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Your Vision Correction Experts in Chicagoland
Kovach Eye Institute is a leading provider of advanced vision correction and eye care services in the Chicagoland area. Our mission centers on delivering personalized, patient-focused care through cutting-edge procedures such as SMILE LASIK, LASIK, EVO ICL, and cataract surgery. With a team of nationally recognized ophthalmologists and surgeons, we combine state-of-the-art technology with a commitment to individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's lifestyle and vision goals. Our dedication to innovation is evident in milestones such as being the first in Illinois to perform SMILE LASIK and implant advanced intraocular lenses.

We prioritize transparency, thorough patient education, and compassionate care, ensuring patients feel informed and confident throughout their treatment journey. Our facilities feature diagnostic equipment and surgical tools comparable to those found in major hospital systems, while maintaining the personalized attention of a boutique practice. With multiple convenient locations and flexible scheduling options, we strive to make exceptional eye care accessible to all patients seeking long-term visual freedom.
Services
LASIK Surgery SMILE LASIK EVO ICL Cataract Surgery Retinal Treatments Corneal Treatments Glaucoma Treatments Oculoplastics
Highlights and features
  • First in Illinois to perform SMILE LASIK and implant advanced intraocular lenses
  • State-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical technology comparable to major hospitals
  • Nationally recognized ophthalmologists with decades of combined experience
  • Personalized treatment plans tailored to individual vision goals and lifestyles
  • Flexible financing options with approved credit for qualified patients
What people say
Excellent care Skilled surgeons Quick recovery Top-notch equipment Thorough explanations
Services
LASIK Surgery
LASIK reshapes the cornea using laser technology to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness and astigmatism. This outpatient procedure offers rapid visual recovery, with most patients achieving 20/20 vision within 24 hours. Our surgeons utilize advanced diagnostic tools to create customized treatment plans, ensuring optimal outcomes for patients seeking freedom from glasses or contacts.
SMILE LASIK
SMILE is a bladeless, flapless vision correction procedure that treats nearsightedness with a small 2mm incision. This advanced technique preserves more corneal tissue compared to traditional LASIK, reducing dry eye symptoms and accelerating recovery. Ideal for active lifestyles, SMILE provides rapid visual stabilization while maintaining exceptional safety and precision.
EVO ICL
EVO ICL offers a permanent vision correction solution for patients with thin corneas unsuitable for laser procedures. This implantable collamer lens works alongside the natural lens to correct severe myopia up to -18 diopters. The reversible procedure maintains natural eye anatomy while delivering exceptional visual quality, making it ideal for patients seeking alternatives to thick corrective lenses.
Cataract Surgery
Our bladeless cataract surgery uses femtosecond laser technology to remove clouded lenses and implant advanced intraocular lenses. With options like multifocal and toric lenses, we address both cataracts and pre-existing vision issues simultaneously. The procedure typically takes 15 minutes per eye, with most patients experiencing significant visual improvement within 24 hours.
Retinal Treatments
We provide comprehensive management for retinal conditions including diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal tears. Our services range from anti-VEGF injections for wet AMD to laser photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy. Advanced diagnostic imaging enables early detection and treatment of retinal pathologies, preserving vision through both medical and surgical interventions.
People
Kevin Kovach
Ophthalmologist
Dr. Kovach specializes in refractive and cataract surgery with decades of experience. He has performed thousands of LASIK and cataract procedures, including being the first in Illinois to implant advanced intraocular lenses. His expertise in vision correction technology ensures patients receive the most innovative treatments available.
Mateen AliNiazee
Ophthalmologist
Dr. AliNiazee focuses on comprehensive ophthalmology and cataract surgery. With specialized training in retinal diseases, he combines medical and surgical expertise to treat complex eye conditions. Patients consistently praise his thorough explanations and compassionate approach to vision care.
Marius Gradianu
Ophthalmologist
Dr. Gradianu specializes in corneal and refractive surgery. He has extensive experience in treating keratoconus and performing corneal cross-linking procedures. His technical precision and patient-centered communication have made him a trusted choice for complex vision correction cases requiring customized solutions.
Saad Ahmad
Ophthalmologist
Dr. Ahmad provides comprehensive eye care with expertise in glaucoma management and cataract surgery. He utilizes advanced diagnostic technology to detect and treat progressive eye diseases at their earliest stages. His approach emphasizes long-term vision preservation through both medical and surgical interventions.
Marlyn Goldberg
Ophthalmologist
Dr. Goldberg specializes in retinal surgery and medical retina care. With experience in treating diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration, she offers both laser treatments and injectable therapies. Her expertise in retinal imaging ensures accurate diagnosis and timely intervention for sight-threatening conditions.
Questions
What vision correction options are available for thin corneas?
Patients with thin corneas can consider EVO ICL implantable lenses, which provide vision correction without removing corneal tissue. Our surgeons will evaluate your specific case to determine the safest, most effective treatment option.
How soon can I return to work after LASIK?
Most LASIK patients resume work and normal activities within 1-2 days. We recommend avoiding strenuous activities for one week. Your surgeon will provide personalized post-operative guidelines based on your specific procedure and healing progress.
Are financing options available for vision surgery?
Yes, we offer flexible financing plans with approved credit for LASIK, SMILE, and premium cataract surgery. Our team will help you explore payment options that fit your budget while achieving your vision goals.
What technology is used for cataract surgery?
We use the CATALYS femtosecond laser system for bladeless cataract surgery, combined with ORA intraoperative aberrometry for precise lens power calculations. This advanced technology improves accuracy and visual outcomes compared to traditional methods.
How are follow-up care and complications handled?
Our comprehensive post-operative care includes scheduled follow-ups at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month. We provide 24/7 emergency contact access and have dedicated staff to address any concerns during your recovery period.
Can I choose when to schedule my surgery?
Yes, we offer flexible scheduling options including evening and weekend appointments. Patients can select their preferred surgery time during the pre-operative consultation process to accommodate work and personal commitments.
Reviews (7)
Jeffrey Corson
May 10, 2022 Report
I have been wearing glasses for about the last 20 years which started with a bifocal and ended with a trifocal lenses with Astigmatism. Within the last year my right eye became so blurred I became legally blind. It was the cause of a cateract. Thanks to Dr. Kovach and his expert diagnosis along with his expert recommendations to choose the right IOL Lens along with Lassik Surgery I can see without glasses and this has been a game changer. This procedure was safe and painless and the staff was very friendly and professional. If you want the best go with Dr. Kovach! Jeff Corson
Bob
Apr 16, 2022 Report
The staff and doctors are friendly, but I arrived on time for every appointment and spent over 5 total hours in the waiting room for 3 appointments. They need to fix something with the way they schedule because waiting over an hour after you arrive on time for your appointment time to be seen should not be the norm. The smile procedure worked, but it was more painful than expected, and I definitely could not go to work or do anything the next day.

They admittedly sent an unnecessary prescription to the pharmacy, which resulted in me wasting money. Again, the people who work here seem like nice people, but there are serious organizational and administrative issues that give the impression they don't value their patients.
Nayyer Ahmed
Mar 23, 2022 Report
Great place to get excellent treatment for eye issues. Caring staff and experienced doctor makes a perfect combo to build and earn the confidence of patients. Fully equipped office and the state of the art Surgery Center provide the much needed facilities for an efficient treatment. Congrats Kovach Eye.
Brandon Kujawski
Feb 25, 2022 Report
Visited Kovach yesterday. Had the opportunity to meet Dr. Kovach who answered all of my questions about the SMILE procedure and really took the time to educate me on the benefits of it over long-term use of contacts. Frankie was very nice and made the scheduling aspect of the visit very easy and enjoyable. I now have a timeline of appointments for my SMILE procedure and I'm looking forward to returning to KOVACH.
Shamama Siddiqui
Feb 25, 2022 Report
Dr Mateen Niyaze and dr Saad very compassionate doctors. They know what they are doing and they don't let their patients wait that long. My mother (nafees sultan) and my dad( gulam Mohammed) both got their cataract surgery done by dr Mateen and dr saad checked them for other stuff. I would recommend people to only see these two doctors.
Phil Jaras
Feb 22, 2022 Report
It was a longer wait to get my appointment started than I had hoped but not really longer wait time than any other doctor I have been to see. Very thorough eye exam and great technology used. Pleasant and helpful staff. Busy place.
Susann Tarico
Sep 17, 2021 Report
I'd been referred to Kovach Eye Institute several years ago when I had a retinal issue. My experience then was so positive that, when I decided I needed an ophthalmologist, they were the 1st place I called. Dr. Bill Shaw was personable & professional, and I already knew their facility was excellent. It was quickly determined that I had cataracts, and I've now already had the 1st surgery on my left eye by Dr. Kevin Kovach.

Everyone was kind and efficient, much effort was made to have me feel comfortable & unstressed, and the surgery was so quick, painless, and successful, that I've been gratefully gushing about it for the last few days. I know there are no guarantees, and I was given a very realistic view of what could and would happen, but all went very smoothly, and my vision in the eye that was repaired is better than I ever had before. Thank you to Dr. Kovach and his wonderful team!