See Right – Live Right

Ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who acts as both physician and surgeon specialising in eye and vision care. Ophthalmologists perform eye exams, diagnose and treat disease, prescribe medications and perform eye surgery. They also write prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses. Many ophthalmologists are also involved in scientific research on the causes and cures for eye diseases and vision disorders.

An ophthalmologist offers complete eye care services, including:

Vision services such as eye exams.
Medical eye care for conditions like glaucoma, iritis, and chemical burns.
Surgical eye care for trauma, crossed eyes, cataracts, glaucoma, and other problems.
Diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions related to other diseases, like diabetes or arthritis.
Plastic surgery to raise droopy eyelids or smooth out wrinkles.

Optometrist

Optometrists are health care specialists trained to examine the eyes to detect defects in vision, signs of injury, ocular diseases or abnormality and problems with general health. During a detailed eye examination, an optometrist can detect conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Optometrists prescribe and provide eyeglasses, contact lenses, low vision aids and vision therapy. They prescribe medications to treat eye diseases and perform certain surgical procedures. Optometrists also do testing to determine the patient’s ability to focus and coordinate the eye, judge depth perception, and see colours accurately. Also, optometrists can dispense, fit and supply spectacles or contact lenses.

Referrals for a specialist’s advice may be required; patients may need a corrective lens or no further treatment.