What patients are saying
Overall rating
4.81
Average wait time
4.56
Bedside manner
4.85
“Excellent experience. The staff and Doctor went out of their way to accommodate me when I had a time sensitive issue. Not just one of them, but everyone I had contact with. Dr. Chen's expertise was not only evident, but comforting. I'm so grateful to have found them. ”
Mischa H.March 2, 2026
“Very nice doctor and staff. Dr Chen listened to my concerns with family history and my mother’s blindness. He explained things in a easy and non-judgmental manner that made me feel at ease and in control of my eye heatlh.”
Anne M.January 14, 2026
About Dr. Benson Chen
Dr. Chen decided to go to medical school after volunteering as an operating room translator for Operation Smile on one of their missions to China. Prior to that, his interests were primarily in becoming a gene therapist; researching retinal pericyte genes at Tufts, and studying cancer genes in mice while transfecting genes into cells at Cornell. Eye surgery came naturally after spending so many evenings in a Boston lab harvesting retinal pericytes from cow eyes. The opportunity to perform reconstructive eyelid surgery brings him that same satisfaction he dreamed about on that one-week facial plastic surgery mission with Operation Smile.
Although born in the United States to Shanghainese speaking parents, Dr. Chen was brought up multicultural, living in Hong Kong and Singapore before returning to New England for boarding school. His research and medical training then brought him slowly across the country starting in Boston, then New York City, Chicago, New Orleans, Columbus and finally Cleveland. He and his wife then relocated in 2006 to Seattle where his wife treats breast cancer at the University of Washington. With the birth of their second son, they made the decision to permanently settle down in the Puget Sound, and Washington Eye Care was formed.
In the past, Dr Chen spent much of his free time traveling, skiing, inline skating, figure drawing, and dragon boating. Lately, he has been enjoying that time with his family.
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Office locations
Dr. Benson Chen, MD, MS also offers online video visits for patients
1 of 2
Education and background
Practice names
Hospital affiliations
- Swedish Medical Center / First Hill Campus
- Swedish Medical Center / Cherry Hill Campus
- Swedish Medical Center / Issaquah Campus
Board certifications
- American Board of Ophthalmology
Education and training
- Medical School - Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Doctor of Medicine
- Louisiana State University, Residency in Ophthalmology
- Ohio State University, Residency in Ophthalmology
- Cleveland Clinic (Oculoplastic Surgery)
- Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital (Oculofacial Plastic Surgery)
- Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Master's in Applied Physiology
Professional memberships
- Washington Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons
- American Academy of Ophthalmology
Awards and publications
- Hui Yong Wang, Qing Feng Li, Sheng Wu Zheng, Benson Chen, Yu Ping Li, Lu Jia Tang and Ti Sheng Chang. "Cadaveric Comparison of Two Facial Flap-harvesting Techniques for Alloplastic Facial Transplantation," Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Aesthetic Surgery 2007;60(11):1175-81
- Shengwu Zheng, Qingfeng Li, Hao Jiang, James Banich, Kaiding Fu, Benson Chen, Huiyong Wang; Danning Zheng, Bing Gu; Qinxiu Liu; Lujia Tang; Tao Zan, Yuping Li, Tisheng Zhang. “Developing a Canine Model of Composite Facial/ Scalp Allograft Transplantation,” Annals of Plastic Surgery 2007 Aug;59(2):185-94
- Benson Chen, Jill A Foster, and Julian D Perry, "Evaluation of an Adult with Orbital Tumor," book chapter in Clinical Ophthalmic Oncology, Eds. A Singh and JD Perry, Elsevier Publishers, March 2007
Languages spoken
- English
- Chinese (Mandarin)
- Chinese (Cantonese)
Provider's gender
Male
NPI number
1306906722
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
4.81
Wait time
4.56
Bedside manner
4.85
Your trust is our top concern, so providers can't pay to alter or remove reviews. We also don't publish reviews that contain any private patient health information. Learn more here
127 reviews
Most relevant
Appointment was on time without delays. Multiple procedures completed quickly.
Less than 6 months agoInitials hidden
Professional; efficient visiting; good communication.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hidden
Excellent doctor. Called my cell phone to let me know he had to deal with an emergency and was running late.
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
Dr. Chen is so patient and takes the time to explain everything. I would totally recommend him to others.
More than 1 year agoMitzi F.Verified patient
I was satisfied with the detailed checkup and examination of my eyes by the doctor and his associate.
More than 1 year agoUsha B.Verified patient
Dr.Chen was very informative, I would definitely recommend my friends and family to visit Dr. Chen.
October 23, 2012Phoummy S.Verified patient
Dr. Chen was in a really good manner to see a patient and I'll definitely see him again soon.
October 1, 2018Initials hidden
I appreciated Dr. Chen's attention to detail and genuine concern for my health.
September 30, 2016Kim M.Verified patient
Very considerate and thorough, but quick! Tech was so kind and patient as well!
July 20, 2018Victoria S.Verified patient
He listens to all your questions and will provide all the details.
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
Pleasant, efficient, accurate -- everything I want in a doctor!
November 13, 2012Michelle E.Verified patient
My visit was great. I'm always satified with all my visit
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
It was excellent, as. Will say in my review to them!
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
Excellent experience. The staff and Doctor went out of their way to accommodate me when I had a time sensitive issue. Not just one of them, but everyone I had contact with. Dr. Chen's expertise was not only evident, but comforting. I'm so grateful to have found them.
March 2, 2026Mischa H.Verified patient
Very nice doctor and staff. Dr Chen listened to my concerns with family history and my mother’s blindness. He explained things in a easy and non-judgmental manner that made me feel at ease and in control of my eye heatlh.
January 14, 2026Anne M.Verified patient
Dr. Chen Benson, M.D. was excellent during my visit today for dry eyes, burning and stinging symptoms, and headaches. He was kind, professional, and took the time to listen carefully to my symptoms and concerns. He explained what was likely causing the dryness in a clear, reassuring way and gave me a practical treatment plan I could follow right away. The office ran smoothly, and I felt well cared for from start to finish. The entire team was friendly, courteous and caring. I highly recommend Dr. Benson to anyone looking for a thorough and compassionate ophthalmologist.
December 17, 2025Ruxandra P.Verified patient
I arrived at the hospital on time but had to wait over an hour to see the doctor. Both the doctor and his assistant were extremely impatient and barely interacted with me throughout the appointment. They did not clearly explain my condition, and the visit ended abruptly without even asking if I had any questions. The doctor just walked out in a rush. I still have no idea what’s wrong with my eye. I would not recommend this clinic and will not be returning.
Less than 1 year agoInitials hidden
The initial exam was the most thorough and complete. The result were were explained. Dr. Chen's review of the issues involved with lens replacement was very thorough and understandable. It was essential good decision-making for choosing the best lens.
November 6, 2024Ronald L.Verified patient
f guy in
September 19, 2024namat T.Verified patient
Dr. Chen was very friendly and open to answering any questions I had. The staff was welcoming and friendly as well. Highly recommend.
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
He was very honest. He said that if nothing seems wrong, I wouldn't need another general eye exam for another few years. I love it when doctors aren't pushy and aren't just out for your money. The only thing is that they don't do exams for contacts.
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
My visit was great. Dr. Chen caught a significant problem that had not been discovered in previous eye checks, and gave me good advice on the next steps.
February 28, 2017Brian D.Verified patient
Good ??
III
November 4, 2016Sally G.Verified patient
Dr Chen is very thorough, very caring, easy to talk to and very professional. Been seeing him a few years now. Assistants and office staff are always great as well. Very highly recommended! ??
More than 1 year agoJason Nicholas P.Verified patient
Dr. Chen was absolutely amazing. I was very nervous about the changes I'm experiencing in my vision. Dr. Chen put me at ease right away, he was kind and really seemed to care about my concerns and in helping me get better. He is very knowledgable and professional but seemed like a very down to earth kind of person. I am under a lot of financial stress right now and he personally made sure my insurance company would authorize future treatments. I loved his staff too!
August 26, 2016Donna B.Verified patient
My visit was handled very nicely. Very professional atmosphere. Dr Chen listened carefully to my complaint and explained what he needed to test in order to help me. He then explained each step of the exam and also gave me printed explanation. I was very comfortable with the level of care that I received.
More than 1 year agoSusan B.Verified patient
Very professional and calm. I had an eye emergency that eventually would need surgery. When you walk into a medical office because you're suddenly blind in one eye, you need a calm presence to keep you from panicking. Dr. Chen was the right choice for me. Highly recommend. His staff is excellent and courteous as well.
November 24, 2015Stuart R.Verified patient
Dr. Chen and his staff are always professional, informative, and friendly. His office is a half hour away (in good traffic), so I wouldn't go there if I weren't totally happy with my experiences.
October 16, 2015David P.Verified patient
Dr. Chen was very professional. He did a thorough examination, answered questions and made recommendations He was warm and though his office was short handed, he and his assistant very efficiently took care of his patients. I would highly recommend him!
September 29, 2015Tomi O.Verified patient
Highly recommended - Dr. Chen was able to examine me quickly, give his diagnosis, and give very clear answers to all the questions I had.
April 3, 2015Initials hidden
Dr. Chen is excellent at his job and his staff is top notch. The whole experience was calm, explanatory, and worthwhile. I would recommend this team.
February 9, 2015Rudy E.Verified patient
Even though I was a brand new patient I was able to get in the same day (a Monday) and was able to fill out all of the forms online ahead of time. Easy to find office with free parking right by Factoria shopping center (so you can send your spouse there).
The support staff was friendly and efficient and they had educational videos in the waiting room. The eye tech was very skilled, through and and friendly and put me at ease.
Dr Chen is highly qualified and personable and informed of the reason for each test and the results and gave me a good plan for next steps and what to watch out for. Would have loved my own copy of my eye but forgot to ask.
More than 1 year agoSherry R.Verified patient
Very pleased with his expertise and caring attitude. Took time to answer my several questions. Very thorough. Janice Bennett
9-29-2014
September 29, 2014Janice B.Verified patient
very impressed!
September 28, 2014Ann D.Verified patient
Excellent doctor and staff.
March 18, 2014Richard T.Verified patient
One of the most thorough optometry appointments I have ever had. It is nice to see that in the world of insurance companies running our medical system there is still one doctor who takes the time to do a great job.
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
It was great. The staff were pleasant and professional. Had one moment of angst when the technician said, "I would normally dialate your eyes right now but I am going to wait to let the doctor do that." When I asked why, she said, "I have a little concern that I will leave for him to explain." Just saying, don't bring it up if you aren't going to explain. Gave me 10 minutes of stress I didn't need. I explained it to the doctor and he thanked me for the feedback. Overall a very positive experience.
August 26, 2013Cindy S.Verified patient
Great doctor with a great staff.
January 3, 2013Terryll W.Verified patient
Dr Chen was extremely knowledgeable, thorough, and very patient. He answered all my questions and gave me an honest opinion regarding LASIK and PRK. I highly recommend his services.
January 14, 2013Sonia C.Verified patient
Dr. Chen has an excellent bed-side manner. He listens to his patients and you do not feel like your being rushed. I appreciate the fact that he gives you options to take care of your eye concerns.
February 8, 2013Initials hidden
he was awesome! took that EXTRA time/care to find out exactly what was causing the issue w/ my eye and didnt treat me anything less or like i was taking time away from his other patients-because it took a hella lot longer to figure out and confirm what was the issues w/ my left eye. i appreciate him and his care more than any one i know...
More than 1 year agoTristan S.Verified patient
I am so glad I found Dr. Chen! He was very thorough and he carefully explained the details of each process so that I had a complete understanding of my situation. The entire experience was very positive. Thank you so much...
August 20, 2012Dixie D.Verified patient
Dr. Chen is not only brilliant but also treat patients as families. He relased my mother in-law's fear by answering all questions she had before the catract surgery, he also took good care of her need after the surgery. We really appreciate Dr. Chen's thoughtful care and would highly recommend him!
More than 1 year agoSarah W.Verified patient
Nice, friendly. I'll go again.
June 9, 2012Sienna B.Verified patient
As always our visit was excellent. Dr. Chen came highly recommended by our family doctor at Swedish a few years back when my husband needed cataract surgery. He did such a great job that our whole family has been seeing him since. It is a given that he is an excellent surgeon but we also appreciate that with his calm, laid back demeanor he takes the time to explain things out to us. We truly feel fortunate to be under the capable and thoughtful hand of Dr. Benson Chen.
More than 1 year agoJM
Good!
May 30, 2012Jam C.Verified patient
March 27, 2026Jing W.Verified patient
Less than 3 months agoInitials hidden
Less than 3 months agoInitials hidden
February 4, 2026Daniel N.Verified patient
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How soon can I make an appointment with Dr. Benson Chen?
Generally, Dr. Benson Chen has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Dr. Chen's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Dr. Benson Chen accepting new patients?
Dr. Benson Chen generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Dr. Chen's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Dr. Benson Chen accept my insurance?
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Can I make an appointment with Dr. Benson Chen online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Dr. Chen using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
Which hospital is Dr. Benson Chen affiliated with?
Dr. Benson Chen is affiliated with Swedish Medical Center / First Hill Campus, Swedish Medical Center / Cherry Hill Campus, and Swedish Medical Center / Issaquah Campus.
What practice does Dr. Benson Chen work with?
Dr. Benson Chen works with Washington Eye Care.
Where is Dr. Benson Chen's office located?
Dr. Benson Chen has 4 office locations in Bellevue, view full addresses on Dr. Chen's profile.
Which board certifications does Dr. Benson Chen have?
Dr. Benson Chen is certified by American Board of Ophthalmology.
What are common reasons for patients to see Dr. Benson Chen?
Dr. Benson Chen frequently sees patients for Dry Eye, Eye Infection, General Eye Follow Up, Glaucoma Consultation, and Stye / Hordeolum. You can see other visit reasons for Dr. Benson Chen on their profile.
What languages does Dr. Benson Chen speak?
Dr. Benson Chen speaks English, Chinese (Mandarin), and Chinese (Cantonese).
How do patients rate Dr. Benson Chen in reviews?
127 patients have reviewed Dr. Benson Chen. The overall rating for this doctor is 4.81/5. They have a 4.85/5 rating for bedside manner and a 4.56/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.