Business Details
49 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Ophthalmology Care in Southern Pines, NC
Carolina Eye Associates has been a leader in ophthalmology since 1977, providing patient-centered eye care across 14 regional centers in North and South Carolina. Our team of board-certified ophthalmologists, optometrists, and specialists utilize advanced technology to deliver comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services, including cataract surgery, LASIK, corneal transplants, and retinal care. With accredited surgical centers in Pinehurst/Southern Pines and Greensboro, we combine decades of expertise with personalized attention to address complex eye conditions.Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our investment in cutting-edge procedures like femtosecond laser technology and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery. We prioritize patient education, transparent communication, and ethical practices, ensuring trust and reliability in every interaction. Recognized for innovation and quality, we serve as a regional hub for both routine and specialized eye care.
Services
Cataract Surgery
LASIK
Cornea Treatment
Dry Eye Therapy
Glaucoma Management
Retina Care
Aesthetic Services
Eyelid Surgery
Contact Lens Fittings
Pediatric Eye Care
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of experience in advanced ophthalmic care
- Board-certified specialists in cataract, LASIK, and retinal surgery
- Accredited surgical centers with state-of-the-art technology
- Personalized patient education and treatment plans
- Comprehensive services from routine exams to complex surgeries
Associations and certifications
- Medicare
- The Joint Commission
What people say
No wait time
Excellent bedside manner
Knowledgeable staff
Efficient check-in
World-class care
Services
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery removes clouded lenses and replaces them with artificial intraocular lenses (IOLs) to restore clear vision. Options include standard, astigmatism-correcting, and multifocal lenses. Our surgeons use advanced femtosecond laser technology for precision, ensuring faster recovery and reduced dependence on glasses. Patients typically resume daily activities within 2448 hours.
LASIK Surgery
LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Using the Johnson & Johnson IFS Femtosecond Laser and Alcon Wavelight EX500 Excimer Laser, we offer custom treatments for 99% success rates in achieving 20/40 vision or better. Most patients experience improved vision within 24 hours with minimal post-op discomfort.
Glaucoma Treatment
We provide comprehensive glaucoma care, including medicated eye drops, Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), and Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS). Treatments focus on reducing intraocular pressure to prevent optic nerve damage. Our specialists tailor plans for chronic and acute cases, combining medication and advanced surgical techniques.
Dry Eye Therapy
Dry eye treatment addresses aqueous-deficient and evaporative dry eye through artificial tears, prescription drops, and LipiFlow thermal therapy. We diagnose underlying causes like Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) and blepharitis, offering personalized solutions such as BlephEx lid exfoliation to restore tear stability and comfort.
Retina Care
Our retina specialists manage conditions like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment using intravitreal injections, laser therapy, and surgical interventions. Advanced diagnostics, including A/B-scan ultrasonography, ensure precise treatment. We also offer Focus Select supplements to support macular health based on AREDS 2 research.
People
Robert Gale Martin
Founder
Dr. Martin co-founded Carolina Eye Associates in 1977, pioneering small-incision cataract surgery and establishing the first freestanding outpatient eye surgery center east of the Mississippi. A renowned innovator, he authored 175+ publications and received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine for his contributions to ophthalmology.
Derek DelMonte
Ophthalmologist
Dr. DelMonte specializes in LASIK and cataract surgery at Greensboro and Winston-Salem centers. Fellowship-trained in corneal and refractive surgery, he utilizes advanced laser technology to deliver customized vision correction solutions for patients seeking reduced dependence on glasses.
Questions
Do I need a referral to schedule an appointment?
Patients can self-schedule appointments without a referral, though some insurance plans (e.g., TRICARE Prime) may require prior approval. Verify with your provider before booking.
What services are available for out-of-town patients?
We offer travel coordination assistance, including lodging recommendations and streamlined multi-day appointments for patients traveling from outside the region.
Are financing options available for elective procedures?
Yes, we partner with CareCredit to provide no-interest and low-interest payment plans for LASIK, premium IOLs, and aesthetic services.
How are eye emergencies handled after hours?
Call our main line and follow the recording’s instructions to reach an on-call provider. For non-eye emergencies, dial 911.
What insurance plans do you accept?
We accept most major medical insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Verify coverage with our billing team prior to your visit.
Reviews (4)
Shirley McCaskill
Jun 10, 2022
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I cannot say enough positive comments about Carolina Eye Associates! My experience there has been with four doctors: Dr. White, Dr. Harris, Dr. French, and Dr. Apple. All four have been wonderful and very professional in caring for my eye health. I recently had cataract surgery and had excellent care. Dr. French was very professional and patient in his explanations about the procedure. I am thankful for this high-quality facility in the Pinehurst/Southern Pines area.
Danny DeBerry
May 17, 2022
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I have been a patient for over 30 years. Overall they are truly amazing. I have had a detached retina that they fixed in 1992. I have had absolutely no problem with it. There have been lens implants which are still great and I could not see the big E on the eye chart. All of the Doctors have been amazing. Everyone has always been great.except for this week. The nurse that came to get me in the waiting area was both unfriendly and totally rude.
All through her exam my blood pressure had to be rising. I can only hope she was having a bad day. It's sad that the actions of one person can make you have a bad rest of your day and reflect poorly on such a fantastic institution.
All through her exam my blood pressure had to be rising. I can only hope she was having a bad day. It's sad that the actions of one person can make you have a bad rest of your day and reflect poorly on such a fantastic institution.
Bill Wade
Apr 08, 2022
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I've had a detached retina in both eyes, not simultaneously. Drs Almony and Wanamaker did the surgeries. They are both caring professionals and very skilled. I feel very lucky to have them available in our community. But the biggest takeaway from this last surgery is the quality and compassion of the staff. The nurses and clerical staff were exceptional. Yes it takes time but they get it right and they care. Thanks to all of those who serve us at Carolina Eye
Cj Burmeister
Apr 03, 2022
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I was extremely impressed with the efficiency of Carolina Eye Associates. I was about5 minutes late for my 1st appointment with them (didn't realize how long a drive it would be.). I waited a bit for the registration process, but from then on there were waits between what I will call Medical update and seeing Dr. J White of less than 2 minutes. I was and still am very impressed. I am glad I have this opportunity to tell you and others this.
Everyone was very customer service oriented and smiling pleasantly. I had forgotten my ears that morning and they all spoke a bit louder - great memories! Dr Wite was very nice, explained what was going to happen and I am glad he was so highly recommended and, I think. will live up to my expectations. A great experience - the best I have had in a long time at a Dr. office! KUDOS to everyone!
Everyone was very customer service oriented and smiling pleasantly. I had forgotten my ears that morning and they all spoke a bit louder - great memories! Dr Wite was very nice, explained what was going to happen and I am glad he was so highly recommended and, I think. will live up to my expectations. A great experience - the best I have had in a long time at a Dr. office! KUDOS to everyone!
