Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Optometrists in Seattle, WA
University Vision Clinic has been dedicated to providing quality vision care in Seattle's University District since 1958. Our practice specializes in comprehensive eye examinations, diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases, and co-management of eye surgeries. We offer specialized services for hard-to-fit contact lens cases, including keratoconus and post-surgical corneal transplants, with expertise developed over decades. Our skilled team, including experienced optometrists and opticians, delivers personalized care tailored to individual visual needs and occupational requirements. We maintain a full optical dispensary featuring high-quality eyewear from Germany, Japan, Italy, and France, with meticulous attention to frame design and construction. Our opticians are trained in advanced lens technologies, including high-index, Trivex, and progressive lenses, ensuring optimal visual solutions for patients.The clinic's commitment to thorough diagnostic testing includes digital retinal imaging, visual field testing, and OCT scans for early detection of ocular conditions. With three generations of experience since our founding, we combine tradition with modern techniques to serve patients with diverse vision needs. Our services extend to pre- and post-operative care for cataract, LASIK, and PRK procedures, maintaining continuity of care throughout treatment processes. The clinic's long-standing reputation for excellence is built on consistent dedication to patient education, preventive care, and individualized attention to each visitor.
Services
Eye Exams
Contact Lenses
Eyeglasses
Pre/Post-Surgical Care
Optical Dispensary
Details
- Year established: 1958
Highlights and features
- We offer 65+ years of continuous service in Seattle's University District
- Specialize in hard-to-fit contact lens solutions for complex cases
- Skilled opticians trained in advanced lens technologies and materials
- Comprehensive diagnostic testing with digital imaging and OCT scans
- Three generations of optometric expertise and community commitment
Services
Comprehensive Eye Exams
Our thorough eye examinations include digital retinal imaging, visual field testing, and OCT scans to detect early signs of eye disease. We assess visual acuity, refractive errors, and binocular vision function using advanced diagnostic equipment. The exams incorporate personalized consultations to address individual vision needs and occupational requirements.
Contact Lens Fittings
Specializing in complex contact lens cases, we offer customized fittings for keratoconus, astigmatism, and multifocal needs. Our gas-permeable and silicone hydrogel lenses provide optimal oxygen permeability for eye health. The clinic offers polishing services for rigid lenses and carries premium brands for diverse vision requirements.
Eyeglass Dispensary
Our optical dispensary features designer frames from Germany, Japan, Italy, and France with meticulous quality control. We offer high-index, Trivex, and progressive lenses with specialized coatings for scratch resistance and UV protection. The service includes personalized frame selection and lens customization for optimal vision correction.
Pre/Post-Surgical Care
We provide comprehensive co-management for LASIK, cataract, and PRK procedures with pre-operative evaluations and post-operative monitoring. Our care includes diagnostic testing to assess surgical candidacy and follow-up examinations to ensure optimal recovery outcomes. The service maintains continuity between surgical specialists and primary eye care.
Diagnostic Testing
Advanced diagnostic services include OCT imaging, visual field testing, and intraocular pressure measurement for early disease detection. We conduct threshold visual field tests and color vision assessments to identify neurological or ocular abnormalities. The testing supports comprehensive management of glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.
People
Mark Hovander
Optometrist
Dr. Hovander has performed over 70,000 vision exams since joining the clinic in 1989. He specializes in comprehensive eye exams with digital scanning technology and distance vision testing. His practice maintains the legacy established by his father, Charles Hovander, since 1958.
Paul Smith
Licensed Dispensing Optician
Paul has specialized in premium eyewear since 2000, selecting high-quality frames and lenses for optimal vision correction. He teaches at Seattle Central School of Opticianry and provides personalized eyeglass solutions tailored to individual visual needs and occupational requirements.
Richard Ackman
Contact Lens Specialist
With over 30 years of experience, Richard specializes in difficult contact lens fittings including keratoconus and post-surgical cases. He began working in contact lens laboratories in 1974 and focuses on independent optician services that prioritize quality patient care.
Charles Hovander
Founder
The clinic's founder pioneered gas-permeable contact lens fitting in Seattle since establishing the practice in 1958. He served on Washington's State Board of Opticians and taught contact lens fitting at the University of Washington until his retirement in 1992.
Questions
What services does University Vision Clinic offer?
We provide comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, premium eyewear, pre/post-surgical care, and specialized lens solutions for complex vision needs.
Do you accept vision insurance?
We accept most vision insurance plans and can help verify your coverage during appointment scheduling.
What makes your clinic different from others?
Our three-generation legacy combines personalized care with advanced technology, specializing in complex contact lens fittings and premium optical solutions.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call us at (206) 633-2000 during business hours or use our online scheduling system for comprehensive eye exams and contact lens evaluations.
What should I bring to my eye exam?
Bring current glasses or contacts, vision/medical insurance cards, medication lists, and measure your typical reading distances for optimal prescription accuracy.
