Santa Ynez Valley Eye Care & Surgery 2040 Viborg Road, Solvang, CA 93463

"BEWARE! Went in for eye exam, seemed to go well. They did want an extra $100.+ for some additional test Medicare doesn’t cover. Then went into their optical office and said I’d like to get 3 pairs of glasses with my existing frames. “No Problem” I was told and gave HER one pair to work on and said “ let’s see if you can get these right first, and what if they don’t work?” HER response was “No Problem, we guarantee we’ll get it right or fix it or refund your money”. Okay I said… she said “that will be $600… now” I said wow seems a little pricey for just lenses, but I gave HER $600. (for one pair of lenses). At first she said it would take a couple of weeks but a couple of days later she called and said my glasses were ready. I picked them up and said at the time they didn’t seem right… she said that’s normal it takes time for your eyes to adjust… well after driving up on a sidewalk and having trouble seeing the road I called and said these glasses don’t work and I wanted them fixed or a refund. That was two months ago as she said she had to “get approval”… since then she has hid from me and refused to honor the stores policies. I’m left with a pair of glasses that are dangerous to wear and out $600. The hide and seek show this optical shop is hiding behind would almost be comical if it wasn’t dead serious. What would you do next? UPDATE! Yesterday the manager of the the Center refunded my money… all if it. Thank You!"

"Dr Bales is by far the best doctor to ever diagnose and treat my wonky eyes. He has continued to help me achieve the best possible vision year after year. In addition to his remarkable diagnostic skills, Dr Bales is charming as can be. I simply adore him! Ron, too, is delightful, intelligent, thoughtful and VERY good at his job. Then there’s Maria. She is an absolute doll. She kindly listens and answers all my tedious billing questions with a sincere smile and a patient heart. It can be easy to become jaded when doing the billing and collecting but Maria has remained as wonderful as ever. Finally, I didn’t have an opportunity to visit with Skip during my recent visit, but he made a point of stepping out of his office for a quick hello to my daughter and myself. Who does that? What a gentleman. I’m always made to feel so special during my visits to see Dr Bales and his staff. It’s not only me. I’ve witnessed this treatment of everyone entering the office. My favorite doc office! By far!"

"I have fairly complicated vision issues. Dr. Bales is unfailingly patient. He takes time with my exam and makes certain that my prescription is perfect. He goes through all my options without trying to sell me on anything and answers all my questions until he is confident that I understand. Dr. Bales seems to genuinely care that I have the best vision possible and that my eyes stay healthy. His staff is kind, compassionate, and knowledgeable. I couldn't hope for better care."

"Dr. Bales and his staff are wonderful! I went to him as a child and now I take my children to him. He is extremely kind and very patient. I never feel like we are being rushed through our appointments or that my questions are bothersome. I highly recommend Dr Bales!"

"Year after year, I am always impressed with Dr. Bales' thoroughness, professionalism and knowledge. He is patient and a pleasure to deal with. Skip is a superb Optician who knows his field as well as anyone. The office staff is wonderful, helpful and courteous. If the review numbers went to 10, that's what I would give him! I highly recommend him to anyone in this area."