Ophthalmologist – Why Consulting a Specialist Matters
An Ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (not just an optician) specialized in complete eye care. They diagnose and treat eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment. They also perform surgeries like cataract extraction, LASIK, vitreoretinal surgery, and corneal transplants. Subspecialties include Retina, Glaucoma, Cornea, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Oculoplasty, and Neuro-Ophthalmology. Ophthalmologists differ from optometrists, who can only prescribe glasses.
Conditions Treated
Cataracts
Glaucoma
Diabetic Retinopathy
Age-related Macular Degeneration
Refractive Errors (Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism)
Retinal Detachment
Dry Eye Syndrome
Conjunctivitis
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Strabismus (Squint)
Symptoms That Require a Ophthalmologist
Blurry or cloudy vision
Loss of side (peripheral) vision
Floaters and flashes
Eye pain
Redness in eyes
Sensitivity to light
Double vision
Rapidly worsening vision
Procedures & Treatments
Cataract Surgery (Phacoemulsification)
LASIK & Laser Eye Surgery
Glaucoma Surgery (Trabeculectomy)
Retinal Laser Photocoagulation
Intravitreal Injections
Corneal Transplant (Keratoplasty)
Squint Correction Surgery
When Should You See a Ophthalmologist?
- Blurry or declining vision
- Eye pain or redness persisting more than 2 days
- Sudden flashes or floaters
- Annual check-up if diabetic
- Child with squint or vision problem
- Eye injury
Qualifications to Look For
MBBS
MS (Ophthalmology)
DNB (Ophthalmology)
Fellowship in Retina / Glaucoma / Cornea / LASIK