Menu

15 Best Ophthalmologists in Denver

Denver ophthalmologists serve different needs, from routine eye care and cataract consultations to retina treatment, urgent concerns, and laser vision correction. The most useful comparison begins with the condition or procedure you need addressed.

Check whether the practice handles your specific concern, what testing is included, and how quickly new or urgent patients can be assessed. For surgery or injections, ask who provides follow-up care and where each stage takes place.

How this guide is ordered

Research came first: we studied ophthalmologists across Denver and held on to the businesses that specialize most, that customers review best and that give complete details.

Certain businesses pay to appear in more visible positions.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

Compare 15 local options

Jason M. Jacobs, M.D., Denver#1
What stands out
  • Patient-centered cataract care

Jason M. Jacobs, M.D.

4.9617 reviews
3801 E Florida Ave Ste 720, Denver, CO 80210, United States
Best for
Cataract surgery consultationsRoutine ophthalmology visits

Jason M. Jacobs, M.D. is a Denver ophthalmologist whose care includes cataract surgery, regular eye examinations, and evaluation of urgent eye concerns . His clinical style combines careful attention with efficient organization, while consultations leave room for patients and families to ask questions and understand their options.

Cataract patients may appreciate the thorough explanations and calm, gentle manner described throughout the care process. The office is also noted for an efficient administrative team and straightforward routine exams. Appointments are required or recommended, making advance scheduling important for both planned surgery consultations and ongoing ophthalmic care.

Ross Chod, MD: Ophthalmologist & Retina Specialist, Denver#2
What stands out
  • Patient-focused retinal care

Ross Chod, MD: Ophthalmologist & Retina Specialist

4.9445 reviews
1411 S Potomac St Ste 440, Aurora, CO 80012, United States
Best for
Retinal conditionsRetina injections

Ross Chod, MD is a Denver ophthalmologist and vitreoretinal surgeon focused on retinal care. His approach is notably patient-centered: consultations and procedures are handled with patience, clear explanations, and careful attention to comfort. Questions are answered in understandable terms, including when treatment involves injections or surgery.

The practice also places emphasis on organized appointments, cleanliness, and attentive follow-up. As a retina specialist, Dr. Chod may be especially relevant for people seeking focused evaluation or treatment for retinal conditions rather than routine vision care.

William Richheimer, MD, Denver#3
What stands out
  • Detailed surgical consultations

William Richheimer, MD

4.9363 reviews
3535 River Point Pkwy Ste 200, Sheridan, CO 80110, United States

William Richheimer, MD is a Denver ophthalmologist associated with Mile High Eye Institute, a specialty practice serving the wider metro area. His clinical focus includes vision correction options such as LASIK and PRK, as well as cataract surgery and lens procedures. The practice uses detailed consultations to help determine which treatment best fits each patient’s eyes and goals.

A reassuring, thorough communication style is central to the experience. Dr. Richheimer and his team take time to answer repeated questions, explain procedures step by step, and maintain support through surgery and follow-up. He is a strong fit for patients comparing cataract surgery or refractive vision correction with an emphasis on preparation and continuity.

Cutarelli Vision - Denver LASIK#4
What stands out
  • Multiple vision-correction pathways

  • Thorough treatment explanations

Cutarelli Vision - Denver LASIK

4.91,081 reviews
7900 E Union Ave #100, Denver, CO 80237, United States
Best for
LASIK consultations

Cutarelli Vision is a Denver LASIK surgery center led by Paul Cutarelli, MD, with a broader ophthalmology offering that includes cataract, cornea, and refractive lens procedures. The consultation process is designed to explain candidacy, treatment choices, recovery, and expected next steps before surgery, helping patients make an informed decision.

Its team is described as organized, professional, and attentive from consultation through follow-up. LASIK is not the only route considered: options may also include refractive lens exchange or other procedures, depending on the eye’s needs. A consultation is required, and appointments are recommended.

20/20 Institute - Denver#5
What stands out
  • Concierge-style patient guidance

  • Thorough candidacy consultations

20/20 Institute - Denver

5.0373 reviews
1331 17th St M-120, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Best for
LASIK candidatesClear lens exchange

20/20 Institute is a Denver LASIK center built around a concierge-style patient experience. Dedicated patient counselors help guide visitors from the initial consultation through evaluation, treatment, and follow-up, while the team’s customer-first approach keeps the process focused on questions, comfort, and informed decision-making.

The center also performs clear lens exchange and presents vision correction as a carefully assessed process rather than a one-size-fits-all service. Consultations are described as thorough, with staff taking time to explain each stage and determine candidacy. It is particularly appealing to people who want structured guidance and attentive coordination when exploring refractive surgery.

Cherry Creek Eye Physicians & Surgeons, P.C., Denver#6
What stands out
  • Broad family eye-care services

Cherry Creek Eye Physicians & Surgeons, P.C.

4.7399 reviews
4999 E Kentucky Ave Ste 202, Denver, CO 80246, United States
Best for
Comprehensive eye exams

Cherry Creek Eye Physicians & Surgeons is a Denver ophthalmology practice offering comprehensive care for individuals and families. Services include eye exams, cataract surgery, specialty contact lens fittings, keratoconus treatment, glaucoma management, dry-eye care, and LASIK consultations.

The practice combines a welcoming clinical environment with diagnostic imaging and laser technology used across exams and treatment planning. Its team is suited to patients who want one practice for routine assessment, ongoing eye-disease management, and surgical care. The staff is also prepared to help with time-sensitive needs such as replacing lost glasses.

Mile High Eye Institute, Denver#7
What stands out
  • Cataract and refractive expertise

  • Clear testing and follow-up

Mile High Eye Institute

4.81,577 reviews
3535 River Point Pkwy Ste 200, Sheridan, CO 80110, United States
Best for
Cataract consultationsLaser vision correction

Mile High Eye Institute is a Denver-area specialty eye practice with particular relevance for cataract surgery, lens procedures, glaucoma treatment, and refractive vision correction. Its ophthalmology team also provides LASIK and PRK options, with consultations designed to review the patient’s eyes, goals, and available procedures before treatment.

The care experience emphasizes clear explanations, efficient testing, cleanliness, and continuity through follow-up. Staff members take time to make examinations comfortable and explain what each test means. Patients considering cataract surgery or laser correction may value the combination of surgical consultation and ongoing optometric support.

JLocal option
#8
What stands out
  • Long-term, attentive eye care

James Patterson, M.D.

4.9157 reviews
3801 E Florida Ave Ste 720, Denver, CO 80210, United States
Best for
Routine ophthalmology

James Patterson, M.D. is a Denver ophthalmologist known for an easygoing, attentive approach to eye care. He listens closely to concerns, explains findings and options in practical language, and gives patients time to feel comfortable with decisions involving examinations, cataract care, or other eye conditions.

His manner is especially reassuring for people who prefer a steady doctor-patient relationship over rushed appointments. Dr. Patterson has also cared for patients with ongoing eye needs, including those requiring close monitoring alongside conditions such as diabetes. Appointments are recommended.

Mile High Eye Care, Denver#9
What stands out
  • Specialty contact-lens fitting

  • Care for children and adults

Mile High Eye Care

4.9523 reviews
9625 Ralston Rd, Arvada, CO 80004, United States
Best for
Comprehensive eye examsSpecialty contacts

Mile High Eye Care is a Denver eye-care center offering comprehensive eye exams , optical services, dry-eye care, eye-disease treatment, and contact lens fitting. The team also works with specialty lenses, including advanced fittings for conditions such as keratoconus, and provides care for children as well as adults.

Examinations are presented as more than prescription checks, with attention to changes linked to glaucoma, cataracts, diabetes, and other eye conditions. The office is described as clean, organized, and relaxed, with doctors and opticians taking time to explain findings and answer questions. It suits visitors seeking coordinated exams, glasses, contacts, or ongoing vision management.

GLocal option
#10
What stands out
  • Responsive, thoughtful ophthalmology

  • Clear surgical guidance

Garett Frank, M.D.

4.9151 reviews
3801 E Florida Ave Ste 720, Denver, CO 80210, United States
Best for
Cataract surgeryUrgent eye concerns

Garett Frank, M.D. is a Denver ophthalmologist whose care combines detailed evaluation with a calm, approachable manner. He takes time to listen, explain what is happening, and set out the next steps in language patients can follow. His work includes cataract surgery and ongoing management of more complex eye concerns.

The practice is also equipped to respond when an eye problem requires prompt attention, with appointments sometimes arranged on short notice. Patients seeking a surgeon who remains engaged beyond the procedure may appreciate the emphasis on careful follow-up, thoughtful problem-solving, and continuity of care.

The LASIK Vision Institute, Denver#11
What stands out
  • Individualized LASIK assessment

The LASIK Vision Institute

4.8853 reviews
4100 E Mississippi Ave Ste 105A, Glendale, CO 80246, United States
Best for
LASIK consultationsLaser vision correction

The LASIK Vision Institute is a Denver LASIK center offering vision-correction consultations, laser treatments, and follow-up care. The process includes eye mapping and an assessment of each patient’s prescription and eye structure, allowing the surgeon to determine whether LASIK is appropriate and which treatment best fits the individual case.

Staff members are described as kind, organized, and informative, with clear instructions before and after surgery. The center may suit people looking for a streamlined consultation-to-procedure pathway, while the medical evaluation remains central to choosing the right option. Contact-lens wearers should expect preparation instructions before treatment.

Colorado Retina Associates, Denver#12
What stands out
  • Dedicated retinal subspecialty care

Colorado Retina Associates

4.9126 reviews
3401 Quebec St Ste 105, Denver, CO 80207, United States
Best for
Retinal disease

Colorado Retina Associates is a Denver retina practice specializing in medical and surgical care for retinal and macular diseases. Its specialists treat conditions including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears, and other disorders requiring focused retinal diagnosis or treatment. The Central Park location serves patients from across the Denver metro area.

A multidisciplinary team supports examinations with retinal imaging, screening, photography, coordination, and clinical follow-up. The office is organized and welcoming, with staff explaining each stage of testing and helping patients feel at ease. The practice also participates in clinical research involving retinal disease treatments.

Amy Kelmenson, M.D., Denver#13
What stands out
  • Detailed cornea and glaucoma care

  • Thorough treatment explanations

Amy Kelmenson, M.D.

4.8173 reviews
3801 E Florida Ave Ste 720, Denver, CO 80210, United States
Best for
Glaucoma care

Amy Kelmenson, M.D. is a Denver ophthalmologist with a careful, explanatory approach to conditions including corneal erosion and glaucoma. She takes time to discuss options, answer questions, and make sure patients understand the reasoning behind a procedure or treatment plan. Her consultations are particularly detailed when care involves a laser procedure or ongoing monitoring.

The practice is best suited to patients who value thoughtful communication and a doctor who considers complex eye concerns carefully. Demand can make appointments difficult to secure, so planning ahead is sensible for non-urgent care.

Mile High Retina: Mark E. Patron, MD, Denver#14
What stands out
  • Calm, patient-centered retina care

Mile High Retina: Mark E. Patron, MD

4.9345 reviews
1873 S Bellaire St Ste 410, Denver, CO 80222, United States
Best for
Retinal tears

Mile High Retina, led by Mark E. Patron, MD, is a Denver medical clinic focused on retinal and macular conditions. Care includes evaluation and treatment for macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears , detachments, macular holes, and related disorders, using both surgical and non-surgical approaches.

Dr. Patron’s style emphasizes calm explanations, patient participation, and enough time to understand what a procedure involves. This is especially relevant for people facing injections, laser treatment, or an urgent retinal concern. The team works to coordinate appointments promptly while maintaining a reassuring, unhurried atmosphere through diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.

Dr. Eva Kim, MD, Denver#15
What stands out
  • Personalized refractive evaluations

  • Cornea and uveitis expertise

Dr. Eva Kim, MD

5.075 reviews
3900 E Mexico Ave #102, Denver, CO 80210, United States
Best for
Cataract surgeryEVO ICL evaluation

Dr. Eva Kim, MD is a Denver ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained uveitis specialist at ICON Eyecare, where care spans medical ophthalmology, corneal conditions , cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye, and refractive surgery. She also evaluates advanced vision-correction options such as EVO ICL, with candidacy determined through detailed assessment of prescription, eye health, anatomy, and visual goals.

Dr. Kim is recognized for explaining options clearly and creating a comfortable setting for questions. Her approach is useful for patients weighing cataract or refractive surgery who want to understand alternatives before proceeding, particularly when standard LASIK may not be the only consideration.

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviewsBest for
#1Jason M. Jacobs, M.D. 4.9617Cataract surgery consultations
#2Ross Chod, MD: Ophthalmologist & Retina Specialist 4.9445Retinal conditions
#3William Richheimer, MD 4.9363—
#4Cutarelli Vision - Denver LASIK 4.91,081LASIK consultations
#520/20 Institute - Denver 5.0373LASIK candidates
#6Cherry Creek Eye Physicians & Surgeons, P.C. 4.7399Comprehensive eye exams
#7Mile High Eye Institute 4.81,577Cataract consultations
#8James Patterson, M.D. 4.9157Routine ophthalmology
#9Mile High Eye Care 4.9523Comprehensive eye exams
#10Garett Frank, M.D. 4.9151Cataract surgery
#11The LASIK Vision Institute 4.8853LASIK consultations
#12Colorado Retina Associates 4.9126Retinal disease
#13Amy Kelmenson, M.D. 4.8173Glaucoma care
#14Mile High Retina: Mark E. Patron, MD 4.9345Retinal tears
#15Dr. Eva Kim, MD 5.075Cataract surgery

Run a business?

Manage or add my business

Map of ophthalmologists in Denver

No verified neighborhood pattern is available for this group of Denver ophthalmologists, so the best geographic comparison is the distance to the clinic that offers the care you need. A nearby general practice may not provide the same subspecialty treatment. Before booking, confirm the clinic location for testing, consultation, procedure, and follow-up visits. This matters when treatment involves several appointments, dilation, injections, surgery, or limited driving afterward.

Services to compare

  • Comprehensive eye examsArrange a broad ophthalmology evaluation when you need assessment beyond a basic vision check.
  • Cataract consultationsDiscuss cataract symptoms, surgical options, lens choices, and the evaluation needed before treatment.
  • Routine ophthalmology visitsMaintain ongoing eye care or investigate changes that do not require a surgical consultation at the outset.
  • Urgent eye concernsSeek prompt assessment for a new eye problem by confirming how the practice handles urgent appointments.
  • Retina care and injectionsCompare specialists for retinal conditions, retina injections, and monitoring that may require repeated visits.
  • Vitreoretinal surgeryFind subspecialty care for conditions requiring surgical treatment of the retina or vitreous.
  • LASIK consultationsDiscuss candidacy, expected correction, risks, and the evaluation process before deciding on LASIK.
  • Lens exchange and laser correctionExplore clear lens exchange or other laser vision correction options when refractive treatment is the goal.

How to choose ophthalmologists in Denver

  1. Name the problem when bookingTell the office whether you need a routine exam, cataract consultation, retina care, laser correction, or an urgent assessment so you reach the appropriate service.
  2. Ask what the first visit includesConfirm which tests, dilation, imaging, and consultation time are part of the initial appointment and whether someone should drive you home.
  3. Clarify the treatment pathwayFor injections or surgery, ask how often follow-ups occur, who performs each step, and whether treatment is provided at the same location.
  4. Check candidacy requirementsFor LASIK or lens exchange, ask which measurements, health factors, prescription limits, and previous procedures affect eligibility.
  5. Confirm urgent accessAsk how the office handles sudden vision changes, pain, flashes, floaters, or injury and where to go outside regular appointment availability.

Frequently asked questions

When should I choose an ophthalmologist instead of an optometrist?

An ophthalmologist is appropriate when you may need medical or surgical eye care, such as cataract treatment, retinal management, injections, or vitreoretinal surgery. For routine vision needs, the appropriate provider depends on your symptoms, existing diagnosis, and the testing required.

What happens during a cataract consultation?

The visit commonly involves vision measurements, an examination of the eye, discussion of symptoms, and an explanation of whether surgery is appropriate. Ask about lens options, recovery, follow-up visits, and any transportation restrictions before scheduling the procedure.

How quickly should I seek care for an urgent eye concern?

Sudden vision loss, severe pain, a new curtain-like shadow, flashes, many new floaters, or an eye injury should be treated as urgent. Contact an eye-care office or emergency service promptly rather than waiting for a routine appointment.

How do I compare LASIK consultations?

Ask whether the evaluation includes the measurements needed to assess candidacy, what alternatives are discussed, and how enhancement or follow-up care is handled. A consultation should explain realistic benefits and limitations rather than treating the procedure as suitable for everyone.

Related guides