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Your Trusted Eye Care Specialists in Albuquerque
At Southwest Eyecare, we are dedicated to exceeding expectations by delivering the highest quality of compassionate and precise eye care services. Our team utilizes the most advanced technology available to accurately diagnose and treat both routine and medical eye conditions, ensuring optimal outcomes for every patient. We prioritize education and communication, empowering our patients with the knowledge needed to maintain lifelong vision health. With a commitment to individualized care, we serve the Albuquerque community and throughout New Mexico, treating each patient with the professionalism and respect they deserve. Our practice has been recognized for excellence, receiving the Meritorious Administration Award from the Corcoran Consulting Group for our dedication to patient care and service.

Our ophthalmologists specialize in medical and surgical treatments for cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye, corneal disease, and retinal disorders, while our optometrists provide comprehensive vision correction solutions. We offer cutting-edge procedures such as PRK, Clear Lens Replacement, and advanced diagnostic tools to ensure accurate assessments. Our on-site optical department, Southwest Eyewear, provides a wide selection of designer frames and premium lenses, backed by a 60-day satisfaction guarantee. We are proud to combine technical expertise with a patient-centered approach, fostering lasting professional relationships built on trust and exceptional service.
Services
Cataract Surgery Glaucoma Treatment LASIK Corneal Transplantation Dry Eye Care Refractive Lens Exchange PRK Ocular Surface Surgery Pterygium Removal Keratoconus Treatment
Highlights and features
  • We utilize state-of-the-art technology for precise diagnoses and treatments.
  • Our team includes New Mexico's most experienced advanced cataract surgeons.
  • We offer personalized care tailored to individual vision needs and lifestyles.
  • Our on-site optical department provides premium frames and lenses with satisfaction guarantees.
  • We received the Meritorious Administration Award for patient care excellence.
Associations and certifications
  • Corcoran Consulting Group
What people say
WONDERFUL, kind, engaging Excellent job Exceptionally well-run office Professional and courteous Excellent results
Services
Cataract Surgery
Our advanced cataract surgery options use state-of-the-art technology for greater precision, quicker recovery times, and enhanced visual outcomes. We offer both traditional and laser-assisted procedures with premium intraocular lens options like Vivity and PanOptix. Our experienced surgeons, including New Mexico's first implanters of Light Adjustable Lenses, ensure personalized care tailored to your vision needs.
Glaucoma Treatment
We provide comprehensive glaucoma management using modern diagnostic tools and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Our treatments include Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, iStent Inject, and MIGS procedures designed to reduce intraocular pressure with minimal tissue trauma. Our specialists create customized treatment plans to prevent optic nerve damage and preserve vision.
LASIK
Our LASIK procedure reshapes the cornea using precision laser technology to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. With a 15-minute procedure time and rapid recovery, patients experience dramatic vision improvements. Our surgeons conduct thorough pre-operative evaluations to ensure optimal outcomes and long-term visual satisfaction.
Corneal Transplantation
We perform both full-thickness and partial-thickness corneal transplants to treat severe corneal damage from injury, disease, or infection. Our specialists use advanced surgical techniques to restore vision clarity while minimizing recovery time. Each procedure is tailored to address specific corneal layer damage and patient health factors.
Dry Eye Care
Our comprehensive dry eye treatment includes LipiFlow thermal therapy, punctal plugs, and conjunctival chalasis surgery. We address environmental, hormonal, and medication-related causes through personalized treatment plans. Our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools to identify root causes and implement effective long-term solutions.
People
Ken M. Downes
Ophthalmologist
Board-certified ophthalmologist with extensive experience in corneal transplants and complex eye surgeries. Dr. Downes combines technical expertise with compassionate care, maintaining active patient communication throughout treatment processes.
Paul A. Sanchez
Cataract Surgeon
Pioneering cataract surgeon and first in New Mexico to implant Vivity and Light Adjustable Lenses. Dr. Sanchez specializes in advanced technology cataract surgery, focusing on precision outcomes and rapid patient recovery.
Thomas B. Gillette
Dry Eye Specialist
Expert in treating complex dry eye conditions with personalized treatment plans. Dr. Gillette combines thorough patient education with innovative therapies to address both symptoms and underlying causes of ocular discomfort.
Nolan J. Adams
Comprehensive Ophthalmologist
Provides complete eye care with emphasis on patient-centered communication. Dr. Adams excels in both routine vision care and complex diagnostic evaluations, ensuring comprehensive treatment approaches for all patients.
Lauren ONeal
Optometrist
Doctor of Optometry offering expert vision assessments and corrective lens prescriptions. Dr. ONeal focuses on preventive eye care while collaborating closely with surgical specialists for integrated patient treatment plans.
Questions
What eye conditions do you treat?
We treat cataracts, glaucoma, corneal diseases, dry eye, retinal disorders, and diabetic eye conditions, along with offering vision correction procedures like LASIK and refractive lens exchange.
Do you offer emergency eye care?
Yes, we handle eye emergencies including acute pain, sudden vision changes, and trauma. Call our office immediately for urgent issues during business hours.
What financing options are available?
We offer affordable patient financing options for qualifying procedures. Contact our billing department for specific details and application processes.
Are your surgeons fellowship-trained?
Our physicians include fellowship-trained specialists in cornea and external disease, glaucoma, and refractive surgery, ensuring advanced expertise across all practice areas.
Do you accept insurance?
We work with most major insurance providers. Contact our office for verification of your specific coverage and benefits.
What technology do you use?
We utilize state-of-the-art equipment including LenSx laser for cataract surgery, Zeiss diagnostic tools, and LipiFlow thermal pulsation systems for dry eye treatment.
Reviews (6)
Jonie Martinez
Jan 20, 2022 Report
I am a long term patient of Dr. Downes. I've never met a more caring and knowledgeable physician. I am lucky to have found Dr. Downes and Southwest Eyecare for my years of treatment. My medical issue is resolved!!
Diane Simmons
Jan 11, 2022 Report
Dr. Paul Sanchez has been my eye doctor for the last 10 years or so. He and his team at Southwest Eyecare have always provided exemplary care and service. I recently had bilateral cataract surgery performed and intraocular lenses placed. I am extremely happy with the results and it has only been a few weeks since the surgery. I highly recommend Southwest Eyecare!
Kimberly C.
Dec 29, 2021 Report
I have spent the last couple of years dealing with dry eyes which has caused a lot of discomfort and pain. Just the simple act of opening my eyes in the morning was a challenge because they were so dry they would stick to my lids cut my eyes and it was very painful. At the time I was going to another eye facility here in Albuquerque and I had seen doctor after doctor there with no improvement. Just when I was starting to feel like there wasnt any hope for my situation or that I would have to go out of state to find another specialist is when I found Southwest Eyecare. I heard and read a lot
Avis Hall
Dec 26, 2021 Report
Waited 6 months to have cataract surgery with Dr. Downes. The day before surgery, their office was to call me with the surgical time for the next day. They never called! As a result, I missed the surgical time & couldnt be operated for the cataract. I have been unable to reach anyone at their office to find out WHY I was not called. I keep getting vm, I leave a messages but have not gotten a call back after 3 days. I will cancel ALL future contact with them. Poor service. Dont use them!! Go somewhere else.
Kat
Dec 18, 2021 Report
Im only giving one star because the doctor himself. The front desk staff was nice and friendly. The MA or tech who did all the test on me was great, but, Dr. Troung was not the most welcoming or acknowledging doctor. Its unfortunate because I really thought with the way my entire visit started from the front desk, to completing what I apparently needed to do with the tech made me look forward to seeing the doctor. Dr Troung came on head strong asking me what I was there for. He didnt even know. He stood away from me like I was a disease. I understand social distancing, but he sat partially
Bonnie Mansell
Nov 29, 2021 Report
I just completed my cataract surgery this week with Dr. David Truong and his expert staff. The results were more than I could have ever expected. The best way I can explain the optical change in my vision is now I see the world in high definition. The colors are brighter and pure, the images are crisp and clear. It is like someone removed a veil from my eyes. Thank you Southwest Eyecare for your excellent care!!!