Our Doctors and Staff

The staff at LaHaye Total Eye Care is dedicated to treating you with the most advanced and successful methods available in the world today. This means staying current with continuing education classes and monthly training sessions with Dr. LaHaye himself. Every member of our medical staff proudly wears and displays their specific degree, license, and expertise. It's not just for the records, it's for your peace of mind.

Leon C. LaHaye, M.D.

View Dr. LaHaye's CV

Doctor of Ophthalmology, Principal Eye Surgeon, Medical Director

Clear Memories

“I was severely nearsighted while growing up. It was just me and another kid sitting up front in class, straining to read the lesson. I’ll never forget the day I was finally fitted with glasses. It was the first time I could see the leaves on the trees. Green was never so green before.

“I wore contact lenses later in high school. This was especially important to me as an athlete. You feel less bound, less weighed down, less inhibited. I think being
able to identify with the limitations of less-than-perfect eyesight really helped spur me on toward my profession.”

A Clear Purpose:

“I learned early on in medical school what an incredible impact ophthalmology especially groundbreaking procedures has on people’s lives. That’s part of my motivation for developing technology like the “LAHayeSER,” which improves the accuracy and safety of refractive surgery. I really strive to improve in some way all the procedures I perform to increase my patients’ chances for perfect vision from cataract surgery to LASIK.

“I’ve seen gradual blindness destroy more than eyesight. It destroys people’s will to live. When you’re able to help restore that sight, you’d be amazed at the change in a person’s disposition. Take cataract surgery, for example. I honestly believe it makes people feel ten years younger at least! People are driving, fishing, cooking, doing all the things they had abandoned with failing eyesight.”

A Constant Inspiration

“I think what I love most about my work is that every day, something a little miraculous happens. Older people walk in blinded by cataracts and leave being able to see again. Younger people gain more confidence from corrective procedures that free them from glasses or contact lenses. I feel privileged to be a part of this.”

Special Recognition

• Pioneered Free Conjunctiva Graft Technique for Pterygium Surgery
• Designed Special “Refractive” Intraocular Lens for Cataract Surgery
• Co-Pioneered the Initial Development of the Laser Internal Sclerostomy Procedure for Glaucoma
• First Surgeon in Louisiana to Perform Sutureless Cataract Surgery  
• First Surgeon in United States to Perform ALK (automated lamellar keratotomy)
• Designed and Developed Custom Excimer Laser for LASIK
• Designed and Developed Excimer Laser Failsafe System
• Designed and Developed LAHayeSIK Surgical System and Method
• Designed and Developed Multidirectional Surgical Instrument Cleaner

Clarence B. Billingsley, M.D., FACS

My First Love

“I love practicing medicine I think that’s why I decided to specialize twice! I started off in internal medicine, but grew more fascinated with eye care and the advancements being made in the field. Healthy eyesight is good medicine. I feel I can say that wholeheartedly, as an internist and an ophthalmologist. “Just seeing the transformations that occur from corrected vision is nothing short of miraculous. That’s exactly what inspires me to keep up-to-date on the latest advancements in eye medicine from laser surgery to pink eye.”

What Matters Most

“I’ve been in Louisiana for over eight years now, and I honestly feel it has the most charming people in the world. They have a real sense of proportion, of what really matters. There’s passion in what they do, but it’s never outweighed by the importance of family and friends.“ I think Dr. LaHaye is representative of this ideal. His passion to bring Louisiana
the best eye care possible helped rekindle my own love of medicine and desire to challenge myself — and my patients. The best part is, he’s assembled an entire team of doctors, nurses, and support staff who share this desire. It’s an energy you feel the moment you walk through the door.”

My Favorite Day of the Week

“You’ve got to be here on Thursdays. It truly is a “SUN-day” to us. That’s the day when the bandages are removed from LASIK, and people can see what they haven’t seen in years! There are lots of tears on that day, including my own.“ This is why I studied medicine in the first place. To experience moments like these and more. When you think about what we’re able to do these days, especially with the advancements in eye care, it absolutely boggles the mind. I feel honored
and challenged and elated that I’m part of a team that can bring you tomorrow’s technology today."

Specialties

• Glaucoma, Diabetic, Corneal
• Pediatric Eye Care

Zvi Aviner, M.D.

From Theory to Practice

“I always knew I wanted to work with people, to help them. However, a background in math and physics does not necessarily lead you down that path. When it came to choosing between the lab and medical school, the choice was clear. It’s an absolute privilege to be able to improve God’s gift of sight when it becomes damaged or defective.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to have worked all over the world, from Africa to Arkansas, and the joy expressed by the people I’ve helped needs no translation. I’ve never once regretted leaving the lab behind.”

From Practice to People

“Joining Dr. LaHaye and his exceptional medical team has been a very nourishing experience. We’re in an environment where iron sharpens iron. As a published glaucoma specialist, I feel I’m enabled here to put into practice the latest research and technologies to treat this devastating disease. “This is especially significant here in Louisiana, where the prevalence of blindness
due to glaucoma surpasses the national average. We have patients here who are actually losing their vision as early as age 35. The good news is that we own some of the most advanced equipment in the country to detect this disease in its earliest stages. That’s no surprise, knowing that everything Dr. LaHaye is involved with is state-of-the-art. With all of this talent and technology available to our patients, there’s no reason to be a victim.”

From Medicine to Memories

“I remember one older gentleman who was legally blind because of a severe eye disease. With God’s help, we were able to restore his sight. He was able to see his wife of 20 years for the first time after surgery. This ‘unveiling’ was truly something to witness. It was a moment I’ll never forget. Just knowing that this procedure has changed both of their lives for the better reassures me of my calling.”

Specialties

• Glaucoma Management
• Diabetic Retinopathy

Robert Blem, M.D.

I have performed over 2000 surgical cases including diabetic and rhegmatogenous retinal detachments, trauma, macular holes, epiretinal membranes, and pediatric cases including PHPV. I am also trained in medical Retinopathy of Prematurity.

Before joining the LaHaye team, I was associate partner in two man retina-only practice specializing in diabetic retinopathy, age related macular degeneration, retinal detachments, uveitis, trauma, and other diseases of the retina and vitreous.

April 1, 2006 - Present position

Retina Physician and Surgeon
Louisiana Retina Center
1000 West Pinhook Rd, Suite 301
Lafayette, LA 70503
(337) 264-1011

Solo retina practice specializing in diabetic retinopathy, age related macular degeneration retinal detachments, uveitis, trauma, and other diseases of the retina and vitreous.

I have performed over 2000 surgical cases. These have included diabetic and rhegmatogenous retinal detachments, trauma, macular holes, epiretinal membranes, and pediatric cases including PHPV. I am trained in medical Retinopathy of Prematurity.

Licensure and Certification Information:

             Board Certified American Academy of Ophthalmology November 10, 2002

             Texas Medical License: Active
             Louisiana Medical License: Active

Education:

Fellowship in Medical and Surgical Retina
          University of Texas Medical Branch – Department of Vitreoretinal Surgery
          Galveston, TX                                                                      July 2001- June 2003        

          Clinical professor appointment (part-time faculty attending)
          University of Texas Medical Branch – Dept. of Vitreoretinal Surgery
          Galveston, TX                                                                      July 2002 – June 2003
         
          Fellowship Instructors:
       
          Frederikus van Kuijk, MD
          Helen K. Li, MD
          Vince Vann, MD      
          Edward H. Thall, Md

Residency
          Medical College of Virginia – Department of Ophthalmology
          Richmond, VA                                                                    July 1998 – 2001

Internship
          University of Tennessee- Chattanooga, Department of Transitional Medicine
          Chattanooga, TN                                                                 July 1997 – June 1998

Education
           Medical College of Virginia
           Richmond, VA                                                                   August 1993 – May 1997

           Virginia Commonwealth University               
           Richmond, VA                                                                  August 1990 – May 1993
           B.S. Biology, Magna cum laude
            
            

Sue Ellen Myers, O.D.

Doctor of Optometry

A Purpose

“Nothing fulfills one’s sense of purpose more than being able to help people. I began early in my career working overseas in Kenya, Mexico, China, Guatemala, South Korea, and elsewhere. My family eventually moved to Nigeria to continue our  desire to be of service to others. My second child was even born there. It was not unusual to see people blinded from cataracts travel by foot miles to the clinic, then walk home being able to see that very same day. A difference was made in their lives. I’ll never forget that first time I got out of our Land Rover and walked to the village. There were hundreds of people from newborns to the very old who needed somebody to help. I felt humbled that God had enabled me to be a part of a team that could make a difference. Not just physical needs were met: the door was opened to give them hope in the overall sense. Our role was not just eye care, but life care.”

A Passion

“It  is a privilege to be a part of the LaHaye Team. I have as much personal satisfaction now as I did working overseas. That’s because we have a team that is passionate. Passionate about giving our patients the very best ophthalmology care we can provide. As the leader of our team, Dr. LaHaye has a great passion for excellence in making sure all of our patients receive the eye care they deserve. He is always seeking to improve on what we do, and there is no stopping point. LaHaye Total Eye Care allows me everything I need to practice the highest level of optometry possible. I am proud of the many accomplishments of our team. It is a privilege to come to work everyday. You, our patients, make our day. We have the best patients here at LaHaye!”

And A Promise

“Our team has promised to work together to give you the very best eye care available. Ophthalmology is always changing with new technology and new treatments and we promise to keep ahead because our team will work together to help you “change the way you see the world.” We want to improve the quality of your life by enhancing your vision by providing you with the most advanced and successful treatments available in the world today. From treating  corneal ulcers to determining if you are a great candidate for LAHayeSIK, to  screening your 6-month-old for retinoblastoma to treating your 90-year-old grandmother for macular degeneration, we are here for you. We strive to have a level of skill unparalleled  and a commitment to excellence in  our state-of-the-art facility. Purpose, passion, and a promise. That’s the LaHaye way.”

Continuing Education

• Pre/post-surgical eye care
• pharmacology
• neuro-optometry
• pediatrics
• systemic/ocular disease
• glaucoma
• visual science and contact lens

Jennifer Tate-Brasseaux, O.D.

The Family Connection

“I was born and raised in Acadiana, and attended UL-Lafayette for my undergraduate degree. I love the people, their value system, and the joie de vivre of the Acadiana community. I will always consider Opelousas my true home. I knew that I wanted to stay in this area when I began my professional career.

“My mother is the one who prompted me to pursue eyecare. She knew it was the ideal vehicle for me to be able to go into healthcare and still enjoy a fulfilling family life. I started working in eyecare as a technician for Dr. LaHaye many, many, years ago, and realized that my mom was right—it was the perfect choice for me! I went on to Optometry School and thank my mother every day for leading me in this direction.”

The Patient Connection

“One of the most rewarding experiences I have had was when I was in school, doing rotations through an indigent pediatric eye clinic. The parents were so relieved and appreciative that someone was going to take care of their little one’s vision! Seeing a child put on glasses for the first time to see the world with “new eyes” is truly wonderful for me. That’s what led me to specialize in pediatric eye care.

“I believe in forging personal connections with every patient with whom I come into contact. I remember the relief and hope in the eyes of a scared, newly diagnosed glaucoma patient after I assured him that we would be with him every step of the way, and that glaucoma was a treatable disease.”

The LaHaye Connection

“I was drawn back to LaHaye Total Eye Care because I enjoyed working here as a tech. You become part of the family. I like having people that I can talk “eyes” to— they enjoy hearing it, and actually get excited about. I know that not only does Dr. LaHaye enjoy what he does, but he cares how he does it. He doesn’t just conform to what the latest trend in medicine is, but he actually does the research to finding the best method. That is how I want to practice! That is how I want my patients treated!

“Treating disease is nothing like it used to be. Now we have so many more tools—like digital imaging, that help us with disease management. Things will only continue to get better and that much more amazing. I am glad I will be around to see it.”

Continuing Education

• Toric Soft Contact Lens Training
• Multifocal Contact Lens Training
• Gas Permeable Contact Lens Training
• Injections and Minor Surgical Procedures Training

Phillip Pearce, M.S., Clinical Audiologist

Mr. Pearce is a Board Certified Clinical Audiologist with over 30 years of experience.  He has been a resident of Lafayette for the past 30 years.  With a undergraduate degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in Speech Pathology/Audiology and a Master’s degree in Audiology from the University of Southern Mississippi, he offers his clinical experience exclusively to the LaHaye Center for Hearing.

Mr. Pearce works closely with your doctor at LaHaye in offering the most advanced testing of your hearing.  A complete profile of your hearing abilities will be gathered within minutes.  If a hearing instrument can help you, Mr. Pearce will be able to create a cost-effective hearing solution that dramatically improves your hearing and daily life.

Sean J. Daly, C.O.M.T., N.C.L.C., A.C.

Helping It Come Together

“Basically, all those letters mean I’m the guy who helps everything come together smoothly for our patients. From the moment they walk through the door to the moment they grab a cup of free frozen yogurt on the way out, I’m here to make sure they leave here feeling better, seeing better, and better-informed. “Whether they’ve been fitted for contact lenses or just had LASIK done, I make sure all their questions are answered. I’ve been doing this for over 20 years, so I hope that’s the very least I can do for them.”

Working It Out Together

“Working with Dr. LaHaye’s team has been the most challenging and most rewarding job I’ve ever had — and that includes ‘being all that I could be’ in the army! Dr. LaHaye is firm, stern, and painfully detail-oriented. He makes sure all our ‘i’s are dotted and all our ‘t’s are crossed. “He entrusts all of us with a lot of responsibility, because he believes in every member of this team. He even helps finance our continuing education to ensure we stay on top of the advancements in eye care. But I hope my patients don’t just feel cared for. I want them to have fun. In fact, I tell them to sit back and enjoy the ride. That’s what it’s all about here. Making it more than a procedure. It really is an experience.”

Reaching the Final Outcome — Together

“When I say we treat patients like family, I mean it. It’s not just for looks. I remember one young girl. She was about twelve. She had congenital cataracts and was legally blind. She wore thick, heavy glasses that really didn’t help matters much. We knew she had no money and no Medicaid benefits. Everyone here chipped in to buy her contacts. They radically improved her vision. Now, that’s what family does. And that’s something I’m very proud to be a part of.”