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27 Years
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Your Trusted Eye Care Specialists in Panama City, FL
The Eye Center of North Florida has been a trusted leader in comprehensive eye care since its founding in 1999. Formed through the merger of two of Florida Panhandles oldest eye care practices, we combine decades of expertise with cutting-edge technology to serve Panama City and surrounding communities. Our team of over 120 dedicated professionals includes board-certified ophthalmologists, optometrists, and specialists who provide personalized care for conditions ranging from routine vision needs to complex surgical procedures. With three convenient locations and a state-licensed, Medicare-certified surgery center, we offer advanced treatments like LenSx laser cataract surgery, glaucoma management, and retinal care.

Our on-site optical lab and extensive selection of eyewear ensure patients receive both medical and vision correction solutions under one roof. Committed to innovation, we participate in clinical research and utilize tools like Optomap retinal imaging for early disease detection. For over two decades, our focus on patient comfort, education, and outcomes has made us a regional authority in eye health.
Services
Cataract Surgery Comprehensive Eye Exams Contact Lenses Cosmetic Procedures Diabetic Retinopathy Dry Eye Treatment Glaucoma Care Macular Degeneration Retinal Imaging Optical Shop
Details
  • Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
  • Board-certified surgeons with 20+ years of experience in cataract and oculoplastic surgery
  • State-of-the-art LenSx laser technology for precision cataract procedures
  • 24/7 availability of ophthalmologists for emergency eye care
  • Comprehensive optical shop with 100+ frame selections and same-day service
  • Multidisciplinary team managing complex conditions like diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration
What people say
Professional staff Pain-free surgery Quick recovery Excellent selection Knowledgeable doctors
Services
Cataract Surgery
Our LenSx Custom Laser Cataract Surgery offers blade-free precision for removing clouded lenses and implanting advanced intraocular lenses. With 15-minute outpatient procedures and dropless techniques, patients experience rapid recovery and reduced dependency on glasses. Surgeons utilize ORA and Ziemer technologies for real-time accuracy during implant placement.
Comprehensive Eye Exams
We conduct thorough eye health assessments using Optos Digital Retinal Imaging for early detection of diseases like glaucoma and macular degeneration. Our exams include dilation-free retinal scans and specialized testing for contact lens fittings, ensuring accurate prescriptions and proactive eye disease management for patients aged 5 to 95.
Dry Eye Treatment
LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation Therapy targets the root cause of evaporative dry eye by unblocking meibomian glands. Our TearScience evaluation combines lifestyle questionnaires and LipiView imaging to create personalized treatment plans that restore natural tear production and alleviate chronic discomfort.
Cosmetic Procedures
Board-certified oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Paul Garland performs eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), Botox injections, and dermal filler treatments to enhance facial aesthetics. These procedures address drooping eyelids, wrinkles, and volume loss while maintaining natural expressions and ensuring optimal eye function.
Glaucoma Management
We employ selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) and minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS) like iStent implantation to control intraocular pressure. Our specialists combine medication management with advanced diagnostics, including visual field testing and optic nerve imaging, to prevent vision loss in open-angle and complex glaucoma cases.
People
Paul E. Garland
Ophthalmologist
Board-certified oculoplastic surgeon with 30+ years of experience and 10,000+ procedures. Fellowship-trained in eye plastic surgery, he specializes in LenSx laser cataract surgery and cosmetic eyelid procedures. Member of American Academy of Ophthalmology and Florida Medical Association.
Amber Anderson
Optometrist
Doctor of Optometry with expertise in primary eye care and ocular disease research. Specializes in comprehensive exams and treatment of eye conditions affecting adults and children. Holds Fellowship status from American Academy of Optometry.
David J. Edinger
Optometrist
Specializes in difficult contact lens fittings and low vision rehabilitation. Member of Florida Optometric Association with extensive experience in managing ocular disorders and providing magnification solutions for visually impaired patients.
Steven MacDonald
Optometrist
Focuses on diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma management. Provides comprehensive family eye care and contact lens services with emphasis on early detection and preventive care strategies.
Alex I. Moussa
Optometrist
Family eye care specialist with expertise in pediatric vision development and specialty contact lens fittings. Diagnoses and treats ocular diseases while emphasizing patient education and personalized vision correction solutions.
Questions
What eye conditions do you treat?
We diagnose and treat all eye conditions including cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and dry eye disease. Our specialists also provide cosmetic eyelid surgery and low vision rehabilitation.
Do you offer emergency eye care?
Yes, our ophthalmologists are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for eye emergencies including trauma, sudden vision loss, and acute glaucoma attacks.
What technology do you use for cataract surgery?
We utilize LenSx Custom Laser, ORA intraoperative aberrometry, and Ziemer Ophthalmic Systems for blade-free, precision cataract removal with advanced intraocular lens implants.
Do you accept insurance?
We accept most major insurance plans including Medicare and Medicaid. Our billing specialists will verify your coverage and explain any out-of-pocket costs before treatment.
Is financing available for vision correction?
While we don't offer direct financing, we accept major credit cards and can help you explore CareCredit financing options for elective procedures.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Susan Champion
Jun 02, 2022 Report
I have been a patient at the eye center for a few years, mostly normal stuff but I have had a couple procedures by Dr Garland, who is very exceptional doctor and a man of great character. When a surgery didn't have a proper outcome he repeated in a different manner at HIS expense! Also recently I scratched my cornea working I'm the yard ans was in extreme pain, so I just went there and asked if they could see me in which they did quickly as they could see the pain I was in. THEY WERE WONDERFUL. Saw Dr. Llisa can't remember her last name, but she was so concerned, helpful and got me some medication that started to ease the pain. WOULD highly recommend! Susan Champion Panama City
Justin Hauck
May 15, 2022 Report
They make appointments then allow walk ins after 1.5 hours past my appointment and watching others complain about being the 2 hours. I walked out. They called my wife and ask her to cancel her appointment also because of over booking. If you have all day and don't mind giving your money to someone who doesn't value your time may possibly be a good doctor.
Emily The Cheerleader
Feb 13, 2022 Report
I have been coming to this eye center for 6 years now. I have the most difficult time with the women answering the phone. It has taken me over 3 weeks to get any assistance from them. They are lacking in customer service skills. I have been nothing but polite on the phone, and get nothing but attitude in return.
Cecilia Spears
Jan 25, 2022 Report
People kept telling me that lasik would be "the best money I've ever spent." I always thought highly of The Eye Center and they were the only ones I'd trust with this procedure. It's turned out beyond my greatest imaginings! I've never seen in such clarity, such vivid detail, such crisp brightness! No contact or glasses could compare to the stunning contrast of perfect vision! I cried! I'm so happy!

I hear my vision will only improve from here! I can't even imagine it being better than this! And the way they treated me with such kindness and care! I was afraid but they put my mind at ease. I'll never be able to thank them enough! Thank you Dr. Fisher and all the amazing staff! From the bottom of my heart!