Find a Specialist

Dr. Erin Nichols is a board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon at Ophthalmic Physicians Incorporated in Mentor. She provides routine and advanced eye care for adults, including modern cataract surgery and laser vision correction, and helps patients manage chronic conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease. Patients value her clear communication and her steady focus on comfort and safety before, during, and after treatment. Dr. Nichols graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Pittsburgh, then earned her medical degree at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. She completed a preliminary medicine internship at Pennsylvania Hospital and an ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye Hospital, where she contributed to research and presented at national meetings. Her honors include the J. Donald M. Gass Award and a Canby Robinson Society full-tuition scholarship. In the clinic and surgery center, Dr. Nichols tailors care to each person’s visual goals, offering thoughtful guidance on lens and laser options so patients can make confident decisions.

Dr. Kevin Keppel is a comprehensive ophthalmologist with focused expertise in medical retina. He cares for adults with diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal vascular disease, and other conditions that benefit from advanced imaging, laser, and in-office treatments. He also provides general ophthalmic care and coordinates cataract care when indicated. Patients value his calm explanations, attention to detail, and team-based approach across Cole Eye Institute locations. Dr. Keppel earned his medical degree at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, completed an internship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and finished ophthalmology residency at Cleveland Clinic’s Cole Eye Institute. His practice emphasizes personalized monitoring and evidence-based therapies—such as anti-VEGF injections and targeted laser—aimed at preserving vision and quality of life.

Dr. Jing Sun is a comprehensive ophthalmologist with Columbus Ophthalmology Associates. She provides full-scope medical and surgical eye care, including evaluation and treatment of cataracts, refractive errors, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and uveitis. Patients describe her as thoughtful and collaborative, and she strives to ensure that each person feels like an active partner in decision-making about their vision. Dr. Sun completed her undergraduate studies in molecular and cellular biology at Vanderbilt University and earned her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She went on to ophthalmology residency at Indiana University School of Medicine, where she was elected chief resident. Her training exposed her to a diverse patient population and a wide range of eye conditions, preparing her to care for individuals from all walks of life. Outside of medicine, she enjoys exploring Columbus with her family and spending time in local art studios.

Andrew D. Barfell, MD, is a cataract and refractive surgeon at Cincinnati Eye Institute. He offers laser vision correction, EVO ICL, refractive lens exchange, and modern cataract surgery, tailoring lens options to each patient’s goals. During training he performed hundreds of cataract procedures, delivered intravitreal injections for macular degeneration, and used lasers to treat glaucoma and retinal disease. Patients value his clear explanations and practical guidance before and after surgery. Dr. Barfell earned a Bachelor of Science from Cedarville University and his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. He completed an internship at The Jewish Hospital followed by ophthalmology residency at the University of Cincinnati, where he served as a rotating Chief Resident and received the Alan and Karen Zalta Resident Research Award for work on corneal transplant outcomes.

Dr. Kathleen Jee is a board-certified ophthalmologist at Northeast Ohio Eye Surgeons in Brecksville who specializes in cataract and refractive surgery. She focuses on helping patients improve vision and quality of life through careful evaluation and individualized surgical planning. She has performed thousands of vision-correcting surgeries and offers options tailored to each patient’s goals, including the implantable contact lens (ICL) procedure. As a refractive surgery patient herself, she understands the questions and concerns that come with choosing a vision correction procedure and emphasizes clear, practical guidance. Dr. Jee earned her M.D. from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and completed her ophthalmology residency at the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins University. She also graduated summa cum laude from the University of Maryland with a bachelor’s degree in bioengineering, strengthening her interest in technology-driven eye care.

Dr. Joshua Buzzard is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who provides friendly, detail-oriented care for adults across the full spectrum of medical and surgical eye needs. He sees patients for routine and problem-focused exams, and he is especially focused on cataract care, glaucoma management, and vision changes related to diabetes and age-related macular degeneration. Patients appreciate his clear explanations and collaborative approach to planning treatment. Dr. Buzzard earned his medical degree at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and completed an internship at University Hospitals in Cleveland before ophthalmology residency at the University of Maryland. He joined Fairview Eye Center in 2024 and offers cataract surgery as well as minimally invasive options for glaucoma when appropriate. In addition to clinical care, he has published research on imaging and visual fields in glaucoma and diabetic eye disease, and he enjoys helping patients understand how modern diagnostic technology guides their care.

Dr. Chandruganesh Rasendran is an ophthalmologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center who provides comprehensive medical and surgical eye care. He cares for adults with a wide range of eye conditions, including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and other causes of vision loss. His goal is to help patients understand their diagnosis, feel heard during each visit, and choose treatments that fit their needs and priorities. Dr. Rasendran completed medical school at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, followed by internship and ophthalmology residency at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center. During training he gained experience with advanced diagnostic imaging, laser procedures, and microsurgical techniques for cataract and other anterior segment conditions. In addition to his clinical work, he serves as a clinical assistant professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, where he teaches trainees and contributes to academic eye care.

Dr. Timothy Grosel is a comprehensive ophthalmologist with Cleveland Clinic, caring for adult patients at several locations in Northeast Ohio. He provides routine and medically complex eye care, including diagnosis and treatment of common eye diseases and cataract evaluation and surgery, with a focus on helping patients maintain clear, comfortable vision. Dr. Grosel completed his ophthalmology residency at Emory University School of Medicine, where he also completed an internship. He earned his medical degree from The Ohio State University College of Medicine and his undergraduate degree from The Ohio State University. This broad training allows him to address eye problems in the context of each patient’s overall health. Patients describe Dr. Grosel as thorough, kind and easy to talk to. He takes time to explain exam findings, review treatment options, and answer questions so patients feel prepared and informed. He strives to partner with each person to create a care plan that fits their needs and lifestyle.

Dr. James Van Hulle is a cataract surgeon who offers personalized solutions to help patients see clearly at all distances. He performs laser-assisted cataract surgery and modern techniques designed to enhance precision and recovery. In addition, he treats certain forms of glaucoma with minimally invasive procedures and intracameral implants, and provides pre- and post-operative care for LASIK patients. Dr. Van Hulle earned his medical degree from The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He completed an internal medicine internship and ophthalmology residency through Northeast Ohio Medical University, finishing residency in 2019. He also serves as a clinical professor of ophthalmology at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. Patients appreciate his calm manner, clear explanations, and focus on matching treatment choices to their daily visual needs.

Dr. Alyssa M. Darrah is a board-certified ophthalmologist who provides comprehensive medical and surgical eye care with a focus on clear communication and shared decision-making. A Cleveland native, she earned dual undergraduate degrees in neurobiology and computer science from Georgetown University, graduating magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa. She went on to Georgetown University School of Medicine, where she was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha, and completed her internship and ophthalmology residency at The Ohio State University. Dr. Darrah’s clinical interests include modern cataract surgery with standard and premium lens options, glaucoma management, and functional eyelid procedures. She also offers selected cosmetic services—including upper eyelid blepharoplasty, peri-orbital CO2 laser resurfacing, and botulinum toxin injections—tailored to patients seeking natural-looking results. Dr. Darrah is currently accepting new patients at The Eye Centers’ Middleburg Heights and Fairview Park locations.

Dr. Julia Hamad is a comprehensive ophthalmologist at Cincinnati Eye Institute, caring for patients in Fairfield and Blue Ash. She provides both medical and surgical eye care and enjoys partnering with patients to explain diagnoses, review options, and tailor treatment plans to their goals. Her clinical interests span cataracts and modern lens options, diabetic eye disease, glaucoma, dry eye disease, and age-related macular degeneration. Born and raised in Cincinnati, Dr. Hamad is proud to serve the communities where she grew up and trained. She completed undergraduate studies at Indiana University, earned her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, and finished ophthalmology residency at the University of Missouri–Kansas City, where she was elected chief resident. Outside the clinic, she stays active, spends time with family (including her dog, Hazel), and values wellness as part of long-term vision care for her patients.

Dr. Andre N. Martinez is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who provides medical and surgical eye care for adults. He enjoys helping patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options in clear, practical terms, and offers individualized plans ranging from routine vision care to advanced surgery. During residency he performed hundreds of cataract procedures, intravitreal injections for macular degeneration, and laser treatments for glaucoma and retinal disease, experience that informs his careful, outcomes-focused approach. Originally from Texas, Dr. Martinez graduated magna cum laude in Microbiology from Texas A&M University and earned his medical degree at UT Health San Antonio, where he finished in the top 10 of his class. He completed both an internal medicine internship and ophthalmology residency at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, serving as chief resident and receiving an Outstanding Mentoring and Teaching award. He is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and welcomes new patients seeking compassionate, evidence-based care.

Dr. Sudhinder Koushik is an ophthalmologist specializing in cataract, refractive, and anterior segment surgery. He takes a patient-centered approach, listening closely to each person’s goals and tailoring a plan that fits their eyes and lifestyle. After earning his medical degree at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, he completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Missouri’s Mason Eye Institute, where he was selected as Chief Resident. Patients appreciate his clear explanations, steady surgical technique, and the way he partners with them through every step of care. At ClearChoice Custom LASIK Center in the Cleveland area, Dr. Koushik evaluates candidates for modern vision correction and advanced lens options. Whether someone is exploring laser vision correction for contact-lens independence or seeking to restore clarity after cataracts, he helps compare procedures and technologies so decisions feel confident and informed. Outside the clinic and OR, he enjoys staying active and spending time with family—perspectives that reinforce his commitment to safe, compassionate eye care.

Dr. Marlene Azar practices medical and surgical comprehensive ophthalmology with a down-to-earth, educational approach. She helps patients understand their diagnosis, lens choices, and the steps of treatment so they can make informed decisions that fit their goals and routines. Her care spans routine exams and contact lens updates to cataract surgery planning and management of chronic eye disease. Dr. Azar earned a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience from the University of Michigan and a medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine, where she was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha. After a transitional year at DMC-Sinai Grace Hospital, she completed ophthalmology residency at Louisiana State University in New Orleans. She treats cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and macular degeneration, and enjoys partnering with patients to protect vision over the long term.

Dr. Kelsey Durbin is a board-certified ophthalmologist who provides comprehensive eye care with a friendly, down-to-earth style. She sees adults for routine exams and a wide range of conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes-related changes, and dry eye. Patients appreciate her clear explanations and practical care plans that fit their daily lives—from optimizing drops and lifestyle steps to discussing when a procedure may help. Dr. Durbin earned her medical degree at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, completed a transitional year at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, and finished ophthalmology residency at MedStar Georgetown University/Washington Hospital Center. At Knox Community Hospital she offers coordinated care close to home and partners with primary care and endocrinology when systemic health affects the eyes. Her goal is simple: preserve and improve vision so patients can keep doing what matters most.

Dr. Ian Patterson is a board-certified ophthalmologist who provides comprehensive eye care for adults, with a special interest in cataract surgery and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery. A Canton native, he returned home after training to serve the community that shaped his early years. Patients appreciate his clear explanations and collaborative style—reviewing test results together, outlining options, and building a plan that fits their goals and daily life. Dr. Patterson completed medical school at the University of Cincinnati, followed by ophthalmology residency at the University of Chicago. He performs modern cataract surgery with a focus on safety, precision, and visual quality, and offers surgical and laser options for glaucoma when appropriate. He also manages chronic conditions such as diabetic eye disease and macular degeneration and provides routine and urgent comprehensive eye care.

Dr. Tara Cayton is a comprehensive ophthalmologist with a special interest in cataract surgery, glaucoma care, and dry eye disease. She provides full-spectrum medical and laser treatment options and offers minimally invasive glaucoma surgery when appropriate. Known for her calm, friendly manner, Dr. Cayton explains findings in plain language and partners closely with patients to tailor care plans that match their visual goals and daily activities. She also manages diabetic eye disease and general eye care needs for adults. Dr. Cayton graduated magna cum laude from Macalester College before earning her medical degree at Penn State College of Medicine. She completed internship and ophthalmology residency at The Ohio State University, where she presented research at regional and national meetings and was elected to Alpha Omega Alpha. Outside clinic she enjoys community activities, travel, and time with family—and brings that same thoughtfulness and balance to her patient care.

Dr. Suzanne Kirk is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who enjoys building long-term relationships with patients and families. She offers clear, practical guidance for routine and complex eye concerns, and tailors cataract surgery plans—including lens choices—to each person’s lifestyle. Patients describe her care as detailed, kind, and focused on achieving reliable vision with comfort and safety. Born and raised in Chicago, Dr. Kirk earned her medical degree from Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine with Research Honors and completed ophthalmology residency at Loyola University Medical Center, where she served as Chief Resident. She is active in community outreach and continues to enjoy educating patients about preventive eye health and treatment options.

Dr. Ryan E. Chenevey is a board-certified ophthalmologist who cares for patients in Wooster and the surrounding communities. A Wayne and Richland County native, he earned a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry from Denison University and his medical degree from Wright State University’s Boonshoft School of Medicine. He completed his ophthalmology residency at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, serving as chief resident, and joined Wooster Eye Center in 2020. Dr. Chenevey provides comprehensive eye care with particular expertise in refractive cataract surgery, medical retina care including intravitreal injections, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). He takes time to explain findings and options in plain language, tailoring plans to each patient’s goals while coordinating care when systemic conditions affect the eyes. In addition to clinical practice, he participates in hospital and community leadership in Wooster. Outside the clinic, he enjoys spending time outdoors with his family.

Dr. Jeremy Maylath is an ophthalmologist at Cincinnati Eye Institute who provides medical and surgical comprehensive eye care. He specializes in cataract surgery and treats common conditions including glaucoma, diabetic eye disease and macular degeneration. Patients can expect friendly, straightforward communication and shared decision-making—reviewing test results together and choosing between observation, drops, laser or surgery when appropriate. Dr. Maylath earned his medical degree at Texas A&M University College of Medicine and completed internship and ophthalmology residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, where he served as chief resident. He sees patients in Maineville and collaborates with nearby surgery centers to provide convenient access to care. Whether you need a first cataract evaluation, help with glare and night driving, or support managing chronic eye disease, Dr. Maylath aims to deliver safe, efficient care centered on your visual goals.

Kristen Zulliger, OD, MS, is an optometrist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center who emphasizes early detection, practical education, and shared decision-making to help patients protect their sight. She provides comprehensive eye exams and ongoing care for conditions such as dry eye, red and irritated eyes, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetes-related retinal disease, and offers specialized monitoring when medications like hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) affect ocular health. Patients can expect clear explanations at every step of the exam and thoughtful guidance on eyewear, comfort, and long-term eye wellness. Dr. Zulliger completed an optometry residency in ocular disease and primary care at the Columbus and Chillicothe VA Medical Centers. A third-generation Buckeye, she earned both her Doctor of Optometry and a master’s degree at Ohio State, where she also enjoys the collegial, patient-focused environment of an academic medical center. Outside clinic, she participates in community education to raise awareness about regular eye exams and ways to prevent avoidable vision loss.

Dr. Jacqueline Erdahl is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who enjoys caring for patients through every stage of eye health, from routine exams to advanced surgical needs. Raised in Michigan, she earned her bachelor’s degree at Michigan State University and completed her medical degree at A.T. Still University. She went on to complete an ophthalmology residency as chief resident at Kettering Health in Dayton, where she refined her skills in diagnosing and treating common and complex eye conditions. At Bloom Family Eye Surgeons, Dr. Erdahl’s interests include cataract surgery, diabetic eye exams, glaucoma care, and treatments for diabetic retinopathy. She values clear communication and shared decision-making so patients understand their options and feel comfortable with their care plan. Outside the clinic, she enjoys time with her husband, son, and extended family and friends. She is welcoming new patients and looks forward to building long-term relationships focused on preserving and improving vision.

Dr. Bilal Ahmed is a cataract and refractive surgeon dedicated to personalized, high-quality care. He offers modern surgical options designed to reduce dependence on glasses, and counsels each patient on the lens and vision plan that best matches their goals and lifestyle. His practice interests include advanced cataract techniques and a full range of refractive solutions for patients seeking clearer distance and near vision. Dr. Ahmed earned his medical degree from the University of Toledo College of Medicine and completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Iowa, where he served as Chief Resident and Chief Medical Editor of EyeRounds. Originally from Kentucky, he graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pikeville. He enjoys mentoring trainees and hosting a podcast that supports residents and medical students, and he brings that same educator’s mindset to every patient visit.

Adam H. H. Altman, MD, is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who enjoys caring for patients across the full spectrum of eye health—from routine exams to complex surgical solutions. His practice includes cataract surgery with advanced technology IOLs, Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS), and a wide range of refractive options such as ICLs, LASIK, PRK, SMILE, and refractive lens exchange. He also treats corneal surface disease with collagen cross-linking and pterygium surgery, and performs functional eyelid procedures including ptosis repair, blepharoplasty, and correction of ectropion and entropion. A Cincinnati native, Dr. Altman earned his MD at the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine and completed ophthalmology residency with the U.S. Air Force at the San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education Consortium. He also holds a Master of Science from the University of Cincinnati. During nine years of military service, he served as Chief of Ophthalmology at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and Chief of Aerospace Medicine at Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam. He has performed nearly 5,000 refractive procedures with a 98% rate of achieving 20/20 or better uncorrected vision, and brings that experience to clear, collaborative, and results-focused care.