When it comes to eye surgery to correct vision loss, whether due to a common condition such as myopia or a complex disease such as glaucoma, it is best to consult an eye doctor. An eye doctor can provide many of the same services as an optometrist, and in fact, many provide comprehensive eye care. Depending on the patient's needs and the office, optometrists may perform refractions and help with postoperative care, or be involved in the treatment and management of patients with eye diseases such as glaucoma. It is important to note that opticians are not allowed to perform any eye exams or diagnose or treat any eye conditions.
Optometrists may refer patients whose intraocular pressure is not properly controlled, those who have trouble applying eye drops, and those whose adherence is doubtful. Ophthalmologists are experts in performing laser treatments and surgeries for glaucoma, and they know when they are indicated or should be considered as alternatives to drops and pills. All optometrists, regardless of their level of license, are expected to diagnose the condition or, at least, recognize that there is a problem and refer the patient to another professional. Ophthalmologists receive 12 or more years of training to be able to perform in-depth surgical procedures for eye diseases.
An optician can also become certified through an in-house internship with an eye doctor or optometrist. Visit your medical optometrist for primary medical eye care, including prescribing eye medications, eye disease management and management, or emergency eye care services. Visit an eye doctor for interventions such as surgical treatments for serious eye diseases, advanced eye problems, or refractive eye surgery. Optometrists, eye doctors, and opticians are all eye care professionals who differ in their education, specialty, and field of practice.
If you need medical intervention or surgical care, your optometrist can refer you to an experienced eye doctor.
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