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Dr. John C. Michael

Dr. John C. Michael is a board-certified ophthalmologist and the founder of Retina Institute of Illinois, with over two decades of experience in diagnosing and treating complex eye conditions. He has dedicated his career to advancing care for patients with retinal detachment, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Dr. Michael earned his medical degree from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and completed his internship at Columbus Hospital. He went on to complete his ophthalmology residency and vitreoretinal fellowship at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics.

Dr. Michael practices at Retina Institute of Illinois locations in Chicago, Crystal Lake, St. Alexius Medical Center, Huntley and Niles. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and has contributed to the field through research and publication, including studies on central serous chorioretinopathy, cystoid macular edema, and proliferative diabetic retinopathy. In addition to English, Dr. Michael also speaks Arabic and Assyrian, allowing him to connect with a broader patient community.

Education

  • Fellowship: Vitreoretinal Surgery, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics
  • Residency: University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics
  • Internship: Columbus Hospital
  • Medical School: University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine

Certification

  • American Board of Ophthalmology

Clinical Interests

  • Retinal Detachment
  • Cataract
  • Glaucoma
  • Diabetic Retinopathy
  • Macular Edema
  • Central Serous Chorioretinopathy

Research & Publications

Co-authored the following peer-reviewed articles:

  •  Central Serous Chorioretinopathy Associated with Administration of Sympathomimetic Agents
  •  Retinal Trypsin Digest Study of Cystoid Macular Edema Associated With Peripheral Choroidal Melanoma
  •  Macular Heterotopia in Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy

Languages

  • English
  • Arabic Assyrian

Our Doctors

Testimonials

What Our Patients Say

"Dr. Rao is excellent. She is very kind and compassionate. She is a role model for how all doctors should practice. She was very thorough in explaining my issue to me and the procedure she would be doing for treatment. I appreciate her seeing me for an unscheduled emergency procedure on a Saturday. I am very confident in her knowledge and ability to treat my torn retina to prevent further damage to my sight. She called me the next day to check on me. I 100% recommend Dr. Rao.""

- Kelly N.

"Had my first visit today and the staff and technician were friendly and professional. Dr. Rao is amazing too. She listened to my concerns and showed care throughout the whole process. I would recommend this practice to anyone.""

- Kate L.

"It's too much to put in this little space.. 10 stars Dr. Vierling for saving my eyes,and the eye technician/nurses are so dynamite! Yes the wait can be a little long but for wonderful eye care, I'll watch the television to stay occupied. Such a sweet lady with gorgeous hair at the front desk..she can handle 5 things at once and keep a smile on her face . Love my Lombard office,but will go to oak Park if I have to as long as I see my doctor and at least a few of my nurses that I've dealt with over my time . Keep up the great work!!""

- Vonne G.

"From the front desk staff to everyone I came into contact with, employees were informative and pleasant. Doctor Vierling has a calming voice and guides you through procedures excellently!""

- Tonya M.

"Dr. Hong-Gam Le is a great retina specialist! She is attentive and professional. She saved my mom‘s Vision!""

- Lesya P.

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