BestCharlotte

15 Best Ophthalmologists in Charlotte

Charlotte patients may be looking for routine eye care, a cataract or glaucoma consultation, or a specialist opinion before surgery. The options here reflect different needs, including retina assessments, paediatric appointments and follow-up after surgical care.

A useful choice starts with matching the clinician to the condition and appointment type. Also check referral requirements, expected waiting times and what testing or records should be brought to the first consultation.

How this guide is ordered

The order reflects the range of specialist eye services associated with each option, including cataract, glaucoma, retina, paediatric and surgical care. It also considers whether a provider suits an initial assessment, ongoing treatment or a second specialist review. Some eligible businesses may purchase enhanced visibility, which can influence their placement.

Top 3 Ranking Map How to choose

Charlotte eye specialists for surgery and ongoing care

Open each listing to see services, location, and contact details.

#1
Robert Saltzmann, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)
5343 reviews
Cataract or glaucoma consultations
#2
Horizon Eye Care - Waverly, Charlotte NC
4.81309 reviews
Family eye examinationsCataract and glaucoma care
#3
Charlotte Ophthalmology Center for Sight
4.81270 reviews
Retina and cataract assessments
#4
Horizon Eye Care - Mallard Creek, Charlotte NC
4.81008 reviews
Routine and specialist eye careCataract and paediatric appointments
#5
Pedro Cervantes, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)
4.9427 reviews
Cataract surgery assessmentsGlaucoma surgery consultations
#6
Chao Li, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)
4.9385 reviews
Cataract surgery consultationsSurgical eye-care follow-up
#7
William Hammonds, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)
4.9357 reviews
LASIK or cataract consultations
#8
Wei Huang, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)
4.8587 reviews
Glaucoma treatment planning
#9
Veena Rao, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)
4.9320 reviews
Cataract surgery planningLong-term glaucoma care
#10
Donald Stewart, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)
4.8425 reviews
Neuro-ophthalmology assessmentsComplex adult eye concerns
#11
Sumit Gupta, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)
4.8412 reviews
Uveitis consultationsCataract surgery planning
#12
Jeff Stetler, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)
4.9241 reviews
Cornea and cataract assessments
#13
Omar Punjabi, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)
4.9234 reviews
Retinal disease consultationsMacular degeneration care
#14
Elliot McKee, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)
4.9208 reviews
Children’s eye assessmentsStrabismus consultations
#15
Vipul Shah, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)
4.9199 reviews
Cataract surgery consultationsCorneal transplant care

Compare 15 ophthalmologists in Charlotte

Robert Saltzmann, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.) #1
What stands out
  • Glaucoma and cataract surgery expertise

Robert Saltzmann, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)

5343 reviews
6035 Fairview Rd, Charlotte, NC 28210, United States
Best for
Cataract or glaucoma consultations

Robert Saltzmann, MD, is a Charlotte ophthalmologist and glaucoma surgeon specialising in cataract surgery and glaucoma treatment. His clinical focus is suited to patients seeking a consultant with experience in complex eye conditions as well as established surgical care.

Communication is a notable part of the consultation style: cataract procedures and treatment choices are explained in accessible language, with time given to questions and concerns. The wider clinical background includes presentations and published research relating to glaucoma, paediatric glaucoma, inherited eye disease and corneal infections. Appointments are required and advance booking is recommended, particularly for patients arranging a specialist assessment or travelling from outside Charlotte.

Horizon Eye Care - Waverly, Charlotte NC #2
What stands out
  • Comprehensive care at a South Charlotte centre

Horizon Eye Care - Waverly, Charlotte NC

4.81309 reviews
11835 Southmore Dr, Charlotte, NC 28277, United States
Best for
Family eye examinationsCataract and glaucoma care

Horizon Eye Care’s Waverly centre provides comprehensive ophthalmology for South Charlotte, covering routine eye examinations, cataract care, glaucoma services, paediatric care, optical support and advanced eye procedures. The location is designed to serve both families and busy professionals.

The clinical experience is marked by patient explanations and a thorough approach to testing, with staff taking time to address questions rather than rushing through the appointment. The centre also supports a broad pathway from everyday vision care to specialist surgery, helping patients maintain continuity as their needs change. Appointments are required and recommended in advance. A comprehensive first evaluation may take around 90 minutes and can involve pupil dilation, so sunglasses and transport arrangements may be useful.

Charlotte Ophthalmology Center for Sight #3
What stands out
  • Medical retina and laser eye care

Charlotte Ophthalmology Center for Sight

4.81270 reviews
16610 Birkdale Commons Pkwy, Huntersville, NC 28078, United States
Best for
Retina and cataract assessments

Charlotte Ophthalmology Center for Sight combines routine ophthalmic care with advanced diagnostic, laser and surgical services. The practice assesses vision carefully, checks for eye conditions that may affect sight, and supports treatment pathways involving cataract surgery, LASIK, medical retina and general ophthalmology.

Its physicians include Daniela Whiteside, MD, whose specialist work covers diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, macular oedema and retinal tears. The team is also equipped for detailed examinations, glasses and contact-lens assessments, and optical support. Patients can expect a thorough appointment with clear explanations from the clinical team. Appointments are required and advance booking is recommended.

Horizon Eye Care - Mallard Creek, Charlotte NC #4
What stands out
  • Efficient North Charlotte eye-care centre

Horizon Eye Care - Mallard Creek, Charlotte NC

4.81008 reviews
10834 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte, NC 28262, United States
Best for
Routine and specialist eye careCataract and paediatric appointments

Horizon Eye Care’s Mallard Creek location brings comprehensive ophthalmology to North Charlotte and the University City area. Services span routine eye examinations, cataract treatment, paediatric care, dry-eye support and specialist procedures, giving families and individual patients access to a broad vision-care pathway.

The centre is recognised for an efficient process and a thorough clinical approach, with explanations that help patients understand test results and recommendations. Its combination of routine care and advanced treatment makes it suitable for ongoing eye care as well as referral-led specialist appointments. Appointments are required and recommended ahead of time. A first comprehensive evaluation may involve dilation and take around 90 minutes, so practical preparation is worthwhile.

Pedro Cervantes, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.) #5
What stands out
  • Cataract and glaucoma surgery focus

  • Calm, detailed treatment explanations

Pedro Cervantes, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)

4.9427 reviews
13532 Steelecroft Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28278, United States
Best for
Cataract surgery assessmentsGlaucoma surgery consultations

Pedro Cervantes, MD, is a Charlotte ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon specialising in glaucoma surgery and femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery. His work suits patients seeking surgical assessment alongside ongoing care for glaucoma or other adult eye conditions.

The consultation style is calm, thorough and focused on explanation. Patients can expect questions to be addressed carefully, with treatment choices and follow-up discussed in accessible terms. His clinical scope also includes care for urgent eye problems, with the wider practice supporting specialist ophthalmology through a coordinated team. Appointments are required and recommended in advance. For cataract or glaucoma surgery, bring previous eye-treatment details and a current medication list to help support the consultation.

Chao Li, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.) #6
What stands out
  • Cataract surgery specialist

Chao Li, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)

4.9385 reviews
10405 Centrum Pkwy, Pineville, NC 28134, United States
Best for
Cataract surgery consultationsSurgical eye-care follow-up

Chao Li, MD, is an ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon providing eye care in the Charlotte area, with a particular focus on cataract surgery. The practice is suited to patients looking for surgical assessment and follow-up within a specialist ophthalmology setting.

Consultations include examination, discussion of findings and explanation of treatment options, with an experienced support team involved in the care pathway. Patients arranging surgery or a detailed assessment should expect an appointment-based service and should reserve in advance. The clinical setting also supports wider eye-care needs through CEENTA’s specialist network, making it possible to pursue related examinations and follow-up within the same organisation.

William Hammonds, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.) #7
What stands out
  • LASIK and FLACS specialist

  • Clear explanations of surgical options

William Hammonds, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)

4.9357 reviews
6035 Fairview Rd, Charlotte, NC 28210, United States
Best for
LASIK or cataract consultations

William Hammonds, MD, is a Charlotte ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon specialising in adult eye care, LASIK and femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery. His service is aimed at patients considering refractive treatment or seeking a detailed assessment for cataract-related care.

A clear, measured explanation of procedures is central to the consultation, with time given to questions about cataract surgery and LASIK. The clinical team supports a professional, reassuring pathway from examination through treatment planning, while appointments are arranged in advance. Patients should plan for an appointment-based specialist assessment and bring any relevant previous eye-care information when discussing surgery or refractive options.

Wei Huang, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.) #8
What stands out
  • Glaucoma and cataract surgery specialist

Wei Huang, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)

4.8587 reviews
10305 Hamptons Park Dr Ste 201, Huntersville, NC 28078, United States
Best for
Glaucoma treatment planning

Wei Huang, MD, PhD, is an ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon specialising in glaucoma and femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery. She practises from the Huntersville office and brings a focused surgical perspective to patients requiring cataract assessment, glaucoma treatment or follow-up after an eye procedure.

Her clinical manner is described as thorough and attentive, with careful monitoring when recovery needs extra support. Explanations are detailed without being rushed, helping patients understand examinations, treatment choices and next steps. The practice also has a research background in glaucoma and lens-related eye science. Appointments are required and recommended in advance. Patients preparing for a surgical consultation should bring previous treatment details and a current medication list.

Veena Rao, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.) #9
What stands out
  • Detailed glaucoma and cataract consultations

  • Patient, in-depth treatment discussions

Veena Rao, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)

4.9320 reviews
724 Aubrey Bell Dr, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Best for
Cataract surgery planningLong-term glaucoma care

Veena Rao, MD, is an ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon specialising in glaucoma and cataract surgery in Matthews and Monroe, serving patients in the wider Charlotte area. Her focus suits people seeking detailed assessment, long-term condition management or discussion of surgical options.

Dr Rao is known for patient, personable explanations and a willingness to discuss treatment choices in depth. Consultations can be comprehensive, particularly when reviewing cataract or glaucoma concerns, so the appointment is best approached with enough time for questions and planning. Appointments are required and recommended ahead of time. A written list of symptoms, medications and previous eye procedures can help keep a specialist consultation focused.

Donald Stewart, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.) #10
What stands out
  • Specialist neuro-ophthalmology care

  • Calm explanations of complex findings

Donald Stewart, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)

4.8425 reviews
724 Aubrey Bell Dr, Matthews, NC 28105, United States
Best for
Neuro-ophthalmology assessmentsComplex adult eye concerns

Donald Stewart III, MD, is a Charlotte-area ophthalmologist and neuro-ophthalmologist specialising in comprehensive adult eye care, neuro-ophthalmology and BOTOX. His specialist focus is particularly relevant to patients whose visual concerns may involve neurological conditions or require a more detailed assessment.

Dr Stewart’s approach is thorough and calm, with clear explanations of complex findings and time for questions. The clinical team supports an organised testing process, while the consultation itself is not rushed when a case requires careful discussion. Appointments are required and recommended in advance. Patients should bring relevant neurological, eye-care and medication information to help structure the assessment.

Sumit Gupta, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.) #11
What stands out
  • Adult ophthalmology and uveitis care

Sumit Gupta, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)

4.8412 reviews
2325 W Arbors Dr Ste 201, Charlotte, NC 28262, United States
Best for
Uveitis consultationsCataract surgery planning

Sumit Gupta, MD, is a Charlotte ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon specialising in adult eye care, femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery and uveitis treatment. His work is suited to patients seeking specialist assessment for cataracts, inflammatory eye conditions or wider adult ophthalmic concerns.

The consultation style is patient and explanatory, with treatment plans discussed carefully and questions addressed in clear language. The wider team provides coordinated testing and support, including help for patients who need instructions repeated or clarified. Appointments are required and recommended ahead of time. Bring previous eye-care records and a current medication list, particularly when discussing uveitis or surgery.

Jeff Stetler, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.) #12
What stands out
  • Cataract and refractive surgery focus

Jeff Stetler, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)

4.9241 reviews
6035 Fairview Rd, Charlotte, NC 28210, United States
Best for
Cornea and cataract assessments

Jeff Stetler, MD, is a Charlotte cataract surgeon and fellowship-trained cornea specialist providing cataract and refractive surgery alongside specialist corneal care. His expertise is relevant to patients needing a detailed assessment of corneal or lens-related vision problems.

The consultation style is knowledgeable and attentive, with a willingness to listen carefully and explain treatment options. The clinical team supports an efficient appointment process, while urgent cases may be assessed promptly when specialist intervention is appropriate. Appointments are required and recommended in advance. Patients should bring previous eye-care records, medication details and any information about earlier laser or corneal treatment.

Omar Punjabi, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.) #13
What stands out
  • Plain-language retinal guidance

  • Careful, unhurried consultations

Omar Punjabi, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)

4.9234 reviews
6035 Fairview Rd, Charlotte, NC 28210, United States
Best for
Retinal disease consultationsMacular degeneration care

Omar Punjabi, MD is a Charlotte ophthalmologist specialising in retinal disease, including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinal detachment. His consultations place clear explanation at the centre of care, with complex diagnoses and treatment plans broken down in plain language.

A patient, compassionate manner gives appointments a reassuring feel, while careful examinations and a thorough approach support informed decisions about retinal health. The practice also reflects a strong focus on professional standards and cleanliness. Appointments are required and booking ahead is advisable, particularly for specialist retinal care.

Elliot McKee, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.) #14
What stands out
  • Calm paediatric examinations

  • Clear strabismus explanations

Elliot McKee, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)

4.9208 reviews
6035 Fairview Rd, Charlotte, NC 28210, United States
Best for
Children’s eye assessmentsStrabismus consultations

Elliot McKee, MD provides paediatric ophthalmology and strabismus care in Charlotte. His approach is particularly attentive to children, with calm examinations, patient explanations and a reassuring manner that helps make unfamiliar appointments feel less stressful.

Families considering treatment for eye alignment concerns can expect a thorough process, clear discussion and thoughtful attention to questions. Dr McKee also treats surgical journeys with care, helping children and parents understand what happens next. Appointments are required, so arranging a visit in advance is important.

Vipul Shah, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.) #15
What stands out
  • Cornea and cataract expertise

  • Measured surgical guidance

Vipul Shah, MD - CEENTA (Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)

4.9199 reviews
5933 Blakeney Park Dr Ste 200, Charlotte, NC 28277, United States
Best for
Cataract surgery consultationsCorneal transplant care

Vipul Shah, MD is a fellowship-trained cornea specialist and cataract surgeon serving Charlotte. His work covers adult eye care, cataract surgery, corneal transplants and refractive surgery, with a careful, professional approach from consultation through follow-up.

Clear explanations, supportive staff and a measured pace help patients understand surgical options without feeling rushed. The practice is also suited to ongoing eye-health management, including glaucoma care, when continuity and practical communication matter. Appointments are required and booking ahead is recommended.

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Map of ophthalmologists in Charlotte

The supplied selection does not include verified neighbourhood groupings, although University City is identified as a relevant area for one care option. Patients elsewhere in Charlotte should use the practice location and service area to plan visits.

For consultations requiring repeated testing or follow-up, travel time can affect convenience. Ask whether examinations, scans and post-treatment reviews take place at the same site before committing to a care plan.

Eye care available

  • Cataract consultationsDiscuss cataract symptoms, treatment options and whether a surgical assessment is appropriate.
  • Glaucoma careArrange glaucoma assessments, treatment planning and consultations about possible surgery.
  • Retina assessmentsSeek specialist review for retinal concerns alongside cataract-related assessment where offered.
  • Routine eye examinationsBook family eye examinations and ongoing routine or specialist eye care.
  • Paediatric appointmentsFind eye appointments designed for children as part of broader family care.
  • Surgical eye-care follow-upPlan specialist assessment and follow-up connected with cataract or other eye surgery.
  • LASIK consultationsDiscuss whether a LASIK assessment is suitable for your visual needs and expectations.

How to choose an ophthalmologist

  1. Match the appointment to your concern: State whether you need cataract, glaucoma, retina, paediatric, LASIK or routine care so the practice can direct you to the right clinician.
  2. Ask what happens at the first visit: Confirm which examinations or scans are included, how long the appointment takes and whether your pupils may be dilated.
  3. Clarify the surgical pathway: If surgery is being considered, ask who performs it, where follow-up occurs and how the consultation leads to a treatment decision.
  4. Prepare your medical information: Check whether the practice needs previous eye records, medication details, referral letters or information about existing glaucoma or cataracts.
  5. Plan for repeat visits: For glaucoma monitoring or post-operative care, compare appointment frequency, testing arrangements and travel to the clinic rather than assessing only the first visit.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a referral to see an ophthalmologist in Charlotte?

Requirements vary by practice, insurance arrangement and the type of care requested. Ask when booking whether a referral is needed for a routine examination, a cataract or glaucoma consultation, or a surgical opinion, and have any existing records sent in advance.

What is the difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist?

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who can diagnose eye disease, provide specialist treatment and perform eye surgery. An optometrist generally provides vision testing, prescriptions and primary eye care.

The right choice depends on your symptoms and whether medical or surgical assessment is needed.

What should I bring to a cataract consultation?

Bring a current medication list, details of previous eye treatment, your glasses and any referral or medical records requested by the practice. Ask whether you will need someone to accompany you, particularly if testing may affect your vision temporarily.

How often are glaucoma appointments needed?

The interval depends on the type and control of glaucoma, treatment plan and test findings. During the consultation, ask how often pressure checks, visual field tests or imaging will be required and who will review changes between scheduled visits.

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