
Efrain M Cancel, MD
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryComprehensive Ophthalmology
Highlights
Age Groups Seen
- Adolescent 12-21
- Adult 21-65
- Older Adult >65
Languages
- Spanish
- English
Gender
MaleClinical Interests
- Ophthalmic plastic surgery
- Ophthalmology
- Orbital and reconstructive surgery
Locations
- Emplify Health La Crosse Ophthalmology
- 724 Denton Street, La Crosse, WI 54601
- Get Directions
- phone: 608-775-2191
Expertise
Education
- Fellowship: University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Ophthalmology, 1991
- Residency: University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, Ophthalmology, 1990
- Medical School: University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, 1985
Board Certifications
- Ophthalmology: American Board of Ophthalmology, 1991
Insurance
- Aetna Health Management
- Amerigroup Iowa Inc
- Anthem BCBS WI
- Arise Health Plan/ WPS
- BCBS MN
- Benefit Plan Administrators
- Care Wisconsin
- CIGNA
- Community Link
- Group Health Cooperative of Eau Claire
- HealthEOS by Multiplan
- Healthpartners, Inc
- Independent Care Health Plan Medicaid
- Medica IFB
- Meritain Health
- MHS Health
- Midlands Choice
- Quartz
- The Alliance
- Tricare West
- Ucare Minnesota
- United Healthcare Inc.
- WCA Group Health Trust
- Wellmark BCBS IA
- Wisconsin Physician Services
Ratings & Reviews
4.8 out of 5
216 ratings, 64 reviewsThe Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/5/2026
Dr. Cancel and his team are always supportive and informative. Explained everything that was going to happen in detail that a lay person could understand. Always make me feel very comfortable, that is why I keep coming back.
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/5/2026
The provider was rather curt and uncaring.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/26/2026
Very satisfied.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/22/2026
I followed Dr. Cancel from the Marshfield Clinic to the Gundersen Clinic. He is the best!! A number of his patients in Marshfield would love to have him back including the staff.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/20/2026
You have something GREAT in this Dr. and his team. Special.
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/18/2026
The surgery that I had turned out good except for the one part where they had a cut of V in my eyelid and it still bothers me even though they've looked at it two or three times and I'm not very pleased with that. Thank you. Bye.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/13/2026
Very satisfied
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/13/2026
Dr. Cancel explained the procedure very clearly using a diagram of the eye. I have complete confidence in him and his ability to perform the operation on my eye.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/8/2026
Very good very good at explaining things
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/22/2026
Dr Cancel and his Team are amazing
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/15/2026
Very good experience. Had a problem with virtual but probably was me getting use to using it.
- 3 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/12/2026
Not the most easy person to communicate with. Showed very little emotion or what I would call real interest in my son. Certainly willing to try what was recommended (heated rice pack three times a day) to hopefully reduce cyst over eye, but if it doesn't work and continues to increase in size, I will continue to be concerned.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/12/2026
I have had several appointments with Dr. Cancel. He has always been very kind and caring. I feel very fortunate to have had his help.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/1/2026
Everyone was helpful and always asked if we understood or had questions
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/1/2026
A very well department
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/1/2026
It was all good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/3/2026
Dr. Cancel was awesome!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/29/2026
My appointment schedule was on time and I was very satisfied with my treatment.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/22/2026
When you tell the building for appointments it would help to write the floor you should go to ck in hence waiting to ck in and you are on the wrong floor .
- 2 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/28/2025
Felt like an assembly line
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/28/2025
I talked to Dr. Cancel about two different procedures and at first we decided not to go with the brow lift, but I think I'm going to want to talk to him and go with that brow lift. So I'm going to need to speak to someone in a day or so. Thank you. Bye.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/24/2025
The entire team of Dr. Cancel's was polite, professional, and caring. Hats off to the entire staff that was there to ease my nerves.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/21/2025
Very happy with my experience. I had one person who seemed a bit crabby, but not a big deal.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/17/2025
Superb provider and assistant. My procedure went exactly as my provider explained. He had my full confidence and trust. I am very satisfied!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/11/2025
The entire staff was empathetic.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/7/2025
Appointment on time and there after.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/5/2025
This was the first time I saw this provider and I was very pleased
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/5/2025
Dr. Cancel is the best!
- 3 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/27/2025
This was only my first time meeting this provider, but he was easy to talk to and very confident so that was refreshing.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/21/2025
If I could get sooner to get my eye procedure done. Have to wait until after the 1st of the year.
- 3 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/19/2025
Hi, the doctor was a little brusque and I guess just very quick and short explanations.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/9/2025
Every thing that I ask about was answered in a very simple manner than you.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/2/2025
Dr. Cancel and staff were professional, efficient and thorough.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/11/2025
I just trust everyone at the Gundersen group! I would definitely recommend them to people i know! I know everyone really cares about the patients and it does not get any better than that!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/5/2025
Excellent care provided!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/2/2025
I find it hard to find a place in my chart to get a cost read out of this procedure
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/14/2025
Thank you for your professionalism and surveys
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/14/2025
Dr. Cancel was absolutely amazing! Bed side manor was a breath of fresh air. Presented the procedure that was easy to understand. I felt comfortable asking questions. Dr. Phoned me with biopsy results... WHO does that anymore???!!! Best experience in a long time.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/11/2025
Dr. Cancel was patient with me thinking about whether or not to have the surgery. I was given the expectations for my upcoming surgery and what to expect in the days and weeks following surgery.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/2/2025
Thank you
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/24/2025
Everyone answered my questions and provided more information than I even thought to ask. Informed the nurse and Dr., that I was extremely anxious about the surgery especially since I have never had surgery on my eyes. Had horrible experiences in Illinois where I told them that I wasn't sedated enough. Your team in La Crosse assured me that my concern was noted and they will do everything to make me comfortable.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/22/2025
I do not use the internet or web so I don't do anything digital. I would not use anything like Tele visit.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/17/2025
I didn't actually see Dr. Cancel. I only saw the technician that administered the test. So I'm not sure what sort of feedback you're wanting. If we're rating the technician or, but I did not see the doctor, thank you.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/16/2025
The follow through was amazing! All of my necessary appointments were made by the check out person before I left.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/10/2025
Technology is not easy as we get older and I would prefer for more in-person interaction
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/3/2025
Good listener
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/3/2025
Dr. Cancel, explained my procedure in detail before performing. He gave me explicit instructions after.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/1/2025
Dr Cancel was very thorough in his explanation, along with the other 3 people I had contact with during my appointment.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/27/2025
I have always been treated with kindness and respect
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/14/2025
The tech who administered the test was very professional-friendly knowable
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/14/2025
I'm not happy about not being given a surgery time until the day before my surgery. That gives me very little time to arrange for transportation for the eye surgery since I'm over an hour away. I don't think it's that hard to assign a surgery time sooner than the day before and I was never asked what time would be convenient for me
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/15/2025
Dr Cancel didn't establish a return visit date...that I remember. Is there a return date? Are their corrective lenses to be had?
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/26/2025
I thought my nurse was extremely helpful and willing to help with any issues I might have.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/26/2025
The registration staff was kind and supportive. The MA that helped me to the room was really nice but she did not wait for me before turning into the hallway leading me to the exam room. She was talking to me while waking ahead of me. This part of the visit was very rushed. The provider was very nice and took his time to explain what his exam is showing and how to manage the symptoms. I really appreciate his willingness to review the prescribed steps to take care of my eyes over the next few weeks . I trust him with my care. Thank you!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/26/2025
Very happy with Dr Cancel!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/22/2025
The care team was a well oiled group. Each person explained what their role was, what to expect next. I felt very comfortable and knowledgeable about my upcoming procedure plus follow up care.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/21/2025
VERY GOOD!!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/19/2025
Always good experience.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/12/2025
I am always amazed by the employees of Gundersen no matter what position they hold. A great team at every experience i have had there.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/22/2025
Good experience great doctor
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/11/2025
Very understanding.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/9/2025
Great guy
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/3/2025
Positive professional experience.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/25/2025
Excellent service
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/5/2026
Dr. Cancel and his team are always supportive and informative. Explained everything that was going to happen in detail that a lay person could understand. Always make me feel very comfortable, that is why I keep coming back.
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/5/2026
The provider was rather curt and uncaring.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/26/2026
Very satisfied.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/22/2026
I followed Dr. Cancel from the Marshfield Clinic to the Gundersen Clinic. He is the best!! A number of his patients in Marshfield would love to have him back including the staff.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/20/2026
You have something GREAT in this Dr. and his team. Special.
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/18/2026
The surgery that I had turned out good except for the one part where they had a cut of V in my eyelid and it still bothers me even though they've looked at it two or three times and I'm not very pleased with that. Thank you. Bye.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/13/2026
Very satisfied
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/13/2026
Dr. Cancel explained the procedure very clearly using a diagram of the eye. I have complete confidence in him and his ability to perform the operation on my eye.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/8/2026
Very good very good at explaining things
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/22/2026
Dr Cancel and his Team are amazing
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/15/2026
Very good experience. Had a problem with virtual but probably was me getting use to using it.
- 3 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/12/2026
Not the most easy person to communicate with. Showed very little emotion or what I would call real interest in my son. Certainly willing to try what was recommended (heated rice pack three times a day) to hopefully reduce cyst over eye, but if it doesn't work and continues to increase in size, I will continue to be concerned.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/12/2026
I have had several appointments with Dr. Cancel. He has always been very kind and caring. I feel very fortunate to have had his help.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/1/2026
Everyone was helpful and always asked if we understood or had questions
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/1/2026
A very well department
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/1/2026
It was all good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/3/2026
Dr. Cancel was awesome!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/29/2026
My appointment schedule was on time and I was very satisfied with my treatment.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/22/2026
When you tell the building for appointments it would help to write the floor you should go to ck in hence waiting to ck in and you are on the wrong floor .
- 2 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/28/2025
Felt like an assembly line
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/28/2025
I talked to Dr. Cancel about two different procedures and at first we decided not to go with the brow lift, but I think I'm going to want to talk to him and go with that brow lift. So I'm going to need to speak to someone in a day or so. Thank you. Bye.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/24/2025
The entire team of Dr. Cancel's was polite, professional, and caring. Hats off to the entire staff that was there to ease my nerves.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/21/2025
Very happy with my experience. I had one person who seemed a bit crabby, but not a big deal.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/17/2025
Superb provider and assistant. My procedure went exactly as my provider explained. He had my full confidence and trust. I am very satisfied!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/11/2025
The entire staff was empathetic.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/7/2025
Appointment on time and there after.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/5/2025
This was the first time I saw this provider and I was very pleased
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/5/2025
Dr. Cancel is the best!
- 3 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/27/2025
This was only my first time meeting this provider, but he was easy to talk to and very confident so that was refreshing.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/21/2025
If I could get sooner to get my eye procedure done. Have to wait until after the 1st of the year.
- 3 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/19/2025
Hi, the doctor was a little brusque and I guess just very quick and short explanations.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/9/2025
Every thing that I ask about was answered in a very simple manner than you.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/2/2025
Dr. Cancel and staff were professional, efficient and thorough.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/11/2025
I just trust everyone at the Gundersen group! I would definitely recommend them to people i know! I know everyone really cares about the patients and it does not get any better than that!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/5/2025
Excellent care provided!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/2/2025
I find it hard to find a place in my chart to get a cost read out of this procedure
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/14/2025
Thank you for your professionalism and surveys
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/14/2025
Dr. Cancel was absolutely amazing! Bed side manor was a breath of fresh air. Presented the procedure that was easy to understand. I felt comfortable asking questions. Dr. Phoned me with biopsy results... WHO does that anymore???!!! Best experience in a long time.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/11/2025
Dr. Cancel was patient with me thinking about whether or not to have the surgery. I was given the expectations for my upcoming surgery and what to expect in the days and weeks following surgery.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/2/2025
Thank you
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/24/2025
Everyone answered my questions and provided more information than I even thought to ask. Informed the nurse and Dr., that I was extremely anxious about the surgery especially since I have never had surgery on my eyes. Had horrible experiences in Illinois where I told them that I wasn't sedated enough. Your team in La Crosse assured me that my concern was noted and they will do everything to make me comfortable.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/22/2025
I do not use the internet or web so I don't do anything digital. I would not use anything like Tele visit.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/17/2025
I didn't actually see Dr. Cancel. I only saw the technician that administered the test. So I'm not sure what sort of feedback you're wanting. If we're rating the technician or, but I did not see the doctor, thank you.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/16/2025
The follow through was amazing! All of my necessary appointments were made by the check out person before I left.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/10/2025
Technology is not easy as we get older and I would prefer for more in-person interaction
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/3/2025
Good listener
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/3/2025
Dr. Cancel, explained my procedure in detail before performing. He gave me explicit instructions after.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/1/2025
Dr Cancel was very thorough in his explanation, along with the other 3 people I had contact with during my appointment.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/27/2025
I have always been treated with kindness and respect
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/14/2025
The tech who administered the test was very professional-friendly knowable
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/14/2025
I'm not happy about not being given a surgery time until the day before my surgery. That gives me very little time to arrange for transportation for the eye surgery since I'm over an hour away. I don't think it's that hard to assign a surgery time sooner than the day before and I was never asked what time would be convenient for me
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/15/2025
Dr Cancel didn't establish a return visit date...that I remember. Is there a return date? Are their corrective lenses to be had?
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/26/2025
I thought my nurse was extremely helpful and willing to help with any issues I might have.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/26/2025
The registration staff was kind and supportive. The MA that helped me to the room was really nice but she did not wait for me before turning into the hallway leading me to the exam room. She was talking to me while waking ahead of me. This part of the visit was very rushed. The provider was very nice and took his time to explain what his exam is showing and how to manage the symptoms. I really appreciate his willingness to review the prescribed steps to take care of my eyes over the next few weeks . I trust him with my care. Thank you!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/26/2025
Very happy with Dr Cancel!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/22/2025
The care team was a well oiled group. Each person explained what their role was, what to expect next. I felt very comfortable and knowledgeable about my upcoming procedure plus follow up care.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/21/2025
VERY GOOD!!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/19/2025
Always good experience.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/12/2025
I am always amazed by the employees of Gundersen no matter what position they hold. A great team at every experience i have had there.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/22/2025
Good experience great doctor
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/11/2025
Very understanding.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/9/2025
Great guy
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/3/2025
Positive professional experience.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/25/2025
Excellent service