Brian R Lantman, OD in Chattanooga: Comprehensive Exams and Contact Lens Fitting with Insurance Acceptance
Brian R Lantman, OD operates an independent optometry practice focused on full-scope vision care, including comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fitting, and management of common eye conditions, serving Chattanooga residents as both a primary vision source and a referral-friendly partner for those with medical eye disease.
What this practice actually is
An independent optometry office rather than a franchise or hospital-based clinic. Lantman holds the Doctor of Optometry degree and is licensed to perform eye exams, write prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses, and diagnose certain eye conditions. The practice does not perform surgical procedures; patients with cataracts, glaucoma requiring surgery, or retinal conditions requiring specialist care receive referrals to local ophthalmologists. The practice works on an appointment basis and does not operate as walk-in only.
Services and pricing
Comprehensive eye exams form the core service. The exam typically includes visual acuity testing, refraction (determining eyeglass or contact lens power), tonometry (glaucoma screening), and dilated retinal examination. The cost for a comprehensive exam is around $200 to $250 without insurance; patients should confirm current fees by calling. This price covers the professional service; frames and lenses or contact lenses are purchased separately.
Contact lens fitting is offered as a distinct service beyond the exam. Fitting involves measuring the cornea, selecting an appropriate lens design, and conducting in-office trials. The fitting fee, distinct from the exam, typically runs $60 to $100 and covers trial lenses, follow-up appointments, and instruction. Once a prescription is established, contact lenses themselves are sold through the practice or can be obtained from external vendors with a valid prescription.
Eyeglass prescriptions written during the exam can be filled at the practice's on-site frame and lens shop or taken to another retailer. The practice carries a range of frame brands and lens options; pricing varies widely depending on frame selection and lens features (such as anti-reflective coating, progressive bifocals, or blue-light filtering). A single-vision plastic lens in a standard frame typically ranges from $150 to $300 per pair when purchased through the office.
Medical eye care includes evaluation and management of dry eye, eye allergies, and early-stage presbyopia. These services are included within the comprehensive exam; follow-up visits for dry eye treatment or allergy management are available at standard office visit rates. The practice does not dispense pharmaceutical agents on-site but provides prescriptions for eye drops and topical medications to be filled at pharmacies.
Insurance accepted includes most major plans. Patients should verify their coverage before the appointment, as copays and deductibles vary. If uninsured, the practice typically applies a cash-pay discount to the exam fee.
How this compares to other Chattanooga optometrists
Lantman's practice operates independently, which means he can spend more time per patient and set his own exam pace without corporate metrics pressuring quick turnover. By contrast, optometrists at chain retailers (such as those at major big-box optical stores) often work under productivity quotas that may abbreviate exam time or prioritize frame sales. For patients seeking a thorough exam without commercial pressure, the independent model is an advantage. However, chains and hospital-based vision centers offer extended hours and walk-in availability that this office does not.
Contact lens fitting is also a key differentiator. Many Chattanooga optometrists provide basic contact lens services, but Lantman offers specialized fitting for complex cases such as astigmatism, presbyopia, or corneal irregularities. Patients with difficult-to-fit eyes or those seeking scleral or hybrid lenses may find this focus valuable compared to practices that treat contact lens fitting as a routine add-on.
For patients requiring integrated medical and surgical care, hospital-affiliated vision centers (such as those within Erlanger's Eye Institute or through private ophthalmology groups) offer direct access to specialists without a separate referral. Lantman's model works best for those comfortable with a referral pathway and preferring the time and attention of an independent optometrist.
Who this practice suits and who it does not
This practice is well-matched for patients seeking a thorough eye exam, those who need contact lens fitting beyond standard spherical lenses, and people with established insurance who want predictable copays. Adults with presbyopia, astigmatism, or early dry eye find the medical focus valuable.
This practice is not suitable for walk-in urgent eye care (redness, pain, sudden vision loss should go to urgent care or an emergency department), routine eye exams for children under 10 (the practice typically serves adult populations), or patients requiring same-day appointments on short notice. Those without insurance or with vision plan restrictions that exclude out-of-network optometrists should confirm coverage before scheduling.
What the first visit involves
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete intake paperwork and insurance verification. The exam itself lasts 45 minutes to an hour. You will read letters on a chart, look through a phoropter to refine your prescription, and have your eye pressure measured. The doctor will then dilate your pupils with eye drops to examine the back of your eye; expect blurred vision and light sensitivity for 3 to 4 hours afterward, so arrange for a driver or plan to wear dark sunglasses. Dilation is standard for a comprehensive exam and cannot be skipped. At the end, you receive a written prescription for eyeglasses and/or contact lenses and a summary of any findings. If contact lens fitting is planned, it occurs during the same visit or is scheduled for a follow-up appointment.
Hours, parking, and logistics
The practice operates Monday through Friday, typically 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours on certain weekdays; confirm specific times when calling. Parking is available at the office location. The practice requests advance scheduling and does not accept walk-ins. Allow 10 minutes for parking and arrival before your appointment time.
Lantman's practice fills a deliberate niche in Chattanooga's vision care landscape: independent, thorough, and focused on complex contact lens cases and attentive exam time, without the commercial speed of chains or the procedural scope of hospital systems.
