Quality eye care
and designer eyewear

Welcome to Gilbert Eyecare,
where fashion meets function for your eyes.

Gilbert Eyecare’s story began in 1971 when Mark Gilbert opened its first location in Virginia Beach, offering a unique optical experience focused on providing exclusive, high-end designer eyewear. At a time when many optical stores featured conservative styles, Gilbert Eyecare stood out by blending fashion with function, giving customers eyewear that reflected both their personal style and practical needs.

In 1978, Mark’s brother, Seth Gilbert, joined the business, expanding its scope by operating a wholesale optical company alongside the retail shop. Gilbert Eyecare became one of the first independent optical stores in Virginia to offer comprehensive family eye care while maintaining its commitment to bringing distinctive eyewear to the community.

In 2003, Mark’s son, Dr. David Gilbert, joined the practice as an optometrist, later taking over ownership. Under his leadership, the business transformed from Gilbert Optical into Gilbert Eyecare, a full-service optometric practice offering everything from primary care to specialized medical eye care. Dr. David Gilbert, alongside his wife, Dr. Deena Falsetta-Gilbert, a pediatric optometry specialist, further expanded the practice’s capabilities, positioning it as a destination for quality family eye care in the Hampton Roads area.

In 2020, Dr. Rachel Willcoxon joined Gilbert Eyecare, bringing additional expertise and as further solidifying the practice’s reputation as a leading provider of comprehensive eye care. Her arrival marked another important chapter in the practice’s growth, allowing it to continue serving the diverse needs of its patients.

Despite changes in the industry, including the rise of big-box retailers and discount vision plans, Gilbert Eyecare has remained steadfast in its commitment to quality care. The practice continues to thrive as a family-owned business, providing personalized care for each patient, just as it has for over five decades.

Today, with two locations in Virginia Beach and Norfolk, and a team of three doctors-including Dr. David Gilbert, Dr. Deena Falsetta-Gilbert, and Dr. Rachel Willcoxon — Gilbert Eyecare offers full range of services, from primary care and pediatrics to medical eye management and fashionable eyewear. Treating patients and staff like family remains at the core of Gilbert Eyecare’s philosophy, delivering exceptional care and attention to detail at every turn.