People often ask about the difference between an Optometrist and an Ophthalmologist.
Although both are qualified to diagnose a variety of eye diseases and disorders, only Ophthalmologists are trained and qualified to perform eye surgery. An Ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (MD) specializing in eye care. After the completion of four years of undergraduate study, an Ophthalmologist must complete four years of medical school and spend a minimum of four years of Residency, and/or hospital-based training. An Optometrist has a degree of doctor of optometry. After completion of four years of undergraduate study, an Optometrist must attend four years of optometry school. It’s critical to have routine eye exams, not only with your Optometrist, but also with your Ophthalmologist to help you detect many treatable eye disorders and diseases, and to help you to preserve your very best vision.
