Lee Hofer, MD
Dr. Lee Hofer is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in laser vision correction and comprehensive eye care such as glaucoma, and management of macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, including intravitreal injections. He offers expertise in LASIK, PRK, and other advanced vision-correction procedures. With decades of experience, Dr. Hofer is known for his precision, innovation, and dedication to helping patients achieve clear vision, and an understanding of their individual disease processes.
Education & Experience
A central Wisconsin native, Dr. Hofer earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire and his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School. He completed an internship at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis and an ophthalmology residency at the University of Minnesota, where he trained at Hennepin County Medical Center and the Minneapolis VA Hospital. He was a member of the AIDS treatment program providing intravitreal injections of medications for opportunistic retinal eye infections. He received recognition as the Top Teaching Resident, and also was commended for his compassionate care for patients and staff while at the University of Minnesota.
​
Dr. Hofer joined Chippewa Valley Eye Clinic in 1988. In 2002, he founded Western Wisconsin’s first laser refractive center, Eau Claire Lasik, and since has performed more than 45,000 refractive procedures. He was among the first surgeons in the United States to perform all blade-free LASIK using the Intralase laser. He continues to use a state of the art Alcon laser suite of lasers in the facility.
​
In addition, Dr. Hofer has participated in medical mission work in Poland, where he trained others in the technique of corneal transplantation and management, performing surgeries with local surgeons, and cataract surgical methods.
​
Dr. Hofer holds medical licenses in Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Arizona, and Montana.
​
Commitment to the Chippewa Valley
Dr. Hofer’s long-term dedication to the Chippewa Valley stems from his belief that the residents of the Chippewa Valley and surrounding areas, deserve access to the finest progressive vision and medical care close to home.
​
Practice Locations
Eau Claire • Menomonie • Black River Falls • Rice Lake
​
Professional Memberships & Affiliations
-
American Medical Association (AMA)
-
American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
-
Fellow, American College of Surgeons (FACS)
-
American College of Refractive Surgery (ACRS)
-
International Society of Refractive Surgery (ISRS)
-
Wisconsin State Medical Association (WSMA)
​
Outside the Clinic
When he’s not caring for patients, you’ll likely find Dr. Hofer up north with his wife and dogs, tending to his bee colonies, fruit trees and bushes, brushing up on his Spanish, biking across the country, or spending time with his grandkids.
​
