Advanced Technology
technology
Employs lasers, novel imaging devices, minimally invasive and complex surgical techniques, as well as research in stem cell therapies and AI.
Southern California Eye Institute (SCEI)
4.8(353 reviews)
Where hope is visible: Southern California Eye Institute is a premier ophthalmology center offering advanced, compassionate eye care from routine exams to complex surgeries, with locations in Los Angeles, Pasadena, and Bakersfield.
Ophthalmology
, CA
English, Russian, Korean
About
Southern California Eye Institute (SCEI)
The Southern California Eye Institute (SCEI) is a leading ophthalmology center dedicated to ending blindness through advanced medical and surgical eye care, innovative research, and education. Under the leadership of Founding Director Dr. Rohit Varma, MD, MPH, SCEI provides compassionate, personalized care using state-of-the-art technologies including lasers, novel imaging devices, minimally invasive and complex surgical techniques. The institute's team of board-certified ophthalmologists, glaucoma specialists, optometrists, and researchers are committed to restoring vision and transforming hope into reality for every patient. SCEI also houses the SCEI Vision Van, a mobile clinic bringing eye care to underserved communities, and offers specialized services across multiple locations in Los Angeles, Pasadena, and Bakersfield.
SCEI emphasizes serving diverse communities and provides a Russian language version of its website (РУССКИЙ). The institute's team includes providers with Asian surnames (Jing Wang, MD; Umangi Popat, OD; Debbie Lieu, OD; Mark Cheung, O.D.) suggesting multilingual and culturally responsive care. The SCEI Vision Van mobile clinic extends access to underserved populations.
Highlights
Expert Team
care
Includes board-certified ophthalmologists, glaucoma specialists, optometrists, and researchers led by Dr. Rohit Varma, a renowned glaucoma expert.
Multiple Locations
convenience
Conveniently located in Los Angeles, Pasadena, and Bakersfield, California.
Vision Van
access
Mobile eye care unit providing services to underserved communities throughout Southern California.
Comprehensive Services
care
Offers a full spectrum of eye care including cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment, corneal diseases, retinal diseases, pediatric ophthalmology, and more.
Insurance Accepted
Insurance networks were not listed. Verify coverage directly before booking.
MedicaidVerify
MedicareVerify
Private InsuranceVerify
Services
Cataract & Refractive Surgery
Ophthalmology
Surgical removal of cataracts and correction of refractive errors using advanced techniques.
Cornea & External Diseases
Ophthalmology
Diagnosis and treatment of corneal conditions and diseases affecting the outer eye.
Glaucoma
Ophthalmology
Comprehensive glaucoma care including medical, laser, and surgical treatments such as ClearPath glaucoma surgery.
Neuro-ophthalmology & Strabismus
Ophthalmology
Management of visual disturbances related to neurological conditions and eye misalignment.
Ocular Oncology
Ophthalmology
Diagnosis and treatment of eye tumors and cancers.
Oculo-facial Plastics & Reconstructive Surgery
Ophthalmology
Surgical repair and reconstruction of the eyelids, orbit, and facial structures around the eyes.
Pediatric Ophthalmology
Ophthalmology
Eye care for children including diagnosis and treatment of pediatric eye conditions.
Retinal Diseases
Ophthalmology
Advanced diagnosis and treatment of retinal conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachments.
Meet the Team
R
Rohit Varma, MD, MPH
Founding Director and Glaucoma Expert
“Founding Director of SCEI, glaucoma expert, and leader of the institute's research and clinical vision.”
A
Alena Reznik, MD
Glaucoma Specialist
D
David J. Fuerst, MD
Board Certified Ophthalmologist
N
Nicole M. Fuerst, MD
Board Certified Ophthalmologist
J
Jing Wang, MD
Glaucoma Specialist
U
Umangi Popat, OD
Director of Optometric Services
M
Michael Savetsky, MD
Board Certified Ophthalmologist
D
Debbie Lieu, OD
Optometrist
M
Mark Cheung, O.D.
Doctor of Optometry
Pricing
Pricing was not listed. Contact the clinic for current estimates and insurance guidance.
Location & Accessibility
Address
1300 North Vermont Avenue, Doctors Tower, Ste 101, Los Angeles, CA 90027, CA
Reviews
AI Review Summary
Southern California Eye Institute (SCEI) has a 4.8 star Google rating from 353 Google reviews. Patients commonly mention compassionate care, friendly staff, clear explanations, comfortable visits.
What people mention
Compassionate care
3 mentions
“Patients highlight compassionate care in their feedback.”
Friendly staff
3 mentions
“Patients highlight friendly staff in their feedback.”
Clear explanations
3 mentions
“Patients highlight clear explanations in their feedback.”
Comfortable visits
3 mentions
“Patients highlight comfortable visits in their feedback.”
Patient Testimonials
Zakia Sultana
2026-06-04
“They are great. Very friendly and kind behavior. I like their service Definitely recommend”
M DeeDee De Leon
2026-01-05
“Dr Popat didn't just go through the routine but also educated me difference of glaucoma and cataract and other informative facts related to the checkup. She is also not rushing. She established a calm and professional atmosphere. Front desk girl is very pleasant and helpful ☺️”
Elie Zindros
2026-01-14
“The visit was easy in and out, Both the Dr. and Receptionist/Assistant were very helpful and pleasant to talk to, My Husband was the Patient and is a bit difficult to deal with, He was Happy with the glasses I chose for Him, I really appreciate both the Dr. and Assistant very much.”
Karine Oganisyan
2025-12-16
“I want to say a huge thank you to the medical staff. This was my first time here, and if I ever need help, I'll definitely return to this clinic. They're highly qualified, attentive, and knowledgeable.”