Meet our Florida Eyecare Team – Doctors and Staff Practicing Near Tampa and Orlando

Cataract and Refractive Surgery

James Gills, MD

Pit Gills, MD

Jeffrey Wipfli, MD

Cornea Diseases and Surgery

Vipul Shah, MD

Kurt Repke, MD

Eyelid & Facial Cosmetic Surgery

John LiVecchi, MD, FACS

Dermatology

David Sable, MD, PhD

Comprehensive Ophthalmology

Bruce Kiskaddon, MD

Danielle Arcaro, MD

Gustavo Gamero, MD

M. B. Kayani, MD, FACS, FRCS(C)

Grace Levy-Clarke, MD

Warren Hamilton, MD

Byron Holley, MD

Low Vision

Edward Huggett, OD

Vitreo-Retinal Diseases & Surgery

Brian Phillpotts, MD

Raymond Agia, MD

Byung-Joon Ahn, MD

Glaucoma

Stephen Deppermann, MD

Optometry

Frank Dina, OD

Kenneth Murphy, OD

Rachael Streeter, OD

Maria Loulourgas, OD

Katherine Flynn, OD

Michael Causey, OD

Director of Hearing Services

Jack Slavin, HAS

Cosmetic Laser and Injection Specialist

Barbara Barcellona, ARNP

Cosmetic Surgical Assistant & Laser /Injection Specialist

Judy Koster, PA-C

Aesthetician

Svitlana Lindahl, LFS

Physician's Assistant

Meridith Clark, PA-C

Robert Gritter, PA-C

James Marone, PA-C

Cataract and Refractive Surgery

James Gills, MD

Serving you at the following locations:

Tarpon Springs
Spring Hill
St. Petersburg
Bayonet Point
Tampa

James Gills, MD, is the founder and director of St. Luke's Cataract & Laser Institute. Board Certified since 1967, he was the first ophthalmologist in the United States to dedicate his practice to the treatment of cataracts via the use of intraocular lens implants (1974). Dr. Gills has performed more cataract and lens implant surgeries than anyone else in the world.

Learn more about world-renowned cataract surgeon James Gills, MD.

Pit Gills, MD

Serving you at the following locations:

Tarpon Springs
Spring Hill
St. Petersburg
Bayonet Point
Tampa

Pit Gills, MD, is a board certified ophthalmologist specializing in cataract and refractive surgery. A native Floridian, he completed his undergraduate studies in Chemistry/Pre-Med at Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, and then received his Medical Degree from Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina in 1997. Both his medicine internship and residency in ophthalmology were completed at the University of South Florida, Tampa. Dr. Gills completed his cornea fellowship at St. Luke's.

Dr. Gills has been honored to author two published medical papers. The first paper, Microtubule Disruption Leads to Cellular Contraction in Human Trabecular Meshwork Cells, was published in 1998, and the second, Piggyback Intraocular Lens Implantation, in 2000. Dr. Gills has co-authored a chapter, Treating Keratoconus with Astigmatic Keratotomy and Intraocular Lenses, in A Complete Surgical Guide for Correcting Astigmatism: An Ophthalmic Manifesto. He has participated as a guest lecturer many times, including a presentation at the Duke University School of Medicine in Durham, North Carolina, where he discussed CLEAR (Clear Lens Extraction And Replacement) surgery.

An avid athlete, Dr. Gills has completed numerous marathons and triathlons, including the Hawaii Ironman in 1996, 2003, 2005, France Ironman 2005 and Switzerland Ironman 2006. He has participated in medical missions to the Dominican Republic and Mexico. Dr. Gills and his wife Joy are the proud parents of sons Pitzer and Stokes, and daughter Parker. They reside in Clearwater.

Professional Affiliations

• American Academy of Ophthalmology
• American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
• American Medical Association
• Florida Medical Association
• Pasco Medical Society

Awards

• Best Paper of Session, Risk Factors for Retina Detachment After Clear Lens Replacement, ASCRS ( Washington, DC), April 16-20, 2005
• American Diabetes Association 2005 Father of the Year Award
• Mount Zion's 2005 Humanitarian Award

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Jeffrey A Wipfli, MD

Serving you at the following locations:

Tarpon Springs
Spring Hill
St. Petersburg
Bayonet Point
Tampa

Jeffrey Wipfli, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmic physician and surgeon specializing in advanced cataract surgery and refractive lens surgery. He received his B.S. in Biological Sciences from Southwestern Oklahoma State University with honors and was awarded the Pre-Professional Student of the Year. Dr. Wipfli attended medical school at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine and was awarded Graduate with Honors and Special Distinction. He was also a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society.

Dr. Wipfli received his residency training at the St. Louis University Eye Institute in St. Louis, Missouri. He was awarded the Rabani Award for Excellence in Patient Care. After completing his residency Dr. Wipfli spent nine years in private practice in Oklahoma performing over 20,000 ophthalmic surgeries including over 10,000 advanced cataract surgeries.

Dr. Wipfli currently lives in Tampa with his wife Allison and daughters Aubrey and Grace. He enjoys sporting events, playing basketball, and spending time with his children.

Professional Affiliations

• American Academy of Ophthalmology
• American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
• American Medical Association
• Florida Medical Association
• Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society

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Cornea Diseases and Surgery

Vipul Shah, MD

Serving you at the following locations:

Tarpon Springs
St. Petersburg
Tampa

Vipul Shah, MD is an ophthalmologist specializing in corneal and external diseases of the eye, as well as refractive surgery. His areas of expertise include corneal transplantation, anterior segment reconstruction, dry eye syndrome, cataract surgery, and laser vision correction.

Dr. Shah graduated cum laude from Duke University, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. After completing his medical degree at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, he stayed in Tampa for both an internship in Internal Medicine and residency in Ophthalmology at USF. Dr. Shah then received his subspecialty training in Cornea, External Diseases, and Refractive Surgery at the University of Colorado in Denver.

Dr. Shah’s particular areas of interest include lamellar corneal transplantation and new and emerging treatments for presbyopia, refractive issues, and corneal ectasia. He lives in Tampa with his wife, Kindra. He enjoys writing, cooking, tennis, skiing, and staying active in his church.

Professional Affiliations

• American Academy of Ophthalmology
• American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
• Contact Lens Association of Ophthalmologists
• Christian Medical Association
• Pinellas Medical Society

Kurt Repke, MD

Serving you at our Tarpon Springs office

Kurt Repke, MD, eye physician and surgeon, is a board certified and fellowship trained ophthalmologist. He provides comprehensive ophthalmology care and specializes in corneal and external diseases.

Dr. Repke received two bachelor degrees and graduated with honors from Kean University. He worked for several years as a research chemist for a major pharmaceutical company while attaining a masters degree from Seton Hall University. Upon completion of his masters, he entered the New Jersey Medical School where he earned his medical degree. He received his residency training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Dr. Repke also completed an additional year of fellowship training in cornea, external disease and refractive surgery at the Corneal Consultants of Indiana in Indianapolis. He has given many lectures and appeared on the local Fox network television show, Good Morning Tampa Bay, as an eye specialist. Dr. Repke believes very strongly in ethical, personalized Eyecare.

Dr. Repke lives in Clearwater with his wife Joan and their three children John, Caroline and Matthew.

Professional Affiliations

• American Academy of Ophthalmology
• American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
• American Medical Association
• Florida Medical Association
• Pinellas County Medical Association
• Tampa Bay Ophthalmology Society

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Eyelid and Facial Cosmetic Surgery

John LiVecchi, MD, FACS

Serving you at the following locations:

Tarpon Springs
Spring Hill
St. Petersburg

John LiVecchi, MD, FACS is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship trained Oculoplastic surgeon, specializing in Eyelid and Facial Cosmetic Surgery including upper and lower eyelid surgery, browlifts, facelifts, necklifts, Botox®, Restylane®, Juvaderm™, Radiesse®, and other fillers. He is the Director of Oculoplastics at St.Luke's Cosmetic.

Dr. LiVecchi received a Bachelor of Science Degree from the City University of New York at Richmond and earned his Medical Doctorate from the University of Rome in 1977. He served his internship at Long Island College Hospital in Brooklyn, New York and completed a residency in ophthalmology at the State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center and was chief resident there from 1981 to 1982. From 1982 to 1983 he was a Fellow in Oculoplastic Surgery at the Kresge Eye Institute of Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.

Dr. LiVecchi is Clinical Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine in Orlando, Florida. He regularly makes scientific presentations, exhibits his work at academic meetings, and has published numerous articles. He is a contributing author to several current texts on ophthalmology. Dr. LiVecchi travels worldwide as a Course Director teaching state-of-the-art surgery to other eye doctors and plastic surgeons. He currently is the Medical Director of three medical companies in the USA and sits on several boards as an officer and a director.

Professional Affiliations

• American Medical Association
• American Academy of Ophthalmology
• American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
• The International Society of Refractive Surgery
• Society of Excellence in Eyecare
• American Board of Ophthalmology

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Dermatology

David Sable, MD, PhD

Serving you at the following locations:

Tarpon Springs
Spring Hill
Tampa

David Sable MD, PhD is a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship trained Mohs surgeon, specializing in skin cancer surgery and reconstruction. Mohs surgery is a specialized microscopically guided technique for removal of skin cancers providing the highest cure rate possible while minimizing loss of normal tissue providing superior cosmetic results. Dr. Sable is one of the few fellowship trained surgeons in the area providing this technique having completed over 1200 cases during his fellowship. He also provides general dermatological services, and cosmetic services including skin peels, dermabrasion, scar revision, as well as Botox®, Restylane®, Juvaderm™, Radiesse®, and other fillers.

Dr. Sable received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Tufts University in Massachusetts and completed a PhD in chemistry from the University of California at Berkeley. He earned his medical degree in 1996 from Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. After completing internships in both pathology and internal medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital and Faulkner Hospital, both Harvard teaching hospitals; he completed a dermatology residency at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. While in residency, he served as chief resident there from 2001 to 2002. From 2003 to 2004 he was a fellow in Mohs micrographic surgery at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the birthplace of the technique.

Professional Affiliations

• Fellow, American College of Mohs Surgery
• Fellow, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery
• Fellow, American Board of Dermatology

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Comprehensive Ophthalmology

Bruce Kiskaddon, MD

Serving you at our Tarpon Springs location

Bruce Kiskaddon, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist who has been an experienced member of St. Luke's surgical staff since 1980. Dr. Kiskaddon's specialty interests include plastic and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids with a focus on eyelid malpositions, blepharoplasty, and ptosis repair for droopy eyelids.

Dr. Kiskaddon's practice includes the management of glaucoma patients and glaucoma laser surgery. Dr. Kiskaddon also performs yag laser capsulotomy procedures for the restoration of sight after cataract surgery.

Dr. Kiskaddon received his undergraduate degree with major studies in chemistry from Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania. He received his medical degree in 1975 from the University of Louisville School of Medicine in Kentucky. After serving an internship at the Medical College of Virginia, he completed his ophthalmology specialty training at the distinguished Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Dr. Kiskaddon and his wife Arlene live in Tarpon Springs with their five children Keith, Amy Lynn, Eric, Lindsey Mae, and Kathryn.

Professional Affiliations

• Diplomat; American Board of Ophthalmology
• Diplomat; National Board of Medical Examiners
• Member; American Academy of Ophthalmology
• American Medical Association
• Florida Medical Association
• Pasco County Medical Society

Danielle Arcaro, MD

Serving you at our Spring Hill location

Danielle Arcaro, MD completed her residency in ophthalmology at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. She is board-certified and is practicing general ophthalmology.

Dr. Arcaro received her Bachelor of Arts degree Magna Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Rutgers University in New Jersey. She completed her medical studies at the George Washington University Medical Center, where she remained to serve her internal medicine internship.

Dr. Arcaro lives in Pinellas County with her husband Anthony Arcaro and their daughters Alexandra Helen and Juliana Angela. Activities that she enjoys include weight lifting, jogging, reading, and playing with her children.

Professional Affiliations

• American Academy of Ophthalmology
• American Medical Association
• Florida Society of Ophthalmology
• Florida Medical Association

Gustavo Gamero, MD

Serving you at the following locations:

Spring Hill
Tarpon Springs

Gustavo Gamero, MD is a board certified ophthalmologist who practices in the areas of comprehensive ophthalmology and glaucoma, including various types of anterior segment laser surgery.

Dr. Gamero received his medical degree from Cayetano Heredia University in Peru, South America in 1981.  He came to the United States in 1986 to obtain multiple sub-specialty training at the University of Texas and Duke University.  Dr. Gamero later received a second residency in ophthalmology at the Catholic Medical Center in New York City.  He went on to complete an 18 month fellowship in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma at the University of Louisville, where he stayed as Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology for five years.  Dr. Gamero then moved to Florida serving as Assistant Professor and Director of the Glaucoma Service, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, before joining St. Luke's.

In addition to patient care, Dr. Gamero has lectured at national scientific events and in South America. He has produced original work in the area of glaucoma including papers, book chapters, and monographs. He speaks fluent English and Spanish. Dr. Gamero and his wife Margaret have two sons, David and Daniel

Professional Affiliations

• Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology
• Active Member of the American Glaucoma Society
• Florida Medical Association
• Pasco County Medical Society

M. B. Kayani, MD, FACS, FRCS(C)

Serving you at our Bayonet Point location

M. B. Kayani, MD is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who is both American and Canadian board certified. His areas of interest are diseases of the anterior segment, dry eyes, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease and retinal problems including macular degeneration. He performs in-office selective laser trabeculoplasy (SLT) for open angle glaucoma and he uses YAG laser to do posterior capsulotomy for after – cataract and peripheral iridotomy for “narrow angle glaucoma.” He received his medical degree with distinction from prestigious King Edward Medical School, the oldest institute in the Indo-Pak subcontinent. Dr. Kayani moved to the United States in 1969, and after finishing his internship at St. Vincent Medical Center in New York, he completed his ophthalmology residency at Downstate University Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York, under renowned Professor Richard C. Troutman.

Dr. Kayani started his comprehensive ophthalmology practice in upstate New York and in 1979, he attended a course on a new technique, "Extracapsular Cataract Extraction with Intraocular Lens Implant," given by our own James Gills, MD, founder and director of St. Luke's Cataract & Laser Institute. After receiving training by Dr. Gills, Dr. Kayani became the first ophthalmologist in upstate New York to perform extracapsular cataract extraction with intraocular lens implant. He also introduced to the area the Argon Laser for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. He served as Chief, Department of Ophthalmology at Mercy and House of the Good Samaritan hospitals, Watertown, New York for ten years. He started laser refractive surgery, “PRK,” in upstate New York and Syracuse in 1996. Dr. Kayani served as clinical instructor at SUNY Upstate Medical University's Department of Ophthalmology and taught medical students and residents.

Dr. Kayani has donated his time and skills to both international and domestic medical missions to Honduras, Pakistan, and throughout the Southeastern United States. He participated in relief efforts for victims of the tsunami in Indonesia, earthquake victims in Pakistan and most recently post hurricane Katrina expedition in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Professional Affiliations and Honors

• Fellow of American Academy of Ophthalmology
• Fellow of American College of Surgeons
• Fellow of Royal College of Surgeons of Canada
• Fellow of International College of Surgeons
• Florida Medical Society Pasco County Medical Society
• Volunteer Member of EyeCare America's International Volunteer Registry, sponsored by the American Academy of Ophthalmology

Grace Levy-Clarke MD - Comprehensive Ophthalmology & Uveitis

Serving you at the following locations:

Tarpon Springs
St. Petersburg
Tampa

Grace Levy-Clarke, MD is a board-certified, Uveitis trained, comprehensive ophthalmologist. She completed a clinical research fellowship in Ocular Immunology and Uveitis, a specialized field for ophthalmologists who care for patients with “arthritis in the eye”. Her expertise includes, but is not limited to, eye diseases such as Behcet's syndrome, sarcoidosis, VKH, scleritis, birdshot chorioretinopathy, serpiginous choroiditis, ocular inflammation due to Wegener's granulomatosis, systemic lupus erythematosis, rheumatoid arthritis, JRA/JIA and intraocular lymphoma. Her experience includes, diagnosis and management, using local and systemic immunosuppressive therapies.

Prior to joining the staff at St Luke's, she was the Director of The Uveitis and Ocular Immunology Fellowship at The National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, the nation's premier institution for clinical research. Dr. Levy-Clarke has been the principal investigator for numerous clinical trials for treatment for rare ophthalmic diseases. She has trained medical students, residents and fellows in ophthalmic research and clinical skills. She was a co-instructor for the American Academy of Ophthalmology LEO course in Uveitis 2005.

Dr. Levy-Clarke completed her medical degree at the Medical College of Wisconsin, with honors in research, and is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, the national honor society for physicians. After medical school she completed a Transitional Internship at Riverside Methodist Hospital, Columbus, OH. Her residency in ophthalmology was at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, followed by a clinical research fellowship in Ocular Immunology and Uveitis at the National Eye Institute, Bethesda, MD.

She has authored or co-authored several papers which have been published in peer reviewed scientific journals. Dr. Levy-Clarke has given talks and lectures at conferences and meetings, locally, nationally and internationally. She has presented papers at the FIRST INTERNATIONAL WORKSHOP OCULAR SARCOIDOSIS, Tokyo, Japan (2006), International Ocular Inflammatory Symposium, Paris, France (2007) and First International Symposium in Uveitis in Guangzhou, China (2007)

Dr. Levy-Clarke is married with 2 sons. She enjoys writing and presenting talks at conferences and community events. Dr. Levy-Clarke loves to travel, read, walk and attend all of the sports and music events that her sons participate in. She enjoys public service outreach events and blindness prevention programs, to promote knowledge and awareness of eye disease.

Professional Affiliations

• American Academy of Ophthalmology
• American Uveitis Society
• International Uveitis Study Group
• Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology
• American Medical Association
• National Medical Association
• Florida Medical Association
• Pinellas Medical Society

Byron Holley, MD

Serving you at the following locations:

Tampa

Byron Holley, MD is a board certified ophthalmologist who practices in the areas of comprehensive ophthalmology and glaucoma. He attended the University of Florida and received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Tampa. Dr. Holley received his medical degree from University of Miami School of Medicine. He served a rotating internship at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. Dr. Holley completed his residency in ophthalmology at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. He went on to complete a clinical fellowship in the diseases and surgery of the retina in Memphis, Tennessee. Dr. Holley served as Assistant Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at USF Medical College for ten years.

Dr. Holley is a decorated military veteran and published author of two books on his medical experiences in Vietnam. He lives in Brandon with his wife Sondra Dobbs Holley and has three grown children. He is a member of the First Baptist Church, Brandon, Florida. He enjoys boating, oil painting, reading and tarpon fishing with his family.

Professional Affiliations

• Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology
• Diplomat, American Board of Ophthalmology
• International Society of Refractive Surgery
• Florida Medical Association
• Tampa Bay Ophthalmological Society
• American Medical Association

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Low Vision

Edward Huggett, OD

Serving you at the following locations:

Tarpon Springs

Edward Huggett, OD is a board-certified optometric physician specializing in low vision.

Dr. Huggett received his undergraduate degree from the University of South Florida and Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of Houston in Houston, Texas. While there, he received training at the Lighthouse for the Blind in low vision and low vision rehabilitation. While attending the University of Houston, he taught physiologic optics, 1987-89. Dr. Huggett completed an externship at the Bay Pines VA Medical Center, St. Petersburg, Florida.

Dr. Huggett developed the Low Vision Clinic at the James Haley VA Medical Center Outpatient Clinic in New Port Richey, Florida, in 1990. He was the team eye physician for Major League Baseball's Toronto Blue Jays in 1994, serving team needs and providing sports vision training. He developed cognitive and vision exercises for the improvement of visual-motor integration, which are being used by patients, students and athletes, both professional and amateur. He served for many years as a board member of the Pinellas County Association for Children and Adults with Learning Disabilities (PCALD). He participates annually in the Great American Teach-in sponsored for Pinellas County, Florida students. He volunteered his services as the vice president of ophthalmic services for the non-profit medical missionary organization Wings of Morning, Inc. in the Republic of Honduras. He is the Founder and Director of The House of Paul, Inc., a public charity, where he volunteers and serves the visual needs for the homeless individuals and victims of domestic violence in Florida at no cost to the patients. This work is supported by the local Lion's Clubs, Pinellas County Mobile Medical Unit and Religious Community Services (RCS). He is co-presenter of the National Low Vision Support Group monthly Internet teleconference sponsored by the National Eye Institute and Genentec, Inc., and on the Medical Advisory Board of MedOp Inc.

Dr. Huggett has been providing low vision services in the Palm Harbor, Florida area since 1986 in a solo practice prior to providing low vision services at St. Luke's. He enjoys giving presentations and interactive lectures on low vision.

Dr. Huggett resides in Holiday and enjoys scuba diving, snow skiing and gardening.

Professional Affiliations

• American Optometric Association
• Florida Optometric Association
• College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD)
• Optometric Extension Program Foundation (OEP)

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Vitreo-Retinal Diseases and Surgery

Brian Phillpotts, MD

Serving you at the following locations:

Tarpon Springs
Spring Hill

Brian Phillpotts, MD is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in diseases and surgery of the vitreous and retina. His area of expertise includes medical and surgical management of diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal detachments, macular holes, epi-retinal membranes, and other vitreo-retinal disorders such as retinal vascular occlusion and sickle cell retinopathy.

Dr. Phillpotts graduated from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, in 1986 with a B.S. in biochemistry. He received his medical degree in 1990 from the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor. Dr. Phillpotts interned in Illinois at Hinsdale Hospital, followed by an ophthalmology residency at Howard University Hospital in Washington, D.C. He completed a two-year clinical fellowship in diseases and surgery of the vitreous and retina at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary at the University of Illinois in Chicago.

Dr. Phillpotts has authored and lectured on general vitreo-retinal and other Ophthalmological topics. His work has been published in scientific journals, including the 2nd International Conference on Retinopathy of Prematurity (he was Co-Chair of the same), Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Ophthalmology, RETINA, and the Journal of the National Medical Association. Dr. Phillpotts is also editor or author of several chapters in eMedicine.com, a subsidiary of webMD.com, the world's largest online, peer-reviewed, medical textbook.

Dr. Phillpotts was Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology and served as Director of both the Ophthalmology Residency Training Program and the Vitreoretinal Service at Howard University Hospital, Department of Ophthalmology. He joined Dr. Gills and St. Luke's in December, 2000.

Dr. Phillpotts lives in the Tampa Bay area with his wife Sonja and their three children.

Professional Affiliations

• American Academy of Ophthalmology, Fellow
• American Board of Ophthalmology, Diplomat
• American Diabetes Association
• American Medical Association
• American Society of Retina Specialists (formerly "The Vitreous Society")
• Association For Research in Vision and Ophthalmology
• Association of University Professors in Ophthalmology, Former Associate Member
• Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), Tampa, Board of Directors
• National Board of Medical Examiners, Diplomat
• National Medical Association
• Research to Prevent Blindness

Raymond Agia, MD

Serving you at the following locations:

Tarpon Springs
St. Petersburg

Raymond Agia, MD, is an ophthalmologist specializing in diseases and surgery of the vitreous and retina. His specialties include medical and surgical management of diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, macular holes, and other vitreo-retinal disorders.

Dr. Agia's education includes an ophthalmology residency as well as a retina fellowship at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary in Manhattan, NY. He has been an assistant clinical professor for the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of South Florida since 1972. Dr. Agia has been practicing in the Tampa Bay area for over 36 years.

Dr. Agia lives in Tampa with his wife Susan. They have three adult children, Lisa, Monique, and Jeffery. His hobbies include biking and swimming.

Professional Affiliations

• American Academy of Ophthalmology
• Tampa Bay Ophthalmological Society
• American Medical Association
• Florida Medical Association
• Hillsborough County Medical Association

Byung-Joon Ahn, MD

Serving you at the following locations:

Tarpon Springs
St. Petersburg
Tampa

Byung-Joon Ahn, MD is an ophthalmologist specializing in diseases of the vitreous and retina. His area of expertise includes treatment and management of diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal vascular disease and other vitreo-retinal disorders.

Dr. Ahn grew up in the Washington D.C. area and attended college at the University of Maryland in College Park, MD. He subsequently attended the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in Philadelphia, PA where he received his Doctor of Optometry degree. He practiced as an optometrist for four years and served as an Assistant Clinical Professor at the SUNY College of Optometry prior to changing careers and deciding to go to medical school. He received his medical degree from the University of Vermont. His internship was completed at the New York Hospital of Queens, Cornell Medical College. He completed his ophthalmology residency at New York Medical College serving as the Chief Resident during his final year. He completed his medical retina fellowship at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. He also has a Master of Public Health degree from Harvard University and a Master of Science degree in health care management from New York University.

Dr. Ahn has lectured and presented papers on diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration at national meetings including the American Diabetes Association and American Public Health Association.

Professional Affiliations

• American Medical Association
• American Academy of Ophthalmology
• Pinellas Medical Society

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Glaucoma

Stephen Deppermann, MD

Serving you at the following locations:

Tarpon Springs
St. Petersburg

Stephen Deppermann, MD, is a board certified ophthalmologist specializing in adult glaucoma management including both laser and surgical therapies.

After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania Medical School, he completed an internship at Columbia Medical School's St. Luke's Hospital in New York City. Prior to his ophthalmological training at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary in Boston, he pursued both a neurology residency on the Harvard service at Boston City Hospital and a neuro-ophthalmology fellowship at the Howe Laboratory at the MEEI. Dr. Deppermann then served his glaucoma fellowship under R. J. Simmons, MD, whom he joined in specialty practice for twelve years. Most recently he was part of a multi-specialty group based in Lake Worth, Florida.

Throughout his entire career Dr. Deppermann has had the deep satisfaction of helping patients live with glaucoma, a disease frequently referred to as the “sneak thief of sight” because of its often stealthy, painless character. However, thanks to modern technology, this all too common affliction can be detected earlier and treated aggressively.

Dr. Deppermann lives in Palm Harbor with wife Lidia and their two sons, Bradford and Spencer.

Professional Affiliations

• American Academy of Ophthalmology
• Diplomat, American Academy of Ophthalmology
• American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons
• Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Alumni Society
• Florida Medical Association
• Pasco County Medical Society
• The Chandler-Grant Society
• New England Ophthalmology Society
• Palm Beach Ophthalmology Society
• Florida Society of Ophthalmology
• International Society of Imaging the Eye

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Optometry

Frank Dina, OD

Serving you at our Tarpon Springs office

Frank Dina, OD is a board-certified optometric physician specializing in cataract preoperative and postoperative examinations for James Gills, MD and Pit Gills, MD. He also performs visual exams for refractive problems and diplopia (double vision) and co-manages surgery patients.

Dr. Dina received his A.A.S. degree from Orange County Community College in Middletown, New York in 1970 and his doctor of optometry degree in Memphis, Tennessee in 1976. He has been a member of the St. Luke's staff since 1977.

Dr. Dina participates in cataract and glaucoma screenings at St. Luke's and within the community. He is also involved with Lions Vision Care of Upper Pinellas County.

Dr. Dina and his wife Vickie have two children.

Professional Affiliations

• American Optometric Association
• American Optometric Foundation
• Better Vision Institute
• Central Suncoast Optometric Society
• Florida Optometric Association

Kenneth Murphy, OD

Serving you at our Tarpon Springs location

Dr. Kenneth Murphy is a board certified optometric physician specializing in primary medical Eyecare. He examines, diagnoses, treats and manages diseases of the eyes and visual systems. He diagnoses vascular, cardiac, neurological, and other systematic conditions related to the eyes. His services include routine eye exams, medical emergency eye exams, evaluations for dry and wet eyes, cataracts, flashes of light, floaters, macular degeneration, retinal detachments and other primary retinal problems. He has a special interest in the diagnosing and pharmaceutical management of glaucoma.

Dr. Murphy served in the U.S. Navy as a Naval Engineering Officer and in the Naval Air Program. After earning his degree in optometry, he completed an additional 22 years in the Naval Reserves Program as an optometrist and has been practicing optometry since 1969.

Dr. Murphy and his wife, Mary Jo, live in Tarpon Springs. They have two adult children, Tara and Tim, and precious grandchildren.

Professional Affiliations

• American Optometric Association
• Florida Optometric Association
• Southern Council of Optometry
• Central Suncoast Optometric Association

Rachael Streeter, OD

Serving you at our Tarpon Springs office

Dr. Rachael  Streeter is a board-certified optometric physician specializing in primary Eyecare.

She received her bachelor's degree in vision science and her Doctor of Optometry degree from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. She was a member of Beta Sigma Kappa International Optometric Honor Society for four years.

Dr. Streeter completed an externship at Triad Medical Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. While there, she received training in primary Eyecare with emphasis on pre and postoperative care of cataract and LASIK patients, eye infections, and all aspects of ocular disease.

Before joining the staff at St. Luke's, Dr. Streeter practiced at Redbird Indian Health Clinic in Salisaw, Oklahoma. She provided primary Eyecare including refractions, diagnosis and treatment of eye infections, eye emergencies, and ocular disease.

Dr. Streeter enjoys reading and outside activities such as swimming
and rollerblading. She resides in Clearwater with her husband James
and daughter Sophia.

Professional Affiliations

• American Optometric Association
• Florida Optometric Association
• Pinellas Optometric Association

Maria Loulourgas, OD

Serving you at our Tarpon Springs location

Dr. Maria Loulourgas is a residency-trained, board-certified, optometric physician specializing in primary medical Eyecare.  She diagnoses and treats diseases of the eye, visual system and eye-related systemic conditions.  Her services include:  general Eyecare, treatment of infection and injury, cataract and vitreo-retinal evaluations, glaucoma evaluations and treatment, and LASIK co-management. Dr. Loulourgas also specializes in contacts with an emphasis on multifocal and toric lenses for patients with astigmatism and presbyopia.

Dr. Loulourgas studied biology at the University of South Florida in Tampa, and received her Doctorate of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry in Ft. Lauderdale.  She completed an externship in primary care at Bascolm Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, and an ocular disease residency in Philadelphia at The Eye Institute of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry.  Prior to joining the St. Luke's team, Dr. Loulourgas practiced in a multi-specialty eye center.  

An accomplished pianist, Dr. Loulourgas also enjoys singing, jogging and water sports.  She enjoys children and participates in the annual "Great American Teach In" each year.

Dr. Loulourgas speaks fluent Greek and medical Spanish, and resides with her husband Philip and sons Demetre and Paul, in Palm Harbor.

Professional Affiliations

• American Optometric Association
• Florida Optometric Association
• Pinellas Optometric Association

Katherine Flynn, OD

Serving you at our Tarpon Springs office

Katherine Flynn, OD, is a board-certified optometric physician specializing in primary medical Eyecare.

Dr. Flynn is certified in the treatment and management of ocular disease. She provides examinations for diagnosis, treatment and management of the visual system, specializing in primary medical Eyecare and co-management of cataract and refractive surgery.

She completed her undergraduate degree in Mathematics and Pre-Medical studies receiving her bachelor of arts at Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Dr. Flynn received her bachelor's degree in vision science and her Doctor of Optometry degree at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in Philadelphia.

She completed externships emphasizing medical Eyecare and surgical co-management at The Eye Institute in Philadelphia, Northeastern Eye Institute in Scranton, Pennsylvania and Visual Health & Surgical Center in Lake Worth, FL. She also completed a private externship in primary Eyecare in Columbia, SC.

Prior to joining the St. Luke's family of Eyecare, Dr. Flynn practiced primary optometry specializing in complete family Eyecare and contact lenses in Tannersville, Pennsylvania.

She participated in an optometric mission to the El Peten region of Guatemala. Dr. Flynn and her husband Brian reside in Tampa and are active members in Tampa Bay area sport and social clubs.

Professional Affiliations

• American Optometric Association
• Florida Optometric Association
• Southern Council of Optometry
• Pinellas Optometric Association

Michael Causey, OD

Serving you at our Tarpon Springs office

Dr. Michael Causey, is a board-certified optometric physician specializing in primary medical Eyecare.

He examines, diagnoses, treats, and manages diseases of the eyes, the visual system, and eye related systemic conditions. These services include annual routine eye exams and evaluations for cataracts, glaucoma, light flashes, and floaters. Other services include treatment for eye infections, abrasions, and foreign bodies.

Dr. Causey received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of South Florida (USF) in 1986.

He received his Doctor of Optometry degree (OD) from the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee, where he graduated magna cum laude and was elected to the honor society. Dr. Causey is also certified in the treatment and management of ocular disease by the International Association of Boards of Examiners in Optometry. He completed externships at St. Luke's Cataract & Laser Institute and at the Eye Foundation in Orlando.

New Port Richey is Dr. Causey's hometown, and he resides there with his wife, Sherry, and their three children, Steven, Matthew and Mia. Dr. Causey and his wife are active in their local church and also are involved in youth soccer where Dr. Causey has helped by coaching. 

Professional Affiliations

• American Optometric Association
• Central Suncoast Optometric Society
• Florida Optometric Association

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Director of Hearing Services

Jack Slavin, HAS

Jack Slavin is a Licensed hearing Aid Specialist. His expertise is specifically in late onset nerve deafness in patients over the age of 55.

Jack provides a wide array of professional services including: complete hearing evaluations, confidential review of patient case history, otoscope examinations, audiometric evaluations, speech understanding evaluations, review and explanation of findings, hearing instrument recommendations and selections (if appropriate), counseling, and instruction to patients, family members and healthcare professionals.

Jack has been licensed with the State of Florida Department of Health since 1976. Prior to joining St. Luke's he had his own successful practice in Florida for more than 14 years. That practice was merged twice with larger companies who worked with some of the largest hearing aid manufacturers and helped thousands of people from all over the United States.

Jack was under contract for 5 years with the Department of Health as a consultant to write the state exam and as an examiner for those taking the tests, both written and practical exams. When called upon, Jack also served as expert witness for the state.

He now dedicates 100% of his time, knowledge and experience to St. Luke’s as the Director of Hearing Services.

Jack is happily married and has a daughter and two step daughters.

Professional Affiliations

• Florida Society of Hearing Health Professionals (Past Member)
• National hearing Aid Society (Past Member)
• Florida Department of Health (Past Consultant)

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Cosmetic Laser and Injection Specialist

Barbara Barcellona, ARNP

Barbara Barcellona is an ARNP who joined St. Luke's Cosmetic in 2009 bringing with her 18 years of experience as a Licensed Facial Specialist with an extensive knowledge of advanced skin care for the treatement of wrinkles. She possesses vast experience with skin care lasers and cosmetic fillers. Barbara is qualified to administer cosmetic injections such as Botox®, Juvederm™, Restylane®, and Radiesse®.

Barbara loves to begin her consultations by handing her patients a mirror and asking htem what they see. Barbara's philosophy is, "I want to hear my patient's concerns in their own words - they always take the lead." With this input, Barbara skillfully develops harmonius treatments to achieve their goals.

Barbara's career began as a staff nurse in Wisconsin. When she moved to Florida, Barbara joined the staff at All Children's Hospital, initially working in Intensive Care. She the became a member of the transport team - working on infancts and children who needed emergency care during transport to the hospital.

Eventually Barbara wanted to deliver a higher level of care and went back to school to become a nurse practitioner. After graduation in the early 1990's, Barbara became credentialed in facial laser treatment and found her home in cosmetic procedures.

What excites Barbara the most is seeing her patients leave happy. "I love seeing my patients thrilled with their results. Having them achieve what they envisioned in their mind is so gratifying, especially when they pick up the mirror over and over."

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Cosmetic Surgical Assistant & Laser / Injection Specialist

Judy Koster

Judith "Judy" Koster, PA-C, specializes in eyelid and facial cosmetic surgical assistance including upper and lower eyelid surgery and browlifts. As a 25-year certified physician assistant, Judy possess vast experience with skin care lasers and cosmetic fillers. She is qualified to administer cosmetic injections such as Botox®, Juvederm™, Restylane®, and Radiesse®. In her career, she has concentrated primarily on hospital and surgical center operating room proceures.

Judy's personal philosophy is that "simplicity is always best." She starts by addressing each patient's primary goals and concerns, studying specific needs to best match the procedure to each individual goal.

Judy is a graduate of St. Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania where she earned an AMA Accredited Bachelor of Science Degree in Physician Assistance. She later became certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistance (CCPA) and she is a standing Fellow Member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants.

While assisting in surgery, Judy became interested in cosmetic procedures. She welcomed an opporunity to help her patients feel good about themselves. In doing so, Judy gained extensive experience assisting with surgery, body lifts, breast reconstruction, and cleft palettes. Judy has commented, "It is great seeing brilliant cosmetic results. It is so gratifying to help changes someone's image of themelves and htel them realize their inner beauty."

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Aesthestician

Svitlana Lindahl, Licensed Facial Specialist

Svitlana Lindahl is a graduate of the Cosmetic and Beauty College in Kiev, Ukraine where she became a Cosmetic Therapist. After moving to the United States in 2002, she graduated from Loraine’s Academy in St. Petersburg, Florida where she received her Facial Specialist License. Svitlana earned her Advanced Clinical Skin Care Diploma from the Elite Academy of Skin Care in Dunedin, Florida. Svitlana joined the St. Luke’s Cosmetic team in 2008 as a Licensed Facial Specialist. She has dedicated her years of experience to offering the best in skin care advances. With her extensive background in the latest European anti-aging technology, skin rejuvenation techniques and make-up artistry, she provides expert skin care with a personal touch. Svitlana offers an array of services, each designed to improve the health and texture of her clients’ skin. Her aesthetic menu includes Microdermabrasion, age-management, chemical peels, acne therapy and a variety of skin rejuvenation procedures.

Svitlana’s personal philosophy is that skin care is not just a matter of outer beauty; it is essential to one’s personal well being and health care.

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Physician’s Assistant

Meridith Clark, PA-C

Meridith Clark is a Physicians' Assistant certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She is presently working in General Ophthalmology with Danielle Arcaro, MD. Prior to joining Dr. Arcaro at the Spring Hill office, she was a part of the Retina Department at St. Luke's for several years.

She graduated from Asbury College, in Wilmore , Kentucky , Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology. She received her Masters of Physician Assistant studies at the University of Florida, College of Medicine in Gainesville, Florida. Along with ophthalmology, Mrs. Clark has experience in cardiology, previously working side-by-side with an interventional cardiologist in Tampa , Florida .

Meridith Clark, P.A.-C. lives in New Port Richey with her husband, Chad Clark, and their son, Channing Everett and daughter, Faith Elizabeth. She is very active in SonRise Community Church, and has a keen interest in helping underprivileged children. She enjoys spending time with her family, playing and watching sports, and being on the water.

Professional Affiliations

• Florida Academy of Physician Assistants
• National Academy of Physician Assistants

Robert Gritter, PA-C

James Marone, PA-C

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