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About Us

For over 100 years, Excel Eye Center has provided world-class, state-of-the-art healthcare to our patients in a kind, caring, courteous, efficient, and professional manner. Recognized by our patients and the medical community across the country, Excel Eye Center is the standard for eye care in Utah. Our long history of focusing on our patients helps us deliver exceptional eye care to each of our patients.

History of Excel Eye Center

Excel Eye Center first opened its doors in 1917—over 100 years ago. Founded by Weston Oaks, Excel Eye Center was the first group medical practice of any specialty in the state of Utah. When we first opened, our practice treated multiple areas including eyes, ears, nose, and throat. (In fact, some of our earliest charts list treatments for tonsillitis and ear infections.) But starting in the 1930s our practice exclusively focused on eye treatments. Since then, we’ve had a long-standing history of providing world-class eye care throughout the state.

Our Vision

To continue to be recognized by our patients and the medical community as “the standard for eye care in Utah.”

Our Mission

To provide world-class state-of-the-art healthcare to our patients in a kind, caring, courteous, efficient and professional manner.

The Early Years of Excel Eye Center

The Practice is Established

H. G. Merrill, M.D., and L. Weston Oaks, M.D., founded the practice and began working together (founding partnership).

(They were the first medical specialist of any type to practice in Provo, Utah).

First Doctor Addition

Merrill C. Oaks, M.D., returned to Provo to join the practice. He served as President of the Medical Staff at Utah Valley Hospital and later as President of the Utah Ophthalmology Society. Along with Robert Hales, M.D., he performed Utah’s first cataract surgeries that included implantation of an artificial lens, (this has now become the standard). The practice also celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Addition of Laser Vision Correction

Randal N. Ellsworth, M.D., joined the practice, marking the beginning of the center’s long history of successful laser vision correction.

Addition of Corneal and Glaucoma Treatments

Matthew R. Parsons, M.D., joined the practice, expanding treatment options for corneal and glaucoma-related conditions.

Merger of Professional Clinics

N. Kent Linton, M.D., merged his Payson practice with the group, expanding the practice’s presence to Payson.

Addition of Pediatric Eye Care

Pediatric ophthalmologist Michael S. Abrams, M.D., joined the practice, allowing the group to offer specialized eye care for children. The practice also expanded to Orem.

Addition of Cosmetic Facial Treatments

Jesse N. Hunsaker, M.D., and Kent Karren, M.D., merged their practice with the group, expanding the practice to American Fork and making it one of the largest private eye care practices in the western United States. Todd B. Engen, M.D., also joined the practice from Arizona this year, introducing new cosmetic, oculoplastic, and reconstructive treatment options.

Group Rebrands as Excel Eye Center

The practice was renamed Excel Eye Center to emphasize the group’s continued commitment to excellence in patient care.

Addition of Another Merger

W. Scott Lohner, M.D., merged his practice with Excel Eye Center.

100-Year Anniversary

Excel Eye Center celebrated its 100th anniversary.

Consistently Rated #1 in Utah Valley

Julie

Everyone was very courteous and friendly. Doctor Schmutz and his nurse took time to explain everything to me. I feel confident in their knowledge and experience.

Gina

All those who attend to me, in the office, and the nurses and assistants are all friendly and kind. I trust everyone at Excel, especially Dr. Gunther.

Lynn

Dr. Gunther is the best. I have total confidence in his expertise and advise and he has a great personality.

Heidi

If you have to have an eye doctor choose this one! Professional, courteous and really cares about you as a patient.

Michael

Great people. Won't go anywhere else. Dr. Gunther is the nicest guy you'll ever meet.

Mitchell

Loved bringing my one year old here. Such a cute facility and everyone was so great with little kids. Highly recommend!

Julianne

Dr. Brad Henriksen was one of the best pediatric ophthalmologists around. With 4 kids needing vision attention he was so good with all of them! Highly recommend Dr. Henriksen!

Bethany

Efficient and Dr. Yeates was great with my daughter, the exam was thorough and it’s the first time an eye doctor has really understood my daughter’s eye issues and known what to do.

Marilyn

Dr Ricks and staff are amazing, friendly, caring and efficient! My eyes are in the best of hands.

Casey

Very pleasant and treated well at my visit. My dry eye condition has gone away since I was given instructions.

Deanna

Love everything about this place! The doctors and staff are EXCEL-lent!

Catherine

Very professional office from the reception desk to the technicians and the doctors. Highly recommend.

Kyle

This is a great office. Very friendly and efficient. I appreciate how Dr. Hatch helps my kids enjoy the check up and very approachable.

Armando

I loved this place and I will recommend this place to friends and family for their eye sight needs because they're knowledgeable and friendly.

Meet Our Certified Eye Professionals

Since 1971, Excel Eye Center has delivered advanced, compassionate eye care across Utah, combining medical excellence with a personal touch. Our team of experienced eye doctors and staff provides a full spectrum of ophthalmologic and optometric services—from routine eye exams and LASIK vision correction to pediatric care, cataract treatment, diabetic eye care, corneal transplants, and cosmetic surgery. With multiple convenient locations, we make it easy to access award-winning care that puts your comfort, vision, and trust first. Learn more about our expert doctors serving the Utah Valley.

Meet Our Doctors
Certified eye doctor

Cataract Treatment FAQs

View All FAQs

What can cause cataracts to form?

Cataracts often form slowly with increasing age. A cataract occurs as the eye lens becomes more cloudy or opaque. You may be at greater risk for cataracts if you have diabetes, smoke, or are obese. You are also at greater risk if you have a family history of cataracts or have had an eye injury, inflammation, or eye surgery. Cataract symptoms include blurred vision, sensitivity to light, difficulty seeing at night, and faded colors.

Can a cataract be treated without surgery?

The best and most long-lasting treatment for cataracts is surgery. There is no other way to cure this condition except for cataract removal by surgery. Early cataract symptoms can be treated with eyeglasses or medication, but no medication eliminates existing cataracts. New eyewear and ideal lighting conditions can mitigate effects, but this can be insufficient.

How can I prevent cataracts from forming?

You can help prevent cataracts by living a healthy lifestyle that includes eye-healthy food choices, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight. Protect your eyes from injury and sun damage. Wear sunglasses and a hat with a brim when you are outside in the sun. Wear eye protection when there is a risk of injury from certain sports, work, and leisure activities.

When should you get cataracts removed?

Don’t wait it out. Redness, irritation, discharge—those are all signs that something isn’t right. Call us as soon as possible. We’ll get you in quickly, diagnose the issue, and get you on a treatment plan fast.

How long is cataract surgery?

Surgery for cataracts is quick, generally 10 to 20 minutes. There is also preparation time before surgery, about 15 to 30 minutes of recovery, and monitoring time before you go home. The whole procedure is completed on the same day.

How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?

Generally, your eye will begin to improve in the first 24 hours. You may experience light sensitivity for 2-3 days following the procedure. Most people experience improved vision in the first two to three days. Full recovery takes 4 to 6 weeks.

We Will Help You Stay Current

Our physicians are experienced in virtually every eye care specialty, and we’re committed to provided the very highest quality service and personal care.

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