Ophthalmology: Scope, Subspecialties, and What Eye Doctors Treat
Ophthalmology is the medical-surgical specialty focused on the eye and visual system. Ophthalmologists (MD/DO) diagnose and treat all ocular conditions, perform surgery, and prescribe corrective lenses.
Major Subspecialties
- Cornea/External Disease: Transplants, keratoconus, dry eye, infections.
- Cataract/Refractive Surgery: Phacoemulsification, LASIK, PRK, IOLs.
- Glaucoma: Medical, laser, surgical IOP management.
- Retina/Vitreous: AMD, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, intravitreal injections.
- Oculoplastics/Orbit: Eyelid, lacrimal, orbital surgery; thyroid eye disease.
- Pediatric Ophthalmology/Strabismus: Amblyopia, congenital cataracts, misalignment.
- Neuro-ophthalmology: Optic nerve, visual pathways, pituitary tumors.
- Uveitis/Immunology: Inflammatory eye disease.
Optometrists (OD) provide primary vision care; opticians fit/dispense lenses. Ophthalmologists are the only eye physicians trained for full medical/surgical management.
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