Ophthalmologist Michael A. Herion Recognized as 2026 Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Michael A. Herion, MD, has been named a 2026 Castle Connolly Top Doctor, marking the second year he has received this prestigious designation. Only 7 percent of the nation's licensed physicians are selected annually as Castle Connolly Top Doctors within their specialties and regions. Dr. Herion is an ophthalmologist with Carrot LASIK and Eye Center, a comprehensive eye care facility that provides advanced surgical and medical vision correction services to the greater Phoenix area. As a board-certified specialist, he offers clinical oversight and surgical expertise within the practice.

Dr. Herion emphasized the practice's philosophy, stating, "Our guiding value at Carrot LASIK and Eye Center is to treat every patient like a family member in order to deliver unparalleled care and foster lifelong relationships." He performs several advanced ophthalmic procedures using modern diagnostic and surgical technologies to enhance patient recovery times and visual outcomes. These procedures include LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK), cataract surgery with premium lens implants, Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), and glaucoma management procedures.

The practice features an integrated surgical suite and advanced diagnostic imaging center, enabling seamless coordination between initial evaluation and surgical treatment. This on-site infrastructure ensures patients receive continuity of care without needing external referrals for standard diagnostic testing or outpatient procedures. Dr. Herion completed his ophthalmology residency at Saint Louis University and a retina fellowship with Eric Mann, M.D., Ph.D. in Saint Louis, MO. He currently serves as Chief of Ophthalmology at Valleywise Medical Center - Phoenix and is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and the World College of Refractive Surgery and Visual Sciences.

Dr. Herion has contributed to ophthalmology through clinical research and participation in professional medical societies. He has been involved in studies focusing on the efficacy of laser vision correction and the long-term stability of intraocular lenses, with his academic work aiding in the development of best practices for refractive surgery. Top Doctors are nominated by peer physicians and selected by the physician-led Castle Connolly research team. Castle Connolly publishes its Top Doctors list at https://castleconnolly.com and in various print and online partner publications. Nominations are open to all board-certified MDs, DOs, and DPMs, with selections based on criteria including medical education, training, hospital appointments, and disciplinary histories. Doctors cannot pay to be selected as Castle Connolly Top Doctors.