You may have noticed two different titles for eye doctors: optometrists and ophthalmologists. Both are qualified to diagnose a variety of eye diseases and disorders, including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration. Through a dilated eye exam, your optometrist or ophthalmologist may be the first to detect systemic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure and can refer you to your primary care doctor for further testing and treatment of these conditions. Optometrists and ophthalmologists can diagnose and treat certain eye conditions such as pink eye, allergies, corneal abrasions, and glaucoma with prescription medications.
An optometrist holds a degree of Doctor of Optometry (O.D.). Optometrists complete four years of undergraduate study, followed by four years of optometry school. In addition, a one year residency may be completed in a specific area of practice.
An ophthalmologist is a Medical Doctor (M.D.) specializing in eye care. Ophthalmologists complete four years of undergraduate study, four years of optometry school and a minimum of four years of residency. Some ophthalmologists will complete a 1 to 2 year fellowship in a specialized area such as pediatrics, glaucoma or retina.
One main difference between and ophthalmologist and an optometrist is that ophthalmologists are trained to perform surgery. Ophthalmologists perform surgeries such as cataract surgery, glaucoma surgery and blepharoplasty (eyelid reconstruction surgery). They are also able to perform laser procedures for glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and after cataract. Injections are now being done, as well, for the management of macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Optometrists work closely with ophthalmologists to refer patients that need surgical treatment and in their post-operative care. Optometrists specialize in the fitting of contact lenses to correct near sightedness, far sightedness and astigmatism. They are also able to fit specialty contact lenses to correct keratoconus.
Whether or not you wear glasses or contacts, a complete eye exam with dilation is very important to assess the health of your eyes on a yearly basis. Many eye diseases are asymptomatic and through a dilated eye exam, your optometrist or ophthalmologist can detect an eye disease you may not even know you have, which allows for earlier and more successful treatment.
An optometrist holds a degree of Doctor of Optometry (O.D.). Optometrists complete four years of undergraduate study, followed by four years of optometry school. In addition, a one year residency may be completed in a specific area of practice.
An ophthalmologist is a Medical Doctor (M.D.) specializing in eye care. Ophthalmologists complete four years of undergraduate study, four years of optometry school and a minimum of four years of residency. Some ophthalmologists will complete a 1 to 2 year fellowship in a specialized area such as pediatrics, glaucoma or retina.
One main difference between and ophthalmologist and an optometrist is that ophthalmologists are trained to perform surgery. Ophthalmologists perform surgeries such as cataract surgery, glaucoma surgery and blepharoplasty (eyelid reconstruction surgery). They are also able to perform laser procedures for glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and after cataract. Injections are now being done, as well, for the management of macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Optometrists work closely with ophthalmologists to refer patients that need surgical treatment and in their post-operative care. Optometrists specialize in the fitting of contact lenses to correct near sightedness, far sightedness and astigmatism. They are also able to fit specialty contact lenses to correct keratoconus.
Whether or not you wear glasses or contacts, a complete eye exam with dilation is very important to assess the health of your eyes on a yearly basis. Many eye diseases are asymptomatic and through a dilated eye exam, your optometrist or ophthalmologist can detect an eye disease you may not even know you have, which allows for earlier and more successful treatment.
| Optometrist | Ophthalmologist | |
| Degree | Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) | Medical Degree (M.D.) |
| Perform eye exams | X | X |
| Diagnose eye diseases | X | X |
| Diagnose and treat eye conditions | X | X |
| Perform surgeries | X | |
| Fit contact lenses | X |