What Does an Eye Doctor Do?

Aneye doctor is a medical professional who studies and treats the eyes. These doctors specialize in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases, injuries and conditions of the eye. Often, eye doctors perform surgeries and may provide treatment for other ailments related to the eye. These professionals can prescribe glasses, contact lenses and medications for common eye problems such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration. They can also perform laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and other types of refractive surgery to correct vision.

Optometrist Services – Clear Vision Starts with a Professional Exam

The eye doctor can also perform tests to measure how well a person’s eyes work. An ophthalmologist will use a Snellen chart to assess a person’s visual field, and they can test a person’s intraocular pressure, which is the amount of fluid inside the eye. This is important because too much pressure can cause glaucoma.

In the United States, an ophthalmologist must complete 12 years of education and training. This includes four years of college and medical school, along with a four-year residency in ophthalmology. Some ophthalmologists choose to complete one or more years of additional subspecialty training in a specific area of eye care. These fellowships allow ophthalmologists to become more specialized in areas such as the cornea and retina.

Opticians are trained to help people find the right frames and fit for their faces, and they are up-to-date on current frame styles and lens materials. Opticians can also educate a patient on how to properly insert and remove their contact lenses, and they can answer any questions about caring for the eye health.