Eye Exams

Optometrist on Avenue U Brooklyn Vision Palace Optical

By Dr. Alexander Shlivko, OD··Eye Exams

Your Neighborhood Eye Doctor on Avenue U

When you need an optometrist on Avenue U in Brooklyn, you want someone who knows your neighborhood, accepts your insurance, and treats you like a neighbor — not a number. Vision Palace Optical has been serving Sheepshead Bay and the surrounding Avenue U corridor for over 30 years. We're the eye doctor your family already trusts, and we're open Monday through Saturday for exams, contact lens fittings, and frame shopping.

We're not a chain. Dr. Julia Sheyko and Dr. Alexander Shlivko run the practice themselves, and they know the community. Whether you're stopping by on your way home from work, on a lunch break, or bringing the kids for their first eye exam, we make it easy to get quality eye care without traveling across Brooklyn.

Why Choose an Optometrist on Avenue U

Finding the right eye doctor matters. You need someone who listens, explains things clearly, and doesn't rush through your exam. Our optometrists spend time understanding your vision needs, your work environment, and your lifestyle — not just your prescription.

At Vision Palace Optical, we accept most insurance plans, including Medicaid, Medicare, EyeMed, MetroPlus, Fidelis Care, 1199SEIU, and many others. Coverage varies by plan — call us or book through Zocdoc to confirm your benefits. Walk-ins are welcome for certain services, and we offer flexible scheduling for families working full-time jobs or managing multiple schedules.

We stock designer frames in-store — Dita, Gucci, Prada, Tom Ford, Ray-Ban, Tiffany, and more — alongside practical, affordable options. If you want high-end eyewear or simple, classic styles, we have both. You don't have to order online or travel to Manhattan.

What to Expect at Your Exam

A comprehensive eye exam at our Avenue U location takes time. We check your vision, eye pressure for glaucoma screening, and the health of your retina and optic nerve. We'll ask about your work, hobbies, and any eye strain or discomfort you've noticed. If you've never worn contacts, our doctors can fit you properly. If you need progressive lenses or specialized coatings like Crizal or Transitions, we'll help you find the right solution.

We serve a multilingual community — our doctors speak English, Russian, and Spanish. If you or your family members are more comfortable speaking in another language, let us know when you book.

For kids ages 6 and up, we perform pediatric eye exams. We screen for vision problems early, and we can fit them with Stellest lenses if myopia control is recommended — these lenses are designed to slow myopia progression by up to 67% based on clinical studies.

Designer Frames and Eyewear Options

You don't have to choose between style and quality on Avenue U. Our frame collection includes luxury brands like Prada, Versace, Burberry, and Miu Miu, as well as contemporary and affordable styles. We also carry Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which you can try on in-store. These come with built-in audio, a camera, and Meta AI — useful if you're curious about wearable tech that goes beyond regular glasses.

Whether you need progressive lenses for reading and distance, blue light lenses for screen time, or Transitions lenses that adjust to sunlight, we fit and adjust everything on-site. You won't be waiting weeks for your order to arrive.

DMV Vision Test — Walk-In, No Appointment

If you're renewing your driver's license or permit in New York State, you can get your DMV vision test right here on Avenue U. We handle walk-ins, and we submit the MV-619 form directly to the NYS DMV on your behalf. No appointment needed — just stop by during our hours Monday through Saturday. It's one less errand to run across Brooklyn.

Insurance and Medicaid Welcome

We accept Medicaid and Medicare patients. If you qualify for Medicaid through New York State — whether you're a senior, a working parent, or receiving benefits — your eye exam is covered. Coverage varies by plan — call us at (718) 998-8400 or book through Zocdoc to verify your specific benefits before your visit.

We also accept EyeMed, MetroPlus, Fidelis Care, 1199SEIU, and most major commercial plans. If you're unsure whether we take your insurance, ask us. We'll check for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you accept walk-ins at your Avenue U location?

Yes. Walk-ins are welcome for DMV vision tests, frame browsing, and sometimes for quick questions. For a full comprehensive eye exam, we recommend booking ahead through Zocdoc or calling (718) 998-8400, but we do our best to accommodate walk-ins if we have availability.

What languages do you speak at Vision Palace Optical?

Our doctors speak English, Russian, and Spanish. We serve a multilingual Brooklyn community, and we want you to feel comfortable explaining your eye health concerns in the language that feels right to you.

Do you fit contact lenses for first-time wearers?

Absolutely. Whether you've never worn contacts before or you're switching from glasses, our optometrists will fit you properly. We carry daily, monthly, toric (for astigmatism), and multifocal contact lenses. Your doctor will ensure a comfortable fit and teach you how to care for your lenses.

Can I get my kids' eyes checked at your Avenue U office?

Yes, we perform eye exams for children ages 6 and up. If your child is showing signs of myopia (nearsightedness), we can discuss Stellest lenses, which are designed to slow progression. Early detection is important, so we recommend bringing kids in for their first comprehensive exam around age 5 or 6.

Do you carry designer frames like Gucci and Prada?

Yes. We stock a range of designer frames including Gucci, Prada, Dita, Tom Ford, Tiffany & Co., Ray-Ban, Burberry, Coach, and many others. We also have practical, affordable styles. You can browse in-store and find frames that match your budget and style.

How do I verify my insurance benefits before my visit?

Call us at (718) 998-8400, or book through Zocdoc and mention your insurance plan. We'll confirm your coverage, copay, and what's included (frame allowance, lens coverage, etc.). Coverage varies by plan, so it's worth confirming ahead of time.


Ready to Visit Your Neighborhood Optometrist?

You don't need to travel far for quality eye care. Book your eye exam at Vision Palace Optical — book through Zocdoc or call us at (718) 998-8400. We're at 1723 Avenue U in Brooklyn's Sheepshead Bay, open Monday through Saturday. We're ready to take care of your eyes and your family's vision.

Vision Palace Optical · 1723 Avenue U, Brooklyn

Ready to book your eye exam?

Most insurance accepted, including Medicaid and Medicare. Book online through Zocdoc or call us — we're open Monday through Saturday.

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