5 MINUTE READ | September 7, 2022 | Ophthalmology

What Does Being an Ophthalmologist Entail?

Have you ever wondered what exactly ophthalmology is, how it differs from optometry, and what it takes to become an ophthalmologist? When it comes to studying and/or treating the eye, there are a number of different professions that fall under this category. Read on to learn more about the answer to these questions, and more about ophthalmology.

Who is an Ophthalmologist?

Are you experiencing issues with your eyes or vision? If so, you may need to see an ophthalmologist. An ophthalmologist is a doctor who specializes in eye and vision care. They differ from optometrists and opticians in their levels of training and in what they can treat and diagnose. In order to become an ophthalmologist, individuals must complete 12-14 year of training and education, including medical school. These doctors are licensed to practice medicine ad surgery, allowing them to treat a wider range of conditions that optometrists and opticians. Training typically includes a four year college degree followed by at least eight years of additional surgical and medical training.

What Does an Ophthalmologist Treat?

An ophthalmologist can diagnose and treat all eye diseases such as dry eye syndrome, eyelid conditions such as blepharitis and styes, cataracts, diabetic eye disease, glaucoma or macular degeneration, perform eye surgery, and prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses. Many ophthalmologists are also involved in scientific research on the causes and cures for eye diseases and vision disorders.

While ophthalmologists are trained to care for all eye problems and conditions, some ophthalmologists specialize further in a specific area of medical or surgical eye care. This person is called a subspecialist.

Ophthalmologists vs Optometrists vs Opticians

Unlike ophthalmologists, optometrists and opticians are not medical doctors. However, members of all  of these professions can, and frequently do, work in the same office or practice. Optometrists are healthcare professionals who provide primary vision care. Optometrists hold a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, which requires the completion of 3–4 years of college and then 4 years of optometry school. Opticians are a type of healthcare technician. They are specially trained to help design, confirm, select, or fit corrective vision devices, including contact lenses and eyeglass lenses and frames. Opticians cannot diagnose or treat conditions and must follow the prescription and guidance of optometrists and ophthalmologists.

Contact Us Today

Our eye doctors and staff at Advanced Eye Surgeons in Boca Raton and Tamarac, Florida are eager to provide you with the highest quality of care for your eyes. Dr. Archana Gupta, an ophthalmologist certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, treats each patient as an individual and with compassion. She focuses on the anterior segment, cornea & external disease, and refractive surgery. In our practice, we use cutting-edge technology to give you results that will last and help you see clearly for years to come.

DLM Admin

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