Florida Eye Specialists is one of the largest multi-specialty practices in Northeast Florida. From routine eye exams to complex surgery using the very latest technology, it’s all here: ophthalmologists and optometrists — all under one roof — and ready to serve you.
Today, we have over a dozen locations throughout North Florida, and we’re growing. Our practice is owned and operated by medical doctors/ophthalmologists who have a relentless commitment to innovation. This commitment has propelled us to numerous firsts in the area of eye care, for example:
- Blade-free laser cataract surgery, setting a new standard for precision and safety.
- LenSx® laser-assisted cataract surgery.
- The revolutionary Light Adjustable Lens for cataract surgery.
- The groundbreaking iTrack Advance surgical device for glaucoma treatment.
Learn more about our history of cutting-edge advancements to help people see clearly.
Our Vision
1977
Maida Pioneers Eye Care Innovations
Dr. Jerry Maida pioneers outpatient cataract surgery and lens implantation.
2002
Mayo Clinic Expertise
Dr. Rajesh Shetty, board-certified, double fellowship-trained ophthalmologist, serves as an Assistant Professor at Mayo Clinic for 7 years.
2008
Chokshi Vision Center
Dr. Amit Chokshi joins Dr. Gerard Coluccelli to found Chokshi Vision Center, bringing advanced laser vision correction and cataract care to Jacksonville.
2009
Florida Eye Specialists
Dr. Rajesh Shetty founds the first Florida Eye Specialists office at Gate Parkway, bringing specialty cataract and glaucoma care to the region.
2009
Eagle Eyecare
Dr. Ravi Patel launches Eagle Eyecare, specializing in cataract and cornea care. The practice has become a premier destination for top-tier ophthalmic services.
2011
Dr. Freidl Joins the Practice
Dr. Kathryn Freidl joins the practice after training at the prestigious Wills Eye Institute in Philadelphia, the largest glaucoma diagnosis and treatment center in the country.
2012
Dr. Hasan Joins the Practice
Dr. Akbar Hasan brings a wealth of knowledge in cornea, cataracts, and LASIK after serving as Director of the Laser Vision Correction Program at the Mayo Clinic for ten years.
2012
Dr. Kostick Joins the Practice
Dr. David Kostick joins the practice after serving for 16 years at the Mayo Clinic, where he was Assistant Professor and Consultant of Ophthalmology.
2014
Expanding to Ponte Vedra
Florida Eye Specialists expands with an office in Ponte Vedra, and welcomes Dr. Rachana Patel to help provide care. Dr. Patel formerly served as an Assistant Professor at the University of Florida.
2016
Merging With Maida CustomVision
Florida Eye Specialists merges with Maida CustomVision, solidifying the practice as the area’s leader in LASIK. Together, Drs. Chokshi, Hasan, and Jerry Maida collaborate at a LASIK-only practice.
2021
Nicolitz Eye Consultants
Nicolitz Eye Consultants, founded by Dr. Ernst Nicolitz, merges with Florida Eye Specialists, bringing additional oculoplastic and cosmetic procedures to our patients.
2023
Barnhorst Eye & Laser Center
Barnhorst Eye & Laser Center merges with Florida Eye Specialists, adding a Nocatee office to the network. Dr. Donald Barnhorst joins with 25 years of experience.
2023
Expanding to Macclenny
Florida Eye Specialists expands with a Macclenny office, providing top-notch eye care with a focus on patient well-being for the Macclenny community.
January 2024
Expanding To Ormond Beach
International Eye Associates, led by Samantha N. Habhab, M.D. joined forces with Florida Eye Specialists to offer specialty eye care in Ormond Beach.
2024
Expanding To Palm Coast
Florida Eye Specialists and Atlantic Eye Center, a trusted Palm Coast practice of over 27 years, join forces to improve access to specialty eye care in the Volusia and Flagler areas.
The Future of Eye Care
Each merger brought a unique perspective, accomplished doctors, and well-trained staff. Below is a list of the “Legacy Practices” that have been merged together to form Florida Eye Specialists.
- Florida Eye Specialists
- Gerard Coluccelli, MD
- Chokshi and Coluccelli Eye Institute
- Chokshi Vision Center
- Eagle Eyecare
- Maida CustomVision
- Vassallo Eye and Laser Institute
- Nicolitz Eye Consultants
- Barnhorst Eye & Laser Center
- Florida Eye Specialists – Macclenny – Robert Phillips O.D.
- International Eye Associates
- Atlantic Eye Center
This is how an eye care practice should be – offering the latest technology in the most experienced hands, guided by professionals who value their patients above all else. This is the future of eye care. This is Florida Eye Specialists.