Who is Ophthalmologist?

Ophthalmology; a branch of medicine that deals with the management and treatment of eye disorders like cataracts, glaucoma, near sight, far sight, bulging eyes, dry eyes, and color blindness, etc. Ophthalmologists are doctors who are specialized in Opthalmology and evaluating, diagnosing, and treating eye diseases & medical conditions.

What are the qualifications of Ophthalmologists?

A 5-year medical degree [MBBS] that is recognized by the General Medical Council and a 2-year foundation course of general training are the basic requirements for an individual to be a doctor. However, following are the specialties or extra qualifications required to be an Ophthalmologist:

• FRCS - Ophthalmology (Edin)
• Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists of UK (FRCOphth.UK)
• DO
• DOMS
• MS - Ophthalmology
• FAICO (Fellow of All India Collegium of Ophthalmology)
• Masters Royal College of Ophthalmologists (MRCO)
• Diplomat of the American Board of Ophthalmology
• MNAMS - Ophthalmology
• MD - Ophthalmology
• DNB - Ophthalmology
• FCPS- Ophthalmology

When should an individual consult an Ophthalmologist?

Either medications or surgery can treat most of the eye disorders and diseases. So, if an individual is suffering from any of the following diseases, then he/she must consult an Ophthalmologist.

• Glaucoma
• Keratoconus
• Dry eye
• Eye flashes
• Poor vision of eyes [Lazy eye]
• Low vision
• Cataracts
• Retinal detachment
• Retinitis
• Bulging of eyes
• Strabismus [Crossed eyes]
• Pink eyes
• Macular degeneration
• Ocular hypertension
• Twitching of eyelids
• Color blindness
• Uveitis

What is the difference between Ophthalmologist and Optometrist?

An Ophthalmologist is a medical professional who is well trained to perform both medical and surgical interventions for eye diseases and disorders. However, Optometrist is a doctor who examines, diagnoses, and treats eye conditions.

How often should an individual consult an Ophthalmologist?

Individuals who are between the ages of 18 and 60 with risk factors of eye disorders should visit an Ophthalmologist once every six months. People above 61 years of age should consult an Ophthalmologist once in a year. However, depending on the diagnosis, one must consult an Ophthalmologist frequently to check the situation of the health condition of the eyes.

Can Ophthalmologists treat Retinitis?

Yes, Ophthalmologists treat many eye disorders and retinitis is one among them. Ophthalmologists can cure retinitis through medications or injections into a vein. 

Can Ophthalmologist cure Strabismus?

Yes, Ophthalmologists can treat strabismus (misaligned eyes). Some of the treatment options include prismatic glasses, special eye exercises to regain coordination of both eyes, vision therapy, and surgery. Strabismus surgery is recommended for adults suffering from double vision along with misaligned eyes.

What surgeries can be performed by an Ophthalmologist?

Following are few of the eye surgeries that an Ophthalmologist can perform:

• Glaucoma surgery
• Ocular surgery
• Cataract surgery
• Cornea replacement
• Macular degeneration surgery
• Refractive lens exchange
• Diabetic retinopathy surgery
• PRK [Photorefractive keratectomy]
• ReLEx SMILE [Refractive Lenticule Extraction Small Incision Lenticule Extraction]
• LASIK [Laser Assisted in situ keratomileusis]