Proper eye care is essential for your long-term overall health. If you are looking for an eye specialist, it is understandable if you are overwhelmed by all the terms and titles. For example, you may be wondering what the difference is between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist near Boca Raton. Here is everything you need to know about these two eye care physicians.
Optometrists Take Care of Your Eyes Day to Day
Optometrists are doctors that have an optometry degree. They specialize in performing both simple and more complex eye exams. Since your eyes say a lot about your overall health, your optometrist can even use an eye exam to find diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and autoimmune diseases.
They can also prescribe prescriptions including for corrective lenses, and they can also treat some eye injuries. Optometrists also often specialize in specific areas such as pediatric optometry and geriatric optometry. They are also the person who would refer you to an ophthalmologist if you need one.
This is the doctor that you will likely interact with the most regarding your eye health. It is a good idea to make a visit to your optometrist every two or three years after the age of 20.
Ophthalmologists Diagnose, Treat, and Perform Eye Surgery
While ophthalmologists can diagnose and treat eye diseases like other eye specialists, they are also able to perform eye surgery.
They can perform cataract and glaucoma surgeries, as well as prescribe medications and / or corrective eyewear. Ophthalmologists can also take care of cancer treatment, reconstructive surgery, and tear duct treatments.
It is likely that you will only need an ophthalmologist if you are in need of eye surgery. Many ophthalmologists have a specialty that they focus on, such as cataracts.
Meet Your New Ophthalmologist or Optometrist Near Boca Raton
Whether you are looking for an ophthalmologist or an optometrist near Boca Raton, look no further than South Palm Eye. Our experts are excited to help care for your vision. Please give us a call at 561-737-4040 to make an appointment as soon as possible for all your vision care needs!