General & Appointments
What services does Griffey Eye Care offer?
Griffey Eye Care & Laser Center provides comprehensive eye care for patients of all ages. Our core services include cataract surgery (traditional and laser-assisted), LASIK and PRK vision correction, glaucoma diagnosis and treatment, diabetic eye care, dry eye treatment, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), routine and medical eye exams, contact lens fittings, and prescription eyewear. We also offer premium intraocular lenses (IOLs), including the RxSight™ Light Adjustable Lens.
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling one of our Chesapeake offices at 757-776-0416, 757-776-0422, or filling out the online form here. New patients, returning patients, and referrals are all welcome.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring a valid photo ID, your insurance and vision plan cards, a list of current medications (including eye drops), your current glasses or contact lens prescription, and any relevant medical records or referrals from your primary care doctor. If your eyes will be dilated, plan to bring sunglasses and arrange a ride home, as your vision may be blurry for several hours.
Where are you located?
We serve patients across Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, and the surrounding Hampton Roads area from two convenient locations:
- Kempsville Clinic: 560 Kempsville Rd, Suite 100, Chesapeake, VA 23320
- Carmichael Clinic: 204 Carmichael Way #200, Chesapeake, VA 23322
- Surgery Center: Located right next door to our Carmichael office for cataract, LASIK, and other surgical procedures.
Who are your physicians?
Our team is led by Paul M. Griffey, M.D., a third-generation board-certified ophthalmologist and LASIK, cataract, and lens replacement surgeon specializing in laser cataract surgery, glaucoma management, and laser refractive surgery (PRK and LASIK). He is supported by Robert B. Fox, Jr., O.D., an optometric physician with expertise in medical optometry, contact lens fittings, eyeglass prescriptions, and emergency eye care. Together, our doctors bring decades of combined experience and a patient-first approach to every visit.
Cataract Surgery
What is the difference between traditional and laser cataract surgery?
Traditional cataract surgery uses a small handheld blade to create the corneal incision and break up the cloudy lens with ultrasound. Laser cataract surgery uses a bladeless femtosecond laser (such as the LenSx system) to make precise incisions, soften the cataract, and reduce the ultrasound energy needed. Laser-assisted surgery typically offers greater accuracy, especially for patients receiving premium or astigmatism-correcting IOLs. Learn more in our blog on questions to ask before cataract surgery.
What is the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL)?
The RxSight™ Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) is the first and only FDA-approved intraocular lens that can be customized after cataract surgery. Once the eye has healed, your surgeon uses a Light Delivery Device to fine-tune your vision through brief UV light treatments, so you can preview and “test drive” different vision outcomes before locking in the final prescription. It is especially well-suited for patients with pre-existing astigmatism. Read our full guide on Light Adjustable Lenses.
Does cataract surgery hurt?
No, cataract surgery is virtually painless. Numbing eye drops are used so you won’t feel the procedure, and a mild sedative helps you stay relaxed and comfortable. Most patients report only slight pressure or awareness of light during the 10–15 minute surgery. Some mild scratchiness or watering may occur for a day or two afterward, which can be easily managed with prescribed drops.
How long does cataract surgery recovery take?
Most patients notice clearer vision within 24 to 48 hours, with full visual stabilization typically occurring in 4 to 6 weeks. You can usually return to light daily activities the next day, but heavy lifting, swimming, and rubbing the eyes should be avoided during the early healing window. For a complete breakdown, read our blog on cataract surgery recovery time.
Can cataracts come back after surgery?
No, true cataracts cannot return, once the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with an IOL, that lens does not become cloudy again. However, some patients develop a posterior capsule opacification (PCO), often called a “secondary cataract,” months or years later. This is easily corrected in a few minutes with a painless in-office YAG laser procedure.
Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?
It depends on the type of IOL you choose. With standard monofocal lenses, most patients still need glasses for some tasks (usually reading). Premium IOLs such as multifocal, extended depth-of-focus (EDOF), or Light Adjustable Lenses, can significantly reduce or eliminate glasses dependence. Our blog explains this in detail: Do you need new glasses after cataract surgery?
Can I have cataract surgery on only one eye?
Yes, cataract surgery can be performed on one eye if only one eye is significantly affected. However, vision imbalance (anisometropia) may occur if the prescriptions between your eyes differ greatly. Many patients eventually choose to have the second eye done once a cataract develops there. Your surgeon will evaluate both eyes and recommend the best approach.
What IOL options are available at Griffey Eye Care?
We offer a full range of intraocular lenses to match your lifestyle and visual goals, including:
- Monofocal IOLs — clear vision at one distance
- Toric IOLs — correct astigmatism
- Multifocal IOLs — clear vision at multiple distances
- Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs — smooth range from intermediate to distance
- RxSight™ Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) — customizable after surgery
Compare your options in our blog on cataract surgery lens options.
LASIK Vision Correction
Am I a good candidate for LASIK?
Good LASIK candidates are typically 18 or older, have a stable prescription for at least one year, healthy corneas of sufficient thickness, no active eye diseases, and are not pregnant or nursing. LASIK can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The only way to know for sure is a LASIK consultation with our team, where corneal mapping and a refractive workup confirm your eligibility.
Does LASIK hurt?
No, LASIK is not painful. Numbing eye drops are applied before the procedure, so most patients feel only mild pressure for a few seconds. The entire surgery takes about 10–15 minutes per eye. Some patients experience temporary dryness, watering, or a gritty sensation for a few hours afterward, which resolves quickly with prescribed drops.
How long does LASIK last?
LASIK results are permanent, the corneal reshaping does not reverse. Most patients enjoy clear vision for decades. However, natural age-related changes such as presbyopia (the need for reading glasses, usually starting in the 40s) and cataracts (typically after age 60) can affect your vision later in life. A small percentage of patients may benefit from an enhancement procedure years down the line.
Can I have cataract surgery after LASIK?
Yes, absolutely. Having had LASIK does not prevent you from getting cataract surgery later in life. However, your surgeon will need specialized IOL calculations because LASIK changes the cornea’s curvature. Choosing the right IOL and an experienced surgeon is essential for the best outcome. Read our detailed blog: Cataract surgery after LASIK: Is it possible and safe?
Eye Exams & Eye Health
How often should I have an eye exam?
The recommended frequency depends on age and risk factors:
- Children and teens: Before starting school, then as recommended
- Adults 18–39 with no symptoms: Every 2 years
- Adults 40–64: Every 1–2 years
- Adults 65+: Annually
- Anyone with diabetes, glaucoma history, or high prescriptions: At least once a year
What happens during a comprehensive eye exam?
A comprehensive exam evaluates both vision and overall eye health. Expect a review of your medical history, visual acuity testing, refraction (prescription check), eye muscle and pupil tests, intraocular pressure check (glaucoma screening), and a dilated examination of the retina, optic nerve, and macula. Additional imaging, such as OCT or visual field testing may be performed when needed.
How does diabetes affect my eyes?
Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of vision loss in working-age adults. It can also increase the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and macular edema. Early stages often have no symptoms, which is why people with diabetes should have a dilated eye exam at least once a year, even with no vision changes.
What are the early signs of glaucoma?
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because most types, particularly open-angle glaucoma, have no early symptoms. Vision loss begins in the peripheral (side) vision and goes unnoticed until significant damage occurs. Acute angle-closure glaucoma is the exception and may cause sudden eye pain, redness, blurred vision, halos around lights, nausea, or headaches. This is a medical emergency. Routine eye pressure checks remain the best way to catch glaucoma early.
What causes eye floaters, and when should I be concerned?
Floaters are tiny clumps of protein in the vitreous gel that cast shadows on the retina. Most are harmless and become more common with age. However, you should seek immediate evaluation if you notice:
- A sudden increase in floaters
- Flashes of light
- A dark curtain or shadow across your vision
- Loss of side vision
These can signal a retinal tear or detachment, which requires urgent treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
Insurance & Billing
What insurance plans do you accept?
We accept most major medical and vision plans, including Medicare, Anthem, Aetna, Cigna, Humana, UnitedHealthcare, Tricare, and many more. Because coverage details vary, we recommend calling our office at 757-776-0416 before your visit to confirm your specific plan and benefits.
Does Medicare cover cataract surgery?
Yes. Medicare Part B covers medically necessary cataract surgery, including the pre-op evaluation, the surgical procedure, a standard monofocal IOL, post-op visits, and one pair of standard eyeglasses or contact lenses after surgery. Patients typically pay the Part B deductible and 20% coinsurance unless they have a supplemental plan. Premium IOLs (multifocal, toric, LAL) involve additional out-of-pocket costs. Learn more in our blog on Medicare coverage.
Does Medicare cover routine eye exams?
Original Medicare does not cover routine vision exams or eyeglasses. However, it does cover medical eye exams for conditions such as diabetes (annual diabetic eye exam), glaucoma (for high-risk patients), macular degeneration, and cataract evaluations. Many Medicare Advantage plans include routine vision benefits. Full details are in our blog: Does Medicare cover eye exams?
Do you offer payment or financing options?
Yes. For elective procedures such as LASIK and premium cataract IOL upgrades, we offer flexible financing through Alpheon and CareCredit patient financing partners, including options with low monthly payments and promotional interest rates. Our staff will walk you through all available options during your consultation.
How can I pay my bill?
We accept cash, all major credit and debit cards, and HSA/FSA cards. You can pay in person at either office, by phone at 757-776-0416, or by mail. For questions about a statement or to set up a payment plan, our billing team will be happy to help when you call.
Our Locations
Our Testimonials
I recently went to my family doctor for pain I’d been having in my eye that was moving down my neck. I’d been waiting to have an MRI scheduled, and it was taking forever. I wanted to get a second opinion about what course of action should be taken. My husband and daughter are both patients at this practice and have always received stellar treatment. Dr. Griffey took very good care of me and went the extra step to send a letter to my family doctor while I was still there to concur with what they had said and also confirm that he would suggest an MRI as well. I was very impressed with him and his patient care. And, I appreciate the staff (particularly Tara and Benita) in scheduling me in as soon as possible. I would highly recommend this practice! Thank you all again for your help.
Beth K
I was referred to Dr. Griffey by several people. I was told he was an excellent ophthalmologist, and they were right. This was my first time meeting him and he made me feel so safe, comfortable and confident that he was providing me with the best and most knowledgeable treatment I could ask for. As I sat in the chair, I observed him interact with a baby he kissed on the forehead, it was so special to see him do that because it showed a gentle side of him, and his interaction with his assistants was nice, professional and straight to the point of what he needed in order to help his patient, I remember him saying to one of them that he was not going to let me leave until he reviewed a report from another doctor about my condition and that really made me feel special because it showed his concern. I don’t think I could have asked for a better doctor. Thank you Dr. Griffey for being the best and hats off to your father and grandfather.
C. Blount
I had a wonderful first appointment. The staff is attentive and the techs and doctors are knowledgeable and take their time really getting to know their patients. So happy to have found them.
M. Catherine
I travel from Atlanta, Georgia to see Dr. Griffey, MD, and board certified Ophthalmologist. Dr. Griffey has performed two surgeries on me and I would trust him to do anything he deems necessary. The staff is fantastic and I would recommend Dr. Griffey, to all that needed to see a competent Ophthalmologist!!!
M.Bailey Buck
I want to thank everyone at Chesapeake Eye Care for their care on a recent visit. I had an accident involving my eye and even though they were booked, the receptionist worked me in that day. The technician and Dr. Fox saw me promptly and performed a thorough exam. I was very pleased with both of them and appreciated their kindness and professionalism.
P. Brangan
My dad had cataract surgery a couple years ago. I was a little nervous for him, he’d been resisting getting surgery for so long. However, the staff and Dr. Griffey were wonderful to him and everything went very smoothly. He had a great experience, and I am thankful to them for making him so comfortable.
K. Kroll
The best thing I ever did was get LASIK surgery; it is unbelievable how I can see 20/20. When I get in bed at night I still think … wait….no, I don’t have to take my contacts out and it’s been 3 months. It was wonderful in Mexico also with not having to worry about contacts and all the solutions to bring with me. I had an amazing experience with my LASIK surgery with Dr. Paul Griffey and his staff! I would definitely recommend him to friends and family!!!
E. McConnell
I sent my mom to Dr. Griffey for a 2nd opinion on her eyes. Years later, I am still satisfied with the care he has provided. She had an appointment today and Dr. Griffey called me personally to discuss my concerns. WOW!!!!! GREAT PROVIDER!!!!!! I also referred my dad to him after a bad cataract surgery elsewhere. Dr Griffey did his 2nd eye without complications. THANK YOU for taking care of my parents! I have 30+ years in the business as a licensed optician and have worked with many doctors, I would recommend Dr. Griffey to any patient for care!!!!!!!!!!
Selena Cabral
I have been a patient of Dr. Griffey, since 2012. I’m born, raised, formal education, retired Law Enforcement, City of Virginia Beach, VA. After moving to Atlanta, I felt I could not find the care I needed, so I travel back and forth to receive my care. I will not allow anyone to see me. Well worth the trip, and will continue to do so!
Thank you for being The Best…
MBB
We both underwent cataract surgery, in both eyes. Barbara’s was in September of 2018. Mine was in December 2018. We both had excellent experiences, from her first visit, to my last. Dr. Griffey, as well as everyone on his staff, (that we came in contact with), were prompt and very professional. Yet, at the same time they were relaxed and very friendly. We were very impressed that everyone, asked, if we had any questions.
And, we can both see 20/20 again!!.
There was an general atmosphere of confidence and calmness throughout his practice, as well as within the Chesapeake Surgical Center. That made us both feel very comfortable, and well cared for. We have never before experienced such a well run practice. We have, (and will continue to), highly recommend Dr. Griffey to anyone who needs eye care.
Barbara and Eddie
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