Menu

15 Best Ophthalmologists in San Diego: 15 Specialists to Compare

Finding an ophthalmologist in San Diego starts with matching the practice to your reason for care, whether that means cataract or glaucoma treatment, a retinal referral, eyelid surgery, or ongoing evaluation.

Look for relevant clinical focus, a clear explanation of treatment choices, follow-up planning, and appointment coordination that fits the urgency and complexity of your situation.

Our method for this guide

A reputation that holds up over time, real focus on this service and a clear account of how they work: that is how this guide to ophthalmologists in San Diego was built and ordered.

No business can pay to be included. Those already in the guide may buy extra visibility, and it is always shown.

Top 3Complete listMapHow to pick one

Browse 15 local options

Dr. Medi Eslani, San Diego#1

Dr. Medi Eslani

5.0224 reviews
1520 E Plaza Blvd, National City, CA 91950, United States
Recommended for
Patients considering cataract or glaucoma treatmentPeople seeking a detailed discussion of refractive options

Dr. Medi Eslani is a San Diego ophthalmologist focused on cataract, glaucoma, refractive, and ocular-surface care. His practice includes cataract surgery, advanced intraocular lenses, LASIK, refractive lens exchange, and MIGS.

Consultations emphasize careful examination, clear explanations, and enough time for questions. Imaging and test results are used to explain the condition and proposed treatment in understandable terms, while the care team supports communication in Spanish and Tagalog. The practice is suited to patients seeking specialist guidance for cataract or glaucoma concerns and a structured discussion of surgical options.

Dr. Thomas Avallone, San Diego#2

Dr. Thomas Avallone

5.0198 reviews
1317 Ynez Pl # A, Coronado, CA 92118, United States
Recommended for
Patients evaluating cataract or glaucoma care

Dr. Thomas Avallone provides ophthalmology care in San Diego through Island Eye Specialists, with a focus on personalized medical and surgical eye care. The practice covers routine examinations as well as cataract surgery, glaucoma management, and macular degeneration care.

His consultations are marked by direct explanations, attentive listening, and a welcoming clinical team. Cataract procedures may use laser-assisted technology and real-time ORA measurements to help refine lens placement. The practice is a strong fit for patients who want a careful explanation of their options before a procedure or ongoing plan.

Dawn Marie K. De Castro-Marceau, MD, San Diego#3

Dawn Marie K. De Castro-Marceau, MD

5.0177 reviews
10670 Wexford St Fl 1, San Diego, CA 92131, United States
Recommended for
Patients considering eyelid surgeryPeople seeking a thorough, collaborative eye examination

Dawn Marie K. De Castro-Marceau, MD provides ophthalmology care in San Diego with an emphasis on patient participation, careful examinations, and clear communication. Her consultations allow time to understand medical history and personal goals before shaping a treatment plan.

The practice is especially noted for attentive surgical care, gentle communication, and thoughtful follow-up. Patients considering eyelid surgery or other ophthalmic procedures can expect step-by-step explanations and a supportive clinical team.

Thomas Lazzarini, MD, San Diego#4
Notable strengths
  • Retina specialist and vitreoretinal surgeon

Thomas Lazzarini, MD

5.0121 reviews
3965 Fifth Ave Ste 330, San Diego, CA 92103, United States
Recommended for
Retinal disease evaluationPatients needing vitreoretinal surgery

Thomas Lazzarini, MD is a San Diego retina specialist and vitreoretinal surgeon treating diseases of the retina and macula. His practice uses advanced diagnostic testing and surgical techniques across conditions that may require close monitoring, injections, laser treatment, or retinal surgery.

The consultation style is notably calm and explanatory. Patients receive time to understand what the examination shows, how the condition may progress, and which treatment paths are available. The practice is suited to people seeking specialist retinal care with attentive follow-up and clear communication.

SLocal business
#5

Seema V. Sundaram, MD - Sharp Rees-Stealy Otay Ranch Ophthalmology

5.0136 reviews
1400 E Palomar St Fl 1, Chula Vista, CA 91913, United States
Recommended for
Patients needing regular ophthalmology monitoringPeople seeking careful, unhurried examinations

Seema V. Sundaram, MD provides ophthalmology care in the San Diego area with a methodical, attentive approach. Appointments may include visual-field testing and detailed examinations, particularly when ongoing monitoring is important. She takes time to listen to medical history, explain findings, and answer questions carefully.

Her style is well suited to patients managing long-term eye concerns or medication-related monitoring who want continuity and a clear understanding of each step. The office is also associated with organized testing and a considerate care team.

Nikolas London, MD FACS, San Diego#6

Nikolas London, MD FACS

4.9311 reviews
9850 Genesee Ave Ste 700, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States
Recommended for
Patients referred for retinal or macular conditions

Nikolas London, MD FACS is a San Diego ophthalmologist specializing in retinal and macular care rather than primary eye care, glasses, cataract surgery, or refractive surgery. The practice evaluates conditions affecting the vitreous, retina, and macula, including retinal tears, detachments, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, macular holes, and epiretinal membranes.

A first visit may involve dilation, several retinal images, diagnostic testing, and a detailed examination. Explanations of anatomy, disease progression, imaging, and treatment options are central to the approach. Patients should plan adequate time for an initial consultation and bring current eye drops, relevant ocular history, and a driver if possible.

JLocal business
#7

Jennifer Lee, MD

5.0116 reviews
8701 Cuyamaca St Fl 3, Santee, CA 92071, United States
Recommended for
Patients with ongoing or complex eye concernsPeople seeking careful explanations and follow-up

Jennifer Lee, MD provides ophthalmology care in Santee with a thorough, compassionate approach. She takes time to listen carefully, examine complex concerns, and explain findings in clear terms, helping patients feel involved rather than hurried through the visit.

Her care is especially suited to people managing longer-term or unusual eye conditions who value consistency and thoughtful follow-up. The clinical team supports that approach with professional, attentive care and a focus on making each step understandable.

FLocal business
#8

Floyd A. Doughty, MD

4.9279 reviews
300 Fir St Fl 1, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
Recommended for
Long-term ophthalmology careGlaucoma screening and follow-up

Floyd A. Doughty, MD provides ophthalmology care in downtown San Diego with a calm, thorough approach. Appointments include detailed screening, careful attention to individual concerns, and explanations designed to make treatment plans and follow-up instructions easy to understand.

The office is also recognized for efficient coordination: testing and examinations can move smoothly, while the care team helps arrange continuing appointments. Dr. Doughty’s patient-centered style suits people seeking a long-term eye doctor, glaucoma screening, prescription review, or guidance before a minor eyelid procedure.

Bishoy O. Said, MD, San Diego#9

Bishoy O. Said, MD

4.9211 reviews
300 Fir St Fl 1, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
Recommended for
Patients considering lens or eye surgeryPeople needing retina-related evaluation

Bishoy O. Said, MD provides ophthalmology care in downtown San Diego, including eye surgery and evaluation of complex eye concerns. His approach combines technical precision with a calm, personal manner: examinations are explained clearly, questions are welcomed, and treatment options are discussed without rushing.

The practice is particularly suited to patients seeking cataract or lens-related surgery, as well as people who need a retina-focused evaluation. Organized testing, courteous staff, and prompt attention can make the visit easier to navigate from check-in through follow-up.

Logan Haak, MD, San Diego#10

Logan Haak, MD

4.9181 reviews
1855 First Ave. #200b, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
Recommended for
Retinal and macular evaluationsPatients needing specialized retinal procedures

Logan Haak, MD is a San Diego retina specialist providing comprehensive evaluation and treatment for retinal conditions. The practice uses detailed examinations, diagnostic imaging, and specialized procedures such as intravitreal injections, retinal laser treatment, vitrectomy, pneumatic retinopexy, and scleral buckle surgery.

Dr. Haak’s style centers on careful preparation, clear explanations, and reassurance without rushing the consultation. The team explains each test before it is performed and follows patients closely through treatment. This is a strong fit for retinal referrals, macular concerns, floaters, or urgent changes in vision that require specialist assessment.

NLocal business
#11

Namrata Kapoor, MD

4.9210 reviews
8701 Cuyamaca St Fl 3, Santee, CA 92071, United States
Recommended for
Patients seeking long-term ophthalmology carePeople who prefer collaborative treatment discussions

Namrata Kapoor, MD provides ophthalmology care in Santee with a patient-centered style built around careful examinations, understandable explanations, and shared decisions. She takes time to discuss what is being evaluated, answer questions in plain language, and connect findings with practical steps for maintaining healthy vision.

Her care is also suited to patients returning for ongoing monitoring or treatment, including those seeking laser-related eye care. The office team adds an organized, welcoming layer to the visit, helping patients feel prepared for follow-up and continued care.

JLocal business
#12

Joseph Ho, MD

4.9143 reviews
300 Fir St Fl 1, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
Recommended for
Patients needing retina carePeople seeking efficient specialist appointments

Joseph Ho, MD provides retina-focused ophthalmology care in San Diego, with examinations and imaging organized around efficient evaluation and ongoing management. He is associated with attentive explanations, practical answers to questions, and support for patients who need specialist follow-up or urgent attention.

The office can be a good fit for patients who value a streamlined visit, including older adults or those coordinating transportation. When a case requires additional discussion, the care team works to address questions and arrange a suitable follow-up plan.

Eye Institute of California, San Diego#13
Notable strengths
  • Medical and surgical ophthalmology

Eye Institute of California

4.8403 reviews
311 Del Mar Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910, United States
Recommended for
Patients seeking medical or surgical eye careRoutine evaluations and follow-up visits

Eye Institute of California delivers medical and surgical ophthalmology care for patients in the San Diego area, with its practice based in Chula Vista. Its physician-owned approach combines advanced clinical services with a patient-first culture and a focus on clear, organized visits.

The office environment is described as professional and comfortable, with thorough examinations, efficient check-in, and explanations that help patients understand both findings and next steps. It is a practical destination for routine eye evaluations, surgical consultations, and follow-up care when prompt coordination matters.

Lee R. Katzman MD, San Diego#14

Lee R. Katzman MD

4.8242 reviews
7877 Parkway Dr #100, La Mesa, CA 91942, United States
Recommended for
Cataract surgery consultationsPatients comparing LASIK, PRK, or lens options

Lee R. Katzman, MD provides ophthalmology and eye surgery in San Diego, with particular emphasis on cataract surgery, LASIK, PRK, presbyopia treatment, and advanced intraocular lens options. The consultation process gives attention to preparation, lens choices, expected costs, and the sequence of follow-up care.

Patients who feel anxious about eye procedures may appreciate the patient explanations and educational materials used before surgery. The practice is also suited to people comparing vision-correction options, including laser procedures, clear lens exchange, and cataract treatment.

Eye Care of San Diego (Formerly Eye Care of La Jolla)#15

Eye Care of San Diego (Formerly Eye Care of La Jolla)

4.7274 reviews
9834 Genesee Ave #200, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States
Recommended for
Patients seeking broad eye-care servicesPeople comparing vision-correction options

Eye Care of San Diego provides ophthalmology and optometry services in the San Diego area, including LASIK, dry-eye treatment, glaucoma management, laser care, and contact-lens fitting. The practice has multiple locations and combines medical and surgical eye care with modern diagnostic technology.

Its La Jolla team emphasizes comprehensive examinations, professional communication, and a welcoming office environment. Patients can turn to the practice for routine vision concerns, surgical consultations, ongoing medical management, or a more specialized evaluation that benefits from reviewing prior records and personal goals.

How the options stack up

#BusinessRatingReviewsRecommended for
#1Dr. Medi Eslani 5.0224Patients considering cataract or glaucoma treatment
#2Dr. Thomas Avallone 5.0198Patients evaluating cataract or glaucoma care
#3Dawn Marie K. De Castro-Marceau, MD 5.0177Patients considering eyelid surgery
#4Thomas Lazzarini, MD 5.0121Retinal disease evaluation
#5Seema V. Sundaram, MD - Sharp Rees-Stealy Otay Ranch Ophthalmology 5.0136Patients needing regular ophthalmology monitoring
#6Nikolas London, MD FACS 4.9311Patients referred for retinal or macular conditions
#7Jennifer Lee, MD 5.0116Patients with ongoing or complex eye concerns
#8Floyd A. Doughty, MD 4.9279Long-term ophthalmology care
#9Bishoy O. Said, MD 4.9211Patients considering lens or eye surgery
#10Logan Haak, MD 4.9181Retinal and macular evaluations
#11Namrata Kapoor, MD 4.9210Patients seeking long-term ophthalmology care
#12Joseph Ho, MD 4.9143Patients needing retina care
#13Eye Institute of California 4.8403Patients seeking medical or surgical eye care
#14Lee R. Katzman MD 4.8242Cataract surgery consultations
#15Eye Care of San Diego (Formerly Eye Care of La Jolla) 4.7274Patients seeking broad eye-care services

Do you run a business?

Add or manage my business

Map of ophthalmologists across San Diego

No verified neighborhood list is available for this selection, so the map is best used to compare distance and appointment convenience across San Diego. A nearby office may be especially useful when testing or follow-up visits are likely. For surgery, retina care, or glaucoma monitoring, consider travel for later appointments as well as the first consultation, and confirm that the needed clinician or service is available at that location.

What each one offers

  • Cataract careDiscuss evaluation, treatment options, surgery, and postoperative follow-up.
  • Glaucoma screening and follow-upArrange pressure checks, monitoring, and treatment discussions.
  • Retina and macular evaluationSeek assessment for referred retinal or macular conditions.
  • Refractive consultationsReview surgical or lens-related options for vision correction.
  • Eyelid surgery consultationsDiscuss eyelid concerns, candidacy, procedure details, and recovery.
  • Medical eye careReceive evaluation and treatment for ongoing ophthalmic conditions.
  • Routine examinationsPlan comprehensive evaluations and continuing eye-care visits.

Choosing ophthalmologists in San Diego

  1. Match the doctor to the referralUse the diagnosis or referral wording to ask whether the practice regularly handles that condition and provides the relevant testing or procedure.
  2. Prepare your treatment questionsAsk what options are available, why one may suit you, likely follow-up, and what information is needed before deciding on treatment.
  3. Clarify the appointment sequenceFind out whether testing, consultation, imaging, and procedure planning happen in one visit or require separate appointments.
  4. Check continuity of careAsk who handles postoperative checks, routine monitoring, urgent concerns, and communication if your symptoms change between visits.
  5. Bring relevant recordsConfirm whether the office needs prior imaging, medication details, referral paperwork, surgical history, or records from another eye specialist.

Frequent questions

What is the difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist?

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor trained to diagnose and treat eye disease and perform eye surgery. An optometrist provides vision care and can manage many eye conditions. The right choice depends on whether you need routine vision care, medical evaluation, or surgical treatment.

What should I ask during a cataract consultation?

Ask how cataracts are affecting your vision, whether surgery is recommended now, which lens options fit your goals, what recovery involves, and how follow-up is scheduled. Bring questions about driving, reading, work, and other activities that matter to you.

How often will glaucoma follow-up be needed?

The interval depends on eye pressure, optic-nerve findings, visual-field results, treatment, and how stable the condition is. Ask what tests will be repeated, which changes require an earlier visit, and who to contact if vision or symptoms change.

Should I bring previous eye records to a new appointment?

Yes, previous examinations, imaging, surgery details, medication lists, and referral notes can help the ophthalmologist compare changes over time. Ask the office which records are most useful and whether they should be sent before the appointment.

More to compare