It is very important to see the correct eye specialist when it comes to your eyes and your ocular health. The level of training is quite different between an ophthalmologist, optometrist, and an optician.

Ophthalmologists Complete Medical School
An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the eye. Ophthalmologists complete four years of college, four years of medical school and then four years of residency. This residency also includes a year of internal medicine or general surgery. An ophthalmologist not only understands the anatomy and physiology of the eye, but has the knowledge and training of many other medical conditions. It is very important to know how one’s other medical conditions and medications affect the eye.

It is also advisable to see a professional that has studied the entire human body and can correctly diagnose systemic medical conditions while examining the eye.

Ophthalmologists are trained to treat and diagnose all eye diseases. Some ophthalmologist have additional training in speciality areas such as cornea, glaucoma, oculoplastics and retina. Ophthalmologists are licensed to practice medicine and surgery. Ophthalmologists can determine eyeglass prescriptions and fit contact lenses.

Optometrists Go to Optometry School
Optometrists can provide vision screening and prescribe and dispense contact lenses and glasses. They received their training in optometry school after college. Opticians are technicians who fit eyeglass prescriptions and frames.

It is important to see an ophthalmologist if there are any risk factors for eye disease. Many eye diseases have no symptoms and can have devastating effects on vision. A thorough, routine ophthalmologic exam can provide early detection and prevent severe vision loss.

Lauren Z. Gavaris, M.D.
Board Certified Ophthalmologist
Washington DC and Tyson’s Corner VA