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Your Trusted Eye Care Provider in Western NC
Morganton Eye has been a trusted leader in comprehensive eye care for over 45 years, serving patients across Western North Carolina. Our physician-led, multi-specialty practice combines advanced medical expertise with personalized care, offering services ranging from routine eye exams to complex surgical treatments. Our team includes board-certified ophthalmologists and state-licensed optometrists, many with fellowship training in specialized areas like retina, glaucoma, and oculofacial plastic surgery.Our nationally accredited outpatient surgery centers utilize cutting-edge technology, including LenSx Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery and premium intraocular lenses. With five modern clinics and two surgical facilities, we deliver state-of-the-art care close to home while maintaining a commitment to ethical practice and patient-centered service.
Services
Comprehensive Eye Care
Cataract Surgery
Laser Vision Correction
Oculofacial Plastic Surgery
Retina Services
Glaucoma Treatment
Cornea Care
Optical Services
Aesthetic Treatments
Emergency Eye Care
Highlights and features
- We offer 45+ years of experience in comprehensive eye care
- Our team includes board-certified ophthalmologists and fellowship-trained specialists
- We utilize LenSx Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery technology
- Our outpatient surgery centers are nationally accredited by AAAHC
- We provide personalized care across five convenient Western NC locations
Associations and certifications
- Accredited Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC)
What people say
Terrific doctors
Great selection of frames
Highly recommend
Superior care
Excellent results
Services
Comprehensive Eye Care
Our complete eye examinations detect vision conditions and prevent sight-threatening diseases through advanced diagnostic testing. Our specialists assess near and distance vision, eye coordination, and intraocular pressure while examining eye structures for early signs of cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal disorders. We provide personalized treatment plans including corrective lenses, medical interventions, or surgical referrals to maintain optimal eye health for patients of all ages.
Cataract Surgery
We offer traditional and laser-assisted cataract removal with premium intraocular lens implants. Our state-of-the-art surgery centers perform LenSx Laser procedures and multifocal/toric IOL placements to correct astigmatism and reduce dependence on glasses. Board-certified surgeons use advanced techniques to replace clouded lenses while preserving eye health, with comprehensive pre- and post-operative care ensuring optimal visual outcomes for patients experiencing age-related vision loss.
Laser Vision Correction
Our LASIK and PRK procedures utilize CustomVue technology to correct refractive errors including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Experienced ophthalmologists perform thorough evaluations to determine ideal candidates for laser eye surgery, offering personalized solutions that reduce or eliminate the need for corrective lenses through precise corneal reshaping techniques that improve visual acuity and quality of life.
Oculofacial Plastic Surgery
Board-certified oculoplastic surgeons perform cosmetic and reconstructive procedures for eyelid, brow, and orbital conditions. Fellowship-trained specialists address functional issues like ptosis and tearing disorders while offering aesthetic treatments to refresh facial appearance. Our accredited surgical team combines medical expertise with artistic skill to enhance both vision function and natural beauty through tailored surgical interventions.
Retina Services
Fellowship-trained retina specialists diagnose and treat macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and other sight-threatening conditions. We provide office-based laser treatments, intraocular injections, and surgical interventions for retinal detachments and vitreous disorders. Our advanced diagnostic imaging and therapeutic approaches focus on preserving vision through early detection and timely management of retinal diseases affecting central and peripheral vision.
People
Philip D. Kath
Ophthalmologist
Board-certified ophthalmologist with expertise in comprehensive eye care and surgical treatments. Dr. Kath provides personalized vision solutions through thorough examinations and advanced diagnostic techniques at Morganton Eye's Morganton location.
Kenneth R. Bonfield
Retinal Specialist
Fellowship-trained retinal specialist treating macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease. Dr. Bonfield performs complex surgical procedures and office-based treatments to preserve vision and manage retinal disorders.
Jonathan C. Lowry
Oculoplastic Surgeon
ASOPRS-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon specializing in reconstructive and cosmetic eyelid procedures. Dr. Lowry offers both functional and aesthetic treatments for orbital and facial conditions at Morganton Eye's accredited facilities.
William H. Walton
Glaucoma Specialist
Fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist with expertise in medical and surgical management of optic nerve disease. Dr. Walton focuses on early detection and pressure-lowering treatments to prevent vision loss from glaucoma.
John E. Flack
Optometrist
State-licensed optometrist providing comprehensive eye exams and vision care services. Dr. Flack performs routine screenings and manages ocular health conditions while collaborating with ophthalmologists for coordinated patient care.
Questions
What eye care services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive services including eye exams, cataract surgery, LASIK, retinal treatments, glaucoma management, oculofacial plastic surgery, and emergency eye care across Western North Carolina.
How can I schedule an appointment?
Request appointments online through our portal or contact your nearest location directly during business hours for routine exams and specialized care scheduling.
Do you offer emergency eye care?
Yes, we provide after-hours emergency services through our dedicated 24/7 hotline connecting patients with on-call physicians for urgent vision issues.
Are your surgeons board-certified?
All our ophthalmologists are board-certified with many completing additional fellowship training in specialized areas like retina, glaucoma, and oculoplastic surgery.
Do you accept my insurance?
We work with most major insurance providers and offer financing options. Contact our billing department to verify coverage details for your specific eye care needs.
Where are your locations?
We serve Western North Carolina with clinics in Morganton, Marion, Forest City, Shelby, and Rutherford College, plus two accredited outpatient surgery centers.
Reviews (5)
Saundra Bristol
May 25, 2022
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Entire Experience Has Been Absolutely Superb. The Drs. Michael Taggart and Dr. Lowery Are So Awesome . I am so thankful for such kindness and professional Eye Experts in Morganton North Carolina. We are extremely blessed. The Technicians and Receptionists were wonderful. I had major Laser Astigmatism Surgery and Cataract Removal With Dr. Taggart. He is an excellent MD.
Kristy Hyatt
Mar 08, 2022
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I just want to recognize this Eye Doctor in Morganton. I highly recommend him. I am a person with autism, sensory issues, agoraphobia, panic attacks, PTSD, and fear going to any doctor. My experience there today was absolutely amazing. From the call with a technician, to the receptionist, the nurse, and Dr Wade. I usually have severe panic at Drs but I did not at this office. Very accommodating. Also to the lady who ordered my lenses after, YOU ARE A SWEETHEART.
I had to share. I neglected going to an eye dr after a bad experience in 2014. But I had to go in for a Corneal Erosion caused by a sharp object cutting my eye in January, still causing issues up till today.
I had to share. I neglected going to an eye dr after a bad experience in 2014. But I had to go in for a Corneal Erosion caused by a sharp object cutting my eye in January, still causing issues up till today.
Donna Powell
Mar 07, 2022
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My mom is thrilled with her eyesight after her cataract surgeries. Her balance has improved so much she doesn't need to use her walker! Her confidence level has also increased and she's more like herself. Dr Taggart was right on the money with his advise. Thank you to Dr Taggart and his amazing team! They are always positive, knowledgeable and helpful. My mom will miss them in TX.
Brenda Childers
Feb 18, 2022
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I was very satisfied with the professional care I received at Morganton Eye Physicians P.A. During my visits prior to my surgery and during my surgery, I was attended by professional, compassionate, and kind individuals. Dr. Michael Taggart was very professional and took time to explain every aspect of my eye surgery to me and my husband. I felt very comfortable with him and had confidence in his ability to perform my surgery. I feel my surgery was successful and I am very satisfied with the care I received at Morganton Eye Physicians.
Martha Winn
Feb 06, 2022
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I recently had cataract surgery by Dt Taggart. I am very pleased with the outcome. Dr Taggart and his team were great duri g and after my surgery. Everyone was so professional and attentive to my nervousness before surgery. Service has always been wonderful at Morganton Eye.
