Proudly rated 4.8 from 7,600+ patient reviews
Welcome to Horizon Eye Care
Charlotte’s most trusted eye care team makes your first visit simple and stress-free. With 25+ years of experience and 7 convenient locations, we’re here to provide exceptional care for you and your family.
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25+ years serving the Charlotte area
7 convenient locations
20+ Fellowship-Trained Specialists
Getting Started is Easy
Step 1: Schedule Your Appointment
Book online 24/7 or call during business hours. Most appointments are available within a week, with same-day options for urgent needs.
Step 2: Verify Your Insurance
We accept most major insurance plans. Check your coverage before your visit to understand any costs.
Step 3: Complete Your Forms
Save time by completing new patient forms online before your visit. If you prefer, arrive 20 minutes early to complete them in our office.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Before You Come
- Bring valid photo ID and current insurance card
- Bring current glasses and/or contact lenses
- Complete medication list (including dosages)
- Payment method (cash, check, or credit card)
During Your Visit
- Check-in: 10 minutes to verify information
- Pre-testing: 15-20 minutes of preliminary tests
- Doctor exam: 30-45 minutes comprehensive examination
- Follow-up: Schedule next steps if needed
Total time: 60-90 minutes
Important: Your eyes will likely be dilated during the exam, which may cause temporary light sensitivity and blurry vision for 2-4 hours. Bring sunglasses or we’ll provide disposable ones.
About Your First Exam
Comprehensive Eye Exam: $180 (self-pay rate) Includes complete eye health evaluation and refraction (glasses prescription determination). This discounted rate applies only when paid at time of service.
What We Check:
- Visual acuity and prescription changes
- Eye pressure (glaucoma screening)
- Retinal health (diabetes, macular degeneration)
- Eye muscle function and coordination
- Overall eye health assessment
Additional Services Available:
- Contact lens fitting and evaluation
- Specialized testing for specific conditions
- Optical services (glasses and contacts)
Vision Restored, Lives Transformed
Proudly rated 4.8 from 7,600+ patient reviews
“I transferred from CEENTA to Dr Ryder at Horizon Eye Care-Cotswold. Today was my first appointment. I can say I was pleasantly surprised. I had absolutely no wait time. The office has…”
“Dr. Cameron was friendly yet quite professional. His exam seemed thorough and his recommendations sound. He answered questions I had and took his time - he was not rushed to get to…”
“All staff from checking in at the front desk, throughout my appointment were very helpful. Dr.Minkowski did a great job of explaining options/the process of cataract surgery with me, especially given my…”
“I have been coming to Dr. Minkowski for over 2 years and he is an awesome doctor. He makes you feel welcomed and worry free. He explains everything in detail and will…”
“I've been Dr. James' patient for about 8 or 9 years. He's thorough, genuinely interested in eye health, collaborative with care options and very efficient. I'm very satisfied!”
“I was completely satisfied with my visit. Everything was explained clearly and questions were asked. I love the communication process. TY”
“Dr. Ryder is very knowledgeable and helpful.”
“Great dialogue in my health and felt he was listening to my feedback. Thorough exam but really efficient.”
“Check-in staff who arrives at 7 to set up for. Day, check-out male staff, Fiona, specialist who conducts comparative studies with machine are exemplary. Dr. Minkowski is highly professional and efficient.”
“Overall great experience!”
“Took less than hour. First time meeting Dr James. Accurate and knowledgeable. Asked questions..”
“Dr Tomasko made the whole blepharoplasty a piece of cake from start to finish. I felt cared for by confident, experienced hands.”
“Excellent provider care! Dr. Garcia is knowledgeable patient and careful. I trust her with the health of my eyes and highly recommend her.”
“Attention to details about my eyes with comparison fr last years visit to this year. Professional in every way. His Assistant sat in the room transcribing Dr Ryder’s comments. It took me…”
“Had a good visit.”
“Excellent experience! The surgery center staff made things easy, the procedure stayed on schedule, and Dr.Kaluzny’s bedside manner was fantastic. Results are excellent. Dr. Kaluzny, not his nurse called me the evening…”
“Excellent and appreciated his recommendation very much!”
“Best eye doctor ever”
“It was a hay day but I didn’t wait long. Dr Tomasko explained what was concerning me and took care of it immediately. Super professional super quick and most importantly no pain.…”
“As always the check up was professional and expert. Dr Wang is a caring professional and I have confidence in her work. This visit had an annoying amount of waiting time which…”
Proudly rated 4.8 from 7,600+ patient reviews
Choose the Location Most Convenient for You
All locations offer:
- Free parking
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Comprehensive eye care services
- Same fellowship-trained specialists
Browse locations:
Meet Our Specialists
Fellowship-Trained Experts in Every Area of Eye Care
Our doctors completed additional years of specialized training beyond medical school and residency, making them true experts in their fields.
Specialties Available:
- Cataract Surgery: Advanced lens options for every lifestyle
- Glaucoma Care: Early detection and innovative treatments
- LASIK Surgery: Freedom from glasses and contacts
- Retina Services: Diabetic eye care and macular degeneration
- Pediatric Care: Gentle expert care for children of all ages
- Aesthetic Services: Enhance function and appearance
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a routine eye exam cost?
The cost of a routine eye exam will vary depending on your insurance coverage. For patients without insurance, please contact our office at 704-365-0555 for current self-pay pricing. We accept most major vision and medical insurance plans.
Will my eyes be dilated at my appointment?
Dilation is typically recommended for a comprehensive evaluation, as it allows your doctor to fully examine the health of your retina and optic nerve. We also offer Optomap® retinal imaging at select locations as an alternative for routine screenings — however, dilated exams remain necessary for diabetic patients and those with certain risk factors or conditions. Your doctor will determine what is most appropriate for your visit.
How long will dilation last, and what should I expect?
Dilation effects typically last 2–4 hours, during which you may experience light sensitivity and blurred near vision (such as difficulty reading). We recommend bringing sunglasses to your appointment. You may also wish to arrange for a driver, especially if you are particularly sensitive to these effects.
Do you accept my insurance?
We accept most major insurance plans — see all accepted plans here.
Same-Day & Urgent Care
Need to Be Seen Today?
Need to Be Seen Today? We reserve appointments daily for urgent eye care needs. Call immediately for:
- Sudden vision loss or changes
- Severe eye pain
- Eye injuries
- Flashing lights or new floaters
- Foreign objects in the eye
Emergency Line: (704) 365-0555
Ready to Get Started?
Schedule Your First Appointment Today
Whether you need a routine exam, have concerns about your vision, or want to explore treatment options, we’re here to help.






