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Business Details
Trusted Eye Care Services in Elmwood Park, IL
Panton Eye Center is a family-owned ophthalmology practice established with a legacy of excellence and compassion. Founded by Dr. John H. Panton, whose philosophy combined innovation and empathy, the practice continues under his children, Drs. Peter and Robert Panton and Dr. Elizabeth Panton-Karkazis. We specialize in comprehensive eye care, including medical diagnostics, surgical interventions like cataract removal and LASIK, and optical services. Our board-certified ophthalmologists and trained staff utilize cutting-edge technology to address conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration.

With hospital affiliations at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital and Rush Oak Park Hospital, we ensure continuity of care for complex cases. Our commitment to patient-centered care emphasizes comfort, transparency, and personalized treatment plans, making us a trusted provider in the Chicagoland area since our founding.
Services
Cataract Surgery Glaucoma Treatment LASIK Eye Surgery Dry Eye Treatment Optical Services Age-Related Macular Degeneration Retinal Detachment Thyroid Eye Disease
Highlights and features
  • Family-owned practice with decades of ophthalmological expertise.
  • Board-certified ophthalmologists and optometrists providing expert care.
  • Advanced technology for LASIK and cataract surgery.
  • Comprehensive range of medical, surgical, and optical services.
  • Compassionate, patient-centered approach since establishment.
Associations and certifications
  • American Board of Ophthalmology
  • American Board of Laser Surgery
  • American College of Surgeons
Services
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery removes clouded lenses and replaces them with artificial implants. This outpatient procedure uses advanced technology to restore vision, with options for monofocal or bifocal implants. Patients typically recover within two weeks, achieving improved clarity for daily activities without glasses.
LASIK Eye Surgery
LASIK reshapes the cornea using precision lasers to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The Ziemer-Allegretto system ensures fast, accurate results, with most patients passing vision tests the day after treatment. Customized plans address individual refractive errors for optimal outcomes.
Glaucoma Treatment
Glaucoma management focuses on reducing optic nerve damage through medication, laser therapy, or surgery. Regular monitoring of intraocular pressure helps prevent vision loss, especially in patients over 60. Treatments aim to maintain eye health and slow disease progression.
Dry Eye Treatment
Dry eye therapy addresses insufficient tear production or poor tear quality. Options include medicated drops, lifestyle adjustments, and advanced therapies to alleviate discomfort. Personalized plans target underlying causes like environmental factors or chronic conditions.
Optical Services
Our optical shop offers prescription glasses, contact lenses, and protective eyewear. Expert opticians assist with frame selection and lens customization, including anti-glare coatings. Services cater to both functional and aesthetic needs for all ages.
People
Peter Panton
M.D., F.A.C.S.
Dr. Peter Panton specializes in ophthalmology, certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. He trained at Brown University and the University of Illinois, focusing on laser surgery advancements. Married with two children, he continues his father's legacy.
Robert Panton
M.D., F.A.C.S.
Dr. Robert Panton, certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, completed a corneal fellowship at Johns Hopkins. He served as President of the Chicago Ophthalmological Society and the Illinois State Medical Society. Married with three children.
Elizabeth Panton-Karkazis
O.D.
Dr. Elizabeth Panton-Karkazis, an optometrist, graduated from the Illinois College of Optometry. She focuses on refractive care, including glasses and contact lenses. Married with three children, she contributes to the practice's patient-centered approach.
John H. Panton
Founder, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Dr. John H. Panton (1924-2015) founded the practice, emphasizing innovation and compassion. A graduate of National University Medical School, he was a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Married with four children, he established the center's legacy.
Questions
What services does Panton Eye Center offer?
We provide comprehensive eye care, including cataract surgery, LASIK, glaucoma treatment, dry eye therapy, optical services, and management of retinal conditions.
Is financing available for eye surgeries?
Yes, financing options are available for Premium/Advanced Technology Implants and All Laser LASIK procedures.
What are the office hours?
Monday-Tuesday: 9 AM–5 PM; Thursday-Friday: 9 AM–5 PM; Saturday: 9 AM–12 PM. Closed Wednesday and Sunday.
Do you treat eye emergencies?
We recommend contacting us directly for urgent eye concerns, though we do not explicitly advertise 24/7 emergency services.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call 708-452-7200 to book an appointment. Online scheduling is available via the Patient Portal.
Reviews (6)
Adriana D.
Feb 08, 2022 Report
The Panton family has been taking care of my mom for almost 30 years and have helped her navigate through a lot of eye issues. They have saved her vision! When I finally accepted that I needed glasses I didn't think twice about who I would trust with my eye health. They are professional, patient, courteous and trustworthy.
Luann Walters
Sep 25, 2021 Report
9/23/2021 I don't know why this Dr is still in business. I have been going to the father when he was alive. Such a sweet man. After he passed I started seeing his son. I like the Doctor but staff Speaks to you in a condescending way. That does not sit right with me. Whoever the lady is where you buy your glasses she should retire because she has a bad attitude. Evidently doctor Panton does not read these reviews because if he did he should be cleaning house. Im looking for another Eye Dr and Im getting my records out of that building.
Beunka Porter
Jul 12, 2021 Report
Horrible! First of all, they do not use gloves while touching your eye(s) especially during the COVID pandemic. Also, the Doctor was intimidating, like his level of profession excused him from doing things that weren't protocol. Very uncomfortable experience!
Rick M.
May 29, 2021 Report
I unfortunately trusted Dr. Panton to perform cataract surgery on my one eye about 2 years ago. It was not successful. He admitted he used the wrong prescription and would compensate on the surgery on my other eye. I paid $2500 for a multi focal lens that would eliminate the need for glasses. I requested he refund the money since he made an error, but he refused. I had cataract surgery on my other eye at Kirk Eye Center in River Forest and paid for a multi focal lens. Dr. Carter Kirk performed a success surgery and then performed laser surgery on the first surgery and I'm free of glasses. I could never recommend Panton Eye center. Highly advise you go elsewhere. Poor customer service and they make you wait a couple of hours for an eye exam. Very unprofessional.
David Villa
Dec 22, 2020 Report
Don't listen to the 5 star reviews. They make you wait forever and are extremely rude. They don't want you to sit in the lobby. Why are there so many seats and no one can sit in their? Kicked me out while waiting for my younger brother because I couldn't sit their. Front desk lady is extremely rude. When I say run, run! No type of professionalism.
Delia P.
May 20, 2020 Report
Sunday morning I wake up with excruciating pain to my right eye. I could barely open it with tears running down my face. I haven't been at my current eye doctors place for 5 years and when I had called them they said since I would be considered a new patient they could not prescribe any antibiotics. They told me to call the next day to be seen. My sister then suggested that we call the ophthalmologist that I saw as a child which she is still a current patient. I'm like "no way are they going to see me since it's been forever that they have seen me. " Dr. Peter called me back immediately and said he would meet me at the office in 10 min! Needless to say he saw me, prescribed me antibiotics, numbed my eye( that was the best) finally some relief, and confirmed that I had a tear on my cornea.

I can't tell you how grateful I was that he came in on a Sunday to take care of me. I live in Northbrook but I will be coming back to them with my kids. My brother who was also with me is like I'm coming back here too. Pretty amazing thank you so much. Pain is a terrible thing and I appreciate the time you took to take care of me!