Ophthalmologists versus Optometrists

Making the choice between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist isn’t easy. It’s an important decision, and it’s one you shouldn’t make lightly — after all, few things are more important than your vision.

Making the right choice requires that you understand the differences between these two types of eye doctor. Below, Access Eye breaks down exactly what those differences are (and which doctor to choose!).

Ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist (M.D.) is a fully licensed medical doctor. All ophthalmologists have completed the following:

• Four years of university education
• Four years of medical school
• Four years of combined internship and residency training
• An optional one- or two-year subfield specialization

What Do Ophthalmologists Do?

Ophthalmologists are, first and foremost, medical doctors. During their lengthy education and long residency they receive advanced training in the treatment of eye diseases and other vision problems.

Ophthalmologists:

• Perform eye surgery (e.g., cataract removal, LASIK)
• Treat eye diseases and disorders
• Prescribe medication
• Consultation/integration into other branches of medicine

Should I see an Ophthalmologist?

Whether or not you should see an ophthalmologist depends on your specific needs. Ophthalmologists perform eye surgery, something optometrists cannot do. If you have an eye condition that requires advanced care, an ophthalmologist may be necessary.

Optometrist

An optometrist (O.D) is a doctor licensed to practice optometry. All optometrists have completed:

• Four years of university education
• Four years of optometry school
• An optional one year of fellowship

What Do Optometrists Do?

Optometrists focus on routine vision care. If they discover a more serious problem, they may refer you to a specialized ophthalmologist.

Optometrists:

• Perform routine eye exams
• Prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses
• Maintain your general eye health
• Treat uncomplicated eye diseases and disorders

Should I see an Optometrist?

It helps to think of optometrists as general, all-purpose eye doctors that take care of healthy eyes. Optometrists are your primary care provider. If you’re in the market for some new glasses or need an updated lens prescription, an optometrist is a perfect fit.

Likewise, common eye disorders are easily treated by optometrists. But they refer patients with advanced or serious eye conditions to specialized ophthalmologists.

What’s the Bottom Line?

If you have healthy eyes and need only basic care, an optometrist is likely the best fit.

However, only ophthalmologists can perform eye surgery and treat advanced eye diseases. If you’re suffering from chronic eye problems that require specialized medical care, an ophthalmologist is appropriate.