About Northern Virginia Ophthalmology Associates

Our story

NVOA began in 1976 as a two-physician practice founded by Dr. William L. Rich III and Dr. Thomas Frey. Over the decades it has grown into a team of comprehensive ophthalmologists, fellowship-trained subspecialists, optometrists, opticians, and skilled technicians — while keeping the long-term, multi-generational patient relationships that shaped the practice from the start.

Care for every stage of vision

• Comprehensive eye exams for children and adults
• Diagnosis and management of eye disease, including glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, dry eye, and uveitis
• Cataract and lens replacement surgery
• Cornea care and corneal transplantation
• Laser and lens-based vision correction
• Pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus care
• Optometric services, contact lens fittings, and on-site optical shops

What guides our care

• Expertise that stays current

  Our physicians teach, publish, and lead professional societies, and they bring what they learn back to the exam room.

• Clear, unhurried communication

  We explain what we see, what it means, and what your options are, in plain language and at your pace.

• Continuity

  Many patients see NVOA for decades, and retiring physicians hand their patients' care to trusted partners.

Leadership in our profession

NVOA physicians have served as President of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, on the AMA RVS Update Committee, on committees of the American Glaucoma Society, and on the board of the Northern Virginia Academy of Ophthalmology, and several hold clinical faculty appointments.

Recognition

• Great Place to Work® Certified, July 2026–July 2027
• BusinessRate Best of 2026