Cole Milliken, MD

Schedule an Appointment
Dr. Cole Milliken, MD

Cole Milliken, MD

Cataract & Refractive Surgery, Corneal Transplantation and Glaucoma Surgery

Cole Milliken M.D. is an ophthalmic surgeon specializing in Cataract and Refractive Surgery (LASIK, PRK, ICL), Corneal Transplantation, Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery, and Anterior Segment Reconstruction. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Clemson University where he graduated with honors prior to receiving his medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina. He completed residency training at the Storm Eye Institute in Charleston, SC where he was selected to serve as Chief Resident for his final year. Dr. Milliken then went on to complete a fellowship in corneal, refractive, and complex anterior segment surgery at the prestigious Moran Eye Center, widely recognized as one of the premier surgical training programs in the country. Throughout his education and training Dr. Milliken has received numerous awards including the Presidential Scholar Award for interprofessional and academic achievement, as well as, the Richard A. Saunders Award for Surgical Excellence, and Promise in Surgical Teaching. 

Dr. Milliken is one of the only surgeons in the state whose training includes premium and complex cataract surgery, advanced corneal transplantation techniques, minimally invasive glaucoma, and vision correction procedures. His broad surgical expertise allows him to tailor the latest technology to a range of eye diseases with the goal of achieving the best possible patient outcomes. Dr. Milliken is active in several professional committees and has presented his research on refractive technology and novel surgical techniques at conferences around the country. His research efforts strive toward advancing our understanding of the field, while offering top-tier surgical eye care to residents of the Lowcountry. 

Dr. Milliken is proud to be a member of the Carolina Eyecare Physicians team, and looks forward to welcoming you with a compassionate, patient centered approach.

Locations Served: North Charleston, West Ashley, Mt. Pleasant

Locations

We have several convenient locations throughout South Carolina. Please view the nearest location to you or get directions below. 

    News

    PRK vs LASIK: Which Eye Surgery Is Safer for You?

    Eye Surgery

    Reviewed By: Cole Milliken, MD Summary Choosing laser vision correction usually comes down to two well-known options: PRK and LASIK. Both procedures are designed to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses by reshaping the cornea, and both have strong long-term outcomes for the right patient. The difference is in how they are performed, how […]

    Read More… from PRK vs LASIK: Which Eye Surgery Is Safer for You?

    May 11, 2026
    useye

    Can Dry Eyes Cause Blindness? Signs Your Dry Eye May Be Serious

    Dry Eye

    Reviewed By: Dr. Clara Lee Dry eyes can start as a small irritation. Your eyes sting, burn, or feel gritty, especially late in the day. For some people, that discomfort stays mild. For others, it becomes a daily problem that affects reading, driving, screen time, and overall comfort. When that happens, it is reasonable to […]

    Read More… from Can Dry Eyes Cause Blindness? Signs Your Dry Eye May Be Serious

    April 24, 2026
    useye

    Best Contact Lens For Astigmatism: How to Choose the Right Fit for Clear Vision

    other

    Reviewed By: Dr. Vanderah If you have astigmatism, you know the frustration of blurry or distorted vision. Maybe you’ve squinted through a presentation, struggled to read street signs at night, or felt your eyes tire after an hour at your desk. The good news is that modern contact lenses for astigmatism can effectively correct the […]

    Read More… from Best Contact Lens For Astigmatism: How to Choose the Right Fit for Clear Vision

    March 16, 2026
    useye
    PRK vs LASIK eye surgery procedure

    Reviewed By: Cole Milliken, MD Summary Choosing laser vision correction usually comes down to two well-known options: PRK and LASIK. Both procedures are designed to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses by reshaping the cornea, and both have strong long-term outcomes for the right patient. The difference is in how they are performed, how […]

    Read More… from PRK vs LASIK: Which Eye Surgery Is Safer for You?

    Illustration comparing a normal eye vs. a red, irritated dry eye — Carolina Eyecare Physicians.

    Reviewed By: Dr. Clara Lee Dry eyes can start as a small irritation. Your eyes sting, burn, or feel gritty, especially late in the day. For some people, that discomfort stays mild. For others, it becomes a daily problem that affects reading, driving, screen time, and overall comfort. When that happens, it is reasonable to […]

    Read More… from Can Dry Eyes Cause Blindness? Signs Your Dry Eye May Be Serious

    Toric contact lenses for astigmatism correction — Carolina Eyecare Physicians contact lens fitting guide for South Carolina patients

    Reviewed By: Dr. Vanderah If you have astigmatism, you know the frustration of blurry or distorted vision. Maybe you’ve squinted through a presentation, struggled to read street signs at night, or felt your eyes tire after an hour at your desk. The good news is that modern contact lenses for astigmatism can effectively correct the […]

    Read More… from Best Contact Lens For Astigmatism: How to Choose the Right Fit for Clear Vision

    Carolina Eyecare Physicians Partner Background Image
    US Eye Logo

    We are a proud partner of US Eye, a leading group of patient-centric, vertically integrated multi-specialty physician practices providing patients with care in ophthalmology, optometry, dermatology, audiology, and cosmetic facial surgery.

    instagram facebook facebook2 pinterest twitter google-plus google linkedin2 yelp youtube phone location calendar share2 link star-full star star-half chevron-right chevron-left chevron-down chevron-up envelope fax