It's not uncommon to wonder which eye care professional to turn to, depending on your needs. Although the roles of Opticians, Optometrists, and Ophthalmologists may seem similar, each has distinct skills and responsibilities.
The Optician: the eyewear and contact lens professional
The Optician is, first and foremost, a technician skilled in designing, selling and fitting eyeglasses, contact lenses and other visual devices. They generally work in an optometry clinic or eyewear store.
Training: A diploma in visual orthotic techniques.
Role: The Optician interprets an Optometrist's or Ophthalmologist's prescription, helps you choose frames to suit your style and needs, and adjusts glasses for comfort.
When should you consult? If you need new glasses or contacts or want to repair or adjust your frames.
The Optometrist: the eye examination and eye health professional
The Optometrist is the professional most often consulted for eye examinations. They assess your visual health and can identify disorders such as myopia, astigmatism or presbyopia.
Training: A doctorate in optometry, including years of clinical training.
Role: Performs comprehensive eye examinations, prescribes glasses or contact lenses and detects signs of eye diseases such as glaucoma, macular degeneration or cataracts. Optometrists can also treat minor problems such as infections or dry eyes.
When should you consult an Optometrist? For an eye examination, blurred vision, eye-related headaches or specific problems such as visual fatigue.
The Ophthalmologist: the eye doctor and surgeon
An Ophthalmologist is a doctor who specializes in eye health, treating complex diseases and performing surgical procedures.
Training: A doctorate in medicine followed by a specialization in ophthalmology.
Role: They diagnose and treat diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. They also perform surgeries such as cataract correction and laser refractive surgery.
When should you consult? If you have a diagnosed eye disease, need surgery, or if your Optometrist has referred you to an Ophthalmologist.
How do you choose the right professional?
In general:
- Consult an Optometrist for your annual eye exams or if you have any doubts about your vision.
- Visit an Optician to buy or repair glasses or contact lenses.
- Consult an Ophthalmologist for complex problems, serious eye diseases or surgical needs.
By understanding the roles of each professional, you'll be better prepared to take care of your eyes and direct yourself to the right experts to preserve your vision.
