Stephen A. Daugherty, MD
Delivering advanced eye care for children and adults across Charlotte, NC at Horizon Eye Care’s Cotswold, Pineville & Waverly locations.
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Dr. Daugherty’s Specialities
Meet the Doctor
Dr. Stephen Daugherty has been caring for Charlotte patients since 1996, combining nearly three decades of experience with board certification in both general and pediatric ophthalmology. Fellowship-trained in pediatric ophthalmology, he specializes in treating children and adults with strabismus, retinopathy of prematurity, and complex ocular conditions requiring advanced microsurgical techniques.
What sets Dr. Daugherty apart is his ability to blend cutting-edge expertise with a genuine passion for patient care. Named a Top Doctor by Charlotte Magazine and recognized by the Charlotte Business Journal as one of the city’s leading pediatric ophthalmologists, he is trusted by families across the region for his approachable manner, detailed explanations, and dedication to improving both vision and quality of life.
Expertise & Specialities
Dr. Stephen Daugherty is a fellowship-trained pediatric ophthalmologist with board certification in both general and pediatric ophthalmology and nearly three decades of experience in Charlotte. His practice encompasses surgical and medical care for children and adults with a wide range of eye conditions.
Areas of expertise include:
- Comprehensive pediatric ophthalmology for children with eye diseases and vision disorders
- Surgical and nonsurgical treatment of strabismus (crossed or misaligned eyes) across all ages
- Advanced management of retinopathy of prematurity for at-risk infants
- Cataract extraction and intraocular lens placement for adult patients
- Treatment of tear duct obstruction, including congenital and acquired cases
- Full-spectrum general ophthalmology for eye diseases and trauma
Dr. Daugherty’s decades of experience and recognized expertise make him one of Charlotte’s most trusted providers for pediatric and strabismus care.
Education & Training
Dr. Daugherty earned his Bachelor of Science with honors from Duke University before completing his Doctor of Medicine at the University of Wisconsin Medical School, where he was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. He completed both his internship and ophthalmology residency at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville.
He then completed a fellowship in pediatric ophthalmology at Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital in Atlanta, GA, training that prepared him for a career dedicated to caring for children and adults with complex ocular conditions. Dr. Daugherty has been practicing in Charlotte since 1996.
Memberships & Recognition
Dr. Daugherty is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and other regional and national medical associations. He is board-certified in both general and pediatric ophthalmology, has been named a Top Doctor by Charlotte Magazine, and has been recognized by the Charlotte Business Journal as one of Charlotte’s top pediatric ophthalmologists.
An active community volunteer, Dr. Daugherty provides free ophthalmology screenings and has contributed to numerous LASIK surgeries at Horizon Eye Care since 2000, reflecting a career defined by both clinical excellence and genuine commitment to the patients and communities he serves.
Insights From Dr. Daugherty
Medically reviewed by
- Posted in Blog, Optical & Pediatrics
Medically reviewed by
- Posted in Blog & Pediatrics
Vision Restored, Lives Transformed
“I transferred from CEENTA to Dr Ryder at Horizon Eye Care-Cotswold. Today was my first appointment. I can say I was pleasantly surprised. I had absolutely no wait time. The office has…”
“Dr. Cameron was friendly yet quite professional. His exam seemed thorough and his recommendations sound. He answered questions I had and took his time - he was not rushed to get to…”
“All staff from checking in at the front desk, throughout my appointment were very helpful. Dr.Minkowski did a great job of explaining options/the process of cataract surgery with me, especially given my…”
“I have been coming to Dr. Minkowski for over 2 years and he is an awesome doctor. He makes you feel welcomed and worry free. He explains everything in detail and will…”
“Dr and the staff that did his final was great. The initial nurse that did his first exam that 2 yrs was rude when i was trying to get some info and…”
“Dr. Biber is always attentive and takes time to answer all my questions.”
“Dr Garcia Santana and her staff were very professional and friendly. .”
“I met with the team for a followup and it was a great experience - listened to my concerns, offered options to address. The rest of the office staff was equally competent…”
“The doctor completed a thorough eval of my eyes to determine if I needed to continue taking a Stereoid that I had been taking for my eyes. He concluded that I no…”
“Dr. Wang answered my questions and addressed my concerns. She is kind and professional!”
“I have been under Dr.Ryder for the last five years and he and his staff is the best I couldn’t be more thankful and grateful I Love them all!!!!”
“Horizon eye care has always been a professional run facility. Staff are knowledgeable and caring. Dr Minnal is exceptional.”
“Exccellent. Dr. Ryder gave clear answers to my questions and explained the pricedure. Expectations and possible complications well. Everything was smooth, efficent and performed in a friendly atmosphere. All staff were pleasant…”
“Very nice guy, did my procedure quickly and professionally!”
“This was my first visit with Dr. James. I was having a problem with my eye and it required an immediate evaluation. Dr. James spent a lot of time evaluating my eye…”
“Friendly and polite”
“Dr Kaluzny is a Great DOCTOR!”
“Good care. Answered all questions. Took time to do a thorough examination and gave advice for eye care until next visit.”
“My first visit with new Doctor. He was very pleasant & thorough. Listened when I talked to him. Followed through on each comment. I was completely satisfied! Would highly recommend.”
“Pleasant, reassuring, and knowledgeable.”
Caring for Patients Across Charlotte
Dr. Daugherty practices across three convenient locations.
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