure if you have coverage.

If I have an eye infection - or something in my eye – should I go see you or my “regular” doctor?
You should see us! Optometrists are doctors whose education and clinical experience deal almost entirely with the human eye we are eye experts. We are licensed to diagnose and manage all ordinary eye infections and diseases, including prescribing eye drops and oral medications if necessary. In addition, we have instruments in our office that are made exclusively for examining the eye.

Will wearing glasses make my eyes get worse?
In short, no, it will not. Wearing your correct prescription is ideal for your eyes – they are less likely to strain when they see clearly. The only time glasses can cause the eyes to get worse is if they are made incorrectly – too strong – in someone whose eyes are still developing (children or young teens). You may find that once you start wearing your glasses, you’ll want to wear them more often – but that’s just because you like seeing clearly!