Who do you go to if you need new contact lenses or want to try them on for the first time? Is it better to see an optometrist or an ophthalmologist? Understanding the distinctions in eye care providers is essential for deciding with whom to schedule an appointment. To begin with, let’s take a look at the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist.
A medical doctor who checks eyes and conducts vision-related surgical operations is known as an ophthalmologist. Ophthalmologists typically finish four years of college, four to five years of medical school, one year of internship, and at a minimum of three of ophthalmology residency. Their specialized medical training enables them to diagnose eye problems, give treatments, conduct scientific studies on visual impairments, and prescribe medicines.
Though ophthalmologists can provide patients with eyeglasses and contact lenses, they frequently refer patients to an optometrist on their team to address refractive problems such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, or presbyopia (farsightedness related to ageing). Optometrists typically examine patients before LASIK and collaborate with LASIK surgeons to arrange the operation. An optometrist is a doctor of optometry who practices as a healthcare practitioner. A contact lens optometrist must finish a four-year undergraduate science degree programmer, followed by four years of postgraduate professional training in an accredited institution.
Optometrists evaluate patients’ eyes for vision and health issues, diagnose and treat specific eye illnesses and ailments, and prescribe and fit glasses or contacts for typical refractive errors. Vision treatment, low vision care, dry eye treatment, and myopia management are all treatments provided by certain optometrists. Optometrists also offer pre-and post-surgery care for procedures such as LASIK, PRK, and corneal transplant. If your eyes are in good health and you don’t need specialist surgical treatment, going to an optometrist is the logical decision.
Furthermore, optometrists may identify, diagnose, and manage eye illnesses that require medical and non-medical treatment in addition to providing basic eye exams. Among these therapies include; Treatment for dry eyes, vision therapy, myopia control, low vision management, specialty contact lens fitting, and management or treatment of numerous corneal abnormalities and diseases. Consider your optometrist to be your primary care physician for your eyes. When you need a routine eye exam, have an eye issue, or find your vision changing, it’s time to see an optometrist.
A perfect fit is critical, whether you’re a first-time contact lens wearer or have recently had your prescription changed. When contact lenses are not correctly placed, they can be unpleasant and cause visual issues, infections, or scars. The doctor will do a full eye exam to determine your level of refractive error and to rule out any conditions that might interfere with using contact lenses. The shape of your eye, as well as your lifestyle, is crucial variables in picking the best lens for you.
If you spend a lot of time outside or maintain an active lifestyle, you may need a different lens type. After a thorough examination, the doctor will determine the best fit for your eyes and general visual health. Furthermore, your optometrist will demonstrate how to place and remove lenses, as well as how to care for them appropriately. More follow-up consultations may be required to monitor and analyses the fit and general comfort level.
