Clarifying the Difference Between an Optometrist and Opthalmologist

There is still some confusion on the difference between an optometrist and an opthalmologist in terms of specialization, procedures they can perform, and so on. Here is a quick comparison: An optometrist is not a physician but has medical background and training to perform routine vision exams. He can also prescribe medication for conditions related to the eye and can do diagnosis and treatment. An opthalmologist, on the other hand, is a medical doctor who can diagnose and treat eye problems, as well as perform surgery. In short, opthalmologists are in charge of total eye care and can do an invasive operation unlike an optometrist.

If you're wondering which one to consult for a particular eye problem, it actually depends on your preference. You should see an optometrist when you need to have your eyes tested for contact lenses and glasses. For routine checkup and eye care, he is likewise the medical professional to look for.

You can opt for an opthalmologist for the abovementioned procedures and then some. If you need to go under the knife for problematic eyes, the opthalmologist has specialized training for it. An opthalmologist is likewise the better choice in case of an existing eye condition like cataract, glaucoma, or macular degeneration.