What an ophthalmologist does
An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who diagnoses and treats diseases of the eye and performs eye surgery. Training is MBBS followed by an MS, MD or DNB in Ophthalmology, with optional fellowships in cataract, retina, glaucoma, cornea, squint (strabismus) or paediatric eye care. This differs from an optometrist, who tests vision and prescribes glasses but is not a surgeon.
Eye conditions are very common in India. Cataract is the leading cause of treatable blindness, diabetes is a growing cause of retinal damage, and many children have undetected refractive errors that affect learning. Regular eye examination can prevent avoidable vision loss.
When to see an eye specialist
- Blurred or reduced vision, difficulty reading, or frequent headaches.
- Red, painful, watery or itchy eyes, discharge or eyelid swelling.
- Floaters, flashes of light or a curtain over vision — urgent, possible retinal detachment.
- Sudden vision loss, severe eye pain or an eye injury — emergency.
- Diabetes or high blood pressure (annual retina check).
- Children with squint, rubbing eyes, or sitting very close to the screen.
- People over 40, for glaucoma and presbyopia screening.
Common conditions
These include refractive errors (short-sightedness, long-sightedness, astigmatism), cataract, glaucoma, dry eye, conjunctivitis, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, squint and lazy eye, corneal disease and eyelid problems. Glaucoma often has no early symptoms yet can silently damage vision, so screening matters after 40, or earlier with a family history.
Eye tests and treatments
A visit usually includes a vision test, eye pressure measurement, slit-lamp examination and a dilated retinal exam. Further tests may be OCT, visual field testing and fundus photography. Treatments range from glasses, drops and laser (for example for retina or secondary cataract) to surgery. Cataract surgery replaces the clouded lens with an artificial lens and is typically a short day-care procedure with a quick recovery; there are different lens options with different costs. Refractive surgery such as LASIK can reduce dependence on glasses for suitable candidates. People with diabetes may also need a HbA1c and blood sugar check.
What does it cost?
Eye specialist consultation fees commonly range from about ₹400 to ₹1,200 and may vary. Cataract surgery and LASIK costs vary widely with technique, lens type and hospital, so ask for a written estimate and discuss insurance and government schemes.
Choosing an eye doctor
- Confirm MS/MD/DNB Ophthalmology qualification and registration.
- Choose sub-specialty experience for retina, glaucoma or squint problems.
- For surgery, ask about the lens options, the surgeon's experience and sterility standards.
Protecting your eyesight
Take regular screen breaks (20-20-20 rule), wear UV-protective sunglasses, eat vegetables and fruit rich in vitamin A, avoid rubbing eyes, never use steroid eye drops without advice and control diabetes and blood pressure. Compare eye specialists and book on Lab Dekho.
Trusted References
This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.