Business Details
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Optometrists in Wilmington, NC
Cape Fear Eye Institute has been delivering advanced patient eye care in Wilmington, NC, and surrounding areas for over three decades. Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating ocular diseases, utilizing cutting-edge technology to address conditions like glaucoma, diabetes-related eye issues, and cataracts. We pioneered the InfantSEE program in our region, offering complimentary eye assessments for infants aged 6-12 months to ensure early detection of vision problems. Our Specialty Lens Clinic, led by Dr. Meredith Treece, provides customized scleral and gas permeable contact lenses for complex cases, including keratoconus and corneal grafts.With three highly trained optometrists and a dedicated optical department, we combine medical expertise with personalized service to enhance both vision and overall health. Our commitment to community outreach includes free eye care missions in underserved regions globally. We accept medical insurance for qualifying conditions and maintain transparent communication to ensure patient confidence in our care.
Services
Ocular Disease Management
Infant Eye Exams
Specialty Contact Lenses
Optical Services
Emergency Eye Care
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of advanced ophthalmic diagnostic expertise.
- Our doctors lead the region's InfantSEE program for infant vision care.
- Specialty Lens Clinic fits scleral lenses for complex corneal conditions.
- Board-certified optometrists with global clinical outreach experience.
- 24-hour acute care available for eye emergencies.
What people say
Dramatic improvement
Friendly staff
Prompt emergency service
Skilled doctors
Life-changing results
Services
Ocular Disease Management
Our doctors specialize in detecting systemic health conditions through comprehensive eye exams. We diagnose and treat glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration using advanced imaging technology. Patients receive personalized treatment plans combining medical interventions and lifestyle recommendations to preserve vision and overall health.
InfantSEE Program
This public health initiative provides free comprehensive eye assessments for infants aged 6-12 months. Early detection of strabismus, amblyopia, and ocular diseases ensures timely intervention. Our trained optometrists use specialized techniques to evaluate visual development and binocular coordination in a child-friendly environment.
Specialty Contact Lenses
We offer scleral, gas permeable, and hybrid lenses for irregular corneas. Our clinic addresses keratoconus, post-graft vision correction, and severe dry eye conditions. Advanced topography-guided fittings ensure optimal comfort and visual acuity through precision-engineered lens solutions tailored to individual corneal anatomy.
Optical Services
Our optical department provides premium eyewear selections including prescription glasses and sunglasses. Certified opticians assist with frame fitting and lens customization for optimal vision correction. We offer designer brands and specialized lenses for occupational visual demands and sports performance enhancement.
Emergency Eye Care
24-hour acute care available for traumatic injuries and sudden vision changes. Our team manages corneal abrasions, chemical exposures, and sudden onset ocular conditions. Prompt diagnostic assessments and immediate interventions help prevent permanent vision damage through emergency treatment protocols and specialist referrals.
People
James L. Fanelli
Optometrist
Dr. Fanelli has 25+ years of glaucoma expertise, founded the institute, and lectures globally. He combines hockey passion with eye care innovation while maintaining active optometric association memberships.
Jamie J. Casper
Optometrist
Dr. Casper specializes in ocular disease with residency training in Ohio. He leads infant vision care and has provided free eye services in 10+ countries through international optometric missions over 15 years.
Meredith C. Treece
Optometrist
Dr. Treece directs the Specialty Lens Clinic after graduating with honors. She fits complex contact lenses and participates in global vision missions while maintaining leadership roles in state and national optometric organizations.
Kristen Downs
Practice Administrator
Kristen brings 18 years of optical industry experience to her administrative role. She manages daily operations while pursuing business education at UNCW, prioritizing patient care excellence in practice management.
Questions
What eye care services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive exams, ocular disease management, specialty contact lens fittings, infant vision assessments, and emergency eye care using advanced diagnostic technology.
Do you accept medical insurance?
Yes, we accept most major medical insurance plans for qualifying conditions like diabetic eye exams and glaucoma treatment.
Is infant eye assessment really free?
Yes, our InfantSEE program provides complimentary comprehensive eye exams for babies aged 6-12 months through the American Optometric Association initiative.
What emergency eye care options exist?
We offer 24-hour acute care for eye injuries, sudden vision loss, and urgent ocular conditions with immediate diagnostic and treatment services available.
Reviews (6)
Sunset Princess
Nov 02, 2021
Report
I came in with a 7 year old and a very rowdy 2 year old and dr treece was so good with both of them and as was the whole staff. Makes me wish more drs were this way. Just a very positive experience.
Cherylyn Berrio
Oct 04, 2021
Report
Extremely caring and professional. The staff is great, Dr. Casper takes time to explain everything. My husband, mom and myself highly recommend this office for all your eye care. Update 9-24-2021 : This is still the best office , Dr. Casper is amazing, he takes all the time needed for his patients. I never feel rushed. He also explains everything fully about your eye health. So very greatfull for dr. casper and his team .
Cindy Jaeb
Sep 30, 2021
Report
I had a very good experience with Cape Fear Eye Institute. The entire staff was friendly and welcoming and they have a great selection of glasses. I would highly recommend this practice for your eye care needs.
David S.
Jul 24, 2021
Report
Was on vacation and got sand in my eye. Was able to make an appointment and be seen within 24 hours. Sand removed from eye and drops given. Very nice experience. Dr. Casper was very polite and helpful. Would highly recommend for anyone who had a similar problem on their trip!
Toni Gaskill
Feb 26, 2021
Report
First time customers of Cape Fear Eye Institute and we could not be more satisfied! The service is incredible and the folks are friendly! Highly recommend!
Lori Constanteles
Jan 24, 2021
Report
Was having some scary eye problems on a Saturday. Called and left a message and the on call Dr. got back to me asap! I am very grateful for his call. He helped calm me down about the problem I was having. Wonderful compassionate service.
