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Most people consider the job of all eye specialists to be the same. However, such a notion is wrong. Primarily, the designation of eye specialist can be categorized into three different parts, which are – optician, optometrist, and ophthalmologist.
Each of these classes is different from one and the other. They offer their expertise in a diverse field of eye conditions. Here, we are going to talk about each of the eye specialists and discuss their job. So, without any further ado, let's get started!
1. Optometrist
An optometrist, in essence, provides each and every type of primary vision care. Their field of expertise might range from evaluating eyesight to treating the complications regarding vision. If an eye specialist wishes to become an optometrist, then he/she will visit a school of optometry instead of any medical institute.
An optometrist will offer the following services to his/her patients.
- Conducting vision evaluation and eye examination
- Prescribing and providing vision corrective lenses
- Evaluating eye indiscretions and detecting the underlying issue
- Offering visual rehabilitation
- Proffering medications to cure certain eye conditions
- Performing surgical procedures on eyes
Unlike an ophthalmologist, an optometrist can be found quite easily. Therefore, many people tend to mistake the former as the latter. Thus, before you do opt for a specific eye specialist, make sure to ask them about their area of practice.
2. Ophthalmologist
Unlike an optometrist, an ophthalmologist tends to go to a medical school. They would require at least eight years of training before becoming an expert. However, once they do complete their courses, they become licensed to practice surgery and medication.
Ophthalmologist can prescribe medication, conduct eye evaluation, and provide glasses, etc. However, aside from that, they can also:
- Perform intricate eye surgeries
- Conduct research to know more about a particular disease and find its cure
- Diagnose eye condition or issue in a lab
- Cure ailments through medication and other treatment procedure
Aside from mainstream practice, some ophthalmologists also tend to work on various subspecialties. These are –
Cornea Specialist: A cornea specialist will focus more on the issues regarding your cornea and treat them through surgery and medication. They are also certified for conducting corneal transplantation.
Glaucoma Specialist: As the name implies, the job of a glaucoma specialist is to treat glaucoma. He/she usually takes care of the pressure on the optic nerve and attempts to reduce the overall damage.
Retina Specialist: The primary task of a retina specialist is to treat retinal conditions. It might include surgical repairing of detached or torn retinas. They can also provide treatment for vitreous-related issues.
Neurology Specialist: An ophthalmologist, who has a certain degree in the field of neurology, is known as neurology specialist. As a specialized eye specialist, he can take care of the following issues –
- Irregularities regarding eyelids
- Loss of vision or double vision
- Problems of the optic nerve
- Inequality of pupil size
- Abnormalities in eye movements
3. Optician
Unlike the other two options, an optician is a certified technician who offers the below-mentioned visual aids
- Contact lenses
- Devices that can correct the eyesight of an individual
- Frames and lenses of an eyeglass
Before you can ask something from an optician, you will, first, need to provide the prescription of an eye specialist. They will require it for the sight measurements and understanding the issues that you are suffering from. They cannot treat any eye condition and do not have sufficient training to offer eye surgery. But they will provide you with the right lenses or specs.
Conclusion
As you can see, each of the best eye specialists tends to have their own area of training and expertise. So, before choosing any one of them, make sure to learn more about their offerings first. You might also consult with them prior to undergoing any procedure to know more about them.
