Northern Eye Center PA

Reviews

• MM

  Melissa Magdziarz

  Mar 4, 2026
  1.0
  I had my first LASIK surgery performed by Dr. Sabir at Northern Eye Center PA in October 2006. The results were amazing and lasted 19 years. Because of that positive experience, when I began becoming nearsighted again in 2025, it was an easy decision to return — especially knowing Dr. Sabir was still practicing there. On October 16, 2025, I had my second LASIK procedure. Prior to surgery, I clearly explained that my close-up vision was perfectly fine and that my only concern was distance vision becoming blurry. I also made it clear that I did not want to wear glasses. Dr. Sabir reminded me, as he had 19 years ago, that with age I would eventually need reading glasses, which I understood. However, at that time, I did not need them. At no point was I told that correcting my distance vision would require sacrificing my near vision. Immediately after surgery, I was unable to see up close at all. I was told it was part of the healing process and that it would improve. With my first LASIK surgery years ago, my vision improvement was immediate, so although I tried to remain hopeful, I was concerned. By October 21, I contacted the office because I still could not see up close, which made it impossible for me to perform my job as a house cleaner since I rely heavily on detail work. I was advised to purchase 1.25 reading glasses while healing and was told my near vision would likely return. It did not. Dr. Sabir then offered to redo the procedure. On February 19, I underwent a second surgery. Again, I clearly stated that I needed both near and distance vision and reiterated that the entire reason for surgery was to avoid wearing glasses. This time I was told that to provide distance vision, my close-up vision would have to be taken away. Had that been explained before the first procedure, I would not have agreed to it. After the second surgery, I could see up close but not far away. My nearsightedness became significantly worse than before I initially returned in 2025. I was again told it would improve with healing. As of now, I can only see clearly about one foot in front of me. Anything beyond that is completely blurred. I can perform my job once I’m there, but I cannot safely drive to work. My eyes constantly strain, and I have daily headaches. On February 23, I requested to be seen sooner for glasses so I could drive and work. The past four months have been extremely stressful — physically, emotionally, and financially. I paid $3,600 for a procedure that did not produce the intended results. When I returned on February 25 for a glasses prescription, the interaction felt rushed and impersonal. I was given a prescription and told to return in a month, with no additional support or assistance. I chose not to return. Since then, I have reached out regarding the $3,600 paid without achieving the expected outcome and have received no response. Nineteen years ago, I enthusiastically referred many people to Dr. Sabir because of my great experience. Unfortunately, this time has been very different. My vision is now significantly worse than when I first went in, and the overall experience has been disappointing. Based on my recent experience, I would not recommend Northern Eye Center PA in Brainerd, Minnesota.
• RT

  Rick Truax

  Nov 27, 2023
  5.0
  Dr. Sabir is excellent. Made me feel very well cared for. Great work from the staff. Highly recommend the Northern Eye Center.
• SS

  Samantha Sullivan

  Aug 31, 2017
  5.0
  Megan is extremely helpful at the desk as well as kind and professional.

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