Ophthalmology is the study of medical conditions relating to the eye. Ophthalmologists are doctors who specialize in the medical and surgical treatment of this organ.

A general practice doctor may refer someone to an ophthalmologist if they show symptoms of cataracts, eye infections, optic nerve problems, or other eye conditions.

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating eye-related conditions.

Subspecialist ophthalmologists have usually work on eye conditions that are complex, involve a specific part of the eye, or affect certain groups of people. They also train more extensively than regular ophthalmologists to perform extremely intricate surgeries on delicate parts of the eye.

Ophthalmologists are responsible for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of almost all eye conditions and visual issues.

However, subspecialist ophthalmologists tend to treat and monitor certain conditions, such as:

• glaucoma
• retinal conditions, such as macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy
• corneal conditions
• cataracts
• cases involving children or childhood eye conditions
• cases with a neurological cause or component, such as optic nerve problems, abnormal eye movements, double vision, and some kinds of vision los
• cases involving complex surgical procedures, such as reconstructive surgery or advanced vision repair

Aside from caring for the eyes and vision, an ophthalmologist’s medical training may also equip them to notice symptoms of conditions that do not directly relate to the eye. In such cases, they can refer people for the appropriate treatment.

Many ophthalmologists also participate in some form of scientific research focusing on the causes of eye and vision conditions, as well as potential cures.

• diagnosis and monitoring of moderate-to-severe eye conditions
• cataract surgery
• glaucoma surgery
• refractive surgery to correct vision
• cancer treatment
• reconstructive surgery to repair trauma or birth abnormalities, such as crossed eyes
• chronic or severe tear duct infections or blockages
• neoplasm (tumor, cyst, or foreign object) removal
• monitoring or consulting on cases relating to other conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy or immune conditions
• injections around the eyes and face to alter facial structure function and appearance
• repairing torn or detached retinas
• corneal transplants

Most people see an ophthalmologist because they are experiencing chronic or severe vision symptoms or signs of eye conditions, such as:

• bulging eyes.
• reduced, distorted, blocked, or double vision
• excessive tearing.
• eyelid abnormalities or problems.
• seeing colored circles or halos around lights.
• misaligned eyes.
• black specks or strings called floaters in the field of view.
• seeing flashes of light.
• unexplained eye redness
• loss of peripheral vision