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Dr. Kari Fossum
Ophthalmology
About Me
Dr. Kari Fossum is a pediatric ophthalmologist and adult strabismus surgeon who helps children and adults achieve comfortable, aligned vision. She evaluates and treats amblyopia, pediatric cataracts, and the full spectrum of eye misalignment, and offers both non-surgical therapies (glasses, prisms, vision therapy) and precise eye-muscle surgery when needed. Her care is family-centered and collaborative, with an emphasis on clear expectations, age-appropriate explanations, and long-term follow-up to support visual development.
Dr. Fossum completed ophthalmology residency at Vanderbilt Eye Institute, where she received the Resident Benchmark Award, followed by fellowship training in Pediatric Ophthalmology and Adult Strabismus at the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center. She earned her MD at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and studied Biology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She remains active in research and education, with recognition including an AAPOS Best in Show Poster Award. Patients and families value her calm manner, attention to detail, and practical guidance at every step.
Training
Pediatric Ophthalmology and Adult StrabismusUniversity of Michigan Kellogg Eye CenterFellowship
OphthalmologyVanderbilt Eye InstituteResidency
MDVanderbilt University School of MedicineMedical School
BiologyUniversity of Wisconsin–MadisonUndergraduate
Awards & Honors
Resident Benchmark Award
Vanderbilt Eye InstituteBest in Show Poster Award
American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS)
Publications, Presentations & Press
- Near-distance stereoacuity thresholds less than 60 arc seconds are more predictive of fusion than distance stereoacuity in adults with acquired strabismus and diplopiaJ AAPOS2024
- Keratoprosthesis: A literature review and update in childrenOphthalmology2023
Certifications & Licensure
- Licensed In:MI, MN
- License Numbers:4301511030, 80129


