Eye Doctors: Optometrists and Ophthalmologists

When diving into the world of vision care, there are two main types of eye doctors you need to be aware of: Optometrists and Ophthalmologists. Now the question is, how exactly do these two eye doctors differ from one another? Well, as there are a variety of different types of doctors that focus on different aspects of the human body, there are various types of eye doctors as well. While there aren’t as many, here’s what you can expect from visiting an optometrist and an ophthalmologist.

Ophthalmologist

Before we can get into what an ophthalmologist does, we need to know what the practice of ophthalmology is. Simply put, it’s the medical brand that specializes in the function, anatomy, and disease of the eye. Therefore, an ophthalmologist is an osteopathic physician that focuses on the medical and surgical aspects of caring for the eyes. They’re capable of diagnosing and treating refractive, surgical, and medical issues related to eye disorders and diseases.

Ophthalmologists are licensed eye doctors that have attended medical school. Once that’s been completed, they then go through a one-year internship program before starting a three-year residency. A one to two-year fellowship may follow but not always. The services of an ophthalmologist include eye exams, medical eye care for conditions like iritis, glaucoma, and chemicals burns, and surgical eye care for crossed eyes, trauma, cataracts, and other issues.

Optometrist

Optometry, on the other hand, is a special brand of vision care that focuses on the health of the eyes, the visual system, and any related structures. An optometrist is who you’ll likely visit for routine eye checkups, as they specialize in the function of the eyes, detecting eye diseases, and other management efforts. They’re capable of administering eye exams, prescribing contact lenses and eyeglasses as well as diagnosing and treating vision problems.

In order to become a licensed optometrist, you’ll need to spend four years in a professional program to get a doctor of optometry degree after college or university. While you can obtain additional clinical training after you’ve completed your degree, it’s not mandatory.

Optician

An optician is a health professional who has training in supplying, preparing, and dispensing eyewear through prescriptions. Essentially, opticians haven’t eyed doctors and can’t perform eye exams, however, they do need to complete a one or two-year degree, certificate, or diploma. They’re able to fill your prescription from a licensed eye doctor and can also check lens prescriptions and adjust or repair eyeglasses and contact lenses. They can take accurate facial measurements and help you decide which eyeglasses best suit you.

At Blink VisionCare, we’re dedicated to helping our patients improve their vision and overall eye health. Located in Brampton, Ontario, our eye care clinic offers specialized eyewear, prescription sunglasses, contact lenses, and eye examinations. We’ve been providing eyeglasses for the entire family since 2010, using the latest in lens crafting technology for the most accurate fit. Be sure to visit our licensed Brampton optometrist for your next eye exam.