Ophthalmologists are osteopathic doctors who are highly trained specialists within the field of vision care. In essence, they are medical eye specialists who spend 12 to 13 arduous years studying in institutions of higher education to become masters of their trade. Because of their extensive training, an ophthalmologist can perform eye surgery and practice levels of care beyond that of opticians and optometrists.
Conditions Ophthalmologists Treat, Diagnose and Manage
Ophthalmologists use their experience and knowledge to diagnose any condition of the eye. They can also often detect signs of other health conditions that aren’t directly related to the eye during their examinations and treatments.
These eye specialists can perform even the most complex optic surgeries and help treat or manage even the most troublesome eye diseases and conditions.
Common patients suffer from glaucoma, corneal and retinal diseases, neurological-related eye conditions, and other issues beyond what routine eye doctors can handle.
However, certain treatments and conditions require a sub-specialist within the field of ophthalmology that allows an ophthalmologist to gain a higher level of expertise within specific subfields of eye care.
Sub-specialties Within Ophthalmology Care
Many of these professionals discover a passion for certain types of care during studies that lead them to undertake one or two more years of in-depth higher education (a Fellowship) to become a sub-specialist.
There are quite a few sub-specialties in ophthalmology, but some of the most commonly sought advanced degrees are for fields including:
- Cataracts and Glaucoma
- Anterior Segment Surgeries
- Ocular Oncology
- Neuro-Ophthalmology
- Ophthalmic Pathology
- Refractive Surgeries
- Oculoplastics and Orbit Surgeries
Sometimes, an ophthalmologist will pursue many sub-specialties, and many are also involved heavily in research that contributes to studies for cures and treatments for vision disorders.
