what is an ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist is a medical or osteopathic doctor who specializes in eye and vision care. They are licensed to practice medicine and surgery, and they must complete many more years of training than optometrists and opticians. Ophthalmologists can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including all eye diseases, and they can perform eye surgery and prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct vision problems. They are also involved in scientific research on the causes and cures for eye diseases and vision disorders. An ophthalmologist performs a full eye exam, which includes vision assessment, assessment of peripheral vision, eye pressure check, microscopic assessment of the eye, and a dilated exam to look inside the eyes to assess the optic nerve and retina. They can take care of all your eye care needs, but you should consider working with an ophthalmologist any time you have a serious eye problem that will require surgery or specialized treatment.