Specialty Eye Bellevue

I was very disappointed with the level of service I received, especially considering I paid $400 out of pocket for a dry eye analysis. The overall experience felt far below expectations. The meibomian gland (MDG) imaging only included the two lower eyelids, which I found inadequate. When I asked why the upper eyelids were not examined, I was told that flipping the upper lids is difficult. This explanation did not seem reasonable, as a comprehensive evaluation should include both upper and lower lids--something that is routinely done when I travel to Europe or Asia for similar assessments. Over the course of four visits, I never once saw the owner. Instead, all appointments were handled by a recent university graduate. While she was polite and clearly trying her best, I expected a higher level of expertise and oversight given the cost of the service. Additionally, despite clearly expressing that I was not interested in continuing treatment, I continued to receive repeated follow-ups encouraging me to return. This felt excessive and frustrating. Overall, the service did not meet the standard I expected for the price paid.

I had a truly wonderful experience at this office. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with kindness, professionalism, and genuine care. Every member of the team took the time to listen, explain, and make sure I felt both comfortable and informed. What stood out most was how supported I felt throughout my exam. I came in with real concerns about my eyes, and I left with clarity, answers, and a clear path forward. That peace of mind is invaluable. Beyond the excellent care, the entire team made me feel welcomed and respected. It is rare to find a medical office that blends such high-level expertise with such warmth and humanity. I am deeply grateful for this experience and highly recommend this practice to anyone looking for both exceptional eye care and a team that truly cares about their patients. -- Kaydee

BEWARE of the Myopia Program billing trap!!!! Do not enrolled before you read the experience below. We enrolled in their Myopia Program in August 2023, which charges $175 per month automatically. The program includes regular check-ups (every 3 months) and the cost of my child's specialized contact lenses. The fee has been auto-deducted every month without interruption, including as recently as December. At my visit today, I informed the staff that I no longer wanted to continue the program and would prefer to switch to a regular schedule (eye exams every 6 months) and order monthly disposable lenses separately. I was then told that *because today was the renewal time*, if I did not renew the program today, I would **no longer be allowed to order the specialized lenses** and could only use "regular" lenses. This restriction was never communicated to us at any point during the past year, despite continuous monthly charges. I was under the impression that the program had already been automatically renewed, since I was be charged every month till Dec. 1st 2025 . If renewal approval was required, then why was I charged in December/Nov./ Oct...? Additionally, the last time lenses were ordered for us was October of last year. At our April visit this year, no one brought up ordering lenses. I did not realize this at the time, and my child was not strictly following the monthly replacement schedule, so we managed. When I asked whether the lenses that were effectively "paid for" during those months could still be ordered now, I was told no. This process feels unreasonable, inflexible, and lacking transparency. The sudden rules, poor communication, and refusal to offer a fair solution left me feeling very disappointed. Unfortunately, I am now considering switching to a different provider. I hope the clinic can improve its communication and policies so other families do not experience the same frustration.

I was shocked to find out this optometry office requires a $99 out of pocket charge for a retinal scan before even being seen by the doctor. This fee is not covered by insurance and is presented as a mandatory part of the visit without an alternative or the option to opt out was offered. Retinal imaging can be a useful tool, but forcing patients to pay nearly $100 up front without prior notice or consent feels exploitative, especially when the standard of care is to order necessary imaging after seeing and discussing with the patient. I left feeling like I was being gouged rather than cared for. I would not recommend this office if you expect transparency or if you want your insurance to actually cover your annual eye exam. There are plenty of optometrists who provide thorough, respectful care without surprise fees.

I found this service when I was specifically looking for dry eyes treatment. I was initially a little put off by some phrasing on the website and some reviews that made the office seem more focused on finances than care. But I would have to say that I have been thoroughly pleased with my experience and interactions I have had with everyone in both the Bellevue and Kirkland offices. I was able to get an appointment and a follow-up very quickly and easily. People at reception were friendly and efficient, when checking in, paying, and making follow-up appointments. They were transparent about what would be covered by insurance (unfortunately, very little) and what I was responsible for. I was seen by two different techs (sorry, I don't know the name for this role) who did a bunch of the tests for the standard eye exam and for the dry eye exam - they both seemed great. The office has a lot of new equipment that I have not seen before (so long, dreaded eye-puff glaucoma test!). Dr. Gu listened to my concerns, answered my questions, and explained the results of the tests long with options and recommendations on how to proceed. She also worked with my insurance regarding a prescription, and when it was denied, found me a discount coupon so I could still get it (or maybe the pharmacy did that, not sure). I still have a bit of a road ahead for treatment of what is a chronic condition, but I am much improved already and I have a lot better understanding of it and am feeling more optimistic.

I've been seeing Dr. David Kading for many years and have been to all three of his offices in Seattle, Bellevue and Kirkland. His expertise in vision care is top notch and I've always enjoyed his candor and commitment to excellent customer service. His entire team is so friendly and fun to work with - a big shout out to Garlyn who helped me decide on my new frames. Dr. Dave has a new line of eyewear that he designed and was inspired by his family, and I'm happy that one his frames fit me perfectly! Five Stars for everyone!!!!!

Dr's are terrific; friendly and kind, plus contact lens wearers a specialty. Great sunglasses, and frame selection, very good prices. VSP ok!

Nabihah was amazing and the best when adresssing my needs for specialty eye, 10/10 recommend, absolutely beautiful and professionally sets the standard.