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At Tidewater Eye Centers, our goal is to help you achieve great vision for life. We provide top notch, advanced vision care in a warm and friendly environment. Thousands of people in the Virginia Beach area have trusted Tidewater Eye Centers to protect, enhance and preserve their vision. In addition to general eye care, our ophthalmologists specialize in LASIK and other vision correction surgery, cataract surgery, corneal eye disease and corneal transplants, cosmetic services, treatment of glaucoma, dry eye disease, retinal diseases, and complex eye conditions.
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At Tidewater Eye Centers, we provide comprehensive eye care to keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear at every stage of life. At Tidewater Eye Centers, it is our mission to provide each of our patients with great vision for life. We provide a full range of eye health and vision correction treatments for patients of all ages in a technologically-advanced environment where the patient always comes first.
We pride ourselves on providing top-notch, highly advanced eye care in a warm, relaxing environment. Contact us to schedule an eye exam and find out why so many people trust our team with their eyesight. We look forward to meeting you! The doctors at Tidewater Eye Centers have either authored or reviewed the content on this site.
If you are interested in scheduling a FREE LASIK Consultation, use our online scheduling tool here to select a convenient appointment time at your convenience. Please Advise: if you have an emergency or need immediate assistance, please call our office directly at (757) 483-0400 or call 911. Use of the Internet or email is for your convenience only, and by using them, you assume the risk of unauthorized use. The doctors at Tidewater Eye Centers have either authored or reviewed the content on this site.
LASIK, which stands for laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis, is a popular laser vision correction surgery that can reduce or eliminate the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses and allow patients to enjoy clear vision that can improve overall quality of life. At Tidewater Eye Centers, our highly skilled and experienced ophthalmologists and LASIK surgeons are dedicated to helping patients improve their vision.
Reviews (22)
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Pamela DiDomenico
May 05, 2022
Dr. Pavilak is a true professional. I have been a patient of his for many years and he has always taken excellent care of my eyes.
Noell Matney
Apr 14, 2022
I have never felt so low in my life after a Doctor appointment. I will not be returning. An eye Doctor that is supposed to be checking my eyes has no place making me feel horrible about myself because I'm fat. I'm not sure how recommending bariatric surgery or weight loss pills is going to help my vision. More time was spent telling me all the ways he recommended I lose weight than was spent talking about my eyes.
Jeana Collier
Mar 26, 2022
I worked at TEC for years in their Lasik department, and I can genuinely say I loved my job. Dr. Pavilack, their corneal specialist, is truly one of the best surgeons around. I have referred multiple friends and family to him for Lasik. I have also referred friends to Dr. Edmonds for clear lens extractions (cataract surgery before you have cataracts, if you are not a good candidate for Lasik).

All are very happy with their results! I had Lasik over 10 years ago, and it was one if the best things I have ever done for myself. Life changing for someone with a strong prescription! I went from 20/800 to 20/20 and still no need for correction.
Liz Kouri
Mar 21, 2022
Upon several recommendations, I chose Dr. Tom Edmunds at Tidewater Eye Centers for Cataract removal surgery. The office runs like a well oiled machine, moving many patients through testing and exam areas. Everyone appears knowledgeable and all are friendly. Options for the surgery are explained in detail by the technicians and Dr. Edmunds. I did not choose the laser surgery for financial reasons and Dr. Edmunds reassured me of the outcome.

I was born with extreme nearsighted vision and have worn corrective lenses since very young. I chose lenses for distance vision when cataracts were removed. Surgery took place at Virginia Center for Eye Surgery. I had total confidence in Dr. Edmunds and his team. Today, two weeks out, I have near 20/20 vision in both eyes and I am thrilled. I highly recommend Dr. Tom Edmunds.
Stephen Odom
Jan 26, 2022
A Very disappointing experience. They put me through a 30 min eye exam for a DMV report but the Doctor would not sign off in it unless I continued a much longer exam costing more money and time that DMV did not require. They knew up front and if they did not want to do the exam they should have said something. I feel suspicious of their motives and will never go back to them again.
Ann Cleland
Jan 02, 2022
I had a very painful eye and they fit me in the same day, Now my eye is in the mend and I am very thankful to all the staff who helped me!
Paola A.-H.
Oct 16, 2021
I came here to get tested for dry eye disease and was sent home with some over the counter eye drops, no follow up or home care routine. I made an appointment with another dry eye specialist after feeling like not enough was done. The difference in service is astounding. The other optometrist took her time to explain MGD, expressed my clogged glands along with sending me home with omega 3. If you're suffering from dry eye disease, I suggest looking elsewhere.
R. & S. Creations
Sep 12, 2021
I scheduled my husband an appointment online. I arrived only go find out the system had me scheduled a Lasik appointment. The front desk staff were amazing, they talked to the doctor who agreed to see us anywhere. He had several test completed each person he came in contact with was great. The doctor gave him alot of information, suggestions, and referred him to 2 doctors for his issues. We were completely satisfied. He informed us with info more than the primary care doctor. Definitely happy with the care, and resort we received.
Lisa Driscoll
Aug 26, 2021
Dr Pavilack is my new hero! I had laser correction surgery in Feb. 2021 and it's been the best investment I could have made in myself. I'm so happy I chose Tidewater Eye and Dr. Pavilack on the high recommendation from my eye doctor. The office is very professional and the staff is amazing. Everyone I came into contact with over my many visits was great.

I've seen some not so great comments from other people concerning Dr. Pavilack and let me just say that I truly don't get it. Maybe these people need a best friend more than they need a competent doctor. I had ZERO issues with Dr. Pavilack and his knowledge, professionalism, honesty and compassion for me as a patient. Having any kind of eye surgery, especially elective surgery, is a big decision.

You have to choose someone you are comfortable with. From my experience, I don't think you can find a better doctor than Dr. Pavilack and the rest of the staff at Tidewater Eye Center.
Nayeem Karim
Aug 21, 2021
Superb bedside manner. Dr. Pavilack is extremely intelligent and takes time to explain all details. I am so grateful I got a second opinion from him. He truly is a gem in his field.
Douglas Carrell
Jul 27, 2021
I recently had a cornea transplant done by Dr. Pavilack. I consider it to be life saving surgery. When you can't see, there isn't a lot to look forward too. He literally made me feel reborn.
Ron Tayo
Nov 19, 2020
I recently went through with the Lasik procedure at this facility and I am truly impressed. I was going back and forth between the Chesapeake and Virginia Beach offices, but the staff at both locations were absolutely wonderful. One of the Certified Ophthalmologist Assistants, Rebecca, was the epitome of service. She was personable, patient, and professional throughout the process.

Through the first tests, she explained in detail what each of the machines were doing and answered any questions I had along each step of the way. Between questions she was candid and casual, and felt like a really close family friend even from the first day. During my operation, she talked to me calm and kept me calm. Overall, I would absolutely recommend this practice. The atmosphere is welcoming and the people are the absolute best. Thank you Tidewater Eye Centers, I'll be "seeing" you!;
S. P.
Sep 11, 2020
Tried to be seen here. Called once and receptionist said they didn't take my insurance. Called insurance company, not only does Tidewater accept my insurance, they're a preferred provider! Called Tidewater, made appointment. Went to appointment. Waited over 40 minutes and they still weren't ready for me. Per the receptionist, this is common.

I can't imagine what kind of doctor's office thinks wasting their patients time is acceptable. It's beyond rude. They expect you to pull your child from school, get a babysitter for other children, but you as a patient, cannot expect to be seen in a timely manner? Good luck with that business plan.
El F.
Feb 27, 2020
Update: I'm no stranger to surgeries and medical procedures, but so many of them have gone poorly for me, either by being painful or ineffective or mistakes being made. This was my first elective medical procedure and the only one that went smoothly and painlessly. The most painful part of this procedure was peeling the tape off my face to lift the eye shields up to put eye drops in. Getting the valium was a big help to my anxiety and took away my restless/fidgety nature so I could lay still during the procedure.

This team seemed liked a well oiled machine; they communicated concisely and calmly and it was incredibly comforting to know what was going on and how long it would take for each step. When I heard "18 seconds, " I felt extremely relieved, not just because that step was extremely short, but also because I knew what to expect. The team had an awesome sense of humor and had me laughing for half the procedure.

There was pressure, there was discomfort, but there wasn't any pain and I don't think the entire procedure took 5 minutes. I kept my eyes closed for a few hours after, but when I woke up and lifted the eye shields, I could see, perfectly, and that's amazing. My friend was able to sit in a waiting room and watch/record the procedure on a TV, which was so cool. I've watched the video like 5 times already and I just can't believe the coordination and care they're able to achieve.

I have 20/20 vision the day after the procedure, with no pain or dryness. To prepare for the surgery I took fish oil, lutein, and zeaxanthin, used preservative free eye drops generously as well as MSM eyedrops daily and used a steam mask daily. I've been giving my eyes a full 30 seconds closed at the beginning of every hour to be sure I don't experience the dryness or discomfort that I've read some others do. I'm not sure if all the prepping I did contributed to how smoothly it went, but I know it went a long way toward making my eyes feel better regardless.
Karen T.
Dec 05, 2019
The best in Hampton Roads! Wonderful friendly staff, very attentive they are always smiling and the office is nice and clean
John T.
Nov 23, 2019
John T.I have been a patient at Tidewater Eye Center for 5 years and couldn't be more pleased with the care and professionalism displayed by the staff and doctors that have treated me, and my wife. Dr. Pavilak in particular is quite skilled and knowledgeable. I would recommend their services to anyone who seeks quality eye care.
Kimberly D.
Mar 15, 2016
I setup a lasik eye consultation which was to be on a Friday. The Battlefield office called me 30 minutes before my appointment to tell me the "scheduler" had to leave for personal reasons. They couldn't explain what the scheduler had to do with my appointment and why I couldn't still be seen, just advised that someone (the scheduler) would call me Monday to reschedule. Monday came around and the scheduler contacted me and set up my new consultation appointment.

The day of my 2nd attempt at an appointment, they called me 3 hours before, and AGAIN cancelled due to the scheduler not being in the office. Apparently the place shuts down and patients can't get seen if this one person is not present. At least that's how they make it sound. No other explanations were given, just that the scheduler would call me on a later date to reschedule a 3rd appointment. I told the caller I would take my business elsewhere. I would be stupid to try this a 3rd time.
Cindy L.
Apr 03, 2015
I can see now! Had to get prk instead of LASIK but I'm glad I was able to get either or! Thank you dr pavilack for my eye sight!
William G.
Dec 28, 2014
This place is awful. Tried going for several years. Usually kept waiting. They overbook like an airline. Don't care about patient.
D. S.
Aug 29, 2014
I had an issue with one of my eyes, an infection from my contact lens, and needed to see someone immediately. I called up first thing on a Wednesday morning and was given a 2:00pm appointment that day. I saw Dr. Mark Iacobucci who was nice, professional, and knowledgeable. He prescribed me some medication and had me schedule a follow up appointment.

As a first time patient I was out in about 35-40 minutes. Every staff member I encountered was friendly and professional as well. My follow up appointment with Dr. Mark Pavilack was just as good as my first experience. He was nice to me and knew what he was talking about. I didn't feel like it was rushed and it felt like he genuinely wanted to help me.

Overall my experience was great and would highly recommend them. In regards to a 1 star review another patient left, I think there could be some validity to potentially long wait times (there is a second waiting room) however if you are smart about when you make your appointment it shouldn't be an issue. And unless you are going on a weekly basis it is probably worth the wait.
It & Apos S. P.
May 16, 2014
I would like to say that I have been a patient here for several years and the wait time for Dr Rappaport is ridiculous. They bring you in on an overbooked schedule and then one by one you get moved to the second waiting room in the back. I understand he may be ONE of the best doctors in his practice area but don't count on him to have a pleasant bedside manner.

My biggest complaint is you lose time and money sitting in his wait room. And, doctors want to charge their patients for not showing up or being late? Seriously, how about we send YOU a bill for out inconvenience? To add insult to injury the staff (Jacqueline) specifically at Laskin Rd needs some customer service skills. Obviously you have some serious training issues.

She is rude and abrupt when talking with patients over the phone. I am very upset that the office is so out of touch with how to treat patients. You seem to have forgotten who pays your bills. I am a very unsatisfied patient that had to voice an opinion. PLEASE listen to the way Jacqueline talks to the patients and either replace her or train her on "how" to speak to patient. She is not an asset to your practice. Thank you. A very unhappy experience again today.
Donn S.
Sep 05, 2013
I had an appointment today and waited over three hours. I will never take my mother back there again They need some time management