Serving patients seeking cataract surgery with Crystalens, AcrySof ReSTOR and Toric IOLs in Orange County, Irvine and the surrounding area

Lawrence C. Chao, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist with subspecialty fellowship training in cataract, LASIK, lens implantation and cornea surgery. This higher level of training means Dr. Chao is one of a select group of cataract and refractive surgeons in the country who are able to manage both routine and complex corneal refractive cases. He has been selected as one of the "Best Doctors of America" by his peers due to his extensive experience and unsurpassed surgical skills. When Best Doctors asked physicians questions like, "If you or a loved one needed a doctor in your specialty to whom would you refer them?" many of his peers elected Dr. Chao. By placing the welfare of patients first and foremost, Dr. Chao is considered a doctor whom doctors would choose for themselves or their loved ones. He has been entrusted to care for the eyes of many of Orange County's doctors, healthcare professionals and their families.

Dr. Chao is also a respected educator who has held numerous clinical faculty positions and was named "Teacher of the Year" for his work with resident physicians at the University of California, Irvine (UCI). He has been featured in numerous local media publications, including Orange County Register, LA Times, Vogue and Glamour. He has performed more than 10,000 cataract and corneal refractive procedures.

Cataract Surgery at Chao Vision Institute

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside the eye, which is located behind the iris. The lens works just like the lens of a camera — focusing light images on the retina. As a result of the natural aging process the natural lens can become clouded, not allowing light and images to reach the retina, thereby impairing vision.

Dr. Chao offers the latest "no stitch" cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOLs). An IOL can be used to correct primarily for distance vision, or Dr. Chao may recommend a custom IOL that can provide a full range of vision, such as Crystalens or AcrySof ReSTOR.

When Bausch & Lomb, manufacturer of the Crystalens HD, donated 100 intraocular lenses to low-income recipients, Dr. Chao was selected to represent Orange County as one of 100 cataract surgeons nationwide to change 100 lives in 100 minutes.

Dr. Chao also offers refractive lens exchange (RLE) to patients who do not have cataracts but wish to eliminate the need for glasses or contacts. In addition, he performs laser eye surgery, including LASIK, LASEK and PRK. A Centurian Surgeon for Ladarvision and a certified trainer for VISX, Dr. Chao has helped train and certify other physicians in LASIK and laser vision correction.

Dr. Chao currently maintains privileges and affiliation with UC Irvine and performs cataract surgery at Barranca Surgery Center. Genuine in character and skilled in surgical techniques, Dr. Chao is involved with all aspects of your care, from consult to postoperative visits.

To schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Chao and learn more about your vision correction options, please contact Chao Vision Institute at (949) 679-2426 or toll free at (888) OCEYEMD.

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What Do Patients Say About Dr. Chao?

"I feel freed forever from contact lenses and glasses. I feel fortunate for my improved vision which is realized every day. I enjoy reading more – I'm a happier woman!" —Janet B, Laguna, CA

"Recommended by another doctor – I can now read without glasses and drive without glasses. It is wonderful to be able to see again. I am much more relaxed because I can now see signs when I drive." —Sharon B, Kauai, HI

"Outstanding. [How has improving your vision improved your lifestyle?] – In many ways – like seeing the golf ball." —J Pierce C., Orthopedic Surgeon

"Dr. Chao demonstrates all of the characteristics associated with a caring, compassionate, competent doctor. In many ways, he is truly a healer." —Ronald C., Medical Doctor

"Because of his reputation of being the best. [How was your experience with Chao Vision Institute?] Fantastic! Great staff too! I can see w/o correction. Colors are true." —Milly D., Newport Beach, CA

"I want to thank you for the splendid care you have given to each of my referrals to your practice and to you specifically. All of them have reported high satisfaction with your care and have been pleased with the personal attention they have been given by your staff. Their ability and proficiency reflects your expertise and professional care which I complement you on." —Gordon F., Ophthalmologist

"I found Dr. Chao to be warm & considerate and did an exceptional examination, evaluation, & treatment plan. As a professional, I could not have asked for a better doctor." —Marvin F., DDS

"I would not hesitate to recommend Dr. Chao for all eye care. I no longer carry reading glasses, driving glasses, & prescription sun glasses." —Marian H., Real Estate Investor

"His experience, but more important is he instilled confidence in me on his final recommendation. I knew I was making the right decision. Unbelievable patience by Dr. Chao, he gave me more of his time than I ever expected. He welcomes questions. Not having glasses for three distances is wonderful. Seeing the world's vibrant colors again is amazing." —Jim L., Newport Beach, CA

"I have utmost confidence in him. Excellent. No eyeglasses." —David S., Orthodontist

"I was told I needed cataract surgery. Wonderful!! Dr. Chao is very efficient, friendly, and shows a lot of patience when dealing with laymen. 100% – Thanks to Dr. Chao's caring and friendly attitude." —Eileen Y., Newport Beach, CA

More About Lawrence C. Chao, MD

Lawrence C. Chao, MD, completed his undergraduate degree at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. He graduated with honors from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine. Dr. Chao served his ophthalmology residency at the Castroviejo Eye Clinic at St. Vincent's Medical Center in New York and his cornea and refractive surgery fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. Prior to establishing the Chao Vision Institute, Dr. Chao held numerous clinical faculty positions at UC Irvine, including Clinical Instructor, Director of Refractive Surgery at the Beckman Laser Institute, and Associate Professor of Ophthalmology and Medical Director of the Gottschalk Eye Clinic. He is a member of the prestigious Max Fine Cornea Society, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the International Society of Refractive Surgery.

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