Optometrist? Optician? Ophthalmologist?? Which one is my eye doctor??

People who don’t use or need glasses are often confused by the similar sounding titles of eyecare professionals. Even patients who have been seeing an eye doctor since they were young don’t always know where to go if they want LASIK or have an eye infection. Knowing what services are covered by which profession could save you some time and money!

Optometrists are primary care physicians for your eyes; therefore the first stop one should make when considering a check for their vision. Patients will receive a routine eye exams which includes a prescription for glasses and/or contact lenses along with a total health assessment of the exterior and interior of the eye. If a patient is in need of treatment for dry eyes or infections, Optometrist can treat these issues.  However if surgery or laser treatment is warranted than the patient is referred to an Ophthalmologist.

After getting a routine eye exam, patients are usually directed to a sales floor where they’ll find a selection of frames and lenses. The Opticians will help you choose frames, as well as recommend specific lens options best suited for you. Opticians also take lens measurements, adjust frames, and conduct contact lens training. Just like pharmacists that fill prescriptions given by medical doctors, opticians help the patient select vision correction aids prescribed by Optometrist.

Ophthalmologists, commonly known as eye surgeons, are licensed to practice medicine and conduct surgical operations. These include anything from LASIK to invasive surgeries to save patients’ vision. With such a wide variety of services, ophthalmologists often specialize to give the best care possible (ie. retinal specialists, glaucoma specialist, LASIK specialist).  The vast umbrella of ophthalmology is one reason to see an optometrist first, as they can refer you over to the correct specialist as needed.

As you can see, whether you need new glasses or are experiencing abnormal eye issues, an Optometrist will help direct you to the proper place for your needs.  Eyed LA believes in easing the transition for patients to get the best care available.  

"See and Be Seen" @ Eyed LA Optometry in Brentwood, West Los Angeles

www.eyedla.com