Definition of an Ophthalmologist

The definition of an ophthalmologist is a doctor who specializes in eye health. Ophthalmologists may actually specialize in a variety of areas, including diseases of the eyes, pediatric care and cosmetic surgery. To become an ophthalmologist, an individual must undergo medical school, medical residency and licensing.  

Definition

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who is an expert in eye health and vision care. Also referred to as an eye doctor, an ophthalmologist is able to prescribe glasses and contact lenses and perform a variety of eye surgeries, minor or complex. Some ophthalmologists focus heavily on research, determining the causes and treatments for vision difficulties and diseases of the eyes.

Specializations 

Many specializations exist within the ophthalmology field. An ophthalmologist may focus on diagnostics and managing diseases of the cornea, for example. Such a specialist is usually trained in corneal transplant surgery. Another type of specialty is devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. An ophthalmologist may also be trained in pathology, allowing the examination of eye tissue specimens to detect disease.

Different Practices

An ophthalmologist may focus on different populations. For example, a pediatric ophthalmologist generally removes developmental and genetic abnormalities and addresses traumatic or systemic disorder in the eyes of children. An ophthalmic plastic surgeon may perform reconstructive surgery on patients with tumors or cosmetic needs. 

How to Become an Opthalmologist

To become an ophthalmologist, there must be completion of medical school followed by a one-year internship in ophthalmology and three years of clinical residency. Ophthalmologists must be licensed, which requires taking and passing an oral and written exam. Ophthalmologists generally stay on top of the latest technologies and treatments by enrolling in seminars.