Dr. Hersh Varma

Ophthalmology – Pediatric Eye Specialist

Columbus, OH

Dr. Hersh Varma is a neuro-ophthalmologist who helps patients navigate vision problems that intersect the eyes and brain. He is known for a careful, puzzle-solving approach—listening closely to each history, performing a thorough exam, and explaining findings in plain language. When appropriate, he offers surgical correction for ocular misalignment and works closely with colleagues in neurology, neurosurgery and pediatrics to coordinate advanced imaging, testing, and care. Dr. Varma completed medical school and ophthalmology residency at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, serving as chief resident, followed by fellowships in pediatric ophthalmology/strabismus and neuro-ophthalmology. His clinical interests include optic nerve disorders, optic neuritis and atrophy, nystagmus, amblyopia, and complex ocular motility problems such as strabismus and diplopia. He is passionate about education and lifelong learning and enjoys partnering with patients and families to build a clear plan forward.

Dr. Dema Atoum

Ophthalmology – Pediatric Eye Specialist

Cincinnati, OH

Dr. Dema Atoum is a pediatric ophthalmologist at Cincinnati Children’s who cares for eye problems in infants, children, and teens—from routine concerns to complex conditions. She treats lazy eye (amblyopia), eye misalignment (strabismus), blocked tear ducts, pediatric cataracts, and urgent injuries or infections. For fragile newborns, she participates in screening and treatment for retinopathy of prematurity, working closely with neonatology and anesthesia teams. Her goal is to help each child achieve their best possible vision while keeping visits calm, comfortable, and family-centered. Dr. Atoum completed ophthalmology training at the University of Jordan and advanced fellowship training in pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus at Cincinnati Children’s/University of Cincinnati (2013–2015). She communicates clearly with families and referring providers, welcomes second opinions, and enjoys partnering with parents and caregivers on practical care plans that fit a child’s daily life.

Dr. Aya Farag

Ophthalmology – Pediatric Eye Specialist

Cleveland, OH

Dr. Aya Farag is a pediatric ophthalmologist and pediatric glaucoma specialist at Cleveland Clinic’s Cole Eye Institute. She cares for children from infancy through adolescence, evaluating vision development and treating conditions that affect alignment, clarity, and comfort. Families value her calm, kid-friendly approach and the way she explains options step-by-step, whether care involves glasses, patching, medications, or surgery. She sees patients at Cleveland Clinic Main Campus and at Strongsville Family Health & Surgery Center for convenient access. Dr. Farag completed fellowship training at Emory University and Duke University after residency and internship at Cairo University Hospital and medical school at Cairo University School of Medicine. Her practice spans the full spectrum of pediatric eye care with particular expertise in childhood and congenital glaucoma, and she works closely with pediatricians and subspecialists to coordinate care for complex needs.