Comprehensive Eye Care

At Excel Eye Center, we understand the need for quality eye care and, in the event of an issue, accurate diagnoses. We perform comprehensive eye exams for patients using the most advanced and precise equipment to diagnose vision problems and to prescribe appropriate remedies. Our physicians are experienced in virtually every eye care specialty, and we’re committed to providing the very highest quality service and personal care.

What is Comprehensive Eye Care?

Comprehensive eye care refers to **full-spectrum, preventive and corrective eye health services** that evaluate not just how well you see but also the overall health of your eyes. It includes a complete eye exam to check vision, screen for eye diseases, assess how the eyes work together, and ensure that both the front and back of the eye are healthy. This type of care typically covers vision testing, glasses and contact lens prescriptions, and in-depth evaluations for conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and dry eye.

Beyond routine exams, comprehensive eye care also involves ongoing management and treatment of eye conditions, education on maintaining eye health, and referrals to specialists when needed. It emphasizes prevention—catching issues early before they cause vision loss—and supports long-term eye wellness with guidance on lifestyle, UV protection, nutrition, and monitoring changes over time. It is essentially **whole-person, long-term eye health management**, not just checking your prescription.

Meet Our Comprehensive Eye Care Doctors

Meet All Our Doctors
doctor Aaron Smalley
Aaron D. Smalley, MD

Aaron D. Smalley, MD

Austin J. Woolley, MD

Austin J. Woolley, MD

Brad S. Henriksen, MD

Brad S. Henriksen, MD

Christopher J. Ricks, MD

Christopher J. Ricks, MD

Joseph S. Schmutz, MD

Joseph S. Schmutz, MD

doctor Joshua Hansen
Joshua J. Hansen, MD

Joshua J. Hansen, MD

Justin T. Wilkinson, MD

Justin T. Wilkinson, MD

Mason A. Schmutz, MD

Mason A. Schmutz, MD

Nathan D. Garlick, OD

Nathan D. Garlick, OD

Nathan G. Lambert, MD

Nathan G. Lambert, MD

Peter A. Ririe, MD

Peter A. Ririe, MD

Reese M. Loveless, OD

Reese M. Loveless, OD

Robert Simmons
Robert L. Simmons, OD

Robert L. Simmons, OD

Scott Yeates
Scott W. Yeates, MD

Scott W. Yeates, MD

William V. Hatch, OD

William V. Hatch, OD

Comprehensive Eye Care FAQs

View All FAQs

How often should I get a comprehensive eye exam?

Most people should have a comprehensive eye exam once a year, but the frequency may vary depending on your age, vision changes, medical history, and risk of eye disease. Regular eye exams help catch conditions or concerns early and even before symptoms appear.

Will my eyes be dilated during my exam?

In most cases, yes. Dilation is an important part of a comprehensive eye exam because it allows your doctor to thoroughly evaluate the retina, optic nerve, and other structures at the back of the eye that cannot be fully assessed otherwise. While dilation is strongly recommended as part of a complete eye health evaluation you can discuss with your doctor whether dilation is necessary based on your history and exam findings before proceeding.

How long does a comprehensive eye exam take?

A comprehensive eye exam usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your vision needs, symptoms, and whether additional testing is needed. Some visits will be faster, while others take more time, so we can get a full picture of your eye health and answer your questions.

Do I need a comprehensive eye exam if my vision seems fine?

Yes. Clear vision does not always indicate healthy eyes. A comprehensive eye exam checks more than your prescription; it also looks for signs of glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic eye disease, dry eye, and other concerns that may not cause early symptoms. Preventive comprehensive eye care can make a real difference in treating eye conditions.

What's the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?

An optometrist focuses on eye exams, vision correction, and routine eye care. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who diagnoses and treats eye diseases and can perform eye surgery. At Excel Eye Center, patients benefit from comprehensive eye care services supported by both optometrists and ophthalmologists, which makes care feel coordinated and convenient.

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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