Business Details
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Partner for Comprehensive Eye Care Solutions
Morganton Eye has been Western North Carolina's premier eye care provider for over 45 years, offering advanced medical and surgical solutions. Our physician-led team includes board-certified ophthalmologists and state-licensed optometrists, many with fellowship training in specialties like retina, glaucoma, and oculofacial plastic surgery. We operate five modern clinics and two nationally accredited surgery centers, providing comprehensive services from routine exams to complex procedures like LASIK, cataract surgery, and corneal transplants.Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through our AAAHC-accredited facilities, personalized patient care, and continuous investment in cutting-edge technology. With expertise serving a 10-county region, we combine decades of experience with ethical practice to deliver trusted vision care close to home.
Services
Comprehensive Eye Care
Cataract Surgery
Laser Vision Correction
Oculofacial Plastic Surgery
Retina Services
Glaucoma Treatment
Cornea Care
Optical Services
Cosmetic Procedures
Patient Financing
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of combined experience from board-certified specialists
- Nationally accredited surgery centers with advanced diagnostic technology
- Comprehensive care spanning routine exams to complex surgical interventions
- Personalized treatment plans with ethical, patient-centered care
- Serving 10 counties across Western North Carolina with 5 convenient locations
Associations and certifications
- Accredited Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC)
What people say
Improved vision quality
Professional staff expertise
Compassionate care
Successful cataract surgeries
Thorough examinations
Services
Comprehensive Eye Care
Our complete eye examinations detect vision conditions like nearsightedness and astigmatism while screening for serious diseases such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. Using advanced diagnostic technology, we assess eye health, muscle coordination, and intraocular pressure to create personalized treatment plans. Early detection of asymptomatic conditions ensures timely intervention to prevent vision loss, making regular check-ups essential for maintaining lifelong ocular health.
Cataract Surgery
We offer traditional and laser-assisted cataract removal with premium intraocular lens implants. Our state-of-the-art LenSx technology enables precise correction of astigmatism and multifocal vision through toric and multifocal IOLs. Performed in AAAHC-accredited surgery centers, procedures include preoperative evaluations, advanced surgical techniques, and postoperative care to restore clear vision for patients experiencing clouded lens symptoms.
Laser Vision Correction
Custom LASIK and PRK procedures correct refractive errors using wavefront-guided technology for personalized ablation patterns. Our specialists evaluate candidacy through corneal mapping and lifestyle assessments to determine optimal treatment for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The goal is reducing dependence on glasses or contacts through minimally invasive outpatient procedures with rapid visual recovery.
Oculofacial Plastic Surgery
Board-certified oculoplastic surgeons perform reconstructive and cosmetic procedures for eyelid malpositions, tear duct disorders, and facial rejuvenation. Fellowship-trained expertise includes blepharoplasty, ptosis repair, and orbital surgery, combining functional restoration with aesthetic enhancement. Treatments address both medical necessities and cosmetic concerns while maintaining ocular protection and visual function.
Retina Services
Specialized management of macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and vitreoretinal disorders includes office-based laser treatments, anti-VEGF injections, and surgical interventions. Our fellowship-trained retina specialists use OCT imaging and fluorescein angiography to diagnose and monitor progressive conditions, implementing evidence-based therapies to preserve central vision and prevent blindness from retinal detachment or vascular abnormalities.
People
Philip D. Kath
Ophthalmologist
Board-certified ophthalmologist with expertise in comprehensive eye care and surgical interventions. Provides personalized treatment plans combining medical knowledge with compassionate patient care.
Kenneth R. Bonfield
Retina Specialist
Fellowship-trained retinal specialist treating macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease. Implements advanced therapies including intraocular injections and laser photocoagulation for vision preservation.
Jonathan C. Lowry
Oculoplastic Surgeon
ASOPRS-certified specialist in eyelid and facial plastic surgery. Performs reconstructive procedures and cosmetic enhancements with focus on functional and aesthetic outcomes.
William H. Walton
Glaucoma Specialist
Fellowship-trained glaucoma expert managing intraocular pressure through medical, laser, and surgical treatments. Focuses on preventing optic nerve damage and vision loss.
John E. Flack
Optometrist
State-licensed optometrist conducting comprehensive eye exams and managing refractive errors. Provides pre- and post-operative care for surgical patients.
Questions
What eye care services does Morganton Eye offer?
We provide comprehensive services including cataract surgery, LASIK, glaucoma treatment, retina care, oculofacial plastic surgery, and routine eye exams using advanced diagnostic technology.
How can I schedule an appointment?
Request appointments online through our portal or contact any of our five Western North Carolina locations during regular business hours for scheduling assistance.
Do you handle eye emergencies?
Yes, our after-hours emergency line connects patients with on-call doctors for urgent eye care needs requiring immediate attention.
What insurance plans do you accept?
We accept Medicare, most commercial insurance plans, and offer patient financing options for out-of-pocket expenses. Contact our billing department for specific details.
Are your surgeons board-certified?
All our ophthalmologists are board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology with many holding additional fellowship training in specialized areas.
Do you have multiple clinic locations?
Yes, we serve Western North Carolina with clinics in Morganton, Marion, Shelby, Forest City, and Rutherford College, plus two accredited surgery centers.
Reviews (5)
Saundra Bristol
May 25, 2022
Report
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
Report
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
Report
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
Report
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
Report
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.
