Your eyes perform complex processes to give you the ability to see and discern objects and images from varying distances. This is why taking care of these sensory organs. However, it can be confusing to know that there are different eye care professionals in this field of medicine you need to consider. Should you visit an optometrist or an ophthalmologist? Let Perception Eyecare %20 Eyewear explain the differences between the two.
Educational Attainment and Specializations
Much of the difference comes down to education and levels of training. Optometrists went to optometry school and took up an extra year of residency at medical institutions. Once they graduated, they carry the OD abbreviation after their names, which means they earned a doctor of optometry degree.
Ophthalmologists, meanwhile, went to medical school for four years and took up postgraduate training for another four. They also take on specializations of their choice for a year or two, focusing on specific fields of medicine like pediatrics and geriatrics. Full-fledged ophthalmologists have either an MD (doctor of medicine) or a DO (doctor of osteopathic medicine) after their names.
Eye Care Services
Another notable difference between the two eye care professionals pertains to their capability to perform surgery. Ophthalmologists can perform eye-related surgeries; optometrists do not. Both, however, can prescribe medications, treat eye diseases, perform eye exams and prescribe eyeglasses and contacts.
You can rely on them to point you in the right direction for better eye health. For example, if you have been diagnosed with a serious condition like onset macular degeneration or glaucoma by your optometrist during a routine eye exam, he or she will refer you to an ophthalmologist.
Perception Eyecare %20 Eyewear offers a wide range of eye care services, including cataract and LASIK co-management, ocular disease treatment, comprehensive eye exams, eyeglasses and contact lens prescriptions. We use the latest technologies to ensure you get the best diagnosis and treatment plan possible. Give us a call at [company_phone] or fill out our contact form to request an appointment.