Doctor James Aversa and Doctor Despina Fikaris, the optometrists at the Heights Eye Center which provides family eye care, make it a policy to ensure that all staff members are up-to-date on the latest optometry technology and optometric techniques to make your visit as comfortable and effective as possible.
Read the profiles of our optometrists to find out more about their certifications and qualifications:
Doctor Aversa was born and raised in Hasbrouck Heights and is the son of Joseph and Marie Aversa. Joe, his father, was the former Captain of the Hasbrouck Heights Police Department. His mother, Marie, was a nursing supervisor, as well as a great mom. He has one sister, Renee, who is also a registered nurse. He is happily married to Kimberly, a reading specialist, and together they raise five children, Eric, Stephen, Emily, Ryan and Gabrielle.
He believes in staying involved in the community and supports its local events. He is a member and past president of the Lions Club, as well as a member of the Chamber of Commerce. He also participates in "Vision USA" which is a national program that provides free eyecare and low-cost eyeglasses to the needy.
Doctor Jim's outside interests include skiing, golf, basketball, and playing with his kids. Outside of his wife and family, optometry is his main love. He strives to stay on the cutting edge of technology in eyecare. By staying current, it allows him to provide the best possible eyecare for his patients. He has received numerous awards and certifications in optometry, which add to his knowledge base and give him the tools to practice.
Education:
Dr. Aversa received his undergraduate degree in Biology from Montclair State University. After obtaining a B.Sc. degree in physiological optics and Doctor of Optometry degree at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry, he completed a post-doctorate hospital residency program at the Wilkes Barre VA Medical Center. After five years of working in group eyecare practices, he decided to go into private practice. Dr. Aversa has been successfully practicing in Hasbrouck Heights since July of 1990.
Dr. Aversa is an Optometric Physician board certified in the treatment and management of ocular diseases.
Doctor Fikaris has been affiliated with Heights Eye Center since 2004. She received her undergraduate degree at Rutgers College in Biological Sciences and Exercise Science and completed her doctorate at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry. She completed her internships in primary care, ocular disease, cornea and contact lens, pediatrics, and low vision working with top surgeons and doctors throughout the country. Doctor Fikaris is board certified in the treatment and management of ocular disease.
Dr. Fikaris is also the clinical director at TLC-White Plains, NY. She has successfully counseled and managed thousands of laser vision correction patients. As clinical director, she oversees the clinical aspects of laser vision correction and aids in the management of patients. She is a frequent lecturer and is the author of numerous articles. In addition, she is a member of the American Optometric Association, New York State Optometric Association and the New Jersey Society of Optometric Physicians.
