Comprehensive eye exams
Thorough vision and eye-health evaluations for the whole family, with clear explanations of every result.
Caring for coastal eyes for over 30 years
Clear, comprehensive eye care in Surf City.
Dr. Phillip Tart, O.D., has looked after the vision of Topsail-area families since opening on the coast. Complete eye exams, contact lenses, and glasses, with the time to explain every step.
3.9 from 43 reviews
A+ rated by the BBB
Over 30 years of practice
What we do
Complete care for your eyes
From routine exams to managing eye disease, Dr. Tart provides thorough, patient-centered care, taking the time to walk you through what each test means and why it matters.
Contact lenses
Fittings for soft, daily-wear, extended-wear, disposable, and rigid gas-permeable lenses, including hard-to-fit eyes.
Glasses & sunglasses
A curated selection of frames and lenses to fit your prescription, your face, and your day-to-day life.
Glaucoma & disease management
Testing and ongoing care for glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic eye disease.
LASIK consultation
Pre- and post-operative care, plus guidance on whether laser vision correction is right for you.
Pediatric & family care
Gentle, attentive eye care for children and adults, with services for sports vision and computer-related strain.
Have a red, painful, or injured eye? Call the office and we will help you find the soonest available time.
Dr. Phillip Tart, O.D.
Doctor of Optometry · President
- UNC Chapel Hill; Southern College of Optometry, Memphis
- Practicing optometry for more than 30 years
- Serving the Topsail coast since 2009
Meet your optometrist
"We care for you, not just your eyes."
Dr. Phillip Tart studied at UNC Chapel Hill and graduated from the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis. After practicing with one of the largest optometry groups in the Raleigh area, he relocated to coastal Carolina, opening in Hampstead in 2002 and in Surf City in 2009 before moving into Primary Vision Care Center's current building in 2012.
With more than three decades of experience, Dr. Tart is trained to recognize a wide range of health conditions through the eyes, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetes, and hypertension. He stays current through ongoing continuing education and advanced training.
Patients consistently note how thoroughly he explains each part of an exam, so you leave understanding your own eye health.
Talk with our officeCoverage & payment
Insurance & vision plans
We work with patients to make eye care accessible. Because plans change often, the best way to confirm your specific vision or medical coverage is a quick phone call before your visit.
CareCredit financing accepted
Medical & vision plans [VERIFY: plan list]
Self-pay welcome
Not sure if we take your plan? Call (910) 803-0555 and our team will check your coverage for you.
Plan your visit
Find us on NC-50 in Surf City
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Address13520 NC-50, Surf City, NC 28445Just off the island on Highway 50.
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Surf City hours
- Mon
- 1st & 3rd Monday only
- Tue–Thu
- 10:00am–1:00pm, 2:00pm–5:30pm
- Fri–Sun
- Closed
Hours can shift seasonally; a quick call confirms today's schedule.