EXCEL EYE CENTER - Key Persons


Aaron D. Smalley

Job Titles:
  • Is a Comprehensive Ophthalmologist, Providing Medical and Surgical Eye Care Services to Patients of All Ages
  • Member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • Practice Specialty
Aaron D. Smalley, MD is a comprehensive ophthalmologist, providing medical and surgical eye care services to patients of all ages. Dr. Smalley's interests in ophthalmology include diagnosing and treating various medical and surgical eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes, dry eye, eye infections and eye injuries. He also enjoys providing treatment for refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia, and astigmatism with glasses, contact lenses and surgical treatment options when needed. With the opening of an Excel Eye Center office in Lehi at the beginning of 2009, Dr. Smalley is looking forward to providing ophthalmology services to adults and children in both northern Utah County and southern Salt Lake County. Dr. Smalley completed his ophthalmology residency training at the Penn State Hershey Eye Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania. He also completed his internship in Internal Medicine at the Penn State Hershey Medical Center. Dr. Smalley graduated from the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. Dr. Smalley is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Utah Ophthalmology Society. He also speaks Spanish fluently.

Austin J. Woolley

Job Titles:
  • Practice Specialty
Austin J. Woolley, MD is a board certified comprehensive ophthalmologist, providing advanced medical and surgical eye care. He specializes in advanced cataract surgery, delivering consistency and precision in challenging cataract cases. His experience in different intraocular lenses and surgical techniques helps patients reduce their dependence on corrective lenses by treating presbyopia and reducing astigmatism at the time of cataract surgery. In addition to other eye conditions, Dr. Woolley also provides general ophthalmology eye care for the management of diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and trauma. He also focuses on refractive errors such as astigmatism, myopia, presbyopia, and hyperopia. Dr. Woolley earned his Bachelor of Science degree at Brigham Young University majoring in Environmental Science. He attended medical school at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio, where he earned his Medical Doctorate. He graduated with honors and distinction in research. His internship in internal medicine was completed at MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio. He completed ophthalmology residency at the prestigious Stein Eye Institute (UCLA) in Los Angeles, California, one of the highest ranked programs in the nation. Throughout his training he was the recipient of several honors and awards including the Dean's Summer Research Award and the Ted Castele Award for Civic Professionalism. His scientific contributions include authoring research papers which have been published in academic journals, including the American Journal of Ophthalmology. He has also written textbook chapters on ocular anatomy and cataract surgery. Dr. Woolley is passionate about taking care of his patients and helping them achieve a greater quality of life by improving their vision. He believes that clear communication is the key to a beneficial doctor-patient relationship. Dr. Woolley is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology.

Brad S. Henriksen

Job Titles:
  • Practice Specialty
Brad S. Henriksen, MD, is a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist in pediatric eye care

Christopher J. Ricks

Job Titles:
  • Member of the Utah Ophthalmology Society
  • Practice Specialty
Christopher J. Ricks, MD is a comprehensive ophthalmologist trained in a wide variety of medical eye conditions and surgical procedures. Dr. Ricks specializes in cataract surgery as well as LASIK and PRK. As a comprehensive ophthalmologist, he sees patients with all types of eye conditions including retinal diseases, macular degeneration, diabetes, dry eye, trauma, glaucoma, eye and eyelid infections, pterygiums, and many other types of eye disorders. Dr. Ricks graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Science degree in business management. He attended medical school at the University of Texas in Houston, Texas, and completed his internship and ophthalmology training at the John A. Moran Eye Clinic at the University of Utah. Dr. Ricks has published and been involved in research relating to glaucoma, congenital genetic disorders, macular degeneration, solar retinopathy, physician wellness, and ocular melanoma. Dr. Ricks chose the profession of ophthalmology because he enjoys working with people in a physician-patient team environment. He believes that listening to his patients, understanding their problems, and working with them to accomplish their goals is the key to great health care. Dr. Ricks is passionate about serving those with limited access to health care. He has volunteered his time working in Ghana, Tonga, India, the Navajo Nation, and in numerous local free clinics for refugees and the homeless. Dr. Ricks is a member of the Utah Ophthalmology Society, Utah Medical Association and American Academy of Ophthalmology. He has represented the state of Utah in Washington, D.C., to educate our national politicians and advocate for ever-improving patient care. Dr. Ricks is married and has four children who have all inherited his red hair. Dr. Ricks is fluent in Tongan. He enjoys any activity that gets him outside, including triathlons, skiing, and tennis; although he will never turn down a good book.

DELTA EYE

Job Titles:
  • DOCTOR
Are you looking for an eye doctor in the Delta, Utah, area? Come to Excel Eye Center in Delta, Utah, for general eye care, LASIK, cataract care, and much more. Our Delta eye doctors and caring staff will assist you with routine checkups and ensure an accurate diagnosis if needed. We use only the highest quality equipment and trained staff in our evaluations, so you know you're getting the best help possible. Instead of traveling hours to receive quality eye care, Excel Eye Care Center is here to provide quality care within the comfort of your home town. Schedule your eye care appointment today!

FILLMORE EYE

Job Titles:
  • DOCTOR
If you're looking for an eye doctor in Fillmore, Utah, consider the knowledgeable staff at Excel Eye Center. Our Fillmore location is conveniently located to serve residents of Central Utah with comprehensive eye care. At Excel Eye Center, we understand the importance of providing high-quality care throughout our beautiful state. Instead of driving hours to see an eye doctor, receive educated and caring service from our eye doctors in Fillmore. We use only the most advanced and precise equipment in our eye examinations, ensuring an accurate diagnosis. Schedule your appointment with Excel Eye Care Center in Fillmore, Utah, today!

GUNNISON EYE

Job Titles:
  • DOCTOR
Are you looking for an eye doctor in Gunnison, Utah? We welcome all patients at Excel Eye Center. Our Gunnison location is conveniently located in Central Utah, providing service to residents in the nearby towns of Centerfield, Fayette, Axtell, Redmond, Sterling, and more. In our Gunnison location, our caring staff provides knowledgeable cataract treatments, glaucoma treatments, and comprehensive eye care. Using only the highest quality equipment, we ensure a proper and accurate diagnosis, ensuring you receive the care you need. Instead of traveling hours for quality care, receive the best treatment in your home town. Schedule your appointment with our friendly Gunnison eye doctors today!

James G. Theurer

Job Titles:
  • Practice Specialty

Jon B. Gunther

Job Titles:
  • Member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • Practice Specialty
  • Specializes in All Medical Retinal Conditions, Including Diabetic Eye Disease and Macular Degeneration
Dr. Gunther has performed extensive clinical research and has served as an investigator for numerous national clinical research trials for macular degeneration. His extensive research has been published in numerous ophthalmology journals and textbooks. Dr. Gunther completed his medical retina fellowship and residency in ophthalmology at the University of Wisconsin hospital and clinics. He also completed an internship in Internal Medicine at the University of Utah School of Medicine. Dr. Gunther graduated from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City. He received his Bachelor of Science degree (magna cum laude) in finance from Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah. Dr. Gunther has a keen interest in helping others improve their vision and quality of life, and has participated in medical volunteer work in Ghana, Honduras and the Philippines. He has also been a clinical instructor of ophthalmology for medical students and residents at the University of Wisconsin. Dr. Gunther is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Jon B. Gunther, MD specializes in all medical retinal conditions, including diabetic eye disease and macular degeneration.

Joseph S. Schmutz

Job Titles:
  • Practice Specialty

Justin T. Wilkinson

Job Titles:
  • Practice Specialty

Mason A. Schmutz

Job Titles:
  • Practice Specialty

Nathan G. Lambert

Job Titles:
  • Practice Specialty

Peter A. Ririe

Job Titles:
  • Member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, American
  • Practice Specialty
Dr. Peter Ririe is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and the Association of Research in Vision and Ophthalmology. "As ophthalmologists, we can have a meaningful impact on our patient's quality of life. Some of the surgeries we perform can result in improved vision, literally overnight." -Dr. Peter Ririe

Reese M. Loveless

Job Titles:
  • Member of the Utah Optometric Association
Reese M. Loveless, OD is a comprehensive optometrist who focuses on specialty contact lenses to help treat conditions such as keratoconus, corneal transplants, corneal irregularities, presbyopia, and pediatric aphakia. He also treats patients requiring myopia management, ocular prosthetics, and prosthetic contact lenses. In addition, Dr. Loveless is trained in medical optometry which allows him to help manage conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, as well as other ocular conditions. Dr. Loveless graduated cum laude with his Bachelor of Arts degree from Utah Valley University. He received his Doctor of Optometry from Arizona College of Optometry at Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona, graduating with clinical honors. He completed his residency at the Salt Lake City VA Medical Center where he focused on general eye care, corneal care, and contact lenses. He received specialty contact lens training at the Moran Eye Center. Dr. Loveless enjoys working with patients of all ages. He strives to stay current with specialty contact lens technology. He enjoys seeing the results that specialty lenses can have in the lives of his patients, helping them achieve vision they may never have thought possible. Dr. Loveless is a member of the Utah Optometric Association, and American Optometric Association. Dr. Loveless is a native of Mapleton, Utah. He enjoys spending time with his wife and children, playing games, going on family hikes, cooking, and reading books. Dr. Loveless is fluent in French.

Robert L. Simmons

Robert L. Simmons, OD has a long history in optometry with years of specialized experience in medical optometry and fitting contact lenses and glasses. Dr. Simmons previously practiced at Southern Eye Care in St. George, Utah. Prior to that, he acted as a staff optometrist and later a clinic director at The Eye Institute of Utah in Salt Lake City. He continues to provide comprehensive optometric care with an emphasis in contact lenses and advanced care, and is a LASIK co-managing doctor. "I enjoy working with patients and helping them to see more clearly. It is a very rewarding experience for me," said Dr. Simmons. Dr. Simmons graduated with an Associate of Arts degree from Dixie College. He also attended the University of Utah and Westminster College in Salt Lake City. In 1990, he received a Bachelor of Science degree and, in 1992, a Doctor of Optometry degree - both from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee. He completed an internship at The Eye Institute of Utah. Dr. Simmons is a member of the American Optometric Association, Utah Optometric Association and a former president of the Southern Utah Optometric Society. "Dr. Simmons provides excellent care to our patients and continues the tradition of eye care excellence at Excel," said Jess N. Hunsaker, M.D.

Scott W. Yeates

Job Titles:
  • Member of the American Association of Pediatric Ophthalmology
  • Practice Specialty
Dr. Yeates is a member of the American Association of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus as well as the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

William V. Hatch

William V. Hatch, OD has been practicing optometry since 1995. He also specializes in providing contact lens and glasses prescriptions. Dr. Hatch is experienced in prosthetic contact lenses and specialty contact lenses for keratoconus (corneal irregularities that can lead to vision distortion) and other corneal abnormalities. Dr. Hatch is also trained in medical optometric care and co-management of refractive surgery, which enables him to remain actively involved with his patients throughout any surgical procedures they might require. With more than 60 percent of Americans now requiring corrective eye wear, Dr. Hatch understands the need for quality and accurate eye care. He performs comprehensive eye exams for patients using the most advanced and precise equipment to diagnose vision problems and to prescribe appropriate remedies. Dr. Hatch enjoys helping people with their eye care needs and working with them to discover how today's technology can improve their vision and their lives. "It is a thrill to help somebody see more clearly," says Dr. Hatch. "Technology has greatly improved over the last few years, and with the extensive contact lens options available, it is possible to successfully fit most people with contact lenses." Dr. Hatch earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah in 1991. He earned his Doctor of Optometry degree with honors from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee in 1995. He completed an externship at Omni Eye Services of Atlanta. He is a member of the American Optometric Association and the Utah Optometric Assocation.