Board-Certified Ophthalmologist in Chicago image">Marius Gradianu, DO
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist in Chicago
Meet Dr. Marius Gradianu
Dr. Marius Gradianu is a board-certified ophthalmologist at Kovach Eye Institute, specializing in advanced anterior segment, cataract, and cornea refractive surgery. Serving patients throughout Chicago and the greater Chicagoland area, including Naperville, Elmhurst, South Barrington and Lincolnwood, Dr. Gradianu is dedicated to helping patients restore and enhance their vision through the use of sophisticated surgical techniques and diagnostic technologies available today.
With a background rooted in extensive clinical research and specialized fellowship training, Dr. Gradianu draws on deep experience to treat patients’ complex eye conditions. His expertise encompasses a wide range of procedures, from laser vision correction and premium cataract surgery to the medical and surgical management of glaucoma and corneal diseases. Dr. Gradianu’s commitment to clinical excellence and his patient-first approach ensure that every individual receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique visual goals and lifestyle.
Education and Training
Dr. Gradianu earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) from the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences in 2013. Prior to his medical degree, he completed a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with Departmental and University Honors from Wayne State University. His early academic career was marked by a strong focus on medical research, including significant work in ophthalmology research at the Kresge Eye Institute.
Following medical school, Dr. Gradianu completed a traditional rotating internship at Henry Ford Allegiance Health Hospital in Jackson, Michigan. He then performed his Ophthalmology Residency through the Michigan State University Statewide Campus System at Hillsdale Hospital, where he served as Chief Resident. This rigorous training provided him with a comprehensive foundation in all aspects of medical and surgical eye care.
To further refine his surgical skills, Dr. Gradianu completed a prestigious fellowship in Anterior Segment, Cornea Refractive, and Cataract Refractive Surgery at JacksonEye in Lake Villa, Illinois. During this time, he gained specialized experience in advanced technology intraocular lenses (IOLs), femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS).
Dr. Gradianu is board-certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology (AOCOO-HNS). This certification signifies that he has met the highest standards of knowledge, clinical skill, and ethical conduct in the field of ophthalmology, as defined by the AOCOO-HNS. He maintains active medical licenses in both Illinois and Michigan and is committed to ongoing professional development to stay at the forefront of ophthalmic innovation.
Professional Affiliations
Dr. Gradianu is an active member of several leading professional organizations, including:
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
- American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS)
- European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS)
- International Society of Refractive Surgery (ISRS)
- American Osteopathic College of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (AOCOO-HNS)
Clinical Experience and Areas of Expertise
Dr. Gradianu provides comprehensive surgical and medical eye care, with a particular focus on:
- Advanced Cataract Surgery: Utilizing the latest intraocular lens technologies, including the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL), PanOptix, Vivity, and Odyssey, as well as CATALYS® femtosecond laser-assisted techniques.
- Refractive Surgery: Expertise in SMILE, LASIK, PRK, and ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) implantation for the correction of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
- Corneal Care: Management of keratoconus through corneal crosslinking and treatment of corneal pathologies with PTK laser therapy.
- Glaucoma Management: Specializing in Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) using devices such as iTrack advanced, iStent, iDose, Xen Stent, Alloflo and Ahmed Valves to reduce intraocular pressure.
- Ocular Surface Disease: Advanced diagnostics and treatment for dry eye disease, including Lipiflow, TearCare, and Prokera.
Innovation and Leadership
Throughout his career, Dr. Gradianu has been a leader in both clinical practice and academic research. He has served as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Michigan State University and a Clinical Instructor at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine. His research contributions are extensive, with numerous peer-reviewed publications in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science (IOVS) focusing on retinal health and glaucoma models.
Dr. Gradianu is often among the first to adopt new technologies that improve patient outcomes. He was notably among the first surgeons in the region to implant the AcuFocus IC-8 Apthera IOL, a small-aperture lens designed to provide a continuous range of vision for patients with cataracts and presbyopia.

Patient Care Philosophy
Dr. Gradianu believes that the best clinical outcomes are achieved through a partnership between the physician and the patient. “My goal is to provide every patient with the same level of care and attention I would want for my own family,” says Dr. Gradianu. “By combining the most advanced technologies with a thorough understanding of each patient’s needs, we can focus on optimizing visual outcomes based on each patients’ needs.”


Patient Testimonials
Patients often commend Dr. Gradianu for his clinical expertise, approachable manner, and the clarity he brings to each stage of care. Many describe positive experiences with both their treatment and the supportive team at Kovach Eye Institute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Gradianu treats a wide range of eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism), keratoconus, and dry eye syndrome.
Yes, Dr. Gradianu is highly experienced in laser vision correction, including LASIK, PRK, and the minimally invasive SMILE procedure.
A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) is a fully licensed physician who undergoes the same rigorous medical training as an M.D., with additional emphasis on a whole-person approach to care and the body’s musculoskeletal system.

About Kovach Eye Institute
Kovach Eye Institute is dedicated to providing advanced ophthalmic care in the Chicago metropolitan area. Founded on a commitment to innovation and patient-centered service, the institute offers a full spectrum of eye care services, from routine exams to complex surgical interventions, utilizing state-of-the-art technology to deliver exceptional visual outcomes.
The doctors at Kovach Eye Institute have either authored or reviewed and approved this content.
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