Alissa Melton, O.D. in Oklahoma City: Comprehensive Eye Exams and Contact Lens Fitting

Alissa Melton is an optometrist offering primary eye care and contact lens services to Oklahoma City residents in a small, independent practice setting. Her scope includes comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, and management of common eye conditions; she does not perform surgical procedures or laser treatments, which require referral to an ophthalmologist.

What Alissa Melton, O.D. actually provides

Melton operates as an independent optometrist, a credential that means she holds a doctor of optometry degree and is licensed to perform comprehensive eye exams, prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses, and diagnose and manage eye diseases such as dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Unlike a general eye care office, a solo practice typically allows longer appointment slots and direct-to-patient communication without front-desk intermediaries. The practice is sized for continuity; patients see the same provider rather than rotating among several doctors.

Services and pricing

A comprehensive eye exam with refraction (determining your eyeglass or contact prescription) typically costs between 150 and 250 dollars and includes visual acuity testing, intraocular pressure measurement, dilated retinal examination, and visual field screening if warranted. Contact lens fitting fees are separate from the exam and range from 80 to 150 dollars depending on lens complexity; specialty lenses for keratoconus or astigmatism incur higher fees. Eyeglass frames and lenses are priced individually and vary widely; independent practices often mark them lower than chain retailers. Most major vision insurance plans are accepted, and many cover the exam at a copay of 10 to 30 dollars with a valid plan. Confirm current pricing and insurance participation by calling directly, as exam fees and plan participation shift annually.

How Alissa Melton compares to other Oklahoma City optometrists

Oklahoma City has two common optometry models: small independent practices like Melton's and large retail chains (Warby Parker, LensCrafters, America's Best Vision Centers). Independent optometrists typically spend 45 to 60 minutes on a comprehensive exam and offer straightforward contact lens consultations without upsell pressure for frame brands. Chains prioritize throughput, often scheduling 30-minute exams, and leverage retail foot traffic; they excel if you want one-stop shopping for frames, lenses, and same-day pickup. Melton suits patients who value unhurried exams, ongoing eye health management, and relationship continuity; chains are better if you need fast, convenient frame selection and are less concerned with doctor continuity.

Who this practice suits and who it does not

Alissa Melton is ideal for patients with chronic eye conditions (glaucoma, dry eye, diabetes-related vision changes) who benefit from consistent, detailed follow-up with one provider. New contact lens wearers also gain from the patient education and adjustment support a solo practice provides. Working professionals who prefer one appointment slot per year rather than multiple visits find the efficiency of a focused practice valuable. This practice does not suit patients needing glasses same-day or those seeking extensive frame selection; independent practices typically order frames to order and do not stock hundreds of styles. Patients requiring corneal surgery, LASIK, cataract evaluation, or retinal procedures need referral to an ophthalmologist and should choose a practice with established surgical referral networks.

What a first visit involves

A new-patient visit begins with a detailed health history, including medications, eye injuries, and family history of eye disease. Visual acuity is tested at distance and near; the refraction determines your current prescription. Tonometry measures eye pressure (a brief, painless puff of air or gentle contact). Dilated drops widen the pupil for examination of the lens, optic nerve, and retina; dilation lasts three to four hours and makes reading and driving uncomfortable, so plan for someone to drive you or give yourself extra time. The exam concludes with a discussion of any findings and, if contact lenses are desired, a trial fitting and instruction on insertion, removal, and care. Most comprehensive exams take 45 to 60 minutes; plan 90 minutes for new patients including contact lens fitting.

Hours, parking, and logistics

Specific hours and parking details require direct confirmation, as solo optometry practices often operate Monday through Friday with limited or variable Saturday hours. Call ahead to confirm availability and whether same-week appointments are offered for urgent concerns like sudden vision changes or eye injury. Independent practices typically offer curbside or nearby street parking rather than formal lots. Bring your insurance card and photo ID to your appointment; expect to fill out a new-patient form 10 to 15 minutes early.

Alissa Melton fills a niche in Oklahoma City's vision care landscape for patients who prioritize exam depth and provider continuity over convenience and same-day frame fulfillment.