About Us
Brian Flatt
Optometrist
Dr. Brian Flatt is a Kitchener native and graduated with honours from the University of Waterloo in 2009 with his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Optometry degrees. He interned at Ottawa South Optometry as a final year student before joining the office in the summer of 2009, and in 2021 he purchased the practice together with Dr. D’Silva. He has also worked as a Clinical Instructor with the University of Waterloo School of Optometry where he supervised optometry students in the University’s clinic. Brian enjoys seeing patients of all ages, and when not at the office he’s typically spending time with his wife and son on the slopes or at the beach!
Shawna D’Silva
Optometrist
Dr. Shawna D’Silva was born and raised in the KW area and is excited to continue serving patients in her hometown. Dr. D’Silva completed both her Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Optometry degrees at the University of Waterloo and graduated in 2010. She was awarded the Good-Lite paediatric award and continues to have a passion for working with children. After graduation she worked in both the GTA and Waterloo region in various practice settings before purchasing Ottawa South Optometry in 2021 with Dr. Flatt. Shawna resides in Waterloo with her husband and two young boys and the majority of her spare time is spent with her family enjoying the outdoors and staying active.
Don Nickel
Optometrist
Dr. Don Nickel graduated from the University of Waterloo with a Doctor of Optometry in 1993 and has been practicing at Ottawa South Optometry since 1999. He is a member of the Canadian Association of Optometrists and the Ontario Association of Optometrists. Dr. Nickel is also an Affiliate Doctor for the TLC Laser Centre and holds a certificate in Advanced Disease and Therapeutics. Outside of the office, Don is involved at his church and enjoys wood-working. Don is happily married and has three children. As a family they enjoy spending time together both at home and away, and are always looking forward to their next road trip
Liana Chinn
Optometrist
Dr. Liana Chinn was born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta. She completed her Doctor of Optometry at the University of Waterloo in 2009, where she was also recognized for Excellence in Contact Lens Care upon graduation. She has since called Kitchener home - investing in the community through Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Pregnancy Centre and Nutrition for Learning. Dr. Chinn also enjoys sharing her experience in a teaching capacity through clinical supervision of students at the School of Optometry as well as ASOPP for those who have optometry training outside North America. Outside of the office, Liana loves playing soccer and volleyball. She grew up playing the violin and has a strong appreciation for live theatre. Most of all, she loves to spend time with her husband and three kids -travelling, skiing, swimming and playing board games.
Stephen Code
Optometrist
Officially retired as of February 2023
Dr. Code was born and raised in Kitchener-Waterloo and received both his undergraduate and Doctor of Optometry degrees from the University of Waterloo. He started his practice at the Forest Glen Plaza, and in 1993 moved to the current location on Ottawa Street South. Dr. Code’s patients have received exceptional eye care and have come to appreciate his loyalty, commitment and dedication to each one of them.
"It has been a privilege to provide eye care to each one of you during my 37-year career. Thank you for your trust and support of the practice."
